Arts & Culture Center of Hope Brings the Jazz
December 26, 2013
By Troy Tieuel
LAWT Contributing Writer
Very few things can breach more barrios and cross more divided lines than music, and at the First Church of God, Center of Hope’s 3rd Annual Gospel Jazz Fest, artists from lands spanning the globe came together in musical unity in remembrance of a man who, like music, crossed boarders and changed history, Nelson Mandela.
Started by the late Reverend Geremy Dixon Sr., and continued by his son, current Senior Pastor of First Church of God, Center of Hope, Geremy Dixon Jr. the concert featured musicians who play with a gospel inspiration.
“Several years ago, Sister Cathy Gill, who runs our young adult ministry [Warriors of Judah],” explained Pastor Dixon, “had the idea to have a jazz festival. She was able to put together a dynamic event. We really had no idea how it was going to take off, what type of talent was going to be involved. That year it was fantastic, we brought it back again the next year. This is our third year doing it, and year after year, it gets better and better.”
Pastor Dixon accredits much of the success to the efforts of the Warriors of Judah and the youth ministers that comprise its ranks. “That young adult ministry is made up of dynamic people, who, and I’m pleased to say, are passionate about the Lord, passionate about people, and passionate about putting on presentations that honor God in their excellence.”
Ushered and hosted by the Warriors of Judah, City of Hope’s youth ministry, the four hour long jazz celebration entertained all with a selection of local and international jazz musicians and singers.
For more information go to www.firstchurchofgod.com/.
Pictured: The Rembert James ensemble "Bone Voyage" performing at the concert. L-R Joey Navarro - piano, Richard Grant - trumpet, James - trombone, Leon Mobley - percussions, Emile Borde- steel drums. Not pictured: Marcus Miller - drums, Keith Jones- bass.