LEA GILMORE
“Soul of A People– African American Music Traditions”
FAQ for Faculty and Administrators
1.Who is Lea Gilmore?
Lea is a dynamic singer, performer, activist and educator. She was named by the international publication ESSENCE MAGAZINE as
one of “25 Women Shaping the World” as a result of her dedication to human rights and music outreach. With a degree in Political
Science and Economics, Ms. Gilmore merges keen intellect and her passion for social activism, with music, presenting exciting,
humorous and life-changing concerts and lectures for old and young alike. For the past nine years, Lea has lead Gospel concerts
raising funds and support for victims of tuberculosis and leprosy in Africa, Asia and South America on behalf of the Damien
Foundation. Over 50,000 have attended these sold out concerts. This award winning performer has given concerts and lectures in
the United States, the United Kingdom., Belgium, the Netherlands, France, the Democratic Republic of the Congo and beyond, to an
enthusiastic and critical response.
For more information: www.leagilmore.com lea@leagilmore.com
2.What is “Soul of A People”?
In this interactive presentation, Lea Gilmore (vocalist) and Marc Borms (pianist) take you on a musical journey of the music
and history of Black Americans. Spirituals, Gospel, Blues, Jazz and Hip Hop -- African American music has greatly
influenced music around the world. With humor and joy, Lea brings the music alive! She and Belgian pianist Marc Borms have
been collaborating for over a decade performing for hundreds of thousands. Their collaboration personifies all of our
common ground, transcending race and culture to convey our oneness – our common humanity. They continue to successfully
tell these musical stories that are inspirational to all. It is the most enjoyable history lesson you will ever experience!
3.What are the objectives of the presentation?
To introduce students and faculty to African American history, music and culture. This will include the hidden messages of the slave
songs (Spirituals)during the Underground Railroad; the influence of music and song during the Civil Rights Movement; the birth of
blues and jazz; the roots of Hip Hop (Rap) in the folk tradition of “Hand-bone” and much more.
To build personal confidence by having students actively participate by joining Lea in singing, and/or on stage
To inspire students to embrace equality, tolerance and human rights by weaving these themes throughout the presentation
To commit to having LOTS of fun!
4.Will there be visuals, graphics and support materials?
There is an option to include a power point presentation providing graphic support for the lecture/concert. All teachers will
receive a brochure (which can be given to students as well), with a brief overview of pivotal moments in African American history
and music, and how it impacts our lives today. A time-line of events will be included.
5.What age groups should attend?
The presentation is adaptable for all ages. Lea has successfully performed for kindergarten to university. Lea will meet with
instructors and/or administrators to adapt accordingly.
6.What languages will be spoken during the presentation?
Lea is a native English speaker, but will add Dutch and French for younger audiences when appropriate. Marc Borms speaks
fluent Dutch (Flemish), English and French.
7.How long is the presentation?
Length of performance: 45 min, 1 hour, 1.5 hour or 2 hours (with break) – times are adjustable. Question and answer period is
included. 30 minutes and under for audiences under 8 years are recommended. (Note, this presentation has also been done
as an evening concert for all ages)
Half day or full day visits. This will included assemblies (lecture/concerts); classroom visits, etc.
8.What other presentations does Lea Gilmore offer?
I'd just like to thank you so very much for coming to our school and spending this past week with us. I was blown away the first
moment you stepped on stage on Tuesday, and continued to be blown away with your words when you visited my English class. After
this week, I KNOW that I will definitely remember to "always let my light shine". So thank you again! Kate Golden, International
School of Brussels, Upper School
9.What are the fees?
Fees are based on length of performance and/or residency, and number of musicians requested (there is usually piano and voice,
but full band is available). Please contact Belva Scott directly for booking and a fee sheet. belva@leagimore.com +1 443 824
0272
Can I speak with Lea Gilmore directly if I have questions or to customize our presentation? Of course! Feel free to email Lea at
lea@leagilmore.com.
Amazing with the range of talent and levels of talent. Moved by her spirit! Extremely fine, both as musician and singer and as
instructor. To be fine at both craft and at teaching is rare and wonderful.
- High School Teacher and Student, age 37, “Roots of African American Music”
Back to Welcome Page
“Soul of A People– African American Music Traditions”
FAQ for Faculty and Administrators
1.Who is Lea Gilmore?
Lea is a dynamic singer, performer, activist and educator. She was named by the international publication ESSENCE MAGAZINE as
one of “25 Women Shaping the World” as a result of her dedication to human rights and music outreach. With a degree in Political
Science and Economics, Ms. Gilmore merges keen intellect and her passion for social activism, with music, presenting exciting,
humorous and life-changing concerts and lectures for old and young alike. For the past nine years, Lea has lead Gospel concerts
raising funds and support for victims of tuberculosis and leprosy in Africa, Asia and South America on behalf of the Damien
Foundation. Over 50,000 have attended these sold out concerts. This award winning performer has given concerts and lectures in
the United States, the United Kingdom., Belgium, the Netherlands, France, the Democratic Republic of the Congo and beyond, to an
enthusiastic and critical response.
For more information: www.leagilmore.com lea@leagilmore.com
2.What is “Soul of A People”?
In this interactive presentation, Lea Gilmore (vocalist) and Marc Borms (pianist) take you on a musical journey of the music
and history of Black Americans. Spirituals, Gospel, Blues, Jazz and Hip Hop -- African American music has greatly
influenced music around the world. With humor and joy, Lea brings the music alive! She and Belgian pianist Marc Borms have
been collaborating for over a decade performing for hundreds of thousands. Their collaboration personifies all of our
common ground, transcending race and culture to convey our oneness – our common humanity. They continue to successfully
tell these musical stories that are inspirational to all. It is the most enjoyable history lesson you will ever experience!
3.What are the objectives of the presentation?
To introduce students and faculty to African American history, music and culture. This will include the hidden messages of the slave
songs (Spirituals)during the Underground Railroad; the influence of music and song during the Civil Rights Movement; the birth of
blues and jazz; the roots of Hip Hop (Rap) in the folk tradition of “Hand-bone” and much more.
To build personal confidence by having students actively participate by joining Lea in singing, and/or on stage
To inspire students to embrace equality, tolerance and human rights by weaving these themes throughout the presentation
To commit to having LOTS of fun!
4.Will there be visuals, graphics and support materials?
There is an option to include a power point presentation providing graphic support for the lecture/concert. All teachers will
receive a brochure (which can be given to students as well), with a brief overview of pivotal moments in African American history
and music, and how it impacts our lives today. A time-line of events will be included.
5.What age groups should attend?
The presentation is adaptable for all ages. Lea has successfully performed for kindergarten to university. Lea will meet with
instructors and/or administrators to adapt accordingly.
6.What languages will be spoken during the presentation?
Lea is a native English speaker, but will add Dutch and French for younger audiences when appropriate. Marc Borms speaks
fluent Dutch (Flemish), English and French.
7.How long is the presentation?
Length of performance: 45 min, 1 hour, 1.5 hour or 2 hours (with break) – times are adjustable. Question and answer period is
included. 30 minutes and under for audiences under 8 years are recommended. (Note, this presentation has also been done
as an evening concert for all ages)
Half day or full day visits. This will included assemblies (lecture/concerts); classroom visits, etc.
8.What other presentations does Lea Gilmore offer?
- Three day to one week residences. This includes lecture/concerts and classroom visits, etc.
I'd just like to thank you so very much for coming to our school and spending this past week with us. I was blown away the first
moment you stepped on stage on Tuesday, and continued to be blown away with your words when you visited my English class. After
this week, I KNOW that I will definitely remember to "always let my light shine". So thank you again! Kate Golden, International
School of Brussels, Upper School
- Diversity and Cultural Competency trainings for faculty and administrators - including relating to students from various
cultural, religious, and socio-economic backgrounds; recruiting and retaining diverse faculty; and more. - Choir Workshops – teaching Spirituals and Gospel music, ending with performance level songs and/or an evening concert
with Lea for parents and public.
9.What are the fees?
Fees are based on length of performance and/or residency, and number of musicians requested (there is usually piano and voice,
but full band is available). Please contact Belva Scott directly for booking and a fee sheet. belva@leagimore.com +1 443 824
0272
Can I speak with Lea Gilmore directly if I have questions or to customize our presentation? Of course! Feel free to email Lea at
lea@leagilmore.com.
Amazing with the range of talent and levels of talent. Moved by her spirit! Extremely fine, both as musician and singer and as
instructor. To be fine at both craft and at teaching is rare and wonderful.
- High School Teacher and Student, age 37, “Roots of African American Music”
Back to Welcome Page
FAQ - SOUL OF A PEOPLE - African American Music
Traditions
Traditions
