Singing the African American Spirituals with Integrity 2025

Singing the African American Spirituals with Integrity

A workshop for clergy, musicians, and congregants

Sat. Nov. 22, 2025 from 2 to 5 pm at St. David’s Episcopal Church763 South Valley Forge Rd, Wayne, PA 19087

Clinicians: Ruth Naomi Floyd, Dr. Jay Fluellen, Carrie Lessene, Dr. Thomas Lloyd

Guest Choir: Intermezzo Choir Ministry, Carrie Lessene, Director

This workshop is offered for church musicians, clergy, and lay people who seek to learn more about how to introduce the repertoire of the African American Spirituals to their choirs and congregations.

During the first part of the workshop, the four clinicians will take turns modeling how they teach the Spirituals to their adult, youth, and children’s choirs, as well as to their congregations.

Music for these selections will be provided to attendees as part of the workshop.

Special attention will be given to the historical context of the music, and the ways in which those who are not direct descendants of the enslaved people who originated the Spirituals can develop their own authentic connection to the music with respect and integrity.

The afternoon will conclude with a short service of singing, prayer, and a homily.

To learn more about the Anti-Racism Commission of the Episcopal Diocese of Pennsylvania, visit their website: arcdiopa.org.