Welcome to Soul for the Season,
the first concert of Universal Gospel Choir’s historic 40th anniversary season! Tonight, we celebrate four decades of bringing joy, unity, and inspiration to our community. This performance is a tribute to the enduring power of gospel music to uplift, connect, and transform lives.
Set List
1. Mysterious Ways
Brenda Russell, Allee Willis, Stephen Bray
Arr. Lonnie Delisle
Soloists: Crescencia Goana, Rosanna Francis, Rosine Dika-Balotoken
2. The Crossin’
Roger Miller
Arr. Michael McElroy & Lonnie Delisle
3. You Learn
Alanis Morissette, Arr. Lonnie Delisle
Ensemble: Advah Soudack, Bonnie Cotter, Crystal Wuthrich, Dionne Phillips,
Heather Olson, Jennifer Adams, Sherri Smith
4. You’ve Got a Friend
Carole King, Arr. Jason Howland
Adap. Lonnie Delisle
Soloists: Melody Owen, Sherri Smith
5. Call My Name
JP Cooper, Arr. Lonnie Delisle
Soloist: Forrest Mortifee
6. Somewhere, with You’ll Never Walk Alone
Leonard Bernstein & Stephen Sondheim + Richard Rogers & Oscar Hammerstein II
Arr. Lonnie Delisle
7. Subhan Allah
Native Deen, Arr. Lonnie Delisle
Ensemble: Adrian Smith, Forrest Mortifee, Jonny Tobin, Lonnie Delisle,
Lynley Lewis, Ven Virah
8. Joy
Warren Dean Flandez, Arr. Lonnie Delisle
Soloist: Warren Dean Flandez
INTERMISSION
1. What Christmas Means to Me
Stevie Wonder, Arr. Lonnie Delisle
Soloist: Warren Dean Flandez
2. O Holy Night
Placido Cappeau, Adolphe Adam,
Tr. John Sullivan Dwight; Arr. Lonnie Delisle
Soloist: Warren Dean Flandez
3. See Amid the Winter’s Snow
John Goss, Arr. Dan Forrest
4. Infant Holy, Infant Lowly
Edith Reed, Scott Gardner, Piotrowi Skardze Arr. Erik Foster
5. Don’t Save it All for Christmas Day
Celine Dion, Peter Zizzo, Rick Wake
Arr. Lonnie Delisle
Soloist: Crescencia Goana (Fri/Sat evenings) Heather Olson (Sat matinee)
6. Someday at Christmas
Stevie Wonder, Arr. Lonnie Delisle
Soloists: Tracey Gabert, Warren Dean Flandez
7. Go Tell It on the Mountain
Words by John York
Additional Words & Music by Michael McElroy, Joseph Joubert & Buryl Red
Soloists: Cristina Ciccone,
Warren Dean Flandez
Message from Our Artistic Director
Lonnie Delisle (he/him)
We are happy to be among the many wonderful musical offerings around the city this December, and even more happy that you’ve chosen to be here with us, to get a little Soul for the Season. Making music for audiences is a gift – the energy that is co-created by performers and audiences is a life-giving elixir, so thank you for being part of it.
This time of year holds much warm nostalgia for many, and this time of year also makes the pain we bear a bit more acute.
But, rather than try to forget about life for a while, we hope to infuse a bit of joy and peace right into in the middle of the sorrow.
In the midst of worldwide grief for so many things, I am more grateful than ever for this community of art-makers. Music is great, but music in community is where the soul-nourishing magic happens. (Perhaps you’d like to consider joining us…?)
Speaking of magic, I’m thrilled to have the talented Warren Dean Flandez as our guest artist this year! Warren is not only very talented, he’s also a caring and kind human who contributes a great deal to the artistic lifeblood of Metro Vancouver.
Lastly, a huge shoutout of thanks to our talented choir, superb soloists and stellar band. Our choir board and committees are made up of committed volunteers, for which we are so grateful.
Thank you again for being here, and please enjoy Soul for the Season!
About Universal Gospel Choir
For 40 years, Universal Gospel Choir has been a beacon of musical excellence and social impact in Vancouver. As the city’s only designated multi-faith choir, UGC blends beautiful music with powerful messages of justice, inclusion, and hope. We proudly represent a diverse spectrum of cultural and faith journeys, united by our shared love of gospel music.
Special Guest
Warren Dean Flandez
Juno-nominated and multi-award-winning gospel and R&B artist, Warren Dean Flandez, brings his soul-stirring voice and dynamic stage presence to Soul for the Season. His collaboration with UGC promises an unforgettable experience.
Meet the Band
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Jonny Tobin
Resident Accompanist
Jonny Tobin is a GRAMMY and JUNO-nominated, multi award-winning keyboardist, producer, and beatmaker.
His original tunes have been transmitted through the underground radio waves all over the world, and his keys and production work have graced tracks from independent artists like NYC-based Sarah Kang to acclaimed electronic producer Trian Kayhatu to breakout hip-hop artist D. Smoke.
He has toured internationally, including festival headlining shows with gospel R&B powerhouses The Hamiltones, and breakout Chinese pop R&B star ZiZi (子子).
SWIPE TO SEE OTHER BAND MEMBERS
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Johnny Andrews
DRUMS
Johnny is an accomplished session drummer based in Vancouver, BC, with extensive touring experience across the globe. He has collaborated with a wide range of bands and artists, contributing his expertise to numerous recording projects.
As an endorsed artist, Johnny proudly represents Yamaha Drums, Istanbul Agop Cymbals, Vater Drumsticks, and Evans Drumheads, reflecting his dedication to high-quality sound and performance.
Beyond his career, Johnny is a proud dog dad to two French Bulldogs, Roger and Millie.
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JeanSe Le Doujet
BASS
Born in Pontivy, Brittany, France, JeanSe grew up surrounded by music, learning piano and bass under the guidance of his father. His passion for diverse styles led him to explore everything from rock and metal to jazz and pop, blending influences to create his unique sound.
Since moving to Vancouver in 2011, JeanSe has become a prominent figure in the music community, touring across Canada, Europe, and Latin America—all while balancing a career as an acupuncturist!
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Jim Kwan
Local Vancouver born piano/organ/keyboardist studied Jazz piano at Vancouver Community College, and plays a variety genres. In addition to keyboards, Jim is a multi-instrumentalist, singer and recording engineer/producer and performs regularly in the Vancouver area.
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Choir Members
Soprano
Jennifer Adams, Kathy Anderson, Lisa Arnold, Faith Auton-Cuff, Ashley Burton, Cristina Ciccone, Sheena Clarkson, Crescencia Goana, Carol-Anne Doucet, Rosanna Francis, Gysele van Hoogstraten, Sachiko Limure, Claudia MacDonald, Eleanor May, Heather Olson, Melody Owen, Dionne Phillips, Advah Soudack, Naava Soudack, Susan Summers, Andrea Swabuk-Moe
Alto
Rosemary Burd, Rosine Dika-Balotoken, Heather D'Oyley, Cathy Duerksen, Olivia Frankel, Tracey Gabert, Michelle Gooding, Bonnie Cotter, Christine Gordon, Irene Kobylkin-Somody, Sheila Landrigan, Claudia Luna, Robyn McVicker, Lauren Palidwor, Inge Siemens, Andrea Smith, Sherri Smith, Carole Surin, Joanne Walton, Allison Warren, Maegan Warren, Crystal Wuthrich
Tenor
Josh Andallo, Jan Bryant, Forrest Mortifee, Paul Dekleer, Lynley Lewis, Michael Marrapese, Alex Operacz, Mikhaila Tobin, Guy Vallieres, Hannes van der Merwe, Ven Virah
Baritone & Bass
B Boonstra, Dwight Cuff, Charles Friesen, Steve Noseworthy, Adrian Smith, Mark Stanton, Erjan Sydykbekov, Matt Westphal, Philip Wong
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Board of Directors
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Andrea Smith (she/her)
BOARD PRESIDENT
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Lonnie Delisle (he/him)
EX-OFFICIO
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Joanne Walton (she/her)
SECRETARY
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Josh Andallo (he/him)
DIRECTOR
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Maegan Warren (she/her)
DIRECTOR (PR COMMITTEE)
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Inge Siemens (she/her)
DIRECTOR (MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE)
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Faith Auton-Cuff (she/her)
DIRECTOR
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Claudia Luna (she/her)
DIRECTOR
Upcoming Events
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Gospel Music Workshop with Karen Burke
This annual event is perfect for singers of all levels who want to learn powerful harmonies and dive into the rich tradition of gospel music.
Learn exciting gospel music and sing together with UGC in a full day workshop, then return the following day to perform with UGC in an evening performance. Sign up today and elevate your voice in a fun, engaging community!
Feb 1, 2025
9:00 am - 4:00 pm
Vancouver Unitarian Church
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For The Love Of Gospel Concert
Join us for a powerful Black History Month concert that celebrates the rich cultural legacy of gospel music.
Featuring the incomparable Karen Burke, Artistic Director of Toronto Mass Choir, UGC will be joined on stage by our Gospel Music Workshop participants.
Feb 2, 2025
7:00 pm
Canadian Memorial United Church
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Gift Cards
UGC Gift Cards Are Here!
Looking for the perfect gift for the music lover in your life? Universal Gospel Choir Gift Cards are now available in denominations of $25, $50, $75, and $100.
Gift Cards can be used to purchase concert tickets or support a beloved choir member to help pay choir fees, making them a meaningful way to share the joy of music.
Donate
Support the Joy of Music!
UGC is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to uplifting and connecting our community through music.
Your donations help us continue this work, and all contributions come with a tax-deductible receipt.
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Volunteers
A heartfelt thank you to our amazing volunteers!
Volunteers are the heartbeat of Universal Gospel Choir! From the excitement of concert entries to the buzz of raffle ticket sales at intermission, our volunteers are the unsung heroes making every one of our shows a success.
If you are interested in helping to create the magic of a UGC show and immerse yourself in the experience contact us today at info@universalgospelchoir.ca
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Auditions
Love to sing?
Universal Gospel Choir is looking for passionate voices to join our vibrant, multi-faith choir community!
Be part of a 40-year legacy, performing powerful gospel music at exciting concerts and connecting with a supportive choir family.
Auditions will be held on January 13th.
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We acknowledge the financial support of the Province of British Columbia
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We acknowledge the financial support of the Province of British Columbia •