Joshua Mhoon and Robert Irving III continued to remotely collaborate on the production and performance of Irving’s arrangement of the classic anthem, Lift Every Voice for solo piano through the pandemic. Irving states, “Joshua is a highly gifted self taught piano sight-reading machine as it were. He has performed with symphony orchestras around the globe and has been embraced by the likes of young Chinese classical pianist Lang Lang and he considers Riccardo Muti director of the CSO as a close friend.”
Maestro Ricardo Muti hanging out with Joshua Mhoon
Joshua published his rendition with the following FaceBook post:
The first person I knew personally who was impacted by COVID19 was Aunt Sydney’s bf. I wanted to do something to show love and support to her and everyone who has lost loved ones, who stand on the front lines, and to remind everyone we will get through this together.
If you read the words to “Lift Every Voice & Sing”, it’s about transcending difficulties. It’s a song of hope. Robert Irving III (Baabe or Bobby Irving) arranged this version of “Lift Every Voice & Sing” for me. He wanted it to be a combo of a Classical and Jazz feel. This song is a universal piece about all people coming together and we are definitely in this together.
Together, we will get through this!
Irving responded in kind with, “Josh your rendition is emotionally expressive and technically brilliant! I appreciate your spirit of giving this gift of music in honor of your Aunt and for all of us who need a sense of hopefulness: that we will all “get through this together.” There is nothing more exhilarating for a composer/arranger then for notes on paper to come alive through the magic of a heartfelt interpretation that is nuanced, passionate and inspired as you have delivered. I appreciate your work ethic in preparing this piece! After wiping my eyes dry, I applaud you. I’m very proud of you man– and I also applaud your parents for their incredible support of your artistic journey“
Irving plans to publish the sheet music for this arrangement and to do a official studio recording with Josh.
