History Of The Concert

Eastern Canada is know for the many different kinds of festivals which occur here every summer. These festivals cover a wide range and include everything form bluegrass to multi-cultural events. The idea of a Gospel concert is not new as there are several in the Maritimes each year. However, these concerts are usually part of a larger event. Sunday is often set aside, at these concerts, for those who like to play and listen to gospel music.

The idea for a concert in Greenwood came about because of many different factors. The first was the presence of several weekend long events in the central Valley area. The largest of these was Port George Days. There has also been a tradition in the Annapolis Valley of having Hymn Sings through the fall, winter and spring months. People have traditionally enjoyed going to local churches on Sunday evenings to sing and listen to music. These services were not been held during the summer months. Yet another factor was the lack of outdoor summer events for Christians. What better way to have this need fulfilled than to meet together for a Sunday afternoon and to listen to Gospel music?

The Gospel concert in Greenwood is organized by people who are committed to Jesus Christ. One of the requirements for the musicians is that they be actively living their faith. Denominational affiliation is not much of a factor but those who take part should be involved a church. It is important to not only sing the Gospel but to also to live it.

Development
Like most events, it takes time for them to develop and reach their potential. The Gospel Concert In The Pines began in 1999. The first year there were around one hundred people. Over the years it has grown significantly and now hundreds of people attend. The program runs continually from afternoon until early evening. In the future we may expand the concert into being a full weekend event.

Many different types of Gospel music are represented. Over the years there has been everything from contemporary to country gospel music. We purposely try to keep a variety of music. This approach has been well received and appreciated.