TUSKEGEE, Ala. (Feb. 8, 2008) - The Tuskegee University Golden Voices Choir will present a spirituals concert at 4 p.m. on Sunday, Feb 17, in the University Chapel. The free performance is part of the University's Black History Month observance.

"Spiritual songs played a central role in the survival of our people during the brutal days of slavery," said Dr. Wayne Barr, choir director. "Through these songs, our ancestors gave vent to their unshakable faith in a loving God, their unbreakable will to affirm their humanity, and their abiding hope in a day beyond the harsh circumstances of their lives.

"We sing the spirituals today so that our ancestors would not have believed, and willed, and hoped in vain.  We remember their pain, we remember their sacrifice, and we vow to see their hope fulfilled."

The Golden Voices are set to launch their Spring 2008 Tour on Feb. 29 in Beaufort, S.C. The group will also perform in North Carolina, New Jersey and Virginia.