January 25, 2008

University of Southern Indiana gospel choir to give concert at Purdue

Designed by Grace choir
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The concert, free and open to the public, is sponsored by the Purdue Black Cultural Center and is part of a cultural exchange with the Purdue Black Voices of Inspiration.

"The cultural exchange program gives us the opportunity to connect and workshop with other talented ensembles," said Twana Harris, director of the Black Voices of Inspiration. "In this process each ensemble benefits from the sharing of unique gifts as well as the opportunity to dialogue with collegiate choristers from a diversity of regions, races and backgrounds. This exchange points to the connective power of music."

Designed by Grace is run through the Multicultural Center and the College of Liberal Arts at the University of Southern Indiana. The choir, directed by Cheryl Crowell, performs a variety of music including spirituals, contemporary and traditional gospel music. Members challenge audiences to face diversity as a new, attainable goal.

Established in 1975, the Purdue Black Voices of Inspiration, one of four performing arts ensembles at BCC, is committed to the performance of music by African-American composers. Its repertoire consists of traditional Negro spirituals, contemporary gospel music, original compositions, accapela selections and popular songs of inspiration.

"This is a wonderful opportunity for the Purdue community to enjoy the talents of a singing group from another campus," said Renee Thomas, director of the BCC. "The Designed by Grace Choir is outstanding, and I look forward to their performance."

Writer: Greg McClure, (765) 494-9394, gmcclure@purdue.edu

Sources: Renee Thomas, (765) 494-3091, rathomas@purdue.edu

Purdue News Service: (765) 494-2096; purduenews@purdue.edu

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