Genesis Youth Choir

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In the late summer of 2005; Christopher Rose was preparing to organise a concert for Black History Month at Stanley Halls. Christopher wanted to involve all the singers, musicians and dancers that he knew from around the area, from school and from other concerts. The only way that he could involve everyone he knew and loved in the show was to form a Choir, so he sent word out to the young people and they started rehearsing at Scream Studios in South Croydon. Chris was able to finance the choir through personal savings and formed a relationship with all the members. The Choir rehearsed every week and was ready to perform: Fortunately Joseph Hopeson (a father of one of the choir members) invited the choir to perform at his church; this was their first performance ever. Because of this West Croydon Methodist Church is known as the choir’s cradle, with Scream Studios being known as the choir’s birthplace. After an enjoyable performance at West Croydon Methodist Church the choir was ready to perform at Stanley Halls; however the choir was without a name, Genesis was suggested by both Christopher’s mum and his close friend: so after considerable deliberation the choir was christened the ‘Genesis Youth Choir’.With support from family, friends and most importantly God: the choir moved from strength to strength. God’s hands is truly on the choir as they sing his praise in churches, Banquets, concerts, parties and council events; they have travelled all around South London and even as far as Chatham and Southampton. As a community choir they have no affiliations with any church or organisation; this allows the young people to do good work within the community, without barriers stopping them from going where they want to go.What started off as just 15 singers coming together has now become an organisation which includes the choir, full band, dance team, media team and management team. The young people have found great joy in being part of Genesis and this is evident as they show commitment week after week. With over 40 members and a collection of lively and relevant original songs, the future looks bright; and as the name suggests this is just the beginning!!