WPAS Children of the Gospel Choir

Formed in 1993 to celebrate the tradition and inspirational root of gospel music on America’s main stages, Washington Performing Arts Society’s (WPAS) Children of the Gospel Choir showcases uniquely talented young voices in their own distinctive style of high energy performances featuring works by local and national composers. This multidimensional choir works with some of the area’s noted choral directors who enhance the choir’s training, performance quality, and disciplinary skills. The WPAS Gospel Choir program (which includes an annual 2-week summer intensive vocal camp) promotes an environment of self-confidence, teamwork, and respect. It also provides students with life learning tools to aid in personal and artistic growth. The Choir has shared the stage with an array of artists including Matthew Morrison, Dame Kiri Te Kanawa, Y’Anna Crawley, Kathleen Battle, Sweet Honey in the Rock, Step Afrika!, Richard Smallwood, Dr. Bobby Jones, and many others. Under the direction of artistic director Stanley J. Thurston and music director Michele Fowlin, WPAS Children of the Gospel Choir has been featured at The White House, The National Memorial Service for Nelson Mandela, and Inaugural Prayer Services for President Barack Obama at the National Cathedral, The Historic Howard Theatre in Washington DC, The State Department with Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, The National Archives, The National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade, The Smithsonian Museums, National Gallery of Art, Embassy of Great Britain, the Harman Center for the Performing Arts, Kennedy Center Millennium Stage, NBC's Today Show, and other special events.