Godalming Sings Gospel

Inspiring voices : how joining a gospel choir will help you reconnect with yourself and your community

Life in the 21st century can be frenetic and stressful. We are human beings not doings, so thankfully there is opportunity to draw breath and relax!   Studies suggest that singing can enhance your mood, immune system & lung function; reduce blood pressure & feelings of chronic pain.  So, the benefits of singing are vast. Godalming Community Gospel Choir (GCGC) has been enhancing the lives of many for 14 years !

2025 brings fresh challenges under the new leadership of Russell Blackman – the  inspirational and charismatic creative director bringing a Caribbean vibe and super energy with him as soon as he walks through the door.

Vaughan Larmond our accompanist has commuted from London supporting our choir for over 5 years   He is the most accomplished gospel musician, trained in 6 instruments, band leader of multiple choirs including the acclaimed Kingdom Choir.   We know how blessed we are to have such a high caliber pair of musicians in our midst with Vaughan and Russell. 

Community is not just in the name of the choir but a tangible element of it.   Fun & friendship in an inclusive community .  Having achieved charity status in 2024, we aim to increase our presence in the community & subject to available funds, sing for the benefit of others with no fee. We do factor in our two main ticketed events at  Christmas & Easter,  which are joyful celebrations - even reserved Surrey audiences  have been known to move off their seats & partake!  Gospel is not static – you can’t but move !

GCGC is a non audition choir, open to people of all faiths and those of none. The choir is run by a board of trustees from the  choir membership.   We learn by call and response , learning multiple songs each rehearsal. The traditional cake & cuppa mid session are enjoyed by all.  Recordings are taken to reinforce learning throughout the week  .   ”Singing the music we’re learning through the week and regular WhatsApp chat are joys that carry me through the days until Monday comes around again!!”  quoted Catherine.

 On December 13th our Christmas Showcase will be at St John’s Church, Farncombe and our 15 years celebration extravaganza concert will be held in March 2026

 If you’re tired of singing in the shower, then in the words of Madonna, “Like a Prayer” joining a Gospel Choir will really “take you there”! 

What our members say

 "GCGC has given me 10 years of joy.  

The uplifting music and message of gospel lives on 

beyond the happy Monday night rehearsals, gets absorbed 

into my persona and enhances the ups and downs of life. 

 It's unmissable!"

Anne

"I have had fun and friendship in an inclusive community, 

I've been inspired, empowered and sustained, 

it's been educational and enabling,

 harmonising not only in melody but also in body and soul.​"

Sandy

Join us!!