Godalming sings gospel

Karen Neville

Christine Sargrove tells us how the inspiring voices of Godalming Community Gospel Choir can help you reconnect with yourself and your community

Life in the 21st century can be frenetic and stressful. We are human beings not doings, so thankfully there is opportunity to draw breath and relax!   

Studies suggest that singing can enhance your mood, immune system and lung function; reduce blood pressure and feelings of chronic pain. So, the benefits of singing are vast. Godalming Community Gospel Choir (GCGC) has been enhancing the lives of many for 14 years.  

2025 brings fresh challenges under the new leadership of Russell Blackman – the  inspirational and charismatic creative director bringing a Caribbean vibe and super energy with him as soon as he walks through the door. 

Vaughan Larmond our accompanist has commuted from London supporting our choir for over five years.  He is the most accomplished gospel musician, trained in six instruments, band leader of multiple choirs including the acclaimed Kingdom Choir.   We know how blessed we are to have such a high calibre pair of musicians in our midst with Vaughan and Russell.   

Community is not just in the name of the choir but a tangible element of it.  Fun and friendship in an inclusive community. Having achieved charity status in 2024, we aim to increase our presence in the community and subject to available funds, sing for the benefit of others with no fee.  We do factor in our two main ticketed events at Christmas and Easter, which are joyful celebrations – even reserved Surrey audiences have been known to move off their seats & partake! Gospel is not static – you can’t but move! 

GCGC is a non-audition choir, open to people of all faiths and those of none. The choir is run by a board of trustees from the choir membership.  We learn by call and response, learning multiple songs each rehearsal. The traditional cake and cuppa mid session are enjoyed by all. Recordings are taken to reinforce learning throughout the week .   ”Singing the music we’re learning through the week and regular WhatsApp chat are joys that carry me through the days until Monday comes around again!!” says choir member, Catherine.  

Our current June performances are Choir Blast, Godalming and Shere Arts Week at St James’s Church, Shere.  

So If you’re tired of singing in the shower, then in the words of Madonna, “Like a Prayer” joining a Gospel Choir will really take you there!   

We meet at Godalming Minster, Church Street GU7 1ER from 7.30-9.30 pm on Monday evenings term-time please contact us for a free taster session on gcgcinformation@gmail.com  View us on gcgc.org.uk