Album Notes

The University of Toronto Gospel Choir (UTGC)was founded in February 1995.

The group was formed during Black History month as a means of celebrating an integral part of African-Canadian heritage. The choir was initially seen as an outreach to students on the campus and includes all races and Christian denominations. Soon the weekly choir rehearsals became not only a meeting place for students that were interested in singing praises to the Lord, but also a refuge for those looking for a non-threatening and empowering environment.

UTGC had its first major performance less than six weeks after its creation. The sold out concert at Toronto’s Hart House theatre also showcased some of the best college gospel choirs from the state of New York.

Aside from the local concerts held throughout the university school year, UTGC has outstretched their voices internationally. The choir has also had the pleasure of being the only Canadian choir to participate in both an Annual Gospel Festival in Barbados, W.I. as well as Stockholm Sweden. For seven years the choir has participated in “The Colours of Christmas” as the guest of top international recording artists such as Peabo Bryson, Roberta Flack, and Jon Secada, just to name a few. UTGC had the privilege of spreading its music in Tokyo, Japan in December 2003 which included participating in a gospel music festival, holding their own concert for the mayor of Sagimihara and concerts in local churches.

More important than these achievements Lisa Toussaint, director says, “The passion that this choir carries in the willingness to usher the presence of God through song, the spoken word, believing and adoring our Lord and Saviour is what makes our ministry so special.” In their mission to share the gospel with everyone they meet, UTGC will continue to be Useful Tools in God's Crew.