2025 Gospel Music Conference
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
Class Descriptions
(in alpha order)
Finding Your Mixed Voice
Instructor: Zoe Ellis
Unlock the full potential of your voice with Zoe Ellis, this year’s Ed Kelly Gospel Music Apprenticeship participant. In this workshop, you’ll explore the art of singing in mixed voice—a powerful technique that blends chest and head voice for a seamless, dynamic sound. Through practical exercises and techniques. learn how to navigate vocal transitions, strengthen your range, and add depth and flexibility to your gospel singing.
Focusing Your Voice
Instructor: Terrance Kelly & Isa S. Chu
Unlock the full potential of your voice by mastering vocal placement! In this workshop, Artistic Director Terrance Kelly and vocal coach Isa S. Chu will guide you through techniques to refine your sound, improve clarity, and maximize vocal resonance. Learn how to place your voice for a stronger, more controlled tone while reducing strain and fatigue. Through practical exercises and expert feedback, you'll discover how to sing with greater ease, flexibility, and expression. Whether you're a soloist or a choir member, this session will help you sing with confidence and purpose.
Give Me That Rhythm
Instructor: Kyle Blase
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: Ashling Cole
Step into the spotlight and discover the power of your solo voice with Ashling 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.
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: Ashling 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. Bring a tambourine if you have one, it doesn’t matter what kind or what size. For advanced players, please bring a “sweat rag“ (i.e. hankie or small towel) because you’ll probably need it. 😄 Whether you’re a beginner or looking to sharpen your skills, this hands-on workshop will have you playing with confidence and joy.
Annual Free Spring Concert
Join the Oakland Interfaith Family of Choirs and their friends for an evening of Black gospel music, community, and celebration. The Annual Free Spring Concert follows a day of workshops teaching elements of Black gospel music. Reserve your seat, and learn more about the Gospel Music Conference below.
OIGC General Auditions
Greetings, thank you for your interest in the Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir!
OIGC is a volunteer choir with professional standards and rehearses weekly on Mondays from 7pm to 10pm and performs 25-30 times a year. Experience is not necessary, however, the director is looking for a certain degree of skill and voices that satisfy the musical needs of the choir.
You will be asked to sing a song (~3 min) of your choice, gospel or secular. You can sing acapella, bring sheet music for the pianist, or a personal speaker for your backing track. You will be asked to sing scales to measure your range and repeat sets of intervals to test for pitch.
Participants should also:
have the ability to stand for long periods of time (sets can run from 45 minutes to 1.5 hours without a break)
have the ability to quickly navigate stairs and stages that may not have accommodations for people with limited mobility
understand that performance schedules and call times can be physically demanding (multiple performances back to back, early morning call times, etc.)
agree to comply with OIGC's current COVID and health protocols to participate (Find complete COVID protocols at http://www.oigc.org/governance).
Membership dues are $25/month or ($275/yr). Members are responsible for paying for their uniform (approximately $400-$450), including, but not limited to, robes, formal uniform attire (suit/bowtie OR dress and jacket), and uniform t-shirts. Members are also responsible for other personal attire such as black pants, shoes, socks, hosiery, etc. Limited financial aid is available for members who may have financial difficulty.
10th Annual Black History Month Celebration
Info and Tickets: $22 - $34
CLICK HERE for $15 off! (code HISTORY6629)
OIGC celebrates its 10th Black History Month Celebration at the iconic Freight! Join us for a powerful musical journey that honors African American history, blending the depth of traditional and contemporary gospel with the stirring authenticity of Negro spirituals rarely heard outside the South. Feel the spirit and energy of OIGC up close in this intimate setting—an annual fan favorite that fills up fast. Secure your tickets today and be part of this milestone celebration!
35th Christmas Eve Concert
Open to ages 6+
$22 ADV | $25 DOOR
TWO SHOWS, ONE INCREDIBLE NIGHT!
**7:00 PM: A festive kick-off for those who want to wrap their evening early.
**9:30 PM**: For the night owls who like their holiday magic with a side of late-night sparkle. Stay for the music and let the magic of Christmas Eve linger.
Celebrate the season with soul! Join the Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir Ensemble for the 35th Annual Christmas Eve Concert at the iconic Great American Music Hall in San Francisco.
This treasured holiday tradition has brought families, friends, and music lovers together for over three decades, creating unforgettable memories filled with joy, soul-stirring harmonies, and the true spirit of the holidays.
Whether you're starting a new tradition or keeping a cherished one alive, this concert is the perfect way to make your Christmas Eve truly magical.
Secure your seats now and make this holiday one to remember!
16th Annual South Bay Holiday Gospel Concert
OIGC’s 16th Annual South Bay Holiday Gospel Concert at the Mountain View Center for Performing Arts
$55.00 General Admission
$39.00 Seniors/Students/Children
Join OIGC on stage with the South Bay Holiday Workshop Choir - REGISTER HERE
Let Us Break Bread Together a Tribute to the Legends of Disco!
Premium: $65
Standard: $45
Economy: $25
Youth under 18: $15
Program:
Kedrick Armstrong, conductor
Tiffany Austin, vocal soloist
Maiya Sykes, vocal soloist
ChristoPHER Turner, vocal soloist
Oakland Symphony Chorus
Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir
East Bay Singers
Best Intentions
Napa High School Chamber Choir
Dame Drummer, drums
Uriah Duffy, bass
Kelyn Crapp, guitar
An “inspired, multifarious, musical bash!” raves SF Classical Voice of the Oakland Symphony’s holiday party, Let Us Break Bread Together. Kedrick Armstrong and the Orchestra are joined by the Bay Area’s hottest artists for this annual seasonal celebration. “Celebrate Good Times” as this year’s edition pays tribute to the legends of disco.
An evening with OIGC at Resurrection Oakland Church
FREE Community Concert
Dessert reception to follow!
Doors at 6:30
39th Annual Holiday Concert
Join the Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir for an evening of soul-stirring music, holiday spirit, and interfaith harmony at its 39th Annual Holiday Concert, hosted by Amar Khalil, acclaimed singer/songwriter and former lead vocalist for Tony! Toni! Toné!. Taking place on Saturday, December 7 at 7 PM at the Paramount Theatre in Oakland, this celebration of Healing Through Song features guest vocalists JaCoree Prothro, Reverend Reginald Finley, and Jackie Tolbert, with dynamic ASL interpretation by Half-N-Half (Sherry Hicks and Michael Velez). The Oakland Interfaith Community Choir and Youth Choir will join OIGC for a powerful performance to celebrate life and uphold freedom.
$15-$80 (+fees)
GENERAL TICKETS (now on sale)
Use unlock code OIGC39 for 30% off select sections (while supplies last).
$100 (+fees)
VIP Experience (now on sale)
VIP Tickets include:
- Premiere section seating (Front Center Orchestra or Front Center Balcony)
- Pre-concert reception at 5PM
- and a special limited-edition gift commemorating the evening
OIGC’s 39th Annual Holiday Concert is supported in part by the following foundations: Alameda County Arts Commission, California Arts Council, City of Oakland Cultural Fund, East Bay Community Foundation, the Hewlett Foundation, Koret Foundation, National Endowment for the Arts, San Francisco Foundation, and Zellerbach Family Foundation.
Additional support comes from: Kapor Foundation and donors from around the world! Visit www.oigc.org/donate to make your gift today.
Oakland's Finest: Hip Hop meets Gospel
FREE CONCERT!
Join us for an uplifting, FREE, family-friendly concert to celebrate Oakland artists! Featuring the beautiful former Holy Names University campus on Mountain Boulevard, Councilmember Janani Ramachandran (District 4) will host the Oakland Gospel Choir, MacArthur Maze, and Wish U Were Us. Come enjoy local talent in this gorgeous location.
The event doors will open at 5:45pm, with music from 6:30 - 8:00pm. Food will be available for purchase before the show starts.
SFJAZZ Family Matinee
Celebrate Gospel Heritage Month! This morning matinee program will be filled with music, history, and jubilation. OIGC inspires joy and unity among all people, and showcases the diverse tapestry of faith and culture through Black gospel and spiritual music traditions. Join us with the entire family as we come together in “Healing Through Song!”
TICKETS: $18 | $25
All-Choir 2024
All-Choir 2024
SAT, Aug 3
Kick off Season 39, Healing Through Song with the annual All-Choir gathering! Meet & Greet with the board of directors and members of the OIGC family. Bring your friends, family, and a dish to share. See you soon!
WHEN
Saturday, Aug 3, 11:30am ~ 4pm
State of the Choir Address, ~12pm
WHERE
Lake Temescal - North Temescal Picnic Site
- Bring $5 cash for parking
- There is a little shade and plenty of wide open spaces.
- Feel free to bring your own chairs, sunshade, picnic blanket, frisbee, football, etc.
- As it is the Bay Area, DRESS IN LAYERS! Prepare for the sun as well as the cold.
WHAT - The Potluck
- Bring whatever you’d like to share for ~10-12 folks. Don’t know what to bring?
Sopranos - salads
Altos - entrees
Tenors - appetizers
Basses - drinks
- No alcohol is permitted at this site.
- There are park grills if you want to use them, but you will be responsible for bringing your own grill stuff.
- Plates, utensils, serving utensils, ice, and drink bucket provided.
2nd Freight & Salvage Juneteenth Celebration
Advance
$26 - General Admission
$24 - Seniors (65+)
$13 - Youth/Student (21 & under)
(+ $5 at the door)
Ticket prices do not include fees.
Seattle Mariner's at Oakland Athletics
GET GAME TICKETS from OIGC through May 31
OIGC and OYC will sing the National Anthem on June 5, 6:40 game vs. Seattle Mariners.
Game tickets: $22.50 each
Seats will be located in or around Section 128
Tickets can be picked up at GATE C on game day from an OIGC staff member.
Annual Free Spring Musical
Annual Free Spring Musical and Spring Choir Workshop
2:00 PM – Workshop Choir
$30 registration
Join Terrance Kelly for a two-hour choral workshop! Learn and rehearse a couple of songs, and get ready to showcase your skills at the Annual Spring Musical later that night!
No one turned away due to lack of funds. Send financial aid requests to programs@oigc.org.
7:00 PM – Annual Free Spring Musical
FREE! And streaming live at www.oigc.org/live
Featuring:
• Oakland Interfaith Youth Choir
• Oakland Interfaith Community Choir
• Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir
Guest Artists:
• The Glide Ensemble
• Oakland Jazz Chorus
• … and more!
Immerse yourself in a unique musical experience at the Annual Free Spring Musical and Spring Choir Workshop!
For those participating in the workshop, spend two enriching hours under the guidance of the esteemed Terrance Kelly. Learn and rehearse captivating songs, and prepare to showcase your talents that same night at the Annual Spring Musical alongside the Oakland Interfaith Family of Choirs and other outstanding gospel performers.
The soulful concert features the renowned Oakland Interfaith Family of Choirs and local gospel groups and artists from across the Bay Area!
OIGC Showcase
Members of the Oakland Interfaith Choirs showcase their talents and gifts.
FREE! – Donations of any amount are gratefully accepted!
OIGC General Auditions
Scheduled audition appointments are preferred. Walk-in auditions may be accommodated based on available time.
SFJAZZ Family Matinee
Black History Month Celebration: A Joyful walk through Black Gospel Music
SOLD OUT!
General Admission
Adults: $23
Seniors: $10
Children: $5
9th Annual Black History Month Celebration
OIGC returns to the legendary Freight & Salvage for its 9th Annual Black History Month Celebration. A history lesson through song, OIGC presents a variety of music, from traditional to contemporary gospel, and performs Negro spirituals with an authenticity not often found outside of the South. Experience the music and energy up close and personal in an intimate space. Tickets for this fan-favorite concert are sure to go fast - get yours today!
Advance Tickets:
$26 General Admission
$24 Seniors 65+
$13 Youth/Student (21 & under)
(+$5 at the door)
Interfaith Council of Alameda County Fundraiser
An Evening of Gospel Music with Lena Byrd Miles and Other Special Guests
$20 to $35 General Admission – Info & Tickets
Lena Byrd Miles, Stellar Award winner, Billboard #1 My Block Inc. artist, the darling of the Oakland Bay Area has been singing since the ripe ole age of 4. Coming from a musical family, she launched her singing career at her grandfather’s church where she faithfully lent her gift.
Tickets are available NOW for this wonderful performance at the Temple Hill Auditorium featuring Lena Byrd Miles, the Oakland Interfaith Choir, and other special guests on January 20, 2024, at 5:00 PM.
15th Annual South Bay Holiday Concert
Join the South Bay Holiday Workshop Choir and sing with Terrance Kelly and OIGC!