The 53-member touring ensemble will sing in Evangelical Covenant Church congregations in Norton Shores, Grand Rapids, Detroit, Farmington Hills (two worship services) and Sawyer, Michigan. Members will perform music from contemporary artists such as Kirk Franklin, Moses Hogan, Fred Hammond and Israel Houghton, says Stephen Kelly, Gospel Choir director.
Kelly also has written pieces that the choir will sing. Helen Hudgens, associate professor of music, who also co-directs the choir, will accompany the ensemble. Students will stay with host families during the tour.
“Gospel music in general tells the story of our brokenness and God meeting us where we are, transforming us from the inside out,” Kelly says. “It talks about the pain and celebration, speaking to those who are going through suffering and seeing God, and how God calls us to live.”
The choir’s concerts build community, Kelly said. “Through the medium of gospel music we are corporately testifying together to the goodness of Jesus. Our concerts reflect that foundation.”
The Gospel Choir’s fall 2011 Michigan concert series is free and open to all:
- October 20 – 7 p.m. at Forest Park Covenant Church in Norton Shores
- October 21 – 7:30 p.m. at First Evangelical Covenant Church in Grand Rapids
- October 22 – 7 p.m. at Messiah Church, Detroit
- October 23 – 9:15 a.m. and 11 a.m. worship services at Faith Covenant Church in Farmington Hills
- October 23 – 7 p.m., Harbert Community Church in Sawyer
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