California Baptist University

University Choir and Orchestra virtually showcases music

O n April 11, 2020, CBU’s University Choir and Orchestra students virtually performed the original song “Sing the Story (Hallelu jah, Amen)” with John Bolin, dean of the School of Music, to spread a much-needed message of hope and encouragement to hundreds of viewers shortly before Easter. This virtual performance uploaded on YouTube features 58 UCO participants and John Bolin, CBU alum and song co-writer, singing lyrics illustrating every tribe and every nation bringing glory to God on his throne. Bolin says that during a season of gloom, they hoped the virtual experience would be a source of encouragement people across the country. “Singing the story of the gospel gives us great hope as we remember all of who God is, all of what God has done, all of what God is doing and all of what God will do in the future,” he says. The song was co-written by Hector Jimenez, as sistant music professor, arranged by John Bolin and orchestrated by musical composer and GMA Dove Award nominee Bradley Knight. To create this event, participants individually recorded themselves, and the videos were synchronized by Travis Maclay, director of operations and assistant music professor. The video now has close to 40,000 views. UCO participants sing lyrics that remind believ ers that this life will fade, and they will enter an eternal life of joy and peace, rather than sickness and suffering. One of the participants Janelle Smith, Christian studies and Christian behavioral science double major, says she was excited by the message because “music has that special ability to transcend communication barriers and reach people in what ever season they’re at.” Whether in person or virtually, UCO brings hope through God’s story brought to life in their music.

Scan to watch the performanc e

WORDS Faith Wicks

DESIGN Kia Harlan

49 UCO on YouTube