With a history that can be traced back centuries, spiritual Gospel was originally performed a cappella in a call and response, foot-stamping fashion. Today, many of its traditions remain as the music continues to delight audiences around the world. Over the next few months B:Music presents an extensive Gospel programme guaranteed to get those hands clapping and toes tapping.
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Soweto Gospel Choir, October 23, 2022
Soweto Gospel Choir present Freedom – Town Hall, Sunday October 23: Winner of the 2019 Grammy Award for Best World Music Album, Freedom commemorates South Africa’s democratic struggle. From the heart of the Soweto township, the choir has shared stages with the likes of U2, Aretha Franklin, Stevie Wonder, Celine Dion. This joyous evening celebrates the life of the father of the Rainbow Nation, Nelson Mandela, and includes their take on Leonard Cohen’s Hallelujah and an extraordinary rendition of Amazing Grace which has had more than 15 million views on YouTube. For ticket information click HERE
Gospel Goes Charity, November 5, 2022
Gospel Goes Charity 2022 – Town Hall, Saturday November 5: Raising funds for three local charities – Inspired School Of Confidence, Birmingham Christmas Shelter and Birmingham Children’s Hospital Burns Unit – this annual fundraiser has been an audience favourite since 2011. Birmingham Community Gospel Choir boasts talent of all ages and backgrounds from across the city under the direction of singer-songwriter Maxine Brooks. For ticket information click HERE
The Gospel Revisited Project, December 3, 2022
Gospel Revisited Project, in collaboration with University of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra – Town Hall, Saturday December 3: Gospel Revisited is renowned for its music to major concert venues and performance spaces in the region. Founded in 2017 by Ray Prince as a grass-roots project, it brings together musicians from different backgrounds and genres. This performance combines Prince’s vision with vocalists of the Gospel Revisited Project and musicians from University of Birmingham’s Symphony Orchestra. There’s expertly orchestrated pieces from the pen of the University’s Director of Jazz Performance/Gospel Revisited Musical Director, Jonathan Silk. For ticket information click HERE
Paul Simon’s Graceland reimagined, April 14, 2023
Paul Simon’s Graceland reimagined by The London African Gospel Choir – Town Hall, Friday April 14: Paul Simon’s most successful studio album – selling more than 16 million copies worldwide – has long been lauded by critics, winning him a Grammy in 1987. This uplifting evening is led by the London African Gospel Choir as it reimagines and celebrates Graceland’s biggest hits including Diamonds On The Soles Of Her Shoes, The Boy In The Bubble and the smash hit You Can Call Me Al. For ticket information click HERE
Jazzlines Gospel Ensemble
Jazzlines Gospel Ensemble – Symphony Hall, selected Saturdays from September 25 through to March 18: These free workshops are aimed at 11-19 year-olds to instil a passion for classic and contemporary gospel. The ensemble and choir will be headed up by two of the city’s most revered Gospel artists, band-leader Ray Prince and vocalist Claudia Prince. There is no previous experience required to join the fortnightly sessions – drum kits, pianos, keyboards and amps will be provided. For further information click HERE
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B:Music is a Birmingham-based charity with a mission to inspire a love of live music, through performance, participation and learning. As well as being responsible for Symphony Hall and Town Hall, the charity supports local artists, commissions and collaborates with up and coming musicians, and works across Birmingham and Europe. To find out more about B:Music and discover what’s on click HERE
