Alongside the Bible studies led by Hope Together's Rachel Jordan-Wolf, this week will include a unique Gospel music vibe.
UK Gospel legend John Fisher's IDMC Gospel choir will lead worship. Plus each afternoon his team will lead Gospel-singing workshops in separate groups for children and adults. You’ll get the chance to learn about technique, harmonies, solos and more.
At the weekend, more members of IDMC Gospel Choir and band will join us at LPO. Graduates of the afternoon workshops will join the choir and band to sing in a Gospel concert, backed by professional singers, keyboard, guitar and drums. A bonus weekend concert is currently at the planning stage, reaching out to the local community with IDMC’s unique Gospel music message.
John Fisher health update: earlier this year, John suffered a stroke. He is currently recovering and working on rehab. Leading IDMC singers Teressa Edwards and Courtney Hoilett will lead the worship and performances this season. Meanwhile, we wish and pray for a strong recovery for John.
The Gospel-singing workshops
John and his team have been invited on a regular basis to conduct gospel choir workshops in Europe and beyond. Individuals and choirs from beyond these shores often turn to the UK as the closest source for authentic Gospel music.
Working on his We Sing U Sing project, John has conducted projects in Poland, Denmark, Germany, France and Italy with hundreds of enthusiastic participants.
A series of workshops conclude with a concert performance. The workshops include:
- A brief history of Gospel Music
- The journey from Slavery to hip-hop
- Teaching basic singing techniques
- Breathing techniques
- Unison singing
- Harmony singing
- Holding notes confidently
- Understanding rhythms
- Voice strengthening
- Confidence
- Solo singing
Note: John Fisher was admitted to hospital in March following a severe stroke. He remains in recovery and may not be able to join the team at LPO this season. The choir and activities will go ahead as planned. Please pray that he makes a full return to health.
