Inspired by Ray: The Ray Charles Symposium

American Roots Music Symposium

Inspired by Ray | September 21-23, 2012

 

The American Roots Music Program at Berklee presented its first symposium, Inspired by Ray, in September, 2012, in collaboration with the Ray Charles Foundation.

The conference used Charles as a prism through which to examine, discuss, and celebrate various aspects of American musical life. Scholars and musicians approached a variety of topics that any serious consideration of Charles raises: the musical substance of his work (including his singing, piano playing, and arranging); his choice of repertoire; the relationship between jazz, blues, gospel, and country music in the United States; the nature of individual musical genius in a societal context; and reflections on the transformative power of creativity. Watch videos of the symposium's culminating concert, InspiRAYtion, featuring artists such as Ricky Skaggs, John Scofield, and Raul Midón.

 

For More Information

For more information, contact Matt Glaser, artistic director of the American Roots Music Program, or Joe Walsh, managing director of the American Roots Music Program.