Oakland Interfaith Youth Gospel Choir (OIYGC), currently under the direction of Terrance Kelly, was founded in August of 1997. The choir was originally comprised of eight members; they made their official debut at the adult choir’s 4th Annual Gospel Workshop and Evening Musical at First Congregational Church of Oakland, in September 1997. By the time of their appearance at OIGC’s Annual Christmas Concert, in December of that year, the roster had grown to twenty-one members. Today, the choir has a roster of thirty active members, ages 13-18. The Youth Choir welcomes individuals of all ethnic, religious and cultural backgrounds.

In addition to directing the Youth Choir, Director Kelly founded the parent organization, Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir, in 1986, as a result of a Gospel Music Workshop held at Rhythmic Concepts’ Jazz Camp West. He is also the Minister of Music at Imani Community Church, and Professor of Music at Foothill College.

The Youth Choir follows the mission and model of its parent Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir and likewise boasts a diverse performance history: the San Jose Jazz Festival, the Jewish Music Festival, Alameda County Fair, Women’s World Cup Games, the Diocese of Oakland Multicultural Benefit, and Oakland Museum’s Juneteenth celebrations. They participate in many youth-oriented conferences and gatherings. Self-produced annual events include the Spring N2 Praize concert and Annual Christmas Concert. Members of the Youth Choir have frequently been recruited for local musical productions such as The Wiz and The Little Shop of Horrors.

To audition for the Youth Choir, contact admin@oigc.org.

To book the Youth Choir, contact admin@oigc.org.