Wednesday, March 29

Members of the AU Gospel Choir belted out an uplifting tune last week during rehearsals for their 30th anniversary concert.

The performance, slated for 5 p.m. on Saturday, April 22, at the Kay Spiritual Life Center, is expected to draw many alumni and friends, including the choir’s founders, Valerie Yarborough and Rev. Clarence Cross. The concert will feature contemporary pieces from such artists as Kurt Carr and the Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir and more traditional gospel hymns from Walter Hawkins and Milton Brunson.

Throughout its 30-year history, the group—which currently boasts about 50 members, comprising both students and staff—has served as an example of diversity and inclusion on campus and provided an important spiritual connection for many in the AU community.

RELATED LINK > AU Gospel Choir

“The choir is a symbol of AU’s commitment to diversity and multiculturalism,” said Shayna Hayes, SOC junior and choir president. “Anytime you get Jewish students and Buddhist students in the same choir singing gospel music, it really shows how special and dynamic the choir is.” —AF