Christ Episcopal Church invites the public to come to hear and enjoy the Gospel Choir of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, Flint, perform at Christ Episcopal at 3:30 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 4. Christ Church is located in Fayette Square on the northeast corner at 120 Goodhue Street. Admission is free to the concert with a goodwill offering and a reception following.
The Flint Gospel Choir has been under the Direction of Mr. Rafeal D. McDaniel for the last five years. However this choir has been singing for nearly 30 years in the City of Flint and all around the USA. The choir is composed of 17 members from different denominations. “We are a community based group but we love each other like family,” states their director. The choir originated at Christ Church Flint. After Christ Church closed and merged with St. Paul’s the choir then became a part of the service. They sing on the second and fifth Sunday of every month, and minister through their music to worshipers with their traditional gospel music style.
At a very early age Mr. McDaniel developed his love for music. During his eighth year his grandmother purchased his first piano and he began taking lessons. McDaniel began accompanying on the piano at Galilee Baptist Church for the Sunday school as the assistant to the Music Minister while also singing in the choir. In 2003 he joined Promise Tabernacle where he has served as organist and currently is the praise team leader.
McDaniel was very active in his high school music department where he was a member of the concert and marching bands, wind ensemble, A Capella choir, Nu Alpha Delta Sigma and the madrigal ensembles. Rafeal attended Central Michigan University where he earned his bachelor’s in Vocal Music and Operatic Theatre, studying under Timothy Caldwell and Dr. Eric Tucker. While at the University his stage experience included playing the part of Marco in Gianni Schicci, Frank in Die Fledermaus, and performing in the concert choir and many ensembles. He now serves as the Music director for the Holly Area Schools Drama department. McDaniel currently teaches voice and piano privately, while also participating in community theatre as an actor, singer and music director.
The Gospel Choir appears throughout the state and makes yearly visits in many cities. “In support of Christ Church bringing this popular group to Owosso, the Owosso Musicale is pleased to co-sponsor their concert presentation,” said Owosso Musicale President Sue Degerstrom. “We suggest marking the date on your calendar!”
