Of Men and Music 2024

"What an amazing time was had as Tawanna James and The Gloria Chorus hosted their inaugural "OF MEN AND MUSIC 2024" event Saturday, June 15, 2024 at New Tabernacle Baptist Church in Monroe LA! The theme was "Muses, Minstrels, and Magnificent Music"; and it was nothing short of that! "Professor" Jeremy Davison provided the opening musical meditation with a soul stirring melody of The Lord's Prayer, How Great Thou Art, and To God Be the Glory that truly set the tone for the invocation by Harvest Worship Music Group CEO/Producer Ronald McCain and guest accompanist Rev. Alton Savage, III's dynamic organ solo of Total Praise as the post devotional hymn. Chorus member Keneshala Martin (assisted by chorus member Henrietta Woods) provided the chorus overview and recognition of guests; and it was followed by the poem "There's Something About the Sound I Hear" written and performed by chorus founder/director Tawanna James who also performed her poetry by the name Annawat Mic'Helle Semaj.

Rousing heartwarming praise introducing presentations of classical music, spirituals, and hymns were masterfully performed by muses Dr. Zachary Thaggard; DeTerrius Johnson; James Wright, III; and Monroe native Dr. Leon Turner along with minstrels pianist Dr. Lemondra Hamilton and trumpeter Justin Lewis. And, oh, what an incredible sight to see a quorum of exceptional black men with some as young as 23 standing tall, proud, and with purpose. Father of the chorus founder, Rev. Sylvester James, exclaimed "I truly enjoyed the program! It was something different than the usual; and I felt like I was in New York on the top floor! It was amazing to hear and see young black men performing that level of music; and many were young doctors [of music]!" . It truly was an awesome moment in total to witness for all in attendance.

The Monroe Chapter of The Top Teens of America (sponsored by The Top Ladies of Distinction) served as ushers and were introduced by Top Teen advisor Lady Janet Davis. The performers combined to sing an arrangement of Holy, Holy, Holy by Tawanna James (LaDonald Ensley, accompanist); and the benediction was given by New Tabernacle Baptist Church Pastor Rev. Brian Reed. The event will continue annually; and the chorus thanks the community for every way they support their efforts.

"My Services. My Pleasure." Ms. James