The Arboretum's poet-in-residence takes to the grounds of the Arboretum for up to a 2-year period, exploring the surroundings, landscape, and memorials through the art of poetry.
Combining the essence of the Arboretum and the art of reflection, the aim of the programme is to create a selection of unique and original poems for the duration of the residency.
.jpg?sfvrsn=36cd8c86_0&Method=ResizeFitToAreaArguments&Quality=High&ScaleUp=False&MaxHeight=665&MaxWidth=665&Signature=126AAA178AB3404165B2A459210D13F18C7A43FA "Black Voices perform at Remembrance Sunday 2024")
Black Voices is an internationally acclaimed Birmingham-based vocal ensemble founded in 1987 by Carol Pemberton MBE.
Celebrated for its distinctive a cappella sound and commitment to preserving and sharing the rich musical traditions of Africa and the Diaspora, Black Voices combines artistic excellence with education, community engagement and cultural leadership.
Grosvenor Road Studios, Birmingham's oldest recording studio, has been home to Black Voices since 2001 and has grown into a vibrant not-for-profit creative and community hub. Together, Black Voices and Grosvenor Road Studios support artists, young people, volunteers and communities through music, arts, heritage, training and cultural development programmes.
Black Voices and Grosvenor Road Studios have developed a longstanding and valued partnership with the National Memorial Arboretum as Associate Partners, working together across a wide range of artistic, cultural and commemorative programmes.
Through initiatives such as Talent in the Ranks, performances at services and national commemorations, exhibitions, creative learning projects and community engagement activities, the partnership has created opportunities for people of all ages and backgrounds to connect with stories of service, sacrifice, resilience and remembrance.
Built on shared values of inclusion, creativity and respect, this enduring relationship continues to amplify underrepresented voices, foster meaningful dialogue and demonstrate the power of the arts to inspire reflection, understanding and connection.