About the Artists:

Davóne Tines is a pathbreaking artist whose work encompasses a diverse repertoire, ranging from early music to new commissions by leading composers, while exploring the social issues of today. A Grammy-nominated creator, curator, and performer at the intersection of many histories, cultures, and aesthetics, he is engaged in work that blends opera, art song, spirituals, contemporary classical, gospel, and protest songs as a means to tell deeply personal story of perseverance connecting all of humanity.

Díjí Kay (né DeShaun Gordon-King), a Trevor James Alto Flute artist known for his charisma (Boston Globe), soulful tone, and transporting phrasing, has given performances as a soloist and principal flute in Europe, Asia, and throughout the United States. Díjí Kay grew up surrounded by griot traditions and jazz and gospel music. Inspired by the worlds and traditions of his upbringing, Díjí Kay is passionate about blending these together to create unique and memorable concert experiences.

John Bitoy is a versatile composer, pianist, and artistic director from Chicago, Illinois. His work as an artist and producer is multi-disciplinary and spans genres from jazz to classical, drawing inspiration from diverse global traditions. John earned his M.A. in Piano Performance from DePaul University and is artistic director of The Second Floor, a black-owned performance and event space on Chicago’s West Side. John focuses on bringing sounds and stories of black resistance from the African Diaspora to a wide range of audiences.