The annual Harry T. Burleigh Spirituals Festival celebrates the legacy of pioneering American composer and arranger Harry T. Burleigh through performances from acclaimed professional vocalists and university and community choral groups. This year’s theme, ROOTED: The Negro Spiritual as Early Music, Americana, Country Music & Roots Gospel, will explore the interactions and foundations of spiritual music across genres.  The theme will be supported by performances and presentations by Early Music City, KIPP Nashville Collegiate High School Choir, David McCormick, the W. Crimm Singers, the Tennessee State University Meistersingers, members of the Nashville Opera-HBCU Fellows, Shannon Sanders, and festival featured artist Tiera Kennedy. A Valory Music Co. recording artist,  Kennedy has released the singles “Alabama Nights” and “Found It in You.” She has been named one of CMT’s Next Women of Country and is the host of The Tiera Show on Apple Music. Before the concert, beginning at 4 p.m., Dr. Carrie Tipton of Vanderbilt University and Dr. Yvonne Kendall of Austin Peay State University will discuss the concert’s themes and repertoire. Presented by Tennessee State University/Big Blue Initiatives in partnership with Burleigh Legacy Alliance, the Country Music Association Foundation, the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, Early Music America, and the National Museum of African American Music. CMA Theater. Free.