Events

* This exhibition runs Jan. 26–Mar. 7, with a public reception on Sun., Feb. 1. *

The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission Black History Program returns to Harmony Hall Arts Center with its annual exhibition. For close to 45 years, the Black History Program has worked to preserve, honor, and celebrate Prince George’s County’s rich African American Heritage. The annual exhibition is part of this tradition. Explore stories from our county’s past that highlight the challenges and triumphs of the African American community.

Join us for a two-part book discussion and film screening featuring Percival Everett’s satirical 2001 novel Erasure and its 2023 film adaptation, the Best Picture-nominated dark comedy American Fiction, starring Jeffrey Wright. The book and film examine (and skewer) the use of Black stereotypes in fiction and the anti-Black stance of the publishing industry.

Celebrate Black History Month with the soulful fusion of Memphis blues, New York fire, and D.C. flavor with the Muneer Nasser Quintet. A master trumpeter, composer, and jazz historian, Nasser brings his deep-rooted passion for jazz to the stage. His latest album, Blue House Session, is a vibrant mix of blues, Afro-Caribbean rhythms, and timeless jazz energy. Celebrate Black History Month with an electrifying performance that honors the past while igniting the future of jazz. Don’t miss this unforgettable afternoon of music. Celebrate history. Experience the music.

Message is not your typical concert series. It is an oasis where local artists find their voice and share their stories. Here, music transcends mere entertainment–it becomes personal. Local talent takes center stage. These are the musicians who play at the neighborhood cafes, scribble lyrics on napkins, and dream big. They’re not chasing fame, they’re chasing connection. From soulful ballads to introspective rap, their performances resonate with authenticity. Every Message event is unrepeatable, no two shows are alike; each carries a unique message. The audience sits close enough to see the artist’s fingertips on the strings and feel the raw emotion in every lyric. This is an event for anyone seeking refuge from the noise, who craves more than a passive concert experience.

Explore diverse revenue opportunities beyond traditional sales, including licensing, commissions, teaching, digital platforms, and passive income strategies.

Celebrate Black History Month with an unforgettable music matinee featuring award-winning saxophonist Brent Birckhead and his sextet. Hailed by The New York Times as “one of the most riveting young improvisers in New York,” Birckhead blends tradition and innovation, drawing from jazz, soul, and activism. A Howard University alumnus, he has performed with legends like Lauryn Hill, Nas, and George Duke. Experience his powerful sound and storytelling, showcasing the depth of African American musical heritage. Don’t miss this special tribute—an afternoon of history, culture, and soul-stirring jazz!

“Queen of Soul” Aretha Franklin assembled a choir at the New Bethel Baptist Church in Watts, Los Angeles, in 1972 to record her live album, Amazing Grace. Footage of this remarkable gospel concert was shelved for decades over technical and legal issues; it was finally edited and released to critical acclaim in 2018. This is a must-see documentary for Aretha Franklin fans.