reviewvancouver: Good Noise Gospel Choir - Singin in my Soul

Uplifting is an understatement! The accomplished and widely acclaimed Good Noise Vancouver Gospel Choir treated a sold-out audience to a warm and wonderful, once only, evening of Gospel music in the beautifully appropriate setting of Christ Church Cathedral. The rare engagement date of a leap day suited the rare quality, and effect of the songs and music on the audience.

Gail Suderman, an accomplished performer, conductor and professor of voice, opera and choral music, offered valuable commentary and introductions to the music presented, as well as robust piano and lovely voice contributions to the evening. The extremely talented accompanists enriched the sound, and the audience roundly showed its appreciation at every opportunity.

The stars of the evening were, of course, the choir members whose voices filled the space with joyful celebration. From the first song, featuring soloist Timothy Fuller, the place rocked. The theme was quickly established featuring songs of blessing, gladness and spiritual satisfaction. Soloist Adrienne Sweat’s talent added to the joyful atmosphere. The choir’s strong voices and harmonies clearly moved the audience, as this reviewer noted smiles, foot-tapping, expressions of dreamy contentment, and plenty of chair dancing throughout the evening. The inclusion of audience participation in four of the fourteen songs presented was a fantastic addition to the spirit of the evening.

The production was split into two parts - the first featuring the Good Noise Vancouver Gospel Choir alone, and the second, virtually doubling the number of members already present, performing as the Hallelujah Praise Mass Gospel Choir. The sound, the harmony, and the quality of performance only expanded the fullness of spirit in the venue.

That this was a one-evening production was disappointing until we saw notice of two upcoming events featuring members of the Good Noise Vancouver Gospel Choir. First, on Saturday, April 25 at 7:30 p.m. at Hycroft Manor (1489 McRae Avenue) is the Good Noise Gala, a fundraiser for the choir. Limited tickets are available at $125. The evening will include live entertainment, food and beverages and a silent auction. Other opportunities to enjoy the choir come on Saturday, May 30 at 3 p.m. and 8 p.m. at Christ Church Cathedral. This production will feature guest artist Crystal Hicks. For both engagements, tickets are available by contacting brownpapertickets.com. Perhaps some audience members were motivated to attend auditions to join the choir on June 1 and 8. Emailing auditions@goodnoisevgc.com will give information needed.

To close, let me say that this evening was a moving infusion of joy, rejuvenation and comfort. The hugs, smiles and bright eyes I witnessed upon exiting are evidence of the effect this wonderful choir had on the spirit of each audience member. Hallelujah!