Seraphic Fire’s recent Gospel program filled the sanctuary of Church of the Little Flower with energy, warmth, and powerful musical storytelling. In his review for South Florida Classical Review, longtime critic Lawrence Budmen praised the performance as an evening where “pure enjoyment reigned,” highlighting both the artistic depth of the program and the exceptional musicianship on display.
Led by internationally acclaimed guest conductor Jason Max Ferdinand, the concert arrived just ahead of Martin Luther King Jr. Day and offered audiences a vibrant celebration of gospel music rooted in history, faith, and shared human experience.
A Distinctive Sound and Inspired Leadership
Budmen noted that Ferdinand drew something uniquely compelling from Seraphic Fire’s 13 singers. The ensemble’s sound was described as harmonious, expertly balanced, and rich in dynamic contrast. From hushed pianissimos to roof-raising climaxes, the performance revealed a corporate tone that felt both refined and deeply expressive.
Under Ferdinand’s direction, the choir explored a sound world distinct from programs led by Artistic Director Patrick Dupre Quigley or Artistic Director Designate James K. Bass. The result was a natural fit for a genre defined by emotional immediacy and communal connection.
Gospel Classics and Stirring Highlights
The evening opened with Ken Burton’s Journeys, a contemporary work infused with pop sensibility. Budmen praised the soaring female voices and the immediacy of the opening moments. Amazing Grace followed with soulful clarity, featuring Michele Kennedy’s luminous soprano and Charles Evans’ resonant baritone.
In Paul Johnson’s arrangement of Praise Medley, the choir revealed a calm, prayerful beauty, with the alto section receiving special recognition. Brandon Waddles’ rhythmic setting of Ride in the Chariot showcased crisp articulation and spirited tenor singing, while O Happy Day came alive through Alexandra Colaizzi’s radiant mezzo soprano and the addition of tambourine, turning the sanctuary into a moment of joyful celebration.
James Mulholland’s Today emerged as a soaring anthem sung with strength and conviction, reinforcing the emotional sweep of the program.
New Works and Powerful Messages
A centerpiece of the evening was the premiere of John Stoddart’s Sacred Choral Mosaic I, a four-movement cycle that brought contemporary voice to sacred themes. Budmen described the work as skillfully conceived and emotionally varied. "With Joyful Song" pulsed with lively rhythm, while "It’s Only Trouble" carried blues-inflected color. "Only You Can" offered a moving plea for peace, and "On the Other Side" closed the cycle with infectious energy as singers swayed and responded as one.
The choir’s spirited rendition of I Ain’t Got Long to Be Here revealed a sense of freedom and fun that delighted the audience. Cedric Dent’s I Hear the Drum stood out as a powerful call for justice.
One of the most poignant moments came with Thomas A. Dorsey’s Precious Lord. Chelsea Helm’s silvery soprano floated above the ensemble in a performance marked by restraint, reverence, and emotional honesty. The familiar He’s Got the Whole World in His Hands closed with elegance rather than exuberance, shaped by Darin Atwater’s sophisticated arrangement.
An Unforgettable Evening of Music
Budmen singled out pianist Lester Green Jr. as the evening’s quiet hero. Stepping in on short notice, his supple and expressive playing anchored the performance and blended seamlessly with the choir, elevating an already remarkable evening.
From the first notes to the final applause, the audience responded with enthusiasm and cheers. As Budmen concluded, this was one of those rare concerts where joy, artistry, and connection aligned completely.
Experience What Awaits This Season
Seraphic Fire’s Gospel program reaffirmed why the ensemble is regarded as one of the leading professional choirs in the country. Performances like this reflect the power of live choral music in South Florida, where artistry and community meet on the concert stage.
The season continues with three distinctive programs still ahead. American Folk, led by Patrick Dupre Quigley in February, explores the roots of American song through timeless melodies and rich harmonies. Candlelight follows in March under the direction of Arianne Abela, featuring music throughout history inspired by water and nature performed entirely by candlelight. The season concludes in April with Surround Sound, an immersive polychoral experience placing singers throughout the performance space for a breathtaking finale.
With these powerful concerts still ahead, audiences are invited to continue the journey and experience the music that has made Seraphic Fire Miami-Dade’s Favorite Nonprofit and one of the most respected professional vocal ensembles in the region.
Tickets and 3-concert subscriptions for the final three concerts of the season are available at seraphicfire.org/tickets or by calling 305.285.9060.
