Gospel Music Workshop

This class will examine Black gospel music with an emphasis on choral music and oral traditions that capture the Black experience in America from a historical, socio-political and multicultural standpoint. The syllabus and repertoire is reflective of the great faith tradition that is an integral part of black culture; in that it includes the breadth of musical expression in the Black worship experience. Students will analyze the importance of Black gospel music and its vital role in shaping global music trends. Spirituals, traditional gospel, contemporary gospel, as well as religious music of the European tradition will be reviewed closely from a historical and musical standpoint. The class will comprise of equal parts lecture and practicum (Voices of Imani Gospel Choir). The latter half compromising of the practicum (VOI) will help students engage in practical learning of songs explored in the lecture, consequently accomplishing the age-old institution of oral tradition in Black history.