In a few days, people around the world will pause to honor the legacy and lasting contributions of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

They will remember his powerful voice as he spoke to people from all walks of life, cultures, faiths and colors -- and shared his message of equality, compassion and civility. They will recall where they were when he spoke of his dream for America -- and when his life was tragically taken. They will tell those too young to remember that Dr. King knew that each person mattered. That just one voice could change the world. And that in time, when voices combine, great things can happen.

On January 12, our wonderful Atlanta Symphony Orchestra will be joined by the incomparable cellist Yo Yo Ma in a memorable tribute to Dr. King in Atlanta Symphony Hall at the Woodruff Arts Center. They will share the stage with the inspiring voices of The Morehouse and Spelman College Glee Clubs -- and special guest narrator and Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed -- in what promises to be a moving evening. SunTrust is proud to partner with its fellow Atlanta-based companies Delta Air Lines, UPS and Sutherland Asbill & Brennan LLP in presenting this performance.

As some will know, Dr. and Mrs. King truly loved classical music and held a special affection for Beethoven. It’s no coincidence that nearly every Atlanta Symphony Orchestra concert in honor of Dr. King has featured a work by the great German composer, and this year’s event will be no exception as the Orchestra presents Beethoven’s Overture to Fidelio.

Throughout history, music has transcended world conflict, political upheaval, societal change, language barriers, economic calamity and time. Composers often have painted vivid mental images of those events through symphony and song. Through his words and gifted oratory, Dr. King similarly conveyed what had gone before, existed in the present, or as he dreamed, could be someday.

Soon, some of the world’s finest musicians and talented voices in our midst will unite a community gathered out of respect for a remarkable man and a common love for great music. Great things will happen.

What a fitting tribute to someone who saw so much potential in humanity, and found such inspiration in the arts.

William H. Rogers, Jr.
Mr. Rogers is Chairman and CEO of SunTrust Banks, Inc.