Henry Panion III, Ph.D., conducts the Alabama Symphony Orchestra at the Alys Stephens Center.Hear the timeless music of one of gospel’s most revered composers Sunday, March 8, when Henry Panion III, Ph.D., leads the Alabama Symphony Orchestra and college choirs in a tribute to Richard Smallwood.
Smallwood’s music has inspired generations with soaring melodies, rich harmonies and profound spiritual depth. The world-renowned songwriter and musician died Dec. 30, 2025, at age 77.
“A Richard Smallwood Tribute” will be at 7:30 p.m. in the University of Alabama at Birmingham’s Alys Stephens Performing Arts Center, 1200 10th Ave. South.
Panion, a composer, conductor and producer, worked often with Smallwood as a conductor and arranger. In 2024, Panion led the National Symphony Orchestra in an all-star tribute to Smallwood in honor of his 75th birthday in Washington, D.C. Panion is University Professor of Music and directs the Music Technology program in the College of Arts and Sciences’ Department of Music.
This tribute will celebrate his enduring legacy through many of his most beloved works. Joining the ASO will be the choirs of Alabama A&M University, Alabama State University, Miles College, Stillman College and Talladega College.
Presented in the full splendor of symphony orchestra and glorious massed choir, it will be an experience of breathtaking scale, beauty and joy, Panion says.
“This performance serves as a reprise of a nationally presented tribute honoring Richard Smallwood’s extraordinary life and artistry, bringing that same spirit of reverence and musical excellence to Birmingham audiences,” he said.
The evening will feature special guest Maurette Brown Clark, acclaimed gospel artist and original member of Smallwood’s legendary ensemble, Vision. Her presence embodies the very spirit and sound that defined Smallwood’s iconic legacy and brings a deeply personal and historic connection to the music that shaped a generation, Panion says.
Adding to the evening’s distinction, violinist Caitlin Edwards will perform the Emmy and Telly Award-winning composition by Panion, “Dreams of Hope for Solo Violin and Orchestra.” This marks the first time she has performed the work in Birmingham since its premiere and subsequent national appearance in the PBS documentary “Dreams of Hope: Birmingham’s Historic 16th Street Baptist Church Welcomes Violins of Hope,” a film viewed by millions across the country and audiences worldwide. This performance will also mark the first presentation of the work by the Alabama Symphony Orchestra, making the evening even more historic.
“A Richard Smallwood Tribute” will be at 7:30 p.m. in the University of Alabama at Birmingham’s Alys Stephens Performing Arts Center, 1200 10th Ave. South. Tickets start at $26. Buy tickets. For more information, visit AlysStephens.org or call 205-975-2787.
