Following a five-year hiatus, the new reincarnated Boys & Girls Choir of Harlem showcased a new set of devoted, angelic-voiced kids ready to show the world that the amazing choir was back and better than ever.
“The report of our demise has been greatly exaggerated,” said choir consultant, George Reyes. “These kids are committed and that’s what’s making this work. Everyone is interested in making this work. What we don’t have in money, we have in people. We need to show that you can step on us but you can’t keep us down.”
Armed with a six-song set that featured Negro Spirituals, current R&B and contemporary gospel songs, the kids had the crowd at St. Paul Cathedral in awe. It was the first time the group has ever performed in the Steel City and judging from the performance the choir gave and the response the audience gave, the choir could be making Pittsburgh a regular stop on its musical tours.
The infectious “Happy” by Pharell Williams got the audience to its feet and featured one of the members performing liturgical dance to the pop hit. Kirk Franklin’s “I’ve Been Looking For You” had the audience singing along while the King of Pop’s “Man in the Mirror” reminded people of why the choir is a favorite of dignitaries and presidents alike.
The Boys & Girls Choir of Harlem is directed by Anthony Morgan who is also founder of the phenomenal Anthony Morgan Inspirational Choir of Harlem, an adult choir which is an off-shoot of the Boys and Girls Choir.
“The children want to learn everything they can,” Morgan said. “They are like little sponges. Each kid can sing and read music and can play an instrument. They are just amazing. The little boys sing natural Soprano some of them sound like Whitney Houston.”
Morgan’s Inspirational Choir of Harlem treated Pittsburghers to hymnals and gospel arrangements that left the audience spellbound. Their set included Walter Hawkins’ “Changed,” Richard Smallwood’s “Total Praise,” which had audience members in tears because it was so beautifully performed and a gospel medley that included “I’m a Soldier” and “God is a Good God.”
Both choirs performed on the same bill as part of the Hill House Association’s 50th anniversary celebration.
The Hill House Association’s mission is to improve the quality of life for individuals and families living in the Hill District and its surrounding neighborhoods. The Hill House Association offers community-based programs and high-quality services so that residents of all ages may reach their full potential.
Following their triumphant Pittsburgh appearance, the choirs will continue to spread their beautiful music to all who’ll listen.
The adult choir will be heading for a European tour of Norway, Switzerland, Estonia, Denmark and Italy on Nov. 25. The kids choir will be performing “Carols of the Bells” in a Victoria Secret commercial that is set to run on national television beginning on Dec. 1 and running for three months.
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