The Evolution Of Gospel Music
Jaleesa Scotland
Toronto, July 29th, 2009
Against the backdrop of Black History Month, a powerful new stage production event made history in Toronto. The Evolution of Gospel Music was conceived and directed by a powerhouse team including Toronto Mass Choir Director Karen Burke, gospel music producer, Corey Butler and singer/actor/producer, Aadin Church. A cast representing the best of Toronto’s gospel singers, musicians, actors and dancers took the audience on a journey using live music, drama and dance and showcasing five eras of gospel. Audiences totaling over 1200 people were moved and energized by the power and spirit of gospel music over a period of more than three centuries.
Burke, also a professor of music at York University led the vocal components of the evening. Music Director Butler, who works closely with Burke with the Toronto Mass Choir and at York University, led the professional rhythm section. A top-notch team of powerful soloists was assembled for the front line singers, including Marlene O’Neill, Amoy Levy and Peter Moncrieffe, all leading lights of Toronto’s gospel scene.
The Evolution of Gospel Music relives the tale of a people thrust into a new land and stripped of everything but their music. This spectacular multimedia production charts a triumphant legacy that spans the early days of Negro spirituals, through the turmoil of the 60s, to the influence of gospel in today’s contemporary urban music. As well, a voyage through the golden age of gospel, celebrated the music of Thomas Dorsey, Mahalia Jackson, James Cleveland and other iconic artists.
Special guest artist Aadin Church (The Lion King, Miss Saigon) led the journey as a character called, The Traveler’ along with on stage partner, Karen Jules in scripted scenes that Church wrote to give historical context to the great music. This context was enhanced by the choreography of Jasmyn Fyffe, performed by her ASM Dance troupe (As the Spirit Moves) throughout the show. The drama and dance were further complemented by poignant photo and video projections.
For pictures of highlights from The Evolution of Gospel Music, CLICK HERE
To hear the CBC one-hour audio edit first aired in April 2009, CLICK HERE
Toronto Mass Choir, a registered charitable organization, expects to remount this event in February 2010. For more information, contact Karen Burke at 905 794 1139.
