On November 23, 2025, the world witnessed a concert at Lincoln Center unlike any other–Still I Rise!, a powerful gathering of voices, women, and communities determined to rise above adversity with dignity and strength.
Originally envisioned as Celebrate Us, the concert evolved into something far more urgent and personal. For Dr. Rosephanye Powell–one of America’s most beloved and influential composers of choral music–Still I Rise! was more than a performance; it was a public declaration of perseverance, artistic integrity, and the enduring power of truth.
In her own words, Powell wrote:
“With unwavering determination, I need your help and that of your singers to join me–and women of all generations–for a pivotal and transformative concert at Lincoln Center on November 23, 2025.
Originally titled Celebrate Us, this concert has transformed into Still I Rise!–a reflection of both my personal battle and our shared struggle. Today, I face a very public challenge from those who have falsely claimed a derivative of my work as an original composition, disregarding its musical foundation in my choral work, The Word Was God.
Seeking to silence me, they have issued legal threats against me and members of my family. They have even taken legal action against me and my publisher. But let me be clear–I will not back down! My voice as a woman and composer matters–I will not be diminished, silenced, or erased. With dignity, poise, and quiet strength, Still I Rise!“
For those familiar with Powell’s work, the message was clear. Her music had always uplifted, challenged, and inspired. A classically trained vocalist and scholar, Dr. Powell had built a career writing deeply expressive and spiritually resonant works, blending African-American musical idioms with classical choral traditions. Pieces like The Word Was God had become staples in the repertoire of choirs across the country and beyond.
But this concert was more than just a musical event–it was a movement. A call to choirs, conductors, and communities to stand with her. To raise their voices not only in song, but in solidarity.
Why It Mattered
This moment in Dr. Powell’s journey was not just about defending a composition–it was about defending the legacy of women composers, Black artists, and those whose voices had historically been sidelined. As she faced attempts to discredit and silence her, Powell responded not with retaliation, but with an outpouring of strength, grace, and music.
And she was not standing alone.
How Choirs Participated
Presented by Distinguished Concerts International New York (DCINY), the Still I Rise! concert was one of the season’s most prominent events. DCINY, known for bringing together choirs from across the globe to perform in iconic venues, brought singers together for this historic performance at Lincoln Center.
Conductors, singers, and choral ensembles interested in learning more about DCINY and its performance opportunities can visit the DCINY website:
**Perform With Us — **DCINY Opportunities
**Facebook Announcement: **DCINY Facebook Post
A Movement That Rose Together
This was more than a concert–it was a declaration. Still I Rise! invited choirs of all kinds–school ensembles, community groups, professional choruses–to be part of this historic performance. They brought their singers and their stories. They stood united on the stage of Lincoln Center and declared: We are still here. And we will rise.
Visit rosephanye.com to explore Dr. Powell’s music, her vision, and the story behind this moment. Together, voices rose–voices that would not be silenced.