Wings of Glory Community Gospel Choir

Welcome to Wings of Glory Community Gospel Choir. If this is your first experience singing Black Gospel music, you may find our rehearsals different from those of other groups you’ve joined. We often learn by rote, which is by listening and repeating what you’ve heard. For trained musicians, this can be disturbing, but if you stay in the spirit of Gospel, you will eventually learn to enjoy the freedom. Sometimes written music is supplied, but keep in mind that one key feature of Gospel music is spontaneity, so expect to hear diversions from the hard copy, and changes in the music from one rehearsal to the next.

If singing in a group is new to you, hang in there! It can be daunting at first, but you will catch on! Some of the songs we perform are very easy, and you will be able to sing them after one rehearsal. Some are quite contemporary, and even our accomplished singers find them a challenge to learn. Don’t get discouraged. The members of your section – soprano, alto, tenor, or bass – will be happy to help you learn the notes. Don’t be afraid to ask. For both experienced and novice singers, a tape recorder is your best tool for quick learning.

ATTENDANCE

Attendance is not required at either weekly rehearsals or concerts,. Most people have busy lives, and commitments to work, kids, church, sports and other things. Participation in Wings of Glory should be enjoyable, not stressful. It is wonderful and highly appreciated when you come to practice or concerts. When you can’t make it, it is a courtesy to drop the director an email or make a phone call. Keep in mind that you will get more out of singing with Wings of Glory, both musically and spiritually, if you attend regularly.

DUES

While we do not have official dues, we do pass the basket at each rehearsal. If you are blessed to be able to afford five or ten dollars a week, we really appreciate it. The money donated by the singers covers the $75 (and some gas money) for our accompanists, Frank Wyatt and Smiley Brown. All extra cash goes into the general fund for expenses such as postage, printing, coffee supplies, workshops and scholarships and occasionally a guest musician. Except for the pianist, all staff, including the director and the band, the treasurer and robe manager, is volunteer.

ROBES

Our beautiful navy and scarlet robes were purchased in the fall of 2003, after much research by the Robe Committee with input from choir members. Some people have bought their robes, while other “rent” them. As a new member, you may borrow one of our spare robes for concerts, and return it afterwards. If you decide you are really serious about staying with the choir, you may want your own robe. You may purchase one of the spares, or we can order one for you. Sharon Taylor is in charge of the robes. If you need one for an event, call her at 584-3556.

FAITH AND JOY