Smithsonian magazine's 22nd Annual Photo Contest | Made possible through the support of MPB.com

22nd Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest People
Sounds of Freedom, an American-style gospel choir in Sardinia

The traditions and appeal of African-American gospel choirs know few cultural boundaries. In Oristano, a small town in Sardinia, locals have formed the Sounds of Freedom, a group that performs gospel choir standards in English with an Italian accent. Singing here in the 15th century San Sebastiano church in the nearby village of Milis, the Sounds of Freedom compensate with enthusiasm and passion for any lack of direct experience with the original. They may not have understood the lyrics, but the audience was soon tapping their feet and clapping along, swept up in music’s emotional truth and multicultural appeal.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 11.2024
Date Uploaded: 12.2024
Photo Location: Milis, Italy
Camera: LEICA M10
Copyright: © Virginia Hines