H. Leslie Adams

H. Leslie Adams served on a panel for the National Opera Association’s Annual Convention in Ann Arbor (MI) on January 5, 2006; his topic was “Composer and Impressarios on Opera for the 21st Century.” Gail Robinson-Oturu presented a paper at the same convention on January 6, titled “The Simplicity, Depth and Power of Musical Text Settings: Songs of H. Leslie Adams with Texts of Joette McDonald;” the paper was followed by “Lullaby Eternal” (from Daybirth) sung by soprano Robinson-Oturu with the composer at the piano. Adams subsequently received the Association’s “Lift Every Voice Legacy Award” on January 7. On April 2, the composer was also presented with California State University-Long Beach’s “Distinguished Alumnus Award 2006” at the Richard and Karen Carpenter Arts Center, Long Beach.

Premieres

Aria, for cello and piano, was first presented on April 3, 2006, by Margaret Parkins and Lorna Griffitt, at the University of California-Irvine.

Publications

Slaves, musical drama, piano/vocal score with 17 musical selections; Aria for cello and piano, or double bass and piano; both by Henry Carl Music, Cleveland.

Further Information

• 2006-2007 American Composers Update
• 2001-2002 American Composers Update
• 2000-2001 American Composers Update
• 1999-2000 American Composers Update
• 1997-1998 American Composers Update
• 1996-1997 American Composers Update
• SAI's Composers Bureau Online
• SAI's Music for Young People section