James Kevin Gray
Music is more than the sum of the notes on a page, these are only the beginning. There is something that can happening during the rehearsal and performance of a piece of music that creates a feeling of such depth that it can be life changing, but in order for this to occur the director and the choir must both be open to it. Part of my passion and calling as a musician is to encourage singers to understand the why, why we sing, why we gather, why we choose to be part of something that is bigger than the individual. Also, I have learned that there is no greater teacher in choral music than the lyric. Within each song is a story or proclamation that once it is fully understood links us to it and at times to the wisdom that a truly deep lyric can impart.
“James Kevin Gray remains the most remarkable Minister of Music with whom I've been privileged to serve in over 30 years of parish ministry, not simply because of his astonishing musical skills (which are innumerable), but because of his exemplary qualities as a human being: his intellect, his warmth, his compassion, his quest for learning, his deep insights, his honest humility. With a deep love for God and for God's people, Kevin is the consummate Christian servant: authentic, committed, loyal, creative. What a joy for a congregation, and for us individually to have him in our lives!”
Rev. Bruce Jones, Pastor of Imagine Church, Charlotte, NC
and former Senior Minster of River Hills Community Church, Lake Wylie, SC
“Without fail, each opportunity I’m afforded to musically collaborate with Kevin, I become a witness to his never ceasing flame of inspiration and passion. Whether sacred or secular, Kevin’s contagious positive personality inspires, encourages, uplifts anyone exposed to his excellent musicianship. Simply, anyone who is able to musically experience Kevin, leaves changed because of that experience.”
Frank McGinnis, Jr., Director of Music and Arts
Friendship Missionary Baptist Church, Charlotte, NC
“Carolina Voices partnered with Kevin last year for our “Big Sing” spring production. Kevin took leadership both of our MainStage choir for that entire season as well as lead on the production design of the whole show. Kevin is a great collaborator. He masterfully cast an ambitious vision for the Big Sing production that empowered and included the creative input of several other directors. He is an inspiring teacher that attracts and encourages exceptional talent. We look forward to working with him again.”
Peter Leo, Artistic Director
Carolina Voices, Charlotte, NC
“We loved having Kevin Gray conduct our men’s chorus at several national events. He has a unique gift for communicating about music in a way that inspires his singers to be their best. He is also very helpful, flexible, and a joy to work with at every stage of collaboration. His talent, experience, and personal qualities represent the best in his field."
John Mongiovi, 2009 - 2015 National President
Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia
“James Kevin Gray is a musician - composer, conductor, pianist and singer of the highest integrity. His compositions are diverse - ranging from “classical” to jazz, attractive, fun and fulfilling to sing. As a conductor, Kevin is incredibly engaging, energetic and provides compelling musical insight to choirs of all levels.”
David Tang, Artistic Director
Firebird Alliance, Charlotte, North Carolina
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