Omar Thomas

Here, we have Come Sunday by Omar Thomas. Performed in the link by the Michigan State University Wind Symphony, Come Sunday is a “two-movement tribute to the Hammond organ’s central role in black worship services.” The title of the piece comes from Duke Ellington’s own Come Sunday, a nod to the musician’s historical and musical legacy.

"The first movement, Testimony, follows the Hammond organ as it readies the congregation’s hearts, minds, and spirits to receive The Word via a magical union of Bach, blues, jazz, and R&B. The second movement, Shout! Is a virtuosic celebration – the frenzied and joyous climactic moments when The Spirit has taken over the service." (information from Omar Thomas website)