Gospel Music Workshop and Annual Free Spring Concert
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Media Contact: Isa S. Chu, Marketing Manager, media@oigc.org, (510) 510-587-9409
Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir Hosts
Biennial Gospel Music Workshop
and Annual Free Spring Musical
Oakland, CA (March 28, 2023)—The Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir (OIGC) is excited to host the return of its biennial full-day Gospel Music Workshop after four years, followed by its Annual Free Spring Musical on Saturday, April 22. Both events will take place at St. Paul’s AME, 2024 Ashby Ave in Berkeley.
The workshop features a diverse lineup of expert instructors covering topics on music education, management, and performance. Vocal sessions led by Artistic Director Terrance Kelly and “The Business of Choir” with Executive Director Maren Amdal are just the beginning. The workshop will welcome frequent OIGC guest soloists JaCoree Prothro and Mickala Cheadle-Josey, and songwriter and musician Zoe Ellis to present sessions on storytelling and stage presence. Lonnie Delisle, visiting director from Canada’s Universal Gospel Choir, will lead sessions on gospel choir directing and ear training. Other instructors include La Nell Martin, Paul Daniels, and Jae Phoenix covering topics including music theory, songwriting, and tambourine basics.
Terrance Kelly leads a vocal workshop.
Jae Phoenix leads a tambourine workshop.
At its inception over three decades ago, the OIGC Gospel Music Workshop was designed for the diverse makeup of the choir, many of whom did not grow up with Black gospel music. The workshop created a space for choir members who wanted to learn more about Black gospel music. Eventually, the workshop opened its doors to other choirs and the general public.
Following the workshop, the Annual Free Spring Musical will take place in the evening, showcasing the talents of local choirs and gospel artists. This year will feature OIGC’s first Apprentice Director, Jenni Simpson of Redwood Interfaith Gospel Choir from Arcata, CA. In addition to the Oakland Interfaith Family of Choirs, Beth Eden Church Choir, Glide Memorial Ensemble, and the Oakland Gay Men’s Chorus will join the musical celebration.
Mass choir workshop participants rehearse
Registration for the workshop is required. The cost is $110 for the full-day workshop and $32 for the Mass Choir Workshop only. Both registrations include dinner, admission, and an opportunity to perform during the Annual Free Spring Musical.
For more information about the events and to register, visit www.oigc.org/workshop to secure your spot.
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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 festival tours and inauguration ceremonies. Additional choirs include the Oakland Interfaith Youth Choir, the Oakland Interfaith Community Choir, the Oakland Interfaith Kids Choir, and the virtual Oakland Interfaith World 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.
For more information on OIGC, visit oigc.org
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