The Gospel Truth: Cultivating Authenticity in Gospel Performance (Prof. Jeffrey Murdock, University of Arkansas)

Drawing on his experiences as a choral conductor, gospel musician, and music educator, Dr. Jeffrey Murdock is developing a comprehensive textbook dedicated to the performance practices of Gospel Music while in residence at Wolfson College during 2024-2025. This textbook seeks to remedy a significant gap in the understanding of this dynamic musical tradition, particularly among individuals who are not positioned within its cultural context. Practitioners of Gospel Music frequently find themselves tasked with elucidating its complexities to those unfamiliar with its nuances, yet they often lack adequate resources to communicate these intricacies effectively. The textbook is designed as a vital educational resource for choral musicians and conductors at all levels, providing them with the requisite knowledge and skills for teaching and performing Gospel Music in a manner which fully honours the culture and tradition. This presentation will outline the complexities of the writing process of such a text and introduce innovative methodologies aimed at conveying essential concepts related to authentic choral performances of Gospel Music. Addressing common misconceptions surrounding the genre, Dr. Murdock will explore issues of cultural appropriation and propose strategies for choral musicians and conductors to effectively engage with its stylistic elements. Dr. Murdock’s work aspires to foster a greater appreciation for Gospel Music while facilitating informed dialogue regarding its traditions within both academic and practical settings. Through an analysis of recordings by non-Gospel ensembles who interpret the genre successfully, theoretical aspects will be enriched, thereby offering a comparative lens that deepens the understanding of Gospel Music practices.

JEFFREY ALLEN MURDOCK is a globally acclaimed conductor and clinician, serving as the Director of Choral Activities and Professor of Music at the University of Arkansas. He is the founding director of the Arkansas Center for Black Music and a GRAMMY Award-winning music educator. Dr. Murdock holds an endowed faculty fellowship at the J. William Fulbright College of Arts and Sciences and is currently a visiting faculty fellow at Wolfson College, Cambridge. His distinguished career includes leading conferences and conducting choirs and orchestras in 20 countries. His research focuses on Culturally Responsive Pedagogy in the Choral Classroom, Music in Urban Schools, and Social Justice in Music Education. He has made contributions through presentations at notable events such as those organised by the National Association for Music Education (NAfME) and the International Society for Music Education (ISME). Dr. Murdock has held significant roles, including past president of the Southwestern Division of the American Choral Directors Association, where he continues to serve on the national board and the national diversity subcommittee. In addition to his expertise in Western choral music, he is an accomplished gospel musician and conductor, having worked with the National Baptist Convention, USA, Inc., and collaborated with prominent Gospel artists.