Jazz vocalist performs poems

This weekend, the demographic of people who overlap in the Venn diagram of "those who like jazz vocalists" and "fans of renowned 20th century poetry" will have something to do. On Sunday, Duke Performances will present legendary jazz singer Nnenna Freelon's lyrical rendition of the poetry of Mari Evans. The performance promises to be a heartfelt interpretation of some of the most passionate and insightful work of the influential poet.

Freelon, a six-time Grammy nominee and a former Durham resident, has become one of the most well-respected names in jazz. Over her celebrated career, Freelon has collaborated with jazz greats Herbie Hancock, Aretha Franklin and Ray Charles among others.

The inspiration for her latest project came after being introduced to Mari Evans' poetry by her son, who was once a student in Evans' class. Freelon quickly became interested in both the style and content of the work. Soon, she asked the renowned poet for permission to set her words to music.

The result will be unveiled this Sunday, a performance that will feature a musical rendition of five of Evan's poems. Freelon will also perform a poem she has written herself. Accompanying Freelon in her performance will be the Mallarme Chamber Players, an award-winning ensemble based in Durham. This combination of jazz vocals and chamber music will only add to the eclectic and diverse theme of the event.

Evans, who will be in attendance for Freelon's performance, will also be giving a free reading of her work on Monday at the North Carolina Central University's School of Education.

In addition to Freelon's performance, the Sunday concert will also include a Mallarme Chamber Players rendition of Erwin Shulhoff's Concertino as well as Serenade for Mallarme, an earlier piece written by Pulitzer-prize winner Robert Ward.

Nnenna Freelon and the Mallarme Chamber Players will be performing on Sunday at 3 p.m. in Page Auditorium. Tickets are $20 for the general public, $5 for students.