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Health & Fitness

A Celebration of Gospel

February is Black history month, so what better time to remember the beloved American musical art form of Gospel, as well as other elements of Black American music. However, did you know the roots of gospel music were not well documented and early recordings were lost? Stories behind the songs, which were part of an oral tradition weren't written down. 

 To educate others on this musical art form, gospel music needs to continue to be celebrated. Over thousands of years, the sound of Gospel music has been passionate and unwavering. It’s still as enthralling and captivating as it was at its origin, and so we honor gospel’s triumphs.

According to the History of Gospel Music:

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"The Gospel Music experience cannot be told in a short story, or even in a melody of songs, for it is far too rich, far too harmonious and deliberately stimulating. It is a living experience, always changing, always giving, and always becoming the foundation that gave moral, physical and spiritual support to a great and powerful people."

There is also more to Black music than Gospel. That is why Saturday February 22, the Finely Center in Santa Rosa will be hosting, A Tribute to the Hidden Roots of Black Music. This celebration will illustrate the musical journey featuring some of America’s past musical greats and some of the most innovative North Bay musical talents including Mohammed Bilal and Ric Alexander.

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The musical journey starts with the explosion of 19th and 20th century gospel, travels to influential tunes of the 1920-1980’s and then rounds the melodic bend with a tribute to musical greats Whitney Houston and Michael Jackson and others. For further information on this event see below.

Here is some food for thought for the rest of February:

“Gospel Music is a romance of going to a favorite spot, a favorite tree, and a hallowed spot, just to talk with God….  There has never been a time when Gospel Music has not been a part of the African American Experience.”  –History of Gospel

Event Information:

Saturday, February 22, 2014.  6-9 p.m. (doors open 5:30 p.m.)

Finley Center: 2060 West College Avenue, Santa Rosa, CA 95401

$35.00 Non-members/ $25.00 Members/ Children under 12 FREE

Call 888.846.5155 or visit www.nbbcc.org    

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