Voices raised in perfect harmony as students, friends and family gathered in reverence, community and faith for a performance of the Northern Black Choir (NBC) and other student organizations for NBC’s fall concert.
The show was in part sponsored by the Center for Black Studies and started by highlighting the theme of unity and introducing the performers.
Besides the choir, the concert featured spoken word from the group NIU Slam, a dance performance from the Royal Khaos team and a Bible reading from Impact, an organization focused on campus ministry for Black students.
Around 55 people gathered in the Gabel Hall theater for the performances, featuring powerful vocals, gospel-inspired sound and dance. The event’s theme was “We’re all in this together,” and focused on unity, making it an ideal for anyone looking to de-stress before finals.
Founded in 1968, the NBC is the oldest non-Greek Black student organization at NIU. The group was created to give Black students a space for musical expression, cultural pride and spiritual connection.
Before the main showcase started there was a selection of praise, Bible verses and prayers, as well as background music, instrumentals and practicing on the drums, percussion and keyboards.
Christopher Mitchell, interim co-director of the Center for Black Studies, helped start the night off by encouraging the audience members to spread unity and support for one another.
“Put your hands together, feel free to wave your hands at the person next to you and say, “glad you’re here,’” Mitchell said.
The audience responded enthusiastically, and many greetings were heard.
For some, coming together was about honoring their faith.
“There’s a need for community and unity, because we are not in this by ourselves, Lord, but you have uplifted us,” said Kailey Pearson, NIU alum and founder of Impact NIU.
Throughout the evening, the audience was encouraged to be vocal and stand during the performance if they connected with the message, which many participated in.
During one song by NBC, the group went out into the audience and sang in the aisles and seats. People embraced the group’s enthusiasm, stood up and started singing and dancing.
The show ended with Mitchell letting audience members know they can come down to the front to worship and pray together — especially people dealing with mental health, depression and anxiety.
“We believe from the singing of these songs that the heavy weights and burdens that are on your shoulders can be lifted,” Mitchell said. “And that you can leave here tonight encouraged to fight back against your situation.”
Many gathered in community with each other in the end as the music faded.
The next concert will be in the spring semester and will be posted on NIU Black Choir Instagram.
