Ain’t I a Woman
For her Island Suite – which tells the story of her ancestors – the songwriter, composer, pianist, and remarkably creative cellist Ayanna Witter-Johnson drew inspiration from Jamaican folksongs. ‘As a British-born second-generation Jamaican, my music represents and celebrates my heritage, culture, and identity,’ she says. Ayanna’s versatility shows clearly in Ain’t I a Woman, after a famous speech by civil rights activist Sojourner Truth. And some music from our own soil: progressive Dutch composer Henriëtte Bosmans’ String Quartet.

Ayanna Witter-Johnson – vocals & cello
William Newell – violin
Amy Tress – violin
Stephen Upshaw – viola
Stephanie Tress – cello

Picture: Benjamin Ealovega