For baritone Denzel Fields, the story of his personal journey mirrors that of his artistic development.
The Memphis native and New York transplant is a motivational speaker, actor and vocalist. He shared his inspirational story of personal growth and overcoming adversity Saturday in a musical presentation, “As I Am.”
Held in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., the program featured Fields and three other artists. “As I Am,” held at Trinity Lutheran Church, Reading, was offered by the church in partnership with the Reading branch of the NAACP.
The four performers drew on their African-American experience and musical tradition, honoring King’s memory with traditional spirituals and gospel songs along with classical selections and Broadway favorites.
Director Dr. Anthony T. Leach of State College, professor emeritus and retired director of choral music, Penn State University, began the evening with a recital of secular and sacred organ works.
Tenor Christyn Seay of Harrisburg, performed arias, art songs and spirituals. Soprano Alison Kaye Daniel of New York, a veteran Broadway performer, rounded out the program with spirituals, traditional gospel and musical theater selections.
Fields of New York closed the evening with a multidiscipline performance of song, dance and narrative.
