East End Arts & Humanities Council presents the 40th anniversary celebration of its beloved Harvest Gospel Concert on Thursday, November 19, at 6 PM, at The Suffolk in Downtown Riverhead. This landmark performance celebrates four decades of uplifting music, extraordinary local talent, and a cherished tradition that has brought generations of East End residents together through the power of gospel music.
Since 1986, Harvest Gospel has celebrated community, connection, and the transformative power of music by bringing together singers from across the East End to form a non-denominational community choir. The annual performance unites people of different ages, backgrounds, and experiences in a shared expression of joy, gratitude, and inspiration as it kicks off the giving season.
For this special Harvest Gospel 40th Anniversary Concert, Grammy nominee Pastor David Wright, son of the late gospel legend Reverend Timothy Wright, and Pastor Bettina Pennon, who has performed at the Grammy Awards, on multiple television productions, and off-Broadway, join the choir and add powerful solos. This year, Harvest Gospel also includes a special performance by the East End Disabilities Associates choir and, most significantly, a special tribute to its founding Creative Director, Reverend Maryanne McElroy, who will receive a proclamation from Suffolk County Legislator Greg Doroski as recognition of her commitment to music, inclusivity, and community. Through her church, her vocal lessons, and her community choir, Rev. McElroy has touched many lives across the East End for decades.
“Harvest Gospel is one of my favorite EEAC programs, and reaching 40 years is an extraordinary milestone and testament to the enduring power music has to bring people together,” said Wendy Weiss, Executive Director of East End Arts & Humanities Council. “This event is filled with the most extraordinary positive energy, and I look forward to celebrating its 40th anniversary and paying tribute to Rev. McElroy in this grand way.”
Ticket proceeds benefit the Francis Ligon Memorial Music Scholarship Fund, which provides financial aid to EEAC music students in honor of EEAC Board member and Harvest Gospel’s choir soloist who passed away in 2007.
Harvest Gospel is open to the public. Whether attending for the first time or returning as part of a longstanding family tradition, audiences can expect an inspiring evening of powerful voices, joyful music, and heartfelt celebration.
Tickets are $25 to $50. Visit thesuffolk.com.