Dr. Ysaye Maria Barnwell formerly of Sweet Honey in the Rock

Dr. Ysaye Barnwell was a member of internationally renowned Sweet Honey In The Rock from 1978 – 2013. As composer, educator, and performer, her career has reflected her desire to form community through music. In this interview, hear about her journey as an artist and activist, as well as her recent opera Fortune’s Bones. Dr. Barnwell’ s final performance with Sweet Honey in the Rock took place May 2013.

Interview of Ysaye Barnwell [audio:http://www.grassrootsdc.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/DR-_Ysaye_Barnwell-on-This-Light.mp3]

The first hour of This Light: Sounds for Social Change, which airs every other Sunday night on CPR radio from 9-11 PM, is devoted to the interview. The second hour is typically dedicated to the music of the artist/activists. In keeping with that tradition, an hour of Ysaye Barnwell’s music is posted below. Enjoy! [audio:http://www.grassrootsdc.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/Dr_Ysaye_Barnwell-On_This_Light_2-.mp3]