Honoring Dr. W. James 'Jimmie' Abbington: A Legacy of Masterful Teaching

Dr. W. James “Jimmie” Abbington, a distinguished professor, musician, and scholar, regarded sacred music as vital to the Black church, viewing traditional hymns and spirituals as “theology in song.” As the inaugural professor of Black sacred music at Duke University Divinity School, Abbington captivated audiences with his keyboard performances and conducting at significant church events and music conferences across the country. A pivotal figure in the Black church tradition, he passed away on September 27 in Georgia at the age of 65. Rev. Cynthia Hale noted, “Jimmie understood that our songs are history and testimony.” Edgardo Colón-Emeric praised him as “a master teacher” with a lasting legacy. A Morehouse College alumnus and holder of advanced music degrees from the University of Michigan, Abbington contributed significantly to African American sacred music scholarship and edited essential works like the “African American Heritage Hymnal.” He was dedicated to celebrating overlooked Black composers, ensuring their music endured within the church's living heritage.