Can you believe it?! COTG is 30 years old! And somehow, we keep getting stronger with age. As we approach the season of gratitude in giving (Thanksgiving—one of my very favorite holidays), I am sincerely grateful for this group of talented and intelligent young people who have become an extension of my family, where I have enjoyed opportunities of performance and growth over the last 18 years.
I am just as excited for you to join us in this year-long celebration and appreciation of 30 years in artistry, advocacy and legacy. It is going to be spectacular! We’ve started off the year with a performance like Little Amal, our intensive weekend getaway and our Halloween costume contest—I mean, you gotta have some fun to balance out the hard work.
I hope that you’ll enjoy our new email series to help keep you connected to all the things in the life of a COTG-er. Please share our newsletter with as many people as possible (especially people with children ages 9-18). There are so many exciting events and occasions that happen in the COTG family, we don’t want anyone to miss out!
So, from your COTG family (my lamb-Kings and Queens, David, Kathy and me) may you and your families bask in the outpouring of blessings and extend it to others, during this season.
Onward and upward!
Michele Fowlin, Artistic Director, Washington Performing Arts Children of the Gospel Choir
This was the first organization I joined where there were no awkward greetings, when people pretend that they’re trying to get to know you. Everyone involved is so genuine, the spirit of God is abundant through every person I’ve met, and it’s so refreshing to return to it every Monday and every performance.
Throughout the years I’ve made friendships and relationships that I never would’ve made in school. I found a group of people that can laugh with me, pray with me, cry with me and, worship with me. Where I don’t feel ashamed or embarrassed.
The opportunity to explore the DMV and do what I love, with the people I love —now including my younger sister—is something that I will forever cherish, even after my time in Children of the Gospel!
Join us in celebrating our new COTG members!
Watch a recap reel of Little Amal's visit to DC, featuring the 12-foot puppet grooving with COTG!
When pants mysteriously go missing, the COTG team has you covered! Interim Director of Gospel Music Programs David Powell trading trousers with a choir member right before showtime.
Head to the COTG Instagram for a throwback to this year's Halloween costume competition!
In addition to having the opportunity to sing a song in the 2023 “Stay Woke, Still Woke” performance of the choir, I’m excited that the choir, as it celebrates 30 years of quality music making, is forging ahead with more opportunities for students shaping them into formidable musicians, thinkers and leaders!
The words legacy and courage have been emphasized as a theme this year and seen through our retreat activities, fearless rehearsals, where students must work hard, and varied performance venues and opportunities! I’m looking forward to engaging choir alumni and current students for a promising future.
I’m Melissa—mom to Josh Andrews (tenor). This is our second year in COTG. COTG has shown Joshua that excellence is achievable if you are committed. Last year's finale was amazing and he was so proud to be part of such a stellar performance! As a parent, I love how organized COTG is and the opportunities they provide the children. For example, did you ever imagine your child would be singing at the Kennedy Center? This year, I’m looking forward to the 30th anniversary celebration in June of 2024, and hearing the Alumni choir.
In our excitement to celebrate our 30th anniversary, we look to you for participation and input for the future. Please share your reflections through the survey link below by December 31 at 11:59 p.m. ET. The survey should take no more than three (3) minutes to complete.
Join our COTG Alumni Facebook page.
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