Frances Hackley, Publicity Chair
This year, the Robson Ranch Music Club’s Community Choir will present for their Spring Concert “He’s Got The Whole World In His Hands,” A Gospel Celebration. The concert will be directed by Dr. Arturo Ortega and accompaniment provided by Paul Lees. The performance will be April 2 at 7 p.m. and again on April 3 at 4 p.m. in the clubhouse auditorium. Tickets prices are $10 on sale in the clubhouse lobby on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, from 9 to 11 a.m., beginning March 14 through April 1. Tickets are also available on PayPal via our website rrmusicclub.com for $11, also beginning March 14 through March 30, at 5 p.m.
This Gospel Celebration promises to “gobsmack” you by lifting your spirit with joyful song. Gospel music has long promoted a spirit of hope and elation dating back to the 17th century. Many Gospel songs or hymns find their roots to be Scottish Gaelic or even Anglican (“Amazing Grace,” 18th century). Like all music, Gospel music has evolved. Every country in the world has its own style of Gospel music. Here in America, we have an assortment of styles, some of which are spiritual, traditional, gospel blues, southern, country, bluegrass, soul, and even Celtic. All Gospel songs have one common thread, however, rooted in the very definition of the word gospel. Gospel, by Greek definition, means “good story” or “good message,” therefore, defining the intention and purpose of the genre. Gospel songs are intended to inspire, uplift, and deliver a message of hope. Until the 1920s, songs were mainly serious in nature. In the 1920s a shift pushed the songs to be positive and lively. Many songs prompted the “call and response,” foot stomping, and hand clapping as a way of including all in the revelry of the moment.
With such a rich history and centuries of music, you can imagine how extremely hard it was to find just 12 pieces of music to perform. The assortment chosen will delight and deliver a true feeling of hope and elation. I mention just a few familiar titles: “The Old Rugged Cross,” “This Little Light Of Mine,” “Old Time Religion,” and “He’s Got The Whole World In His Hands.” Of course, we could not leave out “His Eye Is On The Sparrow” (1905), known across the world and has some 500 versions. Mahalia Jackson’s version was so iconic, it was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2010. I send this message of “good news.” Make sure you get to this concert! Do not miss having the experience of being cradled and your spirit lifted by inspirational song. The intoxication will most assuredly motivate you to sway, rock, and join in the jubilation of the moment.
For information on all upcoming concerts and events sponsored by the Music Club, go to rrmusicclub.com.