Knoxville Opera Partners with Gospel Choir for Special Concert Tonight

Knoxville, TN: What do you get when you combine the glorious sounds of gospel and the magnificence of opera?

Multiple standing ovations by a large crowd who have shouted "hallelujah" at the five previous performances of Knoxville Opera Goes to Church...A Celebration of Talent! The 5th annual concert, sponsored by Home Federal Bank, DV Communications, and The 5th Commandment Fund will feature the Knoxville Opera Gospel Choir and local soloists together with Knoxville Opera artists in a unique presentation of gospel, spirituals, and highlights from the popular opera Carmen. The free-admission concert, one of Knoxville Opera's yearly 75 education/outreachactivities, will take place tonight, January 24, 2015 at 5:00 p.m. at Greater Warner Tabernacle A.M.E. Zion Church, 3800 Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue, Knoxville.

"We are the only opera company in the world that has its own Gospel Choir and we are proud to present our eclectic repertoire featuring outstanding local and visiting guest artists. Our performances are an inspiration to both the performers and our very enthusiastic audience. We always make sure to give them something to cheer about!" said Jeanie Turner Melton who will conduct the 40-voice Choir. Knoxville Opera Maestro Brian Salesky will accompany the solo opera artists.

The outstanding lineup of soloists includes Knoxville Opera guest artists Audrey Babcock, Briana Hunter, Brian Cheney, and Ryan Kuster, along with local soloists Evelyn Jack, Sonia Roberts, and Michael Rodgers. "We are privileged to contribute to our community with this unique event that unites patrons and fans who appreciate diverse musical cultures" said Salesky, "and we are most grateful for the support of our generous sponsors which makes this concert possible."

The event's program will include Oh for a Thousand Tongues to Sing, You Must Have That True Religion, Sometimes I Feel Like a Motherless Child, Don't Feel No-ways Tired, Hallelujah is the Highest Praise, Move on Up a Little Higher, Even Me, Amazing Grace, Walk With Me Lord, and excerpts from Bizet's Carmen which Knoxville Opera is presenting in schools in early January and at the Tennessee Theatre on February 13 and 15, 2015.

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