Album Notes

The Middle Church Jerriese Johnson Gospel Choir (MCJJGC) is made up of a group of diverse, dynamic and committed singers. The MCJJGC, which has been in existence since 1986, continues to serve as an integral part of the life at Middle Church .

The choir’s ministry continues to transform as it pushes the boundaries of singing gospel music as an inclusive, diverse and welcoming group that is dedicated to excellence.

The music for this past season of The Middle Church Jerriese Johnson Gospel Choir has been “stunningly electric” taking from both traditional and contemporary gospel as well as some spirituals that have been “remixed”.

MCJJCG is also expanding its ministry to be international in nature, embracing and performing music from other cultures.

The choir has approximately sixty (60) members, and is an important part of the ministry and congregational life at Middle Church .

It performs two Sundays a month and at special celebrations during the Christmas and Easter seasons in Middle Church, as well as additional outreach in both traditional and non-traditional venues. This past year has seen The Middle Church Jerriese Johnson Gospel Choir have a presence on the national stage when it performed on NBC’s The Today Show, opening up their Christmas season. In addition, The Middle Church Jerriese Johnson Gospel Choir traveled to New Orleans for its first ever missionary tour.

John Del Cueto is currently the director of The Middle Church Jerriese Johnson Gospel Choir.
Email him at jdelcueto@middlechurch.org.

View our taping of the TODAY SHOW December 1, 2007:
http://www.middlechurch.org/middle-church_music_gospelchoir.htm

How Do I Join?

Celebrating its 22nd year of ministry, the choir continues to be open to all those interested in becoming a part of this exciting and dynamic group.

Please come to one of our rehearsals on Thursday evenings from 7pm – 9pm in the Church Social Hall.

If you love to sing and are looking to be in community with a great group of individuals, then this is a choir and ministry for you.

For further information concerning the Middle Church Jerriese Johnson Gospel Choir, please refer to the FAQ, or contact John Del Cueto (jdelcueto@middlechurch.org).

FAQs for MCJJCG Choir:

How do I become a member?
Come to rehearsal! The directors will have a brief meeting with you to determine your voice section and you will have to attend an additional welcome meeting to find out more about the ministry of the choir.

When are rehearsals?
Thursdays : 7:00pm – 9:00pm

Do I have to be able to read music?
You do not need to be able to read music in order to be a member of the choir.

Do I need to become a member of Middle Collegiate Church in order to participate in the choir?
This is a community choir, so you do not have to attend Middle Church or be a member. Although we would surely welcome your participation as a member of Middle Church , it is not a requirement in order to sing in the choir.

Do I have to know how to sing Gospel Music?
No. We ask that you come with whatever your experience level is and a willingness to learn and be of contribution.

How often does the Gospel Choir sing?
The Middle Church Jerriese Johnson Gospel Choir generally sings twice a month during the Sunday worship services (9am and 11:15am). Please refer to the Middle Church Jerriese Johnson Gospel Choir Schedule for the specific dates.

Do I have to be at every performance?
We encourage our members to be as active as possible and know that within that context each one manages their schedule accordingly.

What does it mean for the Gospel Choir to be “inclusive and welcoming?”
Everyone, regardless of belief system is welcome into this group. Each member, however, should come with a willingness to fully participate in this ministry of music and celebrate the message that is Gospel music.

What is my responsibility as a member of the Middle Church Jerriese Johnson Gospel Choir?
Each member is responsible and accountable for managing their attendance at rehearsals and performances, learning the music for the season and coming prepared to sing and fully participate in this ministry.