Latest News


  • Former EAGA Gospel Choir member: Dr Abigail Udoma's PhD Graduation celebration
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  •  Date Posted: Mon, 23 Sep 2024
    Former EAGA Gospel Choir member: Dr Abigail Udoma's PhD Graduation celebration
    Congratulations are in order for Dr Abigail Udoma a former member of the EAGA Gospel Choir.

    Abigail Udoma's recent PhD graduation ceremony from the De Montfort University was a momentous occasion, celebrated with joy and reverence by family, friends, and the academic community at her graduation party. Abigail’s journey through her doctoral studies was marked by dedication and resilience, qualities that were notably reflected in the celebration of her academic achievement.


    The EAGA Gospel Choir played a central role in the evening’s celebrations. Their spirited performance included jubilant renditions of "Oh Happy Day" and "Avulekile," both of which resonated deeply with the audience and added a layer of celebratory exuberance to the proceedings.

    Following the musical interlude, Abigail took the stage to deliver her speech. Her words were a blend of gratitude, reflection, and inspiration, capturing the essence of her academic journey and the support she received from her family, peers, and mentors. Her speech was met with enthusiastic applause, a testament to the respect and admiration she has garnered throughout her time at the university.

    As a final touch to the evening, Abigail requested a special performance by the choir of "Rise Up," a beautiful piece sung by Sister Antonia Whyte. This selection was both a personal and communal homage to the perseverance and triumph embodied in Abigail’s academic achievements. The performance was a fitting conclusion to a celebration filled with both personal and collective significance.


    Abigail Udoma’s PhD graduation was not only a celebration of her academic success but also a testament to the supportive network of family, friends, and the university community. The event was a vibrant blend of cultural pride, personal achievement, and communal celebration, marked by the enthusiastic participation of the EAGA Gospel Choir and the heartfelt involvement of Abigail's family.

    See photos of the Choir at Abigail's graduation party:





     
  • EAGA Choir partnership with AgeUK for people affected by dementia
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  •  Date Posted: Thu, 19 Sep 2024
    EAGA Choir partnership with AgeUK for people affected by dementia

    Music is a universal and enriching experience for all to enjoy. At EAGA, we recognise the profound impact of gospel music, which goes beyond mere enjoyment to uplift, inspire, and encourage, even in the face of life’s challenges. We are passionate about spreading the uplifting message of gospel music, leaving both listeners and participants with joy and smiles.

    The EAGA Gospel Choir has proudly partnered with Leicestershire & Rutland Age UK to offer workshops for individuals affected by dementia. We kindly ask for your support in promoting this initiative by sharing information about the workshop with carers, and if you know someone living with dementia, why not encourage them to sign up today?

    This NHS blog further emphasizes the powerful connection between music and dementia.

    This workshop runs every first Friday of the month. 

    FREE to take part. If you are a carer or if you know someone with dementia who would benefit from this workshop please book by contacting: 0116 223 7363 or email dementia.support@ageukleics.org.uk

  • EAGA Gospel Choir sings at Wedding in Royal Wootton Bassett
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  •  Date Posted: Sat, 14 Sep 2024
    EAGA Gospel Choir sings at Wedding in Royal Wootton Bassett
    Decked in their renowned gowns of gold and royal blue, the EAGA choir descended upon Royal Wootton Bassett—formerly Wootton Bassett—a historic market town and civil parish in Wiltshire, for the wedding of Beth and Michael. The powerful sound of gospel music reverberated through the quiet town.

    The choir launched immediately into high gear, delivering songs such as ‘higher and higher’ and their  BBC Gospel Choir of the year 2023 winning song ‘his eye is on the sparrow’ African medley in what was a breathtaking performance that moved some guests to tears, adding to the joy, emotion, and beauty of the wedding celebration.



     

    Lovely video comment from father of the bride:

  • Choir receives rapturous applause for concert at St Peter's Church in Redcar
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  •  Date Posted: Tue, 10 Sep 2024
    Choir receives rapturous applause for concert at St Peter's Church in Redcar
    The quiet seaside town of Redcar in North Yorkshire, renowned for its beaches and the famous lemon top ice cream, was the setting for the EAGA Gospel Choir’s visit this past weekend.

    St Peter’s Church in Redcar, invited the choir to perform a concert in support of the Church's organ restoration appeal. Undeterred by the distance, we gladly accepted, as the choir regularly travels the length and breadth of the UK, as well as internationally to places like Spain and the Caribbean. 

    Accompanied by their musical band, the choir arrived on the north-east coast to inspire the people of Redcar and its surrounding areas with a packed weekend of events, including a workshop, concert, church service, and a surprise appearance at St Peter’s Care Home, just across the road from the church.



    Though the choir may have been unfamiliar to many locals (unless they had seen us on BBC's Songs of Praise or Britain’s Got Talent 2018), that quickly changed. The concert was a spectacular event, receiving rapturous applause to the glory of God. The choir performed a wide selection of songs, from traditional hymns like Abide with Me and You Raise Me Up to the upbeat, Sister Act-style Joyful, Joyful. In the second half, the choir elevated the energy with songs in Southern African languages, including Avulekile, Messiah, and Calvary. It was only fitting that the night concluded with the choir’s signature song, Oh Happy Day, encapsulating the true gospel message of Jesus Christ.

    The workshop, led by the choir’s director Jordan Anderson and a team from the choir, was a resounding success. Participants learned various aspects of gospel music, from harmonising in vocal parts to other essential singing techniques. They had the opportunity to showcase what they had learned during the evening concert, performing alongside the choir in Calvary and Oh Happy Day.

    The weekend also included a church service, where the choir’s uplifting music and message touched the hearts of all in attendance, leaving a lasting spiritual impact on the congregation.

    Special thanks to the St Peter’s Church family, whose hospitality and warmth made the choir feel truly welcome throughout the entire weekend.



    Photo of the workshop:



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    YouTube Video URL:
  • A place to disconnect from the business of life
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  •  Date Posted: Tue, 10 Sep 2024
    A place to disconnect from the business of life
    See below an inspring talk by Sister Ellah Kandi, Event Organiser at Emmanu'-EL Apostolic Church and member of the EAGA Gospel Choir who discusses her experience at the annual Church Prayer retreat at Highgate Conference Centre in summer 2024.



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  • Music Director of the EAGA Gospel shortlisted for The Making Music Awards 2024
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  •  Date Posted: Tue, 10 Sep 2024
    Music Director of the EAGA Gospel shortlisted for The Making Music Awards 2024


    We are thrilled and immensely proud to announce that Jordan Anderson, Music Director of the EAGA Gospel Choir, has been shortlisted for the 'Best Arranger for Leisure-Time Music Group' award at the 2024 Making Music Awards. This well-deserved recognition is in honour of his exceptional arrangement of 'In Christ Alone/Tis So Sweet', a performance that led the EAGA Gospel Choir to victory at the BBC Songs of Praise Gospel Choir of the Year 2023, and was also performed at the Festival of Choirs 2023, in the Isle of Man.

    The winners will be revealed during the celebratory evening on Wednesday, 18th September.

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    Watch the performance of the song below.
    YouTube Video URL:
  • Choir sings at the prestigious BBC Radio Make a difference awards
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  •  Date Posted: Fri, 6 Sep 2024
    Choir sings at the prestigious BBC Radio Make a difference awards

    The EAGA Gospel Choir was deeply honoured and delighted to accept an invitation from the BBC Radio to attend its prestigious Community Awards Ceremony on Thursday, 5th September 2024. During the event, the choir performed the iconic song "Circle of Life" from The Lion King. Introduced as the champions of the BBC Songs of Praise Gospel Choir of the Year 2023, the choir more than lived up to their reputation, delivering a breathtaking rendition that earned rapturous applause from an absolutely enthralled and enraptured audience.

    The atmosphere was charged with emotion, as the heartfelt and gripping stories behind each award moved many to tears. It was a powerful and compelling event, serving as a reminder of our shared humanity and prompting reflection on how we can better support one another in both local and national communities.




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    The choir back stage at the awards:

     

     

  • The Big Community Picnic in Cutts Close Park, Oakham (EAGA Children's Gospel Choir)
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  •  Date Posted: Tue, 3 Sep 2024
    The Big Community Picnic in Cutts Close Park, Oakham

    On Sunday the 1st September the Oakham Baptist Church hosted an extraordinary community picnic in Cutts Close Park, Oakham.

    The event commenced with a short church service.  Their praise and worship team led worship by singing some songs. The pastor’s sermon was about “Love”. He explored a question that many people have asked, if God loves the world, why does he not do anything about the sufferings? He used this question as an opportunity to preach about Jesus. He quoted from the Scriptures, John 3:16: “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”

    It was especially a proud moment for the EAGA 7 Children’s Gospel Choir who were in full voice, bringing joy to the community of Oakham. They ministered for 30 glorious minutes. The British summer may be dwindling, but it was no coincidence that it was a beautiful day. The sun shined beautifully  on the young people as they belted their voices to God’s glory. They represented the academy wonderfully, giving their all in the ministration of a number of songs. They performed with all their hearts, demonstrating the love of Christ in their show of musical performance on the day.

    This was the first major performance for the Children’s Choir this year as they often featured within the integrated mix of the adults’ choir, but exceptionally competent in holding their own when the adult’ choir ministered at various events. They had a breakthrough year in 2023 with a keynote performance at a concert put on by them at the St Wistan Church in Wistow. They raised money which was donated to two charities. Later the same year, they followed this up with a grand showing at the Isle of Man Festival of Choirs 2023. Due to their age they were not able to take part in the main competition but the judge recognised their musical quality by commended their outstanding performance and rewarded them with ‘distinction’ scores.

    The park was full of people and everyone had their ears tuned to what they were singing.  All seats were occupied. They had their picnics and some purchased Afro-Caribbean food from the El-Ellah catering.



     

     

    EAGA 7 Chldren's Choir in Performance



     

  • Gospel choir in Knighton Park 
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  •  Date Posted: Sun, 1 Sep 2024
    Gospel choir in Knighton Park 

    Gospel choir in Knighton Park 

    The EAGA Gospel Choir  took part in Knighton Park's annual fun day 2024.
    The choir had two slots where in we sang a number of songs from an extensive repertoire.  With the sun shining  brilliantly above we ministered to the audience that had their chairs lined around the parameters of the area reserved for performances.  They happily became involved in all that was going on as they were invited to join in and dance as the choir sang. The lead singers were apt and  motivated the choir and audience as they ministered to the Lord.

    Thanks to "Friends of Knighton Park" for inviting us again to sing at this yearly event.

    Knighton Park

     

  • Choir in Full Voice at Orchard House Care Home
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  •  Date Posted: Thu, 29 Aug 2024
    Choir in Full Voice at Orchard House Care Home
    Orchard Care Home photo 1

    On Saturday 20th July 2024, the EAGA Gospel Choir were invited to sing at the Orchard House Care home to celebrate one of the resident's 84th birthday. This was a birthday present from her son and daughter-in-law. They requested the choir to come and pray for her and to sing some gospel songs. Nevertheless, the day wouldn't be complete if we did not sing the song 'happy birthday to you'.

    She joyfully engaged in the singing of the songs inspite of her health condition. However, she wasn't the only one to enjoy the songs as the other residents, members of staff and families also thoroughly delighted with the celebrations. They too joined in singing with the choir.

    Many of the residents suffer from dementia, so it was so amazing that they were able to remember the words of some of the songs. They were joyful and expressed how much they appreciated the choir's ministration.

  • EAGA Gospel Choir Singing at Wedding
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  •  Date Posted: Wed, 28 Aug 2024
    Summer is always a delightful time for the choir, as we have the joy of performing at many weddings in stunning locations. If you're considering a choir for your special day, a Gospel choir can truly elevate the occasion. Recently, we had the privilege of singing at St. Mary's Church within the historic grounds of Sudeley Castle in the Cotswolds—a setting rich with history and an undeniable royal charm.

    Below are photographs of Elisha & Jonathan's beautiful summer wedding at Sudeley in 2024
     






  • Celebration of Culture & Communities event 2024
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  •  Date Posted: Sat, 1 Jun 2024
    Celebration of Culture & Communities event 2024
    The Celebration of Culture & Communities event 2024 took place in Leicester at the Athena. The event was hosted by East Midlands Chamber which connects, supports and champions businesses and communities across Derbyshire, Leicestershire and Nottinghamshire. See video below of the EAGA Gospel choir in performance.

    Feedback received from Sanjib Sahota, Sanjib 8, Managing Director, March 2024:

    "The magnificent EAGA Gospel Choir performed at the East Midlands Chamber's Celebration of Culture and Communities event.

    Sanjib 8 was tasked with the event management and securing entertainment. There were nearly 500 people in the room, and the EAGA Gospel Choir was the highlight of the event. The feedback from attendees from across the business community from around the East Midlands was fantastic and outstanding!

    Not only are the choir incredible performers, but they are also wonderful people and a pleasure to work with. I am sure that my event management company will require the services of the choir again in the future. If you are looking for a top-class act that will take your event to the next level, the EAGA Gospel Choir will do that for sure!"

     


  • EAGA Gospel Choir wins "City of Leicester award"
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  •  Date Posted: Mon, 25 Mar 2024

    The Emmanu’-EL Apostolic Gospel Academy Choir  was  honoured by the Leicester City Council on Tuesday, 12th March, when we were conferred the City Of Leicester Award. This is a civic award that is awarded to people who have contributed much through their work in the city, making a difference to the lives of the people This was indeed a momentous occasion and fulfilment of the word of our Lord Jesus Christ. The choir has been a prominentforce in the city of Leicester for the past 20 years. We are an instrumental group that has worked tirelessly in supporting, motivating and implementing change in the lives of people. The choir was nominated for this prestigious award alongside two other nominees: Pamela Campbell-Morris, who was posthumously honoured for her work in raising awareness of the symptoms of prostate cancer within the black community and Geoff Rowe, who founded the Leicester Comedy Festival in 1994. It was indeed a time of celebration and jubilation as we witnessed our leader, Bishop Mark Anderson accepting the award ad addressing the audience,who had gathered in the room at City Hall in Leicester.



    The choir has been a constant figure of inspiration and empowerment, using our musical talents to bring the people of Leicester together, therefore building a better community. Additionally, we have served through volunteering for a number of charitable events and have been an encouragement for so many, inspiring change in their lives. We have now joined the list of other well-known figures upon whom this award has been bestowed. These include both the present and former chairman of the Leicester City Football Club and also members of the team who were instrumental in finding the remains of King Richard III.

    On accepting the award, Bishop Mark Anderson expressed his appreciation that the work of the choir within the community had finally been recognised. He expanded on the work of the choir and spoke of the humble beginnings and the faith that drove the inception of this group.He thanked the city council for the honour.

    YouTube Video URL:
  • Choir show their support to the England Football Team – World Cup 2022
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  •  Date Posted: Fri, 22 Dec 2023
    Leading up to the FIFA World Cup 2022 in Qatar the choir worked with The Sun sports to film 2 football songs ‘Three lions’ and ‘Southgate you’re the one’.
    YouTube Video URL:
  • Making Music Article: Emmanu’-EL Apostolic Gospel Academy wins BBC Gospel Choir of the Year
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  •  Date Posted: Sun, 26 Mar 2023
    Ellah Kandi, choir leader of Making Music member group Emmanu’-EL Apostolic Gospel Academy (EAGA), takes us through her group's journey to winning the BBC Gospel Choir of the Year 2023 award.
  • Leicester’s EAGA Choir wins BBC Songs of Praise award
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  •  Date Posted: Sat, 4 Mar 2023
    The Emmanu’-EL Apostolic Gospel Academy choir, affectionately known as the EAGA Choir, based in Leicester, have won the 2023 BBC Songs of Praise Choir of the Year award. The members were presented recently with the prestigious prize in honour of their vocal abilities and dedication to the local community.

    See more details in the linked article 
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