MUSIC REVIEW : Finding Strength in Low Numbers at Chapman

For ye of little faith, Saturday afternoon’s Gospel Festival at Chapman University seemed destined for doom: The program began 45 minutes late, and only two of the six advertised choirs were on hand to perform--for an audience of only about 50.

But as soon as the St. John’s Baptist Church Choir of Long Beach, featuring soloist Reggie Jennings, filled Memorial Auditorium with its sweet, heavenly sounds, such frustrations were overcome by sheer inspiration, and the rejoicing began.

The free festival, organized in celebration of Black History Month, became a living testament to the powers of positive thinking and self-determination.

In an impassioned speech, the Rev. Michael Brown of St. John’s denounced self-hatred and inferiority complexes among his fellow African Americans, and in the program that followed, his “I am somebody” theme was translated eloquently into song, dance and poetry.

Helen Feaster, the master of ceremonies and a breathtaking soprano, sang a trio of songs culminating with a delicate rendering of “When I Lay My Body Down.” Her commanding, unwavering voice was stirring in its conviction.

Still, it was the joyous spirit of youth that shone brightest as it reached out and touched the hearts of the small but enthusiastic crowd.

A children’s group from St. John’s called the Perryettes began with “Speaka to Me, Lord Jesus,” a dance of praise and devotion. An emotionally charged poem, “Hey Black Child,” then was recited by the oldest Perryette, 16-year-old Troy Perry III. He and his four sisters finished the presentation with “Excellence,” a beautifully harmonized song built around such uplifting ideas as searching for one’s inner strength and triumphing over temptation and evil.

Another high point: soloist Rodney Nichols, who sounded smooth and soulful during his two hymns. He reached deep into the lyrics, and his rich baritone was especially exquisite during “Jesus, You Are the Center of My Joy.”

Concluding the short but solid parade of entertainment were members of the Chapman University Gospel Choir. Joined by keyboard player Gary Parks and pianist George Merritt (both on loan from the Heavenly Tabernacle Choir in Los Angeles), the group sang “Talkin’ About Jesus” and “Love Will Take Good Care of You” with a loose, winning, playful quality.

While hardly the festival of choirs originally conceived and billed (the no-shows were attributed to miscommunication among the festival organizers), this festival nevertheless succeeded in combining spirituality with glorious song.

And regardless of one’s leanings, one had to admire how convincingly this celebration of music and faith sidestepped potential disappointment.