A Celebration of Gospel

On Nov. 17 the Institute of Sacred Music sponsored “A Celebration of Gospel”, an evening of music that spanned generations and united multiple threads of the rich tapestry that is black gospel music. Well-known gospel musicians, Donald Lawrence and Vincent Bohanan, performed with their ensembles alongside a community choir comprising singers from New Haven and surrounding areas. The evening was supported by ISM’s interdisciplinary Music and the Black Church program.

Donald Lawrence is a songwriter, producer, composer, music/choir director, and a recording artist. He is the guiding force behind such number one hits as “Encourage Yourself,” “Back II Eden” and “The Blessing of Abraham.” Equally at home in both the inspirational and contemporary arenas, the multiple Grammy and Stellar Award winner has collaborated with a diverse roster, including such marquee names as Karen Clark Sheard, Donnie McClurkin, Kirk Franklin, En Vogue and Mary J. Blige.

Vincent Bohanan founded “The Sound of Victory (SOV) Fellowship Choir” in January 2014. He nurtured his musical virtuosity as a young child, was fortunate to have been mentored and has developed his credentials into a list of accomplishments with esteemed musical groups. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Music Business and Audio from Five Towns College. He has worked with “The Institutional Radio Choir” and alongside Vy Higginsen and “The Mama Foundation”, a highly respected performing arts foundation located in Harlem. The Sound of Victory Fellowship Choir was established to provide young gospel singers with the platform and outlet to freely develop and express their musical talents in a positive way.