The institute features workshops for school children and a public concert. It is designed to help foster a better understanding among a culturally diverse community and student population, according to institute founder and director Jerry Tolson, UofL associate professor of music education.

The 8 p.m. public performance in Margaret Comstock Hall, UofL School of Music, will include spiritual music by the local Messengers for Christ choir and discussion by Blaine Hudson, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences and author of books about the underground railroad.

Admission is $5 at the door, with UofL students and children admitted free; reserve tickets by calling 852-6907.

The School of Music is sponsoring the 15th annual event in conjunction with the Carnegie Center for Art & History in New Albany, Ind. This year’s theme is “Songs of Freedom: Music from Ordinary People with Extraordinary Courage — The Men and Women of the Underground Railroad.”

Institute sponsors include the School of Music, Commission on Diversity and Racial Equality, College of Arts & Sciences, the Music Student Association and community groups.