Del Mar College Choirs accompanied by the music department will perform a “Celebration of Rosephany Powell” Nov. 6 and 13.

The Nov. 6 performance begins at 7 p.m. in Wolfe Recital Hall on the DMC Heritage Campus while the Nov. 13 concert begins at 7 p.m. at St. John’s United Methodist Church, 5300 S. Alameda St. Both performances are free and open to the public.

Powell, a professor of voice at Auburn University in Alabama, is an acclaimed composer, vocalist, conductor, and scholar whose works have made a significant impact on the modern choral repertoire.

“I chose to feature her music in this performance to support her artistry and acknowledge the importance of respecting a composer’s creative rights.” said music faculty member, Mirae Lee.  In early 2025, Indiana Bible College altered and performed one of Powell’s compositions without her and her publisher’s permission. This sparked conversations about artistic ownership and integrity in the music community.

Preparation for this performance started as soon as the semester began. After the students’ complete voice hearing and placements in the first week, they immediately begin rehearsing.

“This performance is meaningful because it not only showcases Dr. Powell’s music but also allows our choir to engage deeply with her creative spirit and message. Through her works, students have the opportunity to explore both musical excellence and the ethical dimensions of musicianship. Understanding that respecting a composer’s artistry is central to our role as performers,” said Mirae.