Viral gospel artist Trey McLaughlin of Trey McLaughlin and The Sounds of Zamar will offer a free gospel singing workshop from 2 to 3:30 p.m., Saturday, February 26, at the Clark State Performing Arts Center. (PAC)
Internationally known for his incredible vocals and soul-stirring arrangements, McLaughlin will sing with those in attendance at the workshop.
Songs continue to be a powerful tool to transcend cultural boundaries and cause change. In this interactive singing workshop open to all ages and levels, McLaughlin will teach his arrangements by rote, focusing on the nuances and intricate harmonies specific to the gospel music style. The workshop will take place in the Kuss Auditorium and the end of the workshop is reserved for Q&A with Trey and members of the Sounds of Zamar.
“It turns out that Trey and the group will be here a day early which allows time for this incredible opportunity,” said Adele Adkins, executive director of the Clark State Performing Arts Center. “I cannot wait to take the workshop myself, and I am not a singer, at all. Music is a great equalizer where people of any race, religion and background can come together and share an experience, even those who speak different languages.”
To top off the experience, workshop participants will be invited to sing with Trey McLaughlin and The Sounds of Zamar during their public performance beginning at 8 p.m. the same evening at the PAC.
“The Sounds of Zamar is a celebration of community through the power of many voices coming together as one,” said Adkins. “This event is rescheduled from 2020 when the Performing Arts Center was shut down due to the pandemic. There was no question I wanted to reschedule it because this show is exactly what any community needs. Anyone attending will leave feeling hopeful, united and uplifted. We are proud to have them perform in celebration of Black History Month.”
McLaughlin and The Sounds of Zamar have carved a unique place for themselves in the music industry through soul-stirring arrangements of contemporary gospel, musical theater, and rich original compositions. The ensemble, organized in 2009, has performed with gospel greats such as William McDowell, Kierra “Kiki” Sheard, Richard Smallwood, VaShawn Mitchell, Earnest Pugh, and James Fortune.
Hailing from Augusta, GA, McLaughlin and The Sounds of Zamar are known for their opulent harmonies and beautiful blends, which are showcased throughout their 2012 album Limitless. The 14-track compilation is sprinkled with ballads and anthems of original songs giving glory to God that will bring inspiration and joy to the hearts of those who listen.
In addition to their distinct gospel style, Trey McLaughlin and The Sounds of Zamar have inspired audiences with clever arrangements of musical theater covers. Always providing a fresh perspective, the group’s sound is truly authentic while capturing the essence of the original piece.
Tickets for Trey McLaughlin and The Sounds of Zamar range from $25 to $46 (plus fees) and are available at ticketmaster.com or by calling the box office at 937.328.3874.
The Clark State PAC is located at 300 South Fountain Avenue in Springfield. All patrons, staff and volunteers are required to wear masks at all times in all areas of the venue, regardless of vaccination status.