Formerly known as the Ichthys Gospel choir, the group was set up in Knocklyon, Dublin in September 2004. This band of young men and women with their tremendous vocal talents, endeavour to reach out and enhance the spiritual experience of mass through the genre of Gospel music. Members of the choir come from different backgrounds and this contributes to the uniqueness of the choir’s persona. Since the choir’s formation many great friendships have been formed and for some it has become more than just a choir, it has become a family setting.

Under the musical direction of James Eivers, the choir has been taking part in vocal tuition courses in which they explore different genres of music in an attempt to incorporate different elements into their choral repertoire and perform these pieces with their unique Gospel flair. No doubt this shows their immense dedication to their cause of celebrating their faith in Christ. The choir do this with great energy and enthusiasm in the hope of inspiring those who do not share that faith and also those who doubt to come along and join in with the Gospel experience. The promotion of Liturgical Gospel Music suitable for worship is what is at the heart of this choir’s distinctive spirit.

American composer David Haas once said, “There is nothing quite like music to stir our emotions, form our feelings and express our thoughts and beliefs…..music can provide for us an awesome and amazing path to grow spiritually”. The choir has been actively involved in Gospel workshops and in the promotion of what are called ‘Gospel Nights’. Various Gospel choirs are welcomed to Knocklyon to share their wealth of musical abilities and learn pieces of music from one another. This is done in an atmosphere of friendship and communitas. The result of these “Gospel Nights” is that many of the choirs often perform together at various important liturgical celebrations in their parishes. This powerful and uplifting spirit of Gospel music contributes to a communal sense of celebration and jubilation. There is something mystical about music which can often carry us away from the here and now, from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The hope of the Ichthys Gospel choir is to bring all people together of different creeds, colour, young and old, believers and non-believers. There has been a constant positive response towards the work that the Ichthys choir has undertaken to date. They have enthralled audiences with their lively stage performances and their passion fuelled love for Gospel music.

The next chapter of Youth Gospel choir has yet to be written but it’s guaranteed to be a page turner. You might think Gospel Music isn’t your kind of thing, all that religion and stuff….but you would be surprised when you see hundreds of young and old individuals singing and dancing in the isles. No one questions an individuals faith or beliefs but no one can deny that there is something very spiritual about singing this style of music. The powerful and uplifting Spirit of Gospel music is one which can move an individual to embrace the abiding message of the gospels, The Good News.

The Choir perform throughout the Archdiocese of Dublin at various locations on numerous occasions and always perform on the last Sunday of every month in St Colmcille’s Church, Idrone Avenue, Knocklyon, Dublin. All are welcome to come along and be moved by the Spirit – you never know, you might just enjoy yourself!