Queer Gospel Chorus

By  GALA Expert 

 March 3, 2024 

  

Queer Gospel Choir, conducted by Eric Williamson (he/him), is an SATB chorus open to all singers. Parts will be taught by rote including an April Zoom rehearsal with Eric and Lavender Light. This chorus will perform in the Banned Blockbuster on July 13 from 9:00 to 10:15 PM on the MCC Auditorium Stage, and, tentatively, an additional performance at George Floyd Square, date and time TBD.

Eric Williamson wears a white shirt and blue blazer. He stands in front of a wood paneled wall.

 

Hello from Eric Williamson! I am honored to serve as conductor of the Queer Gospel Choir, a place where faith, spirituality, and identity are affirmed! Be prepared to explore vocal artistry at the highest level and engage in an immersive musical experience rooted in the Black Gospel music tradition.

I have programmed four contrasting pieces for our performance:

  • “Whoever You Are” arranged by the Podd Brothers is a Gospel ballad to center and ground our work together as we affirm our individual and collective identities. 
  • “Lord Send Your Spirit” by Dr. Raymond Wise is an upbeat arrangement that will have our audiences on their feet. 
  • “I Don’t Feel No Ways Tired” as performed by Rev. James Cleveland, the King of Gospel Music. 
  • “This Lil’ Light” arranged by Dr. Anthony T. Leach combines two different tunes of this spiritual in this upbeat Gospel arrangement. This song is a call to remembrance for many LGBTQ+ folks who are both active/in-active in faith based communities…and features choreography! 

In addition to providing scores, parts will be taught by rote including an April 15 Zoom rehearsal with Eric and Lavender Light from 7:30-8:30PM EST. Be sure to put this date on your calendar for an exciting rehearsal experience with Lavender Light!

Rehearsals at GALA Festival

  • July 10 Rehearsal 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
  • July 12 Rehearsal 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
  • July 12 Performance for Choral Carnival 8:30 – 9:00 PM Central Lutheran Stage
  • July 13 Tech rehearsal for Banned Blockbuster 6:30 – 8:30 PM. MCC Auditorium Stage
  • July 13 Perform in Banned Blockbuster 9:00-10:15 PM. MCC Auditorium Stage

To sign up for a Festival Chorus, log into the Integra Online Store: open the “Quick links” drop-down menu on your home page, and select the Online Store option.  On the store Purchase Items page, select the chorus you wish to join with your particular voice part.

NOTE: This chorus has filled all the spots for T1, T2 and B1 voices. Tenors may sign up to sing Alto as long as you fit the range.

Join a Festival Chorus
Eric Williamson wears a white shirt and blue blazer. He stands in front of a wood paneled wall.
Eric Williamson
he/him
Eric Williamson (he/him) is the Artistic Director of Lavender Light the Black and People of All Colors LGBTQ+ Gospel Choir. This choir is dedicated to continuing the legacy of singing…