Musical Louisiana will present the long-awaited world premiere of Edmond Dédé Morgiane, the earliest known surviving full-length opera by a Black American composer, on Friday, January 23. This historic performance, made possible by the partnership of the Historic New Orleans Collection (HNOC), Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra (LPO), and OperaCréole, marks a significant milestone in classical music and New Orleans’ cultural history.
A Historic Opera in a Historic Venue
The event will take place in St. Louis Cathedral, where Dédé was baptized in January 1828. The evening will begin with a pre-concert lecture at 5 p.m. at HNOC’s Williams Research Center at 410 Chartres St., followed by the concert at 7:30 p.m.. Admission is free, and seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis. The concert will also be streamed live on LPOmusic.com and WLAE.com and broadcast on WWNO 89.9 FM, Classical 104.9 FM, and KTLN 90.5 FM.
Decades in the Making
Dédé’s manuscript, discovered over a decade ago, inspired Givonna Joseph, cofounder of OperaCréole, to bring the work to life. After years of dedication, her dream has become a reality. “This marks a pivotal moment in repatriating Edmond Dédé Morgiane , music, and legacy,” said Joseph.
The collaboration between OperaCréole and Washington, DC-based Opera Lafayette has culminated in this world premiere. The concert represents a historic convergence of musical and cultural forces in New Orleans, honoring the legacy of one of its most significant composers.
Pre-Concert Insights
A pre-concert panel discussion will feature insights from Joseph, Patrick Dupre Quigley of Opera Lafayette, musicologist Candace Bailey, and Dédé biographer Sally McKee. Moderated by HNOC family historian Jari C. Honora, the discussion will delve into Dédé’s life and the journey to bring Morgiane to the stage. Earlier in the day, McKee will host a book signing for her work, The Exile’s Song: Edmond Dédé Morgiane and the Unfinished Revolutions of the Atlantic, from 2 to 4 p.m. at The Shop at HNOC.
About Musical Louisiana
Since its inception in 2007, Musical Louisiana has provided free, educational concerts dedicated to Louisiana’s contributions to classical music. Reaching over 30,000 people through live and online broadcasts, the series continues to celebrate the state’s rich musical heritage.
