Maestro Michael Morgan and the Oakland Symphony and Chorus, next week will commemorate Oakland’s tradition of activism and the arts, particularly paying tribute to the 50^th anniversary of the founding of the Black Panther Party (BPP).Founded in Oakland in 1966, the BPP was characterized by scholars as one of the most influential Black movement organizations of the late 1960s.

The BPP evolved into a powerful force that focused on effecting social and political change, instituting a variety of community social programs, including the Free Breakfast for Children Programs and community health clinics.

The legacy and music of the era of the Black Panther Party will celebrated in “Let Us Break Bread Together” choral and orchestral arrangements of popular, gospel, Motown and resistance music.

The Oakland Symphony and Chorus will share the stage with a host of guest artists including the award-winning Mt. Eden High School Choir, Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir, Linda Tillery and Friends, Vocal Rush from Oakland School of the Arts and perennial favorites, the ebullient Klezmer band, Kugelplex.

The event will also feature holiday music from many cultures and observances and audience sing-alongs.

The annual “Let Us Break Bread Together concert” is Sunday, Dec. 11, 4 p.m., at the Paramount Theatre, 2025 Broadway in Oakland.

Pre-concert no-host drinks and free lobby entertainment begin at 3 p.m. Tickets are $25-$80 and may be purchased at www.oaklandsymphony.org.y.org.