Gospel music and jazz have deep-rooted ties. Many jazz artists have performances styles that often draw heavily from gospel music inspiration. To illustrate – listen to the spirituals of Louis Armstrong and the sacred music of Duke Ellington.

This is not the first time that the wall2wall Jazz Festival has featured gospel music but it has been several years since it last appeared on the programme. We are therefore delighted that an invitation to appear at this year’s festival has been accepted by the Bristol-based Renewal Choir.

The Renewal Choir is a well-established community gospel choir that was founded in September 2005. There are now over 70 choir members, ranging from youthful teens through to a number of energetic seniors still young at heart!

The choir membership – affectionately known as the “Renewal Family” benefits from the inspirational leadership of its Director Kim Samuels.

It has performed at many prestigious events, such as the BBC National Music Day, the Leona Lewis UK Tour in both Bristol and Cardiff and the Bristol Harbour Side Festival.

In December 2012, Renewal Choir held a launch celebration event in Bristol to mark the release of its debut album – “What He Started”. This is a collection of  11 mostly  original songs featuring the single “Change The World” for Christian Aid, as well as a guest appearance by local singer/songwriter Ikay Agu.

During the afternoon before its performance, the Renewal Choir will run a workshop for all who would like to join them for an enjoyable session of gospel singing.  This will be between 12 noon and 3.15pm (with refreshment breaks). 

There will be a small charge of £5 to cover costs and anyone wishing to book a place on the workshop should email info@blackmountainjazz.co.uk – or call Mike on 07958 612691.