The Ed Kelly Gospel Music Apprenticeship Program

The primary purpose of this program is to develop the next generation of musical leaders in Black Gospel and Spiritual music traditions.  Benefiting participants, the OIGC community, and the genre more broadly, this program will produce artists who can carry forward the musical excellence and unique qualities and character of the late, great Ed Kelly – noted jazz pianist and musician; and Faye Kelly, singer, choral directress and music educator as embodied through their son, Terrance.

The program provides opportunities for a selected number of participants each year to discover and fine-tune their skills in the Black gospel genre. Each participant will work closely with Founding Artistic Director, Terrance Kelly in gospel choir conducting practices and additional activities tailored to the interest and skills of each apprentice such as:

• Song Selection & Programming

• Musicianship Practicum

• Conducting Form and Style

• Choir and Band Communication

• Performance Experience

• Cultural Competency

One-Year Commitment

Each apprentice will be expected to participate for a minimum of nine months for a workable amount of in-person and virtual participation and complete an exit interview at the end.

From August to May, participants will have the flexibility to set their own schedule, progressing from introduction to the choir to attending rehearsals, leading rehearsals, working with the band, teaching a song, conducting a performance, in addition to attending monthly Zoom meetings and meeting with educational partner’s faculty for any degree or certificate program they participate in. The virtual Oakland Interfaith World Choir provides additional flexibility for participation.

A flexible hybrid-model provides opportunities to participants from across the United States. Travel stipends can be made available to participants from outside of the Bay Area on a case-by-case basis.

Application Requirements (due each Spring):

• Current Curriculum Vitae
  (CV) or Résumé.

• A Statement of Purpose
  (1-2 pages) describing your objectives for pursuing this program, as well as your short- and long-term goals.

• Two (2) References
  These references could be a pastor from your current church or colleagues who can assess your readiness to undertake a rigorous program. If currently enrolled in a music course through an educational institution, please include at least one reference from an instructor.

• A video recording
  Submit a video link featuring at least 15 minutes of the participant facilitating a rehearsal with an ensemble. You may also include a video of a concert performance in addition to the rehearsal video. The link does not have to be public, but please make sure it is not password-protected.

For additional questions, contact programs@oigc.org.