Receive updates from the Harry T. Burleigh Society, as well as video recordings from our past performances.
Receive updates from the Harry T. Burleigh Society, as well as video recordings from our past performances.
Tell us about yourself and your musical background.
My name is Allen Christian and I am native of Nashville. I have been familiar with Fisk University and the world-renowned Fisk Jubilee Singers all my life. I entered Fisk University in the fall of 2015 majoring in Music Education. My concentration is in Vocal Performance; I am a classically trained Bass-Baritone. I have the honor of having been classically trained since I was ten years old. I was being groomed to be in this ensemble by participating in The Choral Arts Link MET Singer Ensemble. Having the experience of performing professionally as an adolescent prepared me for the privilege to sing with this impeccable ensemble.
What made you want to be a member of the Fisk Jubilee Singers®?
My first experience of The Fisk Jubilee Singers was at an annual concert that the ensemble has for Metro Nashville Public Schools. Back in 2007, I was a fifth grader. As I sat anticipating their performance, I had always heard my mentors, who are Fiskites (Fisk Alumni), boast about how The Fisk Jubilee Singers were nothing less than amazing. I vividly remember my reaction when the Singers approached the stage and began singing “Elijah Rock” arranged by Jester Hairston. My jaw dropped and my eyes filled with tears of amazement. Shortly after, I turned to my best friend and told her that “I must attend Fisk University to become a Fisk Jubilee Singer.” From that moment on, my goal was to enroll at Fisk University.
What do you hope to learn and experience in your time as a Singer?
As a Singer, I am motivated to become a better musician and vocalist. My desire is to learn more about the esteemed history of the ensemble so that I may share it with others. I have been in the ensemble for four years, and I have gained significant exposure to so many great people and fantastic places. In my first year in the ensemble, the group traveled to Germany to perform in cathedrals and concert halls. That trip alone will forever be the highlight of my tenure in this ensemble. I am grateful for every performance and moment that I have spent traveling with The Fisk Jubilee Singers.
