NAAM’s AACE Choir: African American Cultural Ensemble

This lightning bolt of positivity returns to BIMA with its message of hope, help, and healing just in time for the holidays. The brainchild of Northwest African American Museum (NAAM) Executive Director LaNesha DeBardelaben, and led by musical director Jason Turner, AACE brings together vocal talent from various Seattle-area church groups to form one powerful and inspiring musical force.

DeBardelaben explains that “Music speaks to the soul in ways that other art forms may not be able to.” AACE’s repertoire, including their renowned version of “O’ooh Child,” demonstrates that music has always been a key part of the African American experience, drawing on African drumming and musical traditions, Negro spirituals, gospel music, storytelling, and freedom songs to create a special sound of joy.