Nov. 28 concert: University Gospel Choir

Tuesday, November 28, 2023
7:30 PM - 9:30 PM
Elias J. Halling Recital Hall

Minnesota State University, Mankato Department of Performing Arts News Release

MANKATO, Minn. – Minnesota State University, Mankato's University Gospel Choir will perform in concert Tuesday, Nov. 28 p.m. at 7:30 p.m. in the Elias J. Halling Recital Hall of the Earley Center for Performing Arts, 320 Maywood Ave. The University Gospel Choir is directed by Courtland Pickens.

The Department of Performing Arts is excited to have Pickens on staff, said Dale Haefner, the University's Music Performance Series Director. Pickens is one of the premier gospel vocalists in Minneapolis, said Haefner. In 2016, Pickens auditioned for The Voice, a nationally televised vocal competition and placed within the top 150 contestants out of over 10,000 individuals who auditioned.

Pickens leads worship at Epiphany Covenant Church, a multi-ethnic church plant in south Minneapolis. In addition to leading worship, he teaches concert choir at Patrick Henry High School, North Community High School and Franklin Middle School.

As an artist, Pickens seeks to heal people through his music, said Haefner, adding that Pickens believes that music transcends the exterior and reaches the hearts of people.

Haefner said that when Pickens sings, the atmosphere changes, the mood is lifted and listeners are left inspired.

According to Haefner, Pickens impacts many people due to his sultry and soulful vocal technique. His style isn’t forced, but rather hypnotic and soothing, said Haefner.

Minnesota State Mankato students are admitted free with a valid MavCARD. General admission is $9 and $7 for students (K-12) and children. Those who wish to purchase tickets online should go to hss.mnsu.edu/music-events or call the Performance Series office, (507) 389-5549.