“Ocean: The Life and Times of Poet Phillis Wheatley” – Marion Hayden & Legacy

KCH is honored to present Marion Hayden’s Ocean: The Life and Times of Poet Phillis Wheatley – a musical suite in 7 parts exploring the life journey of poet Phillis Wheatley (ca. 1753- 1784), the first African American to publish a book and to achieve international stature as an author. Next year marks the 250th anniversary of the publication of Miss Wheatley’s large book of poems entitled Poems on Various Subjects Religious and Moral. 

The ensemble is led by bassist, composer and Kresge Artist Fellow Marion Hayden with an impressive collaboration of notable artists: Buddy Budson (piano), Dwight Adams (trumpet), Rafael Leafar (saxophone and flute), Ursula Walker (vocals), Henry Connerway (drums) and poet, Kresge Eminent Artist Dr. Gloria House (Aneb Kgositsile).