Find out about the Reading Community Gospel Choir's journey

welcome to reading community gospel choir

HOW IT ALL STARTED

The journey of the Reading Community Gospel Choir (RComGos) first began in October 2007 following a project for Black History Month. The workshop took place at the Reading Central Seventh Day Adventist Church with esteemed musicians Colin and Cecelia Anderson taking the lead. People from across the community who attended the workshop thoroughly enjoyed the experience of creating such a rhythmical, melodic and harmonic sound with the blend of their voices. The sound, energy and passion that came from this workshop lit a spark which then went on to form The Reading Community Gospel Choir.because of this diversity that we are proud to say we are a true community choir.

HOW WE'VE GROWN OVER THE YEARS

Over the years the choir has seen people from all walks of life and backgrounds joining to sing the music of gospel. Some of us are accomplished skilled and experienced musicians, who have performed nationally and internationally, while others have no formal training in music but enjoy singing. It is because of this diversity that we are proud to say we are a true community choir.

MEET OUR CHOIR DIRECTORS

Gemma Cudjoe - Choir Director

Gemma Cudjoe is the music Director for the Reading Community Gospel Choir (RComGos) and has been working with the choir since it’s inception in 2007. Gemma grew up singing in her local church, which is where she developed her passion for Gospel music. As a singer, Gemma has made numerous appearances on Songs of Praise, singing with AVE (Adventist Vocal Ensemble). As a member of The London Adventist Chorale, Gemma has sung at the Proms, for the Royal Family at London Palladium, Westminster Abbey & Buckingham Palace and regularly performs at Parliament’s Christmas Carol Service for MPs, hosted by the Speaker of the House. Her singing highlight was to sing in an Octet with Jessie Norman (who passed away this year) on her Sacred Duke Ellington tour in Europe. It is from her experience of choral singing that Gemma became more involved in choir directing. She loves to build and shape the Reading Community Gospel Choir’s sound to give its characteristic rich, vibrant yet polished sound. Since RComGos is a non-auditioning choir, Gemma works with the members to get the best out of their voices and build their confidence. Gemma’s directing highlight has been winning Reading’s Big Sing Choir Competition 2019 and directing RCOMGOS as finalists in BBC’s Gospel Choir of the Year 2019. Of course you will have to watch the competition to find out which choir won!

Nicole Sanderson - Assistant Director

Joined the choir in 2007, often sung in church but was looking for some more singing exposure and experience. Started as an alto and now sing soprano, alto and tenor! This year has risen to the challenge of Assistant Conductor alongside Gemma. She is having a fantastic year teaching various songs, working with the soloists and conducting the choir. This new role within the choir is extremely fulfilling and allows her to use her creativity and ideas regularly, she created some original arrangements for many of the songs we sing. Working alongside Gemma has been inspiring. It’s given her even more confidence and helped her to gain a greater understanding of her role. It’s been a big year for the choir and she has played a great role in it. “Gospel music is a powerful tool which can transform the lives of those who hear it. Its message of hope gives you a feeling no other genre can! It’s a privilege to be a part of such an amazing choir and family. I’m looking forward to what 2020 will bring for the choir and I’m excited for the continued opportunities and experiences.”

GET IN TOUCH

Whether you have questions,booking enquiries or want to join, get in touch. We look forward to meeting you.