In honor of Black History Month, the Gospel Choir and Jazz band held a concert on Feb. 26 in the Recital Hall.

Music Professor Omari Tau directed the concert and said the purpose of it was to celebrate spirituals and the history of African American music.

Of the several pieces performed, the “Black National Anthem,” formally known as “Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing” was a song that stood out to several students in attendance.

“I really appreciated the fact that they performed such powerful songs and spirituals like the Black National Anthem,” said 26-year-old  public relations major Olivia Pryor.

Several students and members of the community were in attendance of the concert to support the production.

For some attendees, this was their first exposure to a gospel concert but for many people, the concert was nothing new.

“This was the first gospel concert that I’ve ever been to,” said Vanida Vorasane, 19, social sciences major. “For my first time, I really enjoyed myself tonight and I will definitely be attending more.”

Michael Sole, a 19-year-old criminal justice major, said the concert was entertaining. The praise of the concert extended well beyond students who attend CRC.

“The band exceeded my expectations by far,” said Elk Grove resident Antonio Heath. “I can’t wait to come show support at the next concert.”

Every piece was performed in such unison that Shanice Ward, a 24-year-old psychology major, found it difficult to single one particular song out.

“It’s so hard for me to pick one piece as my favorite,” Ward said. “I enjoyed every single piece so they’re all my favorite.”