Spirits will soar, music will resound, and congregations from all denominations will come together at the 2009 Gospel Brunch, set to kickoff this year’s Sound Session festival Sunday, July 5th at The Providence Black Repertory. Presented by WBRU’s 360 Experience in Sound, this inspirational and inclusive event will feature a Brunch Buffet provided by Food for the Soul, a local dining establishment specializing in traditional Southern dishes, and a live performance by the RPM Voices, a choral ensemble that performs a rich collection of spirituals, gospels, anthems, hymns, and songs from various world cultures.

“The annual performance at Sound Session’s Gospel Brunch is the culmination of the Research-to-Performance Method (RPM) Choral Music Workshop, an intensive 6-day workshop that brings together a collection of voices from 22 different churches throughout Rhode Island,” says Choral Director Dr. Clarice LaVerne Thompson. “The workshop provides a musical space for all voices to sing and learn the rudiments of choral music...the friendships and bonds created during the process cross cultural practices and beliefs to create a magical community and extended family.”

“Sound Session was created to be an organic cultural event that would bring the community together in celebration,” adds Black Rep Artistic/Executive Director and Sound Session co-producer Donald W. King. “Beneath the surface of apparent bacchanal and revelry, the festival is a sacred time to celebrate with friends and family. The Gospel Brunch is deeply spiritual yet non-denominational ritual, encouraging participants from all cultures and creeds to collectively participate in fulfilling a kind of ‘Divine Promise’ for the residents of Providence.”

Tickets also available at Lion Eye Gift Shop * 163 Brook Street * Providence, RI