Support Frederick Douglass Jazz Works
“We have to do with the past only as we can make it useful to the present and the future.”
~ Frederick Douglass
Ruth Naomi Floyd
For ten years, I have studied the words, life and mission of Frederick Douglass, abolitionist leader, author, statesman, minister and ambassador. I have been and continue to be inspired by the prolific writing of this profound wordsmith and powerful orator. My passion for music, history and social justice has come together with the creation of the "Frederick Douglass Jazz Works." By taking the words of Frederick Douglass from his autobiographies, speeches and sermons, I have composed original compositions using the language of jazz music.
My ensemble and I are set to record the Frederick Douglass Jazz Works in 2019. For the past 20 years, I have personally funded my music and discography as a grassroots artist. Though I currently have the seed money to begin recording this body of work, I believe a project of this magnitude and influence requires a sustainable financial backing that I cannot fulfill on my own. Additionally, in the coming months and throughout this next year, I hope to expand the number of seminars and lectures on the themes, mission and vision of Frederick Douglass's work. As an artist, it is important for me to engage the culture, as I believe sharing the truth of our past is critical to both standing up to injustice and transforming our communities and world. To this end, I will need your support. Will you please consider partnering with me to record this historical body of music, "Frederick Douglass Jazz Works?"
Thank you,