Experience the Power of Black Gospel Music at OIGC’s 2025 Gospel Music Conference
Engage in a day of Workshops and Community Culminating in OIGC’s Annual Free Spring Concert
– Saturday, April 26, 2025 –
Oakland, CA (February 25, 2025)– The Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir (OIGC) invites singers, musicians, and gospel music lovers to immerse themselves in a full day of transformative workshops at the 2025 Gospel Music Conference on Saturday, April 26, 2025. This exciting event runs from 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM, culminating in a dinner hosted by OIGC and the highly anticipated Annual Free Spring Concert at 7:00 PM.
Participants will have the opportunity to refine their skills in gospel soloing, vocal strength, tambourine, songwriting, stage presence, and more. The day includes a special Mass Choir Workshop led by OIGC Founding Artistic Director Terrance Kelly, where attendees will learn and perform alongside the choir that evening.
“For some people, Black gospel music is not just an art form, it is an identity. It is a cultural legacy rooted in resilience, joy, and community,” says Kelly. “This conference is a way to share that legacy, deepen our understanding of the music, and celebrate its impact on our lives, regardless of your background.”
From left to right, Top Row: Ashling Cole, Paul Daniels, Zoe Ellis, Terrance Kelly
Bottom Row: La Nell Martin, Javier Navarette, Jae Phoenix, JaCoree Prothro
The event will also feature a diverse lineup of instructors, including powerhouse vocalist Ashling Cole, renowned percussionist Javier Navarrete, and celebrated gospel soloist Zoe Ellis, among others. Workshops are designed for all experience levels, from beginners to seasoned performers.
For many, singing is more than music—it’s activism. “We need art and community now more than ever,” shares an OIGC choir member. “Singing is how I express my truth, and OIGC is a space where we can lift our voices together for healing.”
Registration is open now, with full-day and afternoon-only options available.
For more details and to register, visit www.oigc.org/conference2025.
MEDIA INQUIRIES & GIVEAWAYS: Limited free workshop passes are available for press coverage and radio promotions. Contact Isa S. Chu at media@oigc.org for more information.
EVENT DETAILS:
Date: Saturday, April 26, 2025
Location: First Congregational Church of Oakland, 2501 Harrison St, Oakland
Schedule:
8:30 AM: Gospel Music Workshops
2:00 PM: Mass Choir Workshop
5:00 PM: Potluck Dinner
7:00 PM: Annual Free Spring Concert
Registration & Tickets:
Package A - $110: Full Day of Workshops + Mass Choir + Dinner & Concert
Package B - $40: Mass Choir Workshop + Dinner & Concert
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About the Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir
The Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir, founded in 1986 by Terrance Kelly, unites over 300 singers across multiple choirs from diverse faiths, races, and cultures. The namesake award-winning choir performs 25-30 times annually, including notable events such as jazz festivals, tours, and inauguration ceremonies. Additional ensembles include the Oakland Interfaith Youth Choir, the Oakland Interfaith Community Choir, and the Oakland Interfaith Kids Choir. In 2022, OIGC acquired the Oakland Youth Chorus, further expanding its youth program and outreach. With their mission to inspire unity and joy among all people through Black gospel and spiritual music traditions, the OIGC continues to touch the hearts of audiences around the world.
