We are building a huge chorus of 250 people from our local community to sing with the LSO and Associate Artist André J Thomas as part of our ‘Gospel Explosion’ concert on 5 November on the Barbican stage.
Whether you are already an enthusiastic singer, or have always wanted to give singing a go, you’re invited to take part. A range of learning materials will be provided for all abilities to get to know the pieces which will be performed. You don’t need any prior experience of singing, and you don’t need to be able to read music.
Individuals, amateur choirs and singing groups are all welcome to register. Apply by Thursday 10 August 5pm using the sign up form below.
Rehearsals for Symphonic Gospel 2022 with André J Thomas
About the Concert
The concert will bring together modern gospel music with the sounds of a symphony orchestra, and is curated and conducted by choral and gospel singing expert André J Thomas. This will be the third such concert with the LSO and André J Thomas, and will also feature the London Symphony Chorus.
Thomas says of the concert: ‘Gospel music does not apologise. It comes straight out, fiery and quick. It’s like lighting a firecracker – you start with a sizzle and that’s it. Every section of the concert on 5 November will have a ‘pow’. The atmosphere will go back and forth between up-beat and meditative. The music is all about hope for a new world. I hope that people will leave feeling uplifted. I want people to feel better than they did when they walked through the door.’
Rehearsal Schedule
Weekly rehearsals led by choir director David Lawrence will take place on Monday evenings at LSO St Luke’s. Dress rehearsals and the concert will take place at the Barbican.
We ask that all participants are able to commit to attending at seven of nine rehearsals, plus the rehearsals on 1, 4 and 5 November, which are compulsory.
Rehearsal Dates
Rehearsals take place at LSO St Luke’s, 161 Old Street, EC1V 9NG, from 6.45–8.45pm, unless otherwise stated.
Monday 4 September
Monday 11 September
Monday 18 September
Monday 25 September
Monday 2 October
Saturday 7 October (10.30am–4.30pm, with a one-hour break)
Monday 9 October
Monday 16 October
No rehearsal Monday 23 October
Monday 30 October
Dress Rehearsal and Concert Dates
Wednesday 1 November 6.30–9.30pm – Piano Rehearsal at LSO St Luke’s
Saturday 4 November – Morning Rehearsal at Barbican Hall
Sunday 5 November – Afternoon Rehearsal at Barbican Hall
Sunday 5 November – 7pm Concert at Barbican Hall
How to Apply
Participation is free, and no audition is required.
Individuals and choirs should sign up through the online form linked below. Places are limited and we are unfortunately unable to guarantee that everyone who registers interest will be able to take part. We will be in touch to confirm your place in August, before the project starts.
Sign ups are now closed
For more information, or if you have any questions, please contact:
Izzy Way Choral & Schools Co-ordinator
isobel.way@lso.co.uk | 020 7382 2526
Photos from Symphonic Gospel 2022 © Mark Allan
