Tabernacle Choir Hope concert review
Overview
The Tabernacle choir held on September 11th, 2024, was a mesmerzin, beautiful event that celebrated musical excellence and hope. The Spelman and Morehouse Glee clubs joined the Mormon Tabernacle Choir at the Statefarm Arena in Atlanta, Georgia. The goal of the concert was to perform “Songs of Hope”, these songs consisted of a compilation of Gospel and Negro spirituals. Spelman’s choir was led by Dr. Kevin Johnson and accompanied by Spelman’s organist and the Orchestra at Temple Square.
Concert review
The energy was electric from the moment the Spelman Choir took the stage. They opened with their rendition of the famous Negro spiritual “Wade in the Water.” The soloist brought the song a new element and flair, sending chills down my spine. The tempo was slightly faster than the original, and the lively tone enriched the performance, creating a wonderful experience.
Following “Wade in the Water,” the vibrant pulse of a djembe quickly shifted the mood from deep and soulful to upbeat and lively. The next piece, “Children, Where I Send Thee,” another traditional Negro spiritual, showcased an infectious energy. The mix of cheerful percussion and lively beat made this performance particularly enjoyable. I especially liked the rap verse within the song, as it’s not something I often hear in gospel or church music, which intrigued me.
The choir concluded with Spelman’s “A Choice to Change the World” anthem, originally composed by Dr. Kevin Johnson. This piece is associated with themes of empowerment and hope, encouraging Spelman women to recognize their potential and create meaningful change in their communities and beyond. It instills a sense of hope, inspiring listeners to believe in their ability to impact their lives and those around them positively. This piece was my favorite, as was the audience’s, earning the choir a standing ovation.
Evaluation
This concert was absolutely beautiful. From the vibrant melodies to the soulful tunes, Spelman’s performance was truly a beacon of hope, reflecting one of the major themes of the evening. I enjoyed all the pieces performed and was impressed by the creativity. The choice of traditional Negro spirituals, presented in a modern, engaging way, kept both me and the audience captivated throughout the entire performance. A standout piece for me was “Children, Where I Send Thee.” The soloist’s voice was breathtaking—soulful and powerful—adding a profound emotional depth to the song, leaving me speechless.
Conclusion
Overall, I was thoroughly impressed by the performance. The Spelman Glee Club consistently amazes me with their powerful voices, thoughtful song choices, and enriching performances. This concert was a showcase of talent and a celebration of history, community, and hope. The Tabernacle concert highlighted the importance of the arts and how we can use our voices to spread inspiration and love to one another.
