ORANGE PARK — The Orange Park Chorale invites the community to experience the depth and beauty of time-honored spirituals and rich, soulful choruses during three uplifting vocal performances beginning on March 21.

The nonprofit, 65-person ensemble will be presenting "A Spiritual Journey," a concert dedicated to   bringing together traditional spiritual, folk and gospel songs, along with well-known African American spirituals, that express a wide range of emotions, including sadness, determination, happiness and praise. 

“The Spring program is not only fun for us to sing but will be fun for the audiences as well. Everyone loves spirituals and most will be very familiar favorites," said Orange Park Chorale Artistic Director David Holladay, who will co-direct each show along with Dr. Mark Stallings.

Each selection is thoughtfully curated and aims to captivate listeners with rhythm that move from solemn reflection to "can't sit still" joy.  "Chariot Jubilee" will be the showcase song, while other selections include "Hush! Somebody's Callin' My Name," "Soon-Ah Will Be Done," "Come Here" and "Wayfaring Stranger."

The first free concert will take place on March 21 at Mandarin United Methodist Church, 11270 San Jose Blvd. The next will be on March 22 at Orange Park Presbyterian Church, 1905 Park Ave. The last show will be held on March 28 at Penney Memorial Church, 4465 Poling Blvd. 

Each performance will begin at 4 p.m.

Holladay said that several guest musicians will be joining the choir, including string bass player Kelly O'Brien, percussionist Chris Crothers and University of North Florida soloist Jack Sumrall III.

Concert attendance is free and donations will be accepted.

 For more information about the Orange Park Chorale or the group’s upcoming spring concerts, visit orangeparkchorale.org or contact Board Chair Mary Jeannette Howle at 904-868-6666.