Oxford Gospel Choir (OGC), a prominent community choir, secured entry into the finals of the prestigious BBC Gospel Choir of the Year competition for the second time. Held at the Monastery in Manchester, the competition unfolds across two episodes.
The choir’s debut performance which aired on Sunday, drew praise from the judging panel, including comments such as “I felt the joy,” “I loved the performance,” and “the tuning was absolutely excellent”.
OGC previously reached the finals in 2017; returning judge, Muyiwa Olarewaju, joins forces this time round with Karen Gibson, leader of the Kingdom Choir, and renowned choir maestro, Gareth Malone.
Known for their diverse repertoire encompassing both contemporary and traditional gospel music, OGC draws talented singers from across Oxfordshire, performing regularly throughout the year. Their impressive resume includes appearances at the Truck Festival, supporting Oxford New Theatre artists such as Susan Boyle, Peter Andre and the Drifters, and even provided a soundtrack to Carol Kirkwood’s BBC One weather announcements on Christmas Eve 2019.
As the choir celebrates its 20th anniversary, the airing of the competition marks the beginning of a year-long celebration. OGC aims to commemorate this milestone with 20 special events in 2024, including a central celebration event in the summer.
OGC Choir Director, Jules Francis-Sinclair says
“We love singing together, and participating in a competition adds an extra level of excitement! We invite new members to join our friendly, all-faith, no-audition welcoming community choir. Rehearsals take place every Tuesday evening at 7.30pm in New Road Baptist Church”.
The highly anticipated final will be aired on BBC One, Songs of Praise at 1.15pm on Sunday 21st January. OGC’s next live performance is on 27th January at Our Lady & St. Edmund Church in Abingdon in aid of Mary’s Meals. For additional information, please visit www.oxfordgospelchoir.co.uk.
