The Fall Gospel Extravaganza was performed in the Chapel of the Holy Spirit on Saturday, Sept. 28. This performance showcased the songs Sacred Heart University (SHU) Gospel Choir has been working on since the beginning of the semester.
The Choir performed “I’ll Say Yes,” “Stand By Me,” “Be The Change,” “Jesus Be a Fence,” “Seattle,” “Forever Friends,” “Psalm 91,” “Lord, Help Me to Hold Out,” “Jesus Will Work It Out,” “Battlefield” and “SHU.”
SHU’s 4 Heart Harmony Choir performing in the Chapel of
the Holy Spirit.
Instagram, @shuchoir
Conductor Michael Brown has been with the Sacred Heart Gospel Choir for the past five years. “It’s just what it says, an extravaganza,” said Brown. “It’s a joyful, liberating experience.”
“I like to see the choir members develop and feel free enough to sing, because everybody has a voice,” said Brown. He has been performing since he was four years old. “It was God’s will,” he said.
According to the Choral Program page on the SHU website, “The SHU Gospel Choir is an ensemble that performs spirituals, anthems, contemporary and traditional gospel music. The ensemble provides a nurturing environment for students to learn technique and tradition, all while building a sense of community.”
Sophomore John Wassersug has been a member of the Choir since 2023. He joined the Gospel Choir this year.
“I decided to get involved after watching last year’s Gospel Choir show and seeing how much fun we all had, both the choir and the audience,” said Wassersug.
The choir rehearses every Tuesday in preparation. “I love the dynamic of the Gospel Choir, because I am never afraid of messing up because we are all very supportive of each other,” said Wassersug.
“Being part of such an interactive choir is amazing. During shows everyone is clapping, singing, and having a great time,” he continued.
The performance was very interactive, with the performers directing the audience to clap along and snap to songs. “Amazing Grace” was performed by Beatrice Somerville, Guest Soloist and Directress. The crowd rose to their feet and sang along for two verses with Somerville.
“My favorite part of the whole thing was the energy. We stood up and kind of danced. You could feel the rhythm in the room,” said sophomore Will Luceno, who was in attendance at the performance.
“I really liked the part where the two friends sang together,” said Luceno, referencing the performance of “Forever Friends” by Anabella DiNatale and Christen Luongo. This song was introduced by Somerville, who told the crowd that the two first performed the song as freshmen and they are now seniors. “Don’t be surprised if this brings a tear to your eyes,” said Somerville.
“This was the first time I’ve gone to one of these, and I really enjoyed it. I’ll definitely be going to the next one,” said Luceno. The performance ended in a standing ovation.
