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.
OYC 50th Anniversary Concert
Celebrating 50 years of the Oakland Youth Chorus!
Featuring performances by current ensembles, alumni choir, and special guests followed by a reception with light refreshments and a champagne toast! Stay tuned for more!
Adults $25
Seniors/Youth $10
OUSD $5
OYC4Me discount Code $5 for adults
Annual All-Youth BHM Celebration
Join all five of OIGC's youth ensembles as they present songs honoring and celebrating Black History.
$20 General Admission
$15 Students/Seniors (65+)
Free for OUSD Students and Families – Registration required: www.oigc.org/ousdgo
No one turned away for lack of funds!
Featuring the OIGC Youth Program Ensembles:
Oakland Interfaith Youth Choir
Oakland Youth Chorus - Chamber Singers
Oakland Youth Chorus - Concert Chorus
Oakland Youth Chorus - Miracles
Oakland Interfaith Kids Choir
Learn more about OIGC's Youth Program at www.oigc.org/youth
Chabot Space & Science Center
11:30 AM - OYC Miracles and Oakland Interfaith Kids Choir
1:00 PM - OYC Concert Chorus
Included with General Admission
Step into a world of icy planets and far away galaxies this winter at Chabot! Glide across our sock skate rink, spin and twirl in your coziest socks, enjoy some hot cocoa and channel your inner space explorer with gingerbread rovers inspired by cosmic missions. Enjoy innovative snow-making activities and timed snowfall events, adding a touch of winter wonder to your experience. With festive tunes and interactive activities blending science and seasonal cheer, this is a celebration you won’t want to miss!
BayPhil's Holiday Spectacular
Create your own special memories at this joyous holiday event!
From dozens of singers and dancers to even Santa himself, this is the perfect way to celebrate the holidays in style with good friends & family.
Hear holiday favorites - like White Christmas, O Holy Night, and The Nutcracker - in this performance-packed showcase with a diverse array of extraordinary dancers and incredible vocalists led by your exuberant host, Conductor Jung-Ho Pak.
Saturday Dec 14, 2024 @7:30PM
Sunday Dec 15, 2024 @3PM
Chabot College Center for the Performing Arts
25555 Hesperian Blvd
Hayward, CA 94545
Jung-Ho Pak, Conductor
Dr. Carlos Hernandez, Guest Conductor
David Sloss, Guest Conductor
Full Potential - Hip hop dance troupe
Oakland Youth Chorus
Lelm & Langford
Yoko's Dance and Performing Arts Academy
BayPhil Youth Orchestra
BayPhil's Holiday Spectacular
Create your own special memories at this joyous holiday event!
From dozens of singers and dancers to even Santa himself, this is the perfect way to celebrate the holidays in style with good friends & family.
Hear holiday favorites - like White Christmas, O Holy Night, and The Nutcracker - in this performance-packed showcase with a diverse array of extraordinary dancers and incredible vocalists led by your exuberant host, Conductor Jung-Ho Pak.
Saturday Dec 14, 2024 @7:30PM
Sunday Dec 15, 2024 @3PM
Chabot College Center for the Performing Arts
25555 Hesperian Blvd
Hayward, CA 94545
Jung-Ho Pak, Conductor
Dr. Carlos Hernandez, Guest Conductor
David Sloss, Guest Conductor
Full Potential - Hip hop dance troupe
Oakland Interfaith Youth Choir
Lelm & Langford
Yoko's Dance and Performing Arts Academy
BayPhil Youth Orchestra
Breakfast with Santa
OYC’s youngest members sing at Alameda Park and Rec’s Breakfast with Santa
Info and Registration (registration required for attendance)
Oakland City Center Tree Lighting
OIGC Youth Program joins the Oakland City Center’s Tree Lighting festivities!
Claremont Middle School Winter Concert
OYC’s School-based Concert Chorus at Claremont Middle School will perform at the school’s winter concert.
Alameda County Food Bank
Community Volunteer Event
OIGC/OICC/OYC help ACFB fill bags of food for the local shelters and churches. Want to join us? Email lanell@oigc.org to RSVP.
'Tis the Gift
‘Tis the Gift
OYC 50th Anniversary Celebration Holiday Concert
Start the holidays with the OYC ensembles! The Chamber Singers, Miracles, and Concert Chorus will create an evening of music from around the world featuring music from around the globe, OYC favorites, and holiday tunes.
TICKETS:
$25 General
$15 Youth
$10 OUSD
Are you an OYC Alumnus?
Join the Official OYC Alumni Facebook page for $5 off General Admission.
2024 Brower Youth Awards
ABOUT:
The theme for this year’s Brower Youth Awards is Currents. Currents are forces of nature that energize and move things — electricity, water, air — forward in a definite direction. Our Brower Youth Award winners are like such currents. Their environmental activism is propelling the changes we need to support a healthy, safe, and equitable planet for all. These young forces are not deterred by inertia or outright resistance to environmental action. We are here to recognize their leadership and celebrate the currents of resiliency their projects have ignited.
Currently, we are also facing multiple existential threats, including the collapse of biodiversity and the climate crisis, threats that require immediate action. Our winners bring solutions to current problems with a sense of urgency and dedication. We are inspired to share their work with you.
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.
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.
Class of 2024: Senior Sending
Celebrating the Class of 2024! Each graduating senior is highlighted and honored. The Riley West Scholarship award will also be presented that day.
$20 - General Admission
$15 - Seniors (65+)
$5 - Children
$10 - Livestream
OUSD Students and Families register here for free admission
OYC Spring Concert
All three Oakland Youth Chorus ensembles will showcase their best performances from the sets they've honed throughout the year.
Youth from 2nd to 12th grade will share the culmination of their hard work, learning, and musical exploration- a celebration of their dedication and artistic growth!
$20 General Admission
$15 Students/Seniors (65+)
FREE for OUSD Students and Families: REGISTER HERE
The Oakland Youth Chorus is a program of the Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir. OIGC Youth Programs are supported by the Barrios Trust, the Bill Graham Memorial Foundation, the Bridge Association of Realtors, the Distaff Singers, and the Stulsaft Foundation. This presentation is also made possible with foundation support from the 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, Zellerbach Family Foundation, and with support from individual donors from around the world! Visit www.oigc.org/donate to donate today.
Oakland Youth Chorus Spring Recital
Singers of the Oakland Youth Chorus take center stage to showcase their individual talents! Witness the next generation of performers as they share their passion and creativity in an intimate setting. Don't miss this unforgettable musical showcase.
$20 - General Admission ($5 goes towards #OIGCYouthTour24!)
$10 - Students & Seniors (65+)
Oakland Youth Chorus is a program of the Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir Youth Program. The OIGC Youth Program is supported by Barrios Trust, Bill Graham Memorial Foundation, Bridge Association of Realtors, the Distaff Singers, and the Stulsaft Foundation.
This presentation is also made possible with foundation support from 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, Zellerbach Family Foundation, and with support from individual donors from around the world! Visit www.oigc.org/donate to donate today.
All-Youth Black History Month Celebration
Join all five of OIGC's youth ensembles as they present songs honoring and celebrating Black History.
Location:
Imani Community Church
3300 MacArthur Blvd, Oakland
$25 General Admission
$15 Seniors (65+)
$ 5 Children/Youth
Free for OUSD Students and Families – Registration required: www.oigc.org/ousdgo
No one turned away for lack of funds!
Featuring the OIGC Youth Program Ensembles:
Oakland Interfaith Youth Choir
Oakland Youth Chorus - Chamber Singers
Oakland Youth Chorus - Concert Chorus
Oakland Youth Chorus - Miracles
Oakland Interfaith Kids Choir
Learn more about OIGC's Youth Program at www.oigc.org/youth
The OIGC Youth Program is supported by Barrios Trust, Bill Graham Memorial Foundation, Bridge Association of Realtors, the Distaff Singers, and the Stulsaft Foundation.
This presentation is also made possible with foundation support from 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, Zellerbach Family Foundation, and with support from individual donors from around the world! Visit www.oigc.org/donate to donate today.
Piedmont Anti-Racism and Diversity Annual MLK Event
Piedmont Anti-Racism and Diversity Committee and the City of Piedmont invite you to the 27th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration on January 15th, 2024 from 11 am - 12:15 pm at the Alan Harvey Theatre. This year’s theme is Remain Awake.
The in-person program, co-sponsored by PADC and the City of Piedmont, will feature speakers including Corrina Gould of the Sogorea Te' Land Trust, Mayor of Piedmont Jen Cavenaugh, and keynote speaker Dr. Amber Johnson, Assistant Vice Chancellor and Chief of Staff in the Division for Equity & Inclusion at UC Berkeley. The event will also feature OIGC’s Oakland Youth Chorus and the third annual Art & Essay Showcase.
FREE! Info and Registration link at: https://www.padc.info/mlkday
2nd Yuletide Youth Holiday Concert
2nd Yuletide Youth Holiday Concert
SAT, December 16, 2023 – 2:00 PM (Add to Calendar)
Roosevelt Middle School Auditorium (map)
$25 General Admission
$15 Students/Seniors
FREE for Oakland Unified School District students and their families! Just show up and sign in!
Support the OIGC Youth Tour to Vancouver by purchasing See’s Candies for the holidays!
Bay Street Holiday
OYC and OIKC are presenting a preview of the Yuletide Youth Concert. Come one and all to make the season bright at Emeryville's Bay Street!
Getting To Know You Concert
Getting To Know You
The OIGC family has expanded now to 7 ensembles! What’s the difference between the Oakland Interfaith Youth Choir and the Oakland Youth Chorus? There’s a kids’ choir? Does the Community Choir sing Black gospel music too? How many people are in each group?
At this concert, the OIGC family will perform for each other!
Golden Hour Youth Music Festival
Radium Runway’s inaugural Golden Hour Youth Music Festival celebrates the best of Alameda's emerging new artists. A selection of groups from high schools across the island will perform at Radium Runway and a performance by OIGC Youth Program Ensembles: OYC Chamber Singers and Oakland Interfaith Youth Choir
FREE! – Register for Tickets
Want to perform too? Sign up to audition!
Chamber Singers Open House Rehearsal
Try a rehearsal with the Oakland Youth Chorus!
Chamber Singers: High School
Chamber Singers focus on advanced singing techniques, singing with confidence from different genres of classical, jazz, 20th-century, spiritual, pop, and world music. These singers will sing in three-part, four-part, and five-part harmony, and learn stage presence and performance skills.
Chamber Singers perform in all OYC concerts, as a stand-alone ensemble, with the Concert Chorus, and in community performances throughout the year.
Concert Chorus Open Rehearsal
Try a rehearsal with the Oakland Youth Chorus!
Concert Chorus: Middle School (5th to 9th Grade)
Concert Chorus members work on building a solid foundation in Music Theory, rhythm, and sight reading through a Kodály based curriculum. Concert Chorus members gain confidence in singing music in two-part, three-part, four-part, and five-part harmony in different languages. Singers acquire vocal skills including the correct use of the head voice, breath support, vowel formation, and consonant placement.
All Choir Potluck
The All-Choir Potluck is on Saturday, August 5!
Kick off "Season 38: Living in Harmony" with the annual All-Choir Potluck! Come meet the board and members of the OIGC family. Bring your friends, family, and a dish to share. See you soon!
View map for specific location and parking.
Potluck and Hangout
10:30am ~ 3pm
LOCATION
Alameda Crown Memorial State Beach, Mariner's Lagoon Picnic Area. View map for location and parking
THE POTLUCK
Bring whatever you’d like to share for ~10-12 folks
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.
OTHER NOTES
There is little to no 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, and with this site in particular closer to the bay – DRESS IN LAYERS! Prepare for the sun as well as the cold!
OIGC All-Choirs sings the National Anthem
$32 (regular $40-$53) – OIGC Fundraiser has ended!
Get your tickets from MLB Tickets to join OIGC in and around Section 125!
***
The OIGC choirs sing the National Anthem at the Oakland A’s game on June 12, against the Tampa Bay Rays!
Join us in supporting the Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir by purchasing tickets to the upcoming baseball game fundraiser! Enjoy a fun day out while supporting our mission to spread the joy of gospel music. Grab your friends and family and come cheer on the home team while helping to make a difference.
OIGC’s Tickets will be located in and around Section 125
Upon purchase, please enter the name of your choir and choir member to keep groups together. To ensure your group is seated together, please arrive as a group to pick up tickets at the same time.
