Since 1995, The American Spiritual Ensemble has delighted audiences around the world with its performances of classic spirituals, jazz, Broadway show tunes and other music reflecting the spiritual tradition. Under the musical direction of ensemble founder Dr. Everett McCorvey, professor of voice and director of opera at the University of Kentucky, the group brings together some of the finest singers in the classical realm.

As part of its 2017 TeleFund programming, KET presents The American Spiritual Ensemble, a showcase of the group’s 2016 concert at the historic First Presbyterian Church in Lexington, Ky. The program airs Sunday, March 12 at 6/5 pm on KET and Saturday, March 18 at 5/4 pm on KET2.

With performances of beloved, traditional gospel tunes including “By an’ By,” “Amazing Grace” and “Balm in Gilead” to the contemporary classic “The Circle of Life” from The Lion King, the program showcases the raw vocal talent of The American Spiritual Ensemble, whose members have performed with some of America’s most elite opera programs, including the Metropolitan Opera, New York City Opera, San Francisco Opera and many more.

The broadcast version of the concert includes 17 songs from the group’s 2016 performance. For viewers who support KET during TeleFund 2017, a DVD of the group’s entire, 25-song concert performance is available as a thank-you gift.

The American Spiritual Ensemble is a KET production, produced by Nick Helton. Teresa Day is executive producer.

TeleFund offers an opportunity for viewers to support KET’s mission to provide quality, trusted programs that bring learning to life. During TeleFund, viewers may support KET by calling 1-800-866-0366 or visiting KET.org/donate. Donations allow KET to continue to deliver programming that provides insights, discoveries, culture and entertainment to communities throughout Kentucky – as well as a safe haven for the Commonwealth’s youngest citizens through award-winning PBS children’s programming.

KET is Kentucky’s largest classroom, serving more than one million people each week via television, online and mobile. Learn more about Kentucky’s preeminent public media organization on Twitter @KET and facebook.com/KET and at KET.org.

Contact:

Todd Piccirilli
Senior Director, Marketing and Communications
859-258-7242
tpiccirilli@ket.org