The Content of Our Character

This concert will be performed by both the choir of Newman Church (Geoffrey Greene, Music Minister) and RPM Voices of Rhode Island (Frances-Elayne Johnson, Artistic Director). Featured performers include Delbert Collins, bass, conductor, and accompanist; Rev. Lauri Smalls, alto; Becky Bass, soprano and conductor; Barbara Youmans, alto; Neil Letendre, tenor; and Jonne Gomes, bass.

This concert will be the first collaboration between our two choirs and we hope there are many more to follow!  Program selections are varied and include modern settings, traditional spirituals, and New Orleans infused rhythms.  The combined choirs will number almost 50 singers who will sing a cappella in addition to being accompanied by piano, organ, and a fantastic gospel band! 

The choral concert will be followed immediately by our Birthday Bash in Honor of Dr. King!  This is free and open to the public and will take place in the church’s Memorial Hall.  There will be dancing, food, and fun for all!

The Content of Our Character: A Choral Concert in Honor of Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr.  will take place on Sunday, January 18, 2026 at 3:00 pm.  The public is cordially invited and there is a suggested donation of $20.  All proceeds from this concert support the Newman Church music program.  Birthday Bash in Honor of Dr. King! will follow the concert from 4:30-6:30 pm in the church’s Memorial Hall and is free and open to the public.  Newman Congregational Church, UCC is located at 100 Newman Avenue, Rumford, RI.  Online and Advance Ticket Sales Only for the concert.