Dear Friends,

The May 2014 edition of Offbeat Magazine proclaimed, “This gospel choir is integrated across race, gender and denomination, and had its first scheduled performance on September 12, 2001; they’ve since been dedicated to spreading a message of hope.”

Our history

In October 2000, friends Michael Cowan, a Loyola University theologian, and Philip Manuel, a renowned New Orleans jazz vocalist, dreamed to create a genuinely integrated organization founded in music. They wondered, “If we gather various people to do something fun, meaningful, and valuable, might we create a community in which, at least this small group of people could begin to surpass the personal segregation that exists in New Orleans and in America.”

They each invited six friends of various races, who loved music, to join a new gospel choir. Then, they partnered with Al Bemiss, a highly respected New Orleans choirmaster and key board player, to direct the choir. Thus, Shades of Praise Gospel Choir was born!

We need your help

The mission of Shades of Praise is to share gospel music in an effort to bring unity, joy, and healing to others. However, we need your help! In order to continue this goodwill and healing in our community and yours, we must be able to financially sustain our organization and mission. Shades of Praise is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and currently relies on donations, membership dues, CD sales, and paid performances to support our efforts. Unfortunately, it is not enough to sustain our good work.

Please consider donating to our Annual Appeal Campaign and becoming a “Friend of Shades” by making a financial contribution today. Donations of any amount are greatly appreciated and all are tax-deductible. Your support will allow us to not only survive, but to thrive and continue what we are all truly committed to: bringing unity, joy, and healing to others through gospel music.

To mail your donation, make your check payable to Shades of Praise and send to:
PO Box 750766
New Orleans, LA 70175-0766

If you would prefer to donate online with your credit card via PayPal, then use the Donate button below to go to our Website Give page:

We are forever grateful for your support,
 
Shades of Praise
The New Orleans Interracial Gospel Choir