WSU Gospel Fest to ‘Celebrate the Spirit’
OGDEN, Utah — Choirs will gather to celebrate and share the joy of music during Weber State University’s 16th Annual Gospel Music Festival in the Val A. Browning Center Austad Auditorium, Jan. 22 at 7:30 p.m.
This year’s theme is “Make a Joyful Noise! Celebrate the Spirit.” The public is invited to attend this free event, which focuses on music rooted in the spiritual messages and oral histories shared during the time of slavery.
“The theme was chosen to bring about a positive light as communities continue to face adversity,” said Teresa Martinez, diversity and inclusive programs coordinator for Access & Diversity. “The goal of the festival is to unite and educate people through inspiring gospel music.”
A total of eight choirs from around Utah are scheduled to sing at the festival. Performances include the Weber State University Choir, WSU’s ROTC Choir, Kids Are Music and the LDS Genesis Group Gospel Choir, among others.
“Everyone can celebrate the essence of what the Gospel Fest means,” said Rita Martin, community co-chair for the event. “The experience of music provides the listener with a message of joy, hope, faith and love.”
In addition to music, the festival will serve as a canned-food drive to help the Weber Cares Food Pantry restock its shelves. Weber Cares, located in Shepherd Union Room 402, provides emergency food assistance to students in need. Everyone who attends the festival is encouraged to donate at least one nonperishable food item.
“Music brings about a sense of unity through its universal language,” Martinez said. “This is a family-friendly event that provides an opportunity for everyone to come together in a positive way and celebrate this festive occasion.”
The festival has evolved from a one-time community event to an annual experience that celebrates the new year and Martin Luther King Jr. Day.
“This festival has become a success because it is an enduring part of our campus culture,” said Adrienne Gillespie Andrews, chief diversity officer. “Music is a great unifier. Gospel music makes you want to get up and move, connect with others and simply share in the joy.”
For more information about the Center for Diversity & Unity, visit weber.edu/diversity.
For a video of the Gospel Fest, visit youtube.com/watch?v=OjiB2uEQbnM.
Visit weber.edu/wsutoday for more news about Weber State University.
For high-resolution photos, please visit the following links:
Rachel Badali, Office of Marketing & Communications
801-626-7295 • rachelbadali@weber.edu- Contact:
Teresa Martinez, diversity and inclusive programs coordinator for Access & Diversity
801-626-6957 • teresaholt@weber.edu