James L. Hosay

Go Tell It !

African-American Gospel music has a long, proud history and tradition in North America. Its roots trace back to the 17th Century, when African-American slaves began writing and singing 'working songs', and what has come to be called 'Spirituals'. In the mid 18th century, a new, highly energetic form of preaching emerged in New England and quickly spread to the South. This form of preaching required music that was more up-tempo than the traditional European Hymns, and so new music began to emerge that captured the energy and rhythms of this new form of preaching. It was often accompanied by foot stomping and hand clapping. When this new type of religious music merged with the slave music of the south, GOSPEL was born. The lyrics are religious, soul-searching and uplifting, and the music comes from the same American roots as Blues, Jazz, Rhythm & Blues, and Rock 'n' Roll. It has since spread throughout the country and the world, evolving into many types and sub-genres. It is one of the most popular forms of music in the world today.

GO TELL IT! (A Gospel Christmas) takes four of the most well-known Christmas Carols, including the iconic Gospel classic 'Go Tell It On The Mountain', and presents them in a contemporary Gospel style, that will have your audience stomping their feet and clapping their hands to the music. The optional Rhythm Section parts will add additional expressiveness and authenticity to your performance, and the optional Solo Vocal and four-part Gospel Choir will really help you bring it home! So shout it from the mountain tops that GO TELL IT! (A Gospel Christmas) is a part of your Wind Band’s Christmas repertoire!