1. Tell readers how you became part of The Kingdom Choir and a bit about your background.
The birth of The Kingdom Choir was not intentional at all. It came out of a London-wide choir that belonged to the denomination I attended (The Church of God of Prophecy which has its headquarters in Tennessee). Some of us became involved with BBC radio program called ‘The Gospel Train’. We would form the host choir for the show, which would take place in various black majority churches.
One day a well-known UK TV program called Songs of Praise rung me up for us to take part in their 35th Birthday anniversary. However, when asked for the choir’s name, I could provide none, because we were just a host choir for the Gospel Train. I was told I needed to find and submit a name the following day!
That night I dreamt about the name The Kingdom Choir – I didn’t know what the kingdom meant, I didn’t like it, but I couldn’t think of anything else, so that’s the name I submitted the next day and we’ve been using the name ever since!
I grew up in a Pentecostal church, where music was all around, all the time. It was a very rich, even if informal, education for me.
At the same time, my mum decided to send my sister and I to have piano lessons. That began a rather more formal education.
At some point, the two came together, forging in us a desire to have a career in music. (My sister is also a Gospel Choir conductor.)
2. What is the most rewarding part of being in TKC?
There is a lot that is rewarding for me – the connection and community that we share, the laughter and joy, the incredible sound of their voices… These are the internal rewards, but then there’s the impact that the choir have on their listeners. It’s very humbling to know that we make a difference. On this tour there has been a common theme: so many have said how much the folks from their area have needed the show. I feel that this is the reason we are here.
3. What can our patrons expect from the TKC show – energy, songs, solos, etc?
We’re very excited to be presenting a Christmas program this year. Audiences will be treated to a mix of traditional and contemporary gospel music, some of our own songs as well as some Christmas favourites given that special Kingdom Choir flair. There will be a lot of dancing, clapping, some powerfully tender moments of reflection as well as joy and laughter.
4. Talk about experience, rehearsing and the level of expectation choir members must meet to be part of TKC?
It’s really important that each member have a relationship with God as we are not only sharing love, hope and inspiration but also our faith through the music. Most of the people in the choir have been singing for a good while by the time they join the choir, and so we have a rich vein of experience and talent as our foundation.
5. What is your favorite part of the performance and do you think it will dazzle our audience?
We absolutely love it when the audiences sing along with us – when they jump to their feet, clap their hands and join in with the Gospel step touch! It makes us one big, happy, singing family.
I expect our audiences will be dazzled throughout the performance and for different reasons. People have their favourite songs as well as their most poignant moments, borne out of their personal experiences.
