Interview with Darren Jones

Darren Jones, the PR and Choir Director for Galilee Baptist Church, explains the choir director's responsibilities and the creative aspects involved in music selection. He describes the demographics and differences between the two choirs - New Vision of Praise and the Mass Choir - he directs at Galilee Baptist Church, and the creative contribution of the choir members. Jones explains what creativity means to him and creative style of the choir, including singing a song to illustrate their creative style. He also explains about ways to keep congregation involved in the choir and the church, integrating youth interests in music, what choir involvement provides youth, and how the music shapes and draws the community into the church. Jones talks about the importance and foundation of African American music from the early 1900s, the traditional type of gospel music performed in southeast Washington, D.C., the evolution of religious music, and future goals for New Vision of Praise. He also talks about how music was part of his life from a young age, how and when he started directing choir, and who inspired him to become more involved in music and eventually a choir director.

Interview. Dated 20110411.