Empathy helps us create a drama-free environment where we seek first to understand rather than judge. It’s about being patient—with others and with ourselves—and giving grace when things don’t come easily. By practicing empathy, we build a choir culture that is supportive, humble, and united.

To elevate means to lift the standard and raise the atmosphere. It’s an attitude of excellence—choosing to give your best, to stay teachable, and to go beyond “good enough.” Elevation happens when we bring focus, humility, and the desire to grow—helping each other reach levels we couldn’t reach alone.

Execution requires discipline and professionalism. It’s about being excellent even when you don’t feel like it—practicing self-denial for the sake of the group, because the whole is greater than the sum of its parts. Execution includes showing up on time, being prepared, paying attention to details, and following directions quickly. It also means remembering that some things are business, not personal, and staying focused on the bigger mission. When we execute with maturity, we transform preparation into powerful ministry.

Excitement is intentional. We bring energy that positively contributes to the atmosphere—in rehearsals, on stage, and off stage. Excitement means choosing joy, encouraging one another, and creating an environment where everyone wants to be part of what’s happening.

Gospel Music Ensemble

MUSC U128 | U328

Alphaeus Anderson

e: ander877@uscupstate.edu

c: 864-650-2858

o: 110 in HPAC

Upcoming 2025 Fall Events

Rehearsals: Wednesday at 7:00pm

HPAC - 101 Hall unless other locations are communicated.

Zoom is the platform of choice for Virtual sessions

Course Description (1 credit hour): The directed performance of traditional and contemporary gospel music. No audition or prior experience is necessary. Mixture of Contemporary Gospel, Spirituals, Traditional Gospel and other inspirational music. The history and practices of Gospel music and worship will be explored. This course will demonstrate a high level of musicianship so that each student will be adequately prepared for work as a director of worship, private instructor, bandleader, composer, producer or professional performer.

Grading Scale: For credit, you must attend at least 90% of rehearsals and performances to earn an A. To earn a B, at least 85%. To earn a C, at least 80%.

Goals and objectives:

The student will demonstrate an acceptable level of aural skills. Students will be assessed on musical terms demonstrated and practiced in the Gospel music style. There will be some sight reading. Music theory related to Gospel music will be explored. Students will be required to research the history of Gospel music and worship.

Students should take notes when necessary and record rehearsal with phones or digital recorder. Students are encouraged to practice material learned outside of class.

Performance Dates: Performances are occasionally held on or off campus. Attendance is required.

Attire: See the picture example

Dressy Option:

Please avoid tight fitting clothing, yoga pants, shorts, shoulders out, sneakers. Dress to impress.

T-Shirt Option: Certain performances allow black t-shirt and jeans. Casual performances will be announced. Avoid tank tops, mid-drifts, and shirts with the shoulders and backs exposed.

*Avoid flip flops and sandals.

*Please iron clothing.

*Gospel Choir t-shirt will be an option, if available.

Travel: If the choir sings locally, students must provide own transportation. Any out-of-town travel will be by chartered bus. Please be on time.

Occasional On Campus pop up “Flash Mob”

NOTE: Please familiarize yourself with the USC Upstate Code of Student Behavior and abide by it at all times. It can be found in your USC Upstate Student Handbook.