United in Purpose 

Among her many accomplishments as a writer, Maya Angelou is best know for her poetry and for works based on her life, including I know why the caged Bird Sings and The heart of a Women. United in Purpose is a rhythmic, contemporary, gospel-style anthem with words that challenge all of us to take responsibility for making our communities safe, supportive, and just.  Sr Angelou encourages all of us– no matter your background to lived experience- to collaborate in ways that will bring about positive change in our world. This selection was chosen for this message.

Rollo Dilworth is Vice Dean and Professor of Choral Music Education in the Department of Music Education and Therapy at Temple University’s Center for the Performing and Cinematic Arts in Philadelphia PA.  He has served on the faculty since 2009. Over 200 of Dilworth's choral compositions and arrangements appear in the catalogs of Hal Leonard, Colla Voce and Santa Barbara Music Publishing.  He has authored 3 books of choral warm up exercises for choral ensembles of all levels. Dilworth is a frequent guest conductor of all-state, honors, festival, community, church, and professional choirs.  He is an active clinician and presenter on topics including African American choral music, composing/arranging for choirs, social justice, cultural appropriation, urban music education community engagement, and diversity, equity, and inclusion.