Description
Amateur Music Network (AMN) presents its 3rd Annual Juneteenth Workshop and sing-along of American spirituals conducted by Dr. Candace Y. Johnson in collaboration with Oakland-based artist, producer, and pianist Kev Choice. The in-person, multi-denominational, participatory performance will take place at Oakland’s New Destiny Church, at 625 8th Street, and is open to vocalists and music enthusiasts of all ages and abilities. The Juneteenth Celebration and Workshop will also be shared via ZOOM so vocalists from around the country can also participate and sing with the choir and others.
The workshop will focus on Dr. Johnson’s new arrangement of the traditional spiritual Joshua Fit the Battle of Jericho, prepared especially for this occasion. The lyrics allude to the biblical story of the Battle of Jericho, in which Joshua led the Israelites against Canaan, and the song is believed to have been composed by slaves in the first half of the 19th century.
Dr. Johnson and Kev Choice will co-lead the workshop, will discuss the traditions of spirituals in America, the new arrangement, and the choral performance. The New Destiny Church in Oakland will host the Celebration and Workshop and the church has been led by Bishop Christopher C. Smith and Pastor Adrienne Smith since 1999. They have built an apostoic church that strengthens families and goes beyond its walls to impact the Bay Area.
Why You Should Attend
Participatory Juneteenth Choral Celebration & Workshop with Dr. Candace Y. Johnson & Kev Choice
The multi-denominational, participatory performance will take place at Oakland’s New Destiny Church, at 625 8th Street, and is open in-person and on-line to vocalists and music enthusiasts of all ages and abilities. The Juneteenth Celebration and Workshop will also be shared via ZOOM so vocalists from around the country can also participate and sing with the choir and others.
The workshop will focus on Dr. Johnson’s new arrangement of the traditional spiritual Joshua Fit the Battle of Jericho, prepared especially for this occasion. The lyrics allude to the biblical story of the Battle of Jericho, in which Joshua led the Israelites against Canaan, and the song is believed to have been composed by slaves in the first half of the 19th century.
