Introduction to the Performance
This performance by the well-known and respected Howard Gospel Choir is evidence of their skills and prowess. The “Gospel Medley” combines the gospel tunes “Oh Happy Day,” “I Luh God,” and “Wanna Be Happy.” The choir expertly syndicates these songs’ styles and messages to produce a seamless and effective action that lasts eight minutes (Howardgospelchoir, 2017). According to the footage of their “Gospel Medley” concert, the Howard Gospel Choir seems to have had over 50 performers. However, as they are not visible in the video, it is difficult to tell if any extra musicians performed with the choir.
Instrumentation, Musical Elements, and Performance Dynamics
The songs were performed in English, and their lyrics were in the same language. In gospel music, the piano or keyboard is a common instrument used to create melodies and solos and assist the choir harmonically. Another common instrument in gospel music, the organ, produces a full-bodied, rich sound that harmonizes with the choir’s vocals (Howardgospelchoir, 2017). In gospel music, the rhythmic foundation for the choir is frequently provided by drums, which perform more vigor and drive.
The guitar complements the choir’s harmonies melodically and harmonically, while the bass guitar contributes a rich, low-end sound. A gospel performance can be given a sense of grandeur and celebration by adding brass instruments, such as trumpets or trombones, which can produce a strong and uplifting sound. Gospel music’s usage of instruments is ultimately a stylistic decision, and the emphasis is frequently placed on the strength of the choir’s vocal harmonies and the sentiment of the lyrics (Howardgospelchoir, 2017).
The drums carried the melody throughout the performance. From the beginning to the end of the concert, I heard several harmonies. Four different instruments created these harmonies: drums, piano, solos, and guitar. Their energetic action and lively vocals produce a captivating show. The song is energetic and has a happy, celebratory feel because of the quick speed (Howardgospelchoir, 2017).
Gospel music includes African American religious traditions, and its common themes are redemption, hope, and faith. This heritage is upheld in the Howard Gospel Choir’s act, which uses call-and-response patterns and intricate harmonies to produce a rich and deep sound. The music also integrates contemporary components, such as instrumentation and orchestration, to provide a performance that is entertaining and new. The tempo was appropriate in creating the mood since it was fast and energetic, which brought about an exciting mood.
The mood was generally exciting, and the piano carried the rhythm of the piece. The Howard Gospel Choir’s concert, taken as a whole, is proof of the gospel genre’s ongoing appeal (Howardgospelchoir, 2017). The choir’s dynamic motions, powerful vocals, and fusion of tradition and innovation produce a unique experience.
Audience Engagement
This performance aims to demonstrate the choir’s talent and enthusiasm while encouraging and inspiring the audience. The choir performed well, and I liked their energetic dances and strong singing. Repeated passages like the chorus aided in bringing the song together. The concert served a dual purpose of worship and amusement.
The choir’s contemporary attire and dancing may have suggested a current approach to the performance, even though the music was conventional gospel. The concert aimed to delight the audience and use music to praise and worship. The audience was involved throughout the concert because of the choir’s contagious energy and strong stage presence.
The choir is dressed in current attire, and although the music is classic gospel, the act may be deemed contemporary (Howardgospelchoir, 2017). Thanks to the fusion of traditional and modern components, the performance is approachable to a broad spectrum of people, keeping the gospel music genre fresh and dynamic. The Howard Gospel Choir’s rendition of the “Gospel Medley” is an example of the gospel genre’s strength and enduring popularity. Its contagious rhythms, potent vocals, and happy energy will certainly move and uplift audiences of all ages and backgrounds. I could keep up with SHMRG of the music even while seeing and listening to it.
Reference
Howardgospelchoir. (2017). Howard gospel choir – “Gospel medley” [Video]. YouTube. Web.