Stevie Wonder and UAB’s Henry Panion III to Embark on a Special Tour
In an exciting musical collaboration, Grammy-winning artist Stevie Wonder has announced an upcoming 11-city tour, featuring renowned composer and conductor Henry Panion III, Ph.D. This tour is set to kick off on October 8 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and will see performances across various cities, including Greensboro, North Carolina on October 17 and Atlanta, Georgia on October 19.
A Message of Joy and Unity
Wonder and Panion have a longstanding collaborative history, spanning over three decades. The title of the tour, “Sing Your Song! As We Fix Our Nation’s Broken Heart,” reflects a mission close to Wonder’s heart as he aims to spread a message of joy, peace, and love during these challenging times. “Stevie shared with me his desire to help spread joy, peace and love during these troubled times, a message he has been about his entire life,” Panion said.
The tour is scheduled to take place during a critical election season, making it a pivotal time for Wonder to share his message of “joy over anger, kindness over recrimination, peace over war,” according to the announcement. In a generous gesture, Wonder plans to offer complimentary tickets to community members actively working to heal the nation’s divisions.
A Prominent Figure in Music
Panion, a University Professor of Music and director of Music Technology at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, has an impressive musical resume. He has conducted renowned orchestras worldwide and first joined Wonder on the “Natural Wonder” European tour back in 1992. Both men have created a remarkable body of work together, including the two-CD set “Natural Wonder,” which features Panion conducting arrangements of Wonder’s hit songs.
Panion’s impact extends beyond performance; he has also facilitated the Stevie Wonder Music Technology Scholarship at UAB, benefiting more than 40 students. This collaboration with Wonder further showcases the connection between renowned musicians and educational initiatives.
Tour Details and Ticket Information
The upcoming tour, produced by Wonder Productions and promoted by AEG Presents, will travel through various cities, including Maryland, New York, Michigan, Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Illinois. Tickets are currently on sale for these sought-after events, and those interested are encouraged to secure their seats early.
A Celebration of Gospel and Symphony
For fans in Alabama, there’s more to look forward to as Panion is set to reprise his acclaimed event, “A Gospel Symphony Celebration,” at the Alys Stephens Performing Arts Center on November 17. This special presentation will feature gospel legend Tramaine Hawkins alongside the Alabama Symphony Orchestra and the combined gospel choirs of Miles College and UAB. Ticket prices range from $28 to $74, with limited $10 student tickets available for purchase.
A Bright Future Ahead
As these monumental events approach, both Stevie Wonder and Henry Panion III are preparing to offer audiences an unforgettable experience filled with music and inspiration. Their collaboration is not just about entertainment; it represents an uplifting call to unite communities through the power of song.
