1.What is “Singing from the Soul – Gospel Music Workshop” ?
This workshop is an opportunity for community, school and professional choirs to learn Black American Gospel music, as well as
the history of the people who created this amazing sound. The workshop is lead by acclaimed Gospel, Jazz and Blues singer and
educator Lea Gilmore. This is Lea Gilmore up close and personal! Lea has lead music workshops, as well as lectures on African
American history, in the States and across Europe for students and adults to much acclaim. In recognition of her expertise, Lea
was asked by the US Embassy in France and US Department of State to tour France in February 2007 as the Guest Artist and
Historian for Black History Month. Lea is accompanied by her long-time collaborator, Belgian pianist Marc Borms, also a historian
of African American culture.
2.What will we learn during the workshop?
In a welcoming, fun, and safe environment, you will learn breath control, expressive singing, freeing your mind and body to convey
the music in a holistic way – with mind, body and spirit. You will also learn the difference between Spirituals and Gospel music.
You will learn three performance ready songs by the end of the workshop – one spiritual, one traditional Gospel, one contemporary
Gospel.
3.Why is this different from most choir singing experiences?
Get ready to think outside of the box! This is Lea Gilmore up close and personal. You will learn this traditional music in a traditional
way...in the folk tradition. There will be no music scores. There will be lots of rhythm created by clapping hands and moving feet.
You will experience the authenticity of true congregational singing from the Black Church tradition. This is a wonderful cultural
experience that you will not forget. It is full of joy, is emotionally therapeutic, and yet provides professional and powerful results.
4.Who should attend the workshops, and is there a minimum and maximum number of participants?
The workshop are for professional singers, and especially for those who just find joy singing in a choir. We recommend that the
minimum age be 10 years old. It is better if the attendee has some knowledge of the English language (although materials will be
provided in English and Flemish).
There are no limits on how many can participate. We do ask that the venue being used be able to comfortably accommodate the
number of participants seated and standing (room to move is needed). There must be a minimum of five participants.
5. What should we bring with us to the workshop?
You should just bring, you, yourself and I! Some of you may want to bring some water, or a thermos of warm tea to keep your vocal
chords moist.
6. Will we receive support materials to take home with us?
Yes. All participants will receive materials that detail the history of Gospel music, recommendations for vocal and breathing
exercises, and list of on line and written resources, as well as recommended recordings.
7. What language will be used during the workshop?
Lea is a native English speaker and speaks some Flemish. Marc Borms speaks fluent Flemish, English and conversational
French. English will be the language primarily used. Lea is very familiar with presenting to audiences who speak various
languages and will adjust accordingly. You will always be able to stop and ask questions at any time.
8. How much does the workshop costs?
Lea gains significant fees from universities, choirs, international schools, corporations and NGOs. For these workshops, the
fees*are being kept very low so that everyone will have the opportunity to participate. There are several options:
90 minutes – 250 Euros
Half Day ( two - four hours – 400 Euros
Full Day (six – eight hours) – 700 Euros
Weekend Retreat – 1000 Euros
*60 Euros will be added to all workshops for travel fees.
9. Where do the workshops take place?
Lea comes to you! Your provide the venue.
10. What needs to be provided by the organizers and/or choir directors?
Each venue must have a keyboard or well-tuned piano, as well as a microphone. If there is multi-media capability, Lea will bring
an exciting power-point presentation, as well as recordings for demonstration.
11 .Who do I speak to about booking a date and what dates are available?
The workshops will take place February and early March 2008. February is recognized as Black History Month in the states and
Lea wants to share this with you. You must book as soon as possible. There are just a few dates left. To book you should send
an email of interest to:
gospelworkshop@leagilmore.com
For organizing logistics and details of the workshop after booking, contact Eric Jansen, Tour Manager at eric@leagilmore.com
If you have questions regarding workshop content or have specific requests, contact Lea Gilmore at lea@leagilmore.com.
12.What happens after we book a date?
You will be sent a contract to confirm the dates and times. A signed copy must be returned to Belva Scott, belva@leagilmore.com
within two weeks of receipt. A month prior to the workshops, you will receive lyric sheets so that you can get familiar with the
English.
Join hundreds of others who have embraced the joy of Gospel music... singing from their souls with these fun workshops. Get
ready to laugh and learn, sing and sway, and let your light shine!
