
It's been a whirlwind week of emotions for Demetrious Sampson Jr., a fourth-year performance (voice) student at Georgia State University's School of Music. The rising tenor made his milestone solo debut at the nation's capital at Kennedy Center with The Washington Chorus in "Free at Last! A Musical Tribute to Dr. King's Legacy." The concert commemorated the 60th anniversary of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s "I Have a Dream" speech in a moving, musical tribute.
Sampson performed with the 160-voice Washington Chorus, featured guest artists Brandie Sutton, soprano, Rehanna Thelwell, mezzo-soprano and Kenneth Overton, and baritone.
Under the baton of Artistic Director Dr. Eugene Rogers, Undine Smith Moore's 16-part oratorio "Scenes from the Life of a Martyr" honored Dr. King's dream of an America where all people enjoy the benefits of equality. The concert paid tribute to Dr. King, exploring his life and struggles alongside the overarching struggle of the Civil Rights movement. The program also included Duruflé's "Requiem" which speaks to an individual's hopes and fears as they contemplate the fullness of their life.
"I would have never imagined performing at such a magical place this early in my career, but I am truly blessed and grateful to say that it has happened," said Sampson. "Thank you to Dr. Eugene Rogers and The Washington Chorus for this opportunity."

Photo: (L-R) Demetrious Sampson Jr., Rehanna Thelwell, Eugene Rogers, Brandie Sutton and Kenneth Overton
Sampson recently participated in several competitions receiving praise and high placements, including 2nd place in the Houston Grand Opera's 35th Annual Eleanor McCollum Competition for Young Singers. And, just four days before Kennedy Center, Sampson was in Grand Rapids, Mich., where he competed among 10 finalists from around the nation and won 2nd place at the Opera Grand Rapid 2023 VanderLaan Prize.
"I have had the honor and privilege to be a small part of Demetrious' amazing journey," said Dr. Kathryn Hartgrove, associate professor of Voice. "He has blessed me with the opportunity to work with him as his teacher during his four years at GSU, and his Kennedy Center debut is one of the many success stories for this young man. He is a true GSU ambassador."
Click here for the digital program notes.
Click here for a snippet of the rehearsals.