The Aeolians

The **Aeolians of Oakwood University** is a celebrated choral ensemble with an incredible legacy spanning nearly eight decades. Originally organized in 1946 by the late Dr. Eva B. Dykes, the choir has grown from a selective group of talented singers into one of the most decorated ensembles in the HBCU tradition. From their early days performing in intimate venues to gracing the stages of Carnegie Hall and the Kennedy Center, the Aeolians have touched the hearts of audiences worldwide with their masterful blending of classical technique and deep emotional resonance. Their repertoire spans everything from Baroque masterworks to contemporary pieces, but they're particularly known as authoritative interpreters of Negro spirituals and work songs that celebrate the resilience and yearnings of their forefathers.

Under the visionary direction of Jason Max Ferdinand (2008–present) and currently under Jeremy Sovoy Jordan, the Aeolians have achieved remarkable heights, earning titles like "Choir of the World Champions" (2017) and gold medals at the World Choir Games. They've performed across six continents and collaborated with world-class artists like soprano Kathleen Battle, all while maintaining their commitment to social justice and community engagement. Whether you're listening to their self-titled album recorded during the pandemic or their recent releases like *When Will We Overcome?*, the Aeolians continue to prove why they're considered one of the finest collegiate choirs in America—a group that doesn't just sing beautifully, but sings with purpose and profound historical significance.

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