2025 Gospel Music Conference
Hosted by the Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir
Spend a day immersed in the different elements of Black gospel music. Discover and improve your skills in gospel soloing, vocal strength, tambourine, songwriting, stage presence, and more! Sign up for a full day of workshops, or join in the afternoon for the mass choir workshop. Afterwards, enjoy a potluck dinner hosted by the Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir followed by an evening of music.
Package A - $110
• 8:30AM - Three Workshop Sessions
• 2PM - Mass Choir Workshop
• 6PM - Dinner & Concert
Package B - $ 40
• 2PM - Mass Choir Workshop
• 6PM - Dinner & Concert
Schedule of the Day
Registration Opens - 8:00 AM
General Session - 8:30 AM to 8:45
• Welcome and Warm Ups
Sesssion 1 - 9:00 AM to 10:15 AM
Session 2 - 10:30 AM to 11:45 AM
LUNCH - 11:45 AM to 12:30 PM (not provided)
Session 3 - 12:30 PM to 1:45 PM
Mass Choir Workshop - 2:00 PM to 3:45 PM
During the Mass Choir Workshop, Terrance teaches a song (or two), which are performed that evening at the Annual Free Spring Musical.
Sound Check - 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Dinner - 5:00 PM to 6:15 PM
• Potluck hosted by OIGC members
Doors - 6:30 PM
Concert - 7:00 PM
Workshop Instructors
Click for Bios
(stay tuned for more bios to come)
Class Descriptions
(in alpha order)
Give Me That Rhythm
Instructor: Javier Navarrete
Unlock the heartbeat of gospel music in this high-energy rhythm workshop with master percussionist Javier Naverrette. Explore the essential grooves and percussive patterns that drive gospel and spiritual music, from handclaps to syncopated beats. Whether you're a singer, musician, or just a lover of rhythm, this interactive session will help you develop a deeper feel for timing, phrasing, and the soulful pulse that brings gospel to life.
Gospel Soloing
Instructor: Aisling Cole
Step into the spotlight and discover the power of your solo voice with Aisling Cole. This workshop will help you build confidence, refine vocal techniques, and learn how to interpret gospel music with authenticity and passion. Whether you're a seasoned soloist or new to stepping forward, you'll explore phrasing, vocal dynamics, and emotional delivery to make every note count.
Gospel Soloing
Instructor: JaCoree Prothro
Unleash your gospel solo voice with JaCoree Prothro! This workshop dives into the nuances of expressive solo singing, helping you find your unique sound while honoring gospel traditions. Learn how to connect deeply with your audience, infuse your performance with emotion, and use techniques like runs, vibrato, and vocal placement to create a powerful and moving solo.
Jazzy Stylings
Instructor: Ben Flint
Take your gospel singing to new heights with a touch of jazz! Pianist and arranger Ben Flint guides you through gospel’s rich connection to jazz, teaching you how to incorporate improvisation, chord substitutions, and unique phrasing into your singing. Whether you're a vocalist or musician, this workshop will help you add soulful, jazz-infused flavor to your gospel repertoire.
Reading Your Part
Instructor: La Nell Martin
If you've ever struggled to find or hold your part in a choir, this workshop is for you! Join La Nell Martin as she breaks down the essentials of sight-singing, harmony, and vocal blending. Whether you're a beginner or looking to strengthen your music-reading skills, you'll gain confidence in navigating sheet music, understanding your vocal line, and singing with clarity and precision.
Sell Your Song
Instructor: Aisling Cole
You’ve got a great voice—now let’s make sure your message shines! Aisling Cole will show you how to deliver a compelling and heartfelt gospel performance that connects with your audience. Learn how to bring out the emotional depth of a song through phrasing, dynamics, and stage presence. Whether performing in church or on stage, this workshop will help you captivate and inspire.
Sell Your Song
Instructor: JaCoree Prothro
Great singers don’t just hit the right notes—they tell a story. Join JaCoree Prothro for a dynamic session on how to “sell” your song with conviction and authenticity. From vocal expression to stage presence, you'll explore ways to engage your audience, build connection, and leave a lasting impact with every performance.
Songwriting
Instructor: Paul Daniels
Every song has a story to tell. In this workshop, songwriter Paul Daniels walks you through the fundamentals of crafting a song, from melody and lyrics to structure and arrangement. Whether you’re an experienced songwriter or just starting, you'll gain practical tools to develop your ideas and create songs that move hearts and lift spirits.
Support Your Sound
Instructor: Terrance Kelly
A strong choir starts with strong vocal technique! Join Terrance Kelly for an essential session on how to support your voice, maintain vocal health, and sing with power and endurance. Learn about breath control, resonance, and choir blending techniques to enhance your sound and elevate your performance.
Teach Me How to Tambo
Instructor: Jae Phoenix
Bring the spirit of celebration into your worship with the power of the tambourine! Jae Phoenix teaches the rhythms, techniques, and expressive movements that make tambourine playing an essential part of gospel music. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to sharpen your skills, this hands-on workshop will have you playing with confidence and joy.
Vocal Strength
Instructor: Terrance Kelly
Gospel singing requires passion, endurance, and vocal power. In this workshop, Terrance Kelly will help you build vocal strength and control through proven exercises and techniques. Learn how to expand your range, improve your tone, and develop the stamina needed to sing gospel with conviction and soul.