Music and the arts historically has served as a universal ambassador for gathering people from all walks of life to celebrate our commonalities instead of our differences. In its finale year, the Sounds of Unity Celebration Concert will celebrate its 12th anniversary in doing just that.
Sounds of Unity is a spirit-filled music ministry that was founded in 2006 by Marcellus Barnes for the community to unite and celebrate diversity and tolerance. The choir consists of members from area churches all throughout Chattanooga. Currently, there are over 150 active members serving in the choir. In addition, the event concert also take this time to celebrate African American heritage and leadership as a Black History month activity. SOU honors community leaders who have made a significant difference within the African American community. Honorees include former Community Foundation President Pete Cooper, State Representative Joanne Favors, distinguished composer, conductor and pianist Dr. Roland Carter, community activist James Moreland and Former Public Defender Ardena Garth-Hicks. This year the organization will honor community activists, Herbert “Book” McCray and Patricia Shackleford-Gray.
This year’s celebration will be held at Bayside Baptist Church, at 6100 Highway 58 on Feb. 24, at 6 p.m. Doors open at 5 p.m. Tickets are $10 and can be purchased at Herman’s Soul Food Restaurant on Brainerd Road, Bayside Baptist Church, and online at www.eventbrite.com. Proceeds from the Sounds of Unity Celebration concert will go to benefit the Unity Performance Arts Foundation. To learn more about the foundation and how to make a donation, visit its website at www.UPAFC.org.