Biography

Founded in 1986 by Terrance Kelly, the mission of the Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir, Inc. (OIGC) is to inspire joy and unity among all people through Black gospel and spiritual music traditions. Weaving together more than 300 singers ages 5 to 100 across multiple choirs from a wide range of faiths, races, and cultures, every performance helps to preserve and advance Black gospel music and spirituals. OIGC’s Community Engagement Program, featuring inclusive choirs like the Oakland Interfaith Community Choir and Kids Choir, reaches underserved communities. In 2022, the organization incorporated the Oakland Youth Chorus into the Interfaith Youth Choir, expanding its youth program to five ensembles. OIGC remains dedicated to preserving Black gospel music and spirituals for future generations and encourage diverse audiences throughout the community to participate. Learn more at oigc.org.