The internationally acclaimed all female vocal ensemble Sweet Honey in the Rock has been inspiring audiences for forty-five years. In the 2018-19 academic year, they join the University of Chicago as the Don Michael Randel Ensemble in Residence.

Founded in 1973 by Dr. Bernice Johnson Reagon, a civil rights activist and former SNCC Freedom Singer, the group has always harbored a deep commitment to social justice issues, which is reflected in their diverse repertoire and colorful performances. Including more than 24 women over its 40-year history, Sweet Honey has fused a cappella singing, interpretive sign language, dance, and theatrical costumes to share positive, loving, and socially conscious messages.

Sweet Honey in the Rock is the third group to be appointed Don Michael Randel Ensemble in Residence, following the Pacifica Quartet from 2013-2016 and Imani Winds from 2016-2018. The residency program, established with a gift from the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation, supports an acclaimed musical ensemble for up to three years, providing a permanent home for world-class musicians to engage with the University and Hyde Park communities.

Sweet Honey takes up residence at UChicago for one week each quarter, presenting public and school performance and community workshops as well as working with students in the music department.

Event is free and open to the public.

This program is sponsored by the International House Global Voices Program at the University of Chicago and the Department of Music.