The Spirit of Togetherness: An Evening of Gospel

Kraków Gospel Choir, affectionately known as KGC, holds the prestigious title of being one of the trailblazers in bringing the soulful sounds of gospel music to the hearts of Poland. Founded by the talented Lea Kjeldsen, the choir has flourished under the leadership of over a dozen dedicated conductors over its 24-year journey. However, amidst the changes and growth, one thing remains constant – the unwavering dedication to the Creator, who is the ultimate inspiration behind every note sung. With the dynamic Mateusz Madej at the helm as the current leader and conductor, the choir continues to spread joy to audiences far and wide. In a delightful twist, the current season also welcomes the esteemed guest conductor, Colin Williams, adding a new layer of gospel to their harmonious performances.

Experience the powerful ministry of Chuks Ukor, the acclaimed music artist, songwriter, worship leader and youth pastor, with a fervent passion for gospel music. Chuks envisions a platform where people from all walks of life can come together to worship freely, celebrating the beauty of God’s holiness. With an impressive resume that includes leading worship teams in Nigeria and the UK, Chuks has released two studio albums, My Testimony and Sound of Praise as well as a live recording album, Praise Uninhibited. In 2021, Chuks released the hit single GRACE, followed by the successful Evening Praise Gospel Concert in Bradford in 2023. His latest EP Praise & Dance showcases his ability to blend diverse musical genres seamlessly.

The Celebration Choir, was formed in 2014. The choir is lead by Colin Williams a renowned and popular UK-based gospel singer, song-writer, director and backing vocalist, who has, amongst other roles in the gospel music genre, lead the former United Voices Concert Choir (UVCC) and United Voices Youth Chorale (UVYC). The Celebration Choir includes a wealth of talented and anointed singers from across the Yorkshire and Pennine regions. The Celebration Choir sing at church praise events, concerts, cultural events, weddings and other settings. The aim, as they sing is to celebrate music as they celebrate Christ.

Pat and Marva Bell are sisters of Jamaican heritage, writing and performing poetry and prose. They have performed work together and separately at Bradford Windrush, Black History Month, Bradford Literature Festival and Ilkley Literature Festival. They are both involved in amateur dramatics, performing in musical theatre and plays across West Yorkshire.

Mussanzi Family Choir are a Congolese family choir based in Bradford. They predominately sing acapella hymns in Swahili, Lingala and French which blend both storytelling and activism offering a glimpse into their lives as refugees living in modern day Britain, finding their voice and using the power of music to heal past traumas and thrive. The family have performed live at various events. During the pandemic, they began recording and sharing songs on YouTube.

Hot Gospel boasts a diverse membership from East Yorkshire, North Lincolnshire, North East Lincolnshire and beyond. Their remarkable range of vocals and sounds welcome singers from all walks of life, making them a vibrant and inclusive musical family. Directed by the renowned Helen Garnett this choir has left an indelible mark on east Yorkshire and Lincolnshire since its establishment in 2004. Taking pride in being two-time finalists for Songs of Praise Gospel Choir of the year 2019 and 2023, their passion for gospel music is evident in the transformative impact it has on its people.

The Huddersfield Community Gospel Choir (HCGC) unites diverse audiences through uplifting gospel music. They aim to enrich, educate, and inspire through performances, workshops, and community activities. HCGC includes singers of all ages and backgrounds, celebrating the rich tradition of gospel music. A non-profit, HCGC funds its mission through member fees, sponsorships, concerts, and workshops. These funds support performances in hospices, hospitals, schools, and community events, spreading music where it’s needed most.

Led by director Edwin Baker, this 42-member choir, brings joy and inspiration to audiences. For over a century, gospel music has been a source of strength and hope, and they strive to keep this tradition alive in our community.

Christella is a professional singer, songwriter, producer, composer and musician. Christella has composed and Musically Directed several productions including Searching for the Heart of Leeds and Queen of Chapeltown (Leeds Playhouse); Yellow is the Colour of Sunshine (Tutti Frutti); and award winning Windrush- Movement of the People (Phoenix Dance). She also featured as a guest singer in Sting and Katie Prince’s West End Production of Message in a Bottle, musically directed by Hamilton’s Alex Lacamoire. In 2022, Christella composed her first Opera, POWER (Northern Opera), touring later in the year.

Kuill, a British songwriter and artist, combines electro-soul and alternative influences to create ‘storytelling pop’. Not bound by genre, his focus on melodic and lyrical storytelling enables a sui generis, regenerative sound.

Emem is a sensational gospel cross-over artist with a powerful voice and unique sound that blends classic soul with modern R&B. Hailing from Nigeria and raised in Bradford, Emem’s incredible journey from her church choir to the big stage has been nothing short of remarkable. Her deep-rooted gospel music and strong Christian faith shine through every note. With a trail of successes, from leading worship at mega churches to captivating audiences with her girl group and gospel bands, Emem’s performances are soul-stirring. She has also hosted numerous EmemMusic Gospel Nights, making waves in the gospel music scene.

Nigel S Guy is a born and bred Bradfordian, his late parents arrived in the UK from Jamaica in the 1960’s. He studied International Architecture at the Universities of Huddersfield; Amman Jordan; and the Universidad de La Habana Cuba. As Co- Director of four organisations he advocates to raise the standards for Windrush and leads on heritage and community projects. As a presenter on BCB106.6fm, his favourite saying is “when you give, you receive more”. His mission is to inspire and raise aspirations, especially with his wife, three children and granddaughter, his biggest fans.

Ola has been a proud member of the Kraków Gospel Choir since 2012 and also volunteer for the Gospel Association. Singing different types of Christian music has truly enriched her experience, but it’s singing gospel that really allows her to connect with God and share His glory. Her main focus is on spreading the Good News to everyone, especially those who may have only come to the choir concerts for the music. Ola says, “It’s my way of bringing people closer to Him through the powerful message of gospel music.”