People who love the music of the church in all genres will enjoy the annual spring concert of the Community Concert Choir of Baltimore, to be held 5 p.m., May 26 at Sharp Street Memorial United Methodist Church. Comprised of more than 100 singers, the choir’s presentation will feature a full repertoire of classical anthems, Negro spirituals, traditional hymns and classic gospel songs.

The faith community knows Dr. Marco K. Merrick to be a regional leader in the preservation of worship music.

“I’m deeply committed to helping preserve the rich music that distinguishes the African American Church tradition in this nation, which is celebrated around the world,” said Merrick, founding director of the choir. “It’s difficult now to find this music in many churches, but there’s a hunger for it in the community. This choir is comprised men and women from many denominations and traditions, who vigorously and enthusiastically perform and enjoy this marvelous tradition.

There’s room for all who are interested in singing good music!”

The May 26 program will feature one of the most noted classically trained church organists along the eastern seaboard, W. Patrick Alston and accompanist Marcus D. Smith, a church music director and music faculty member at the Nathan Carter School of Music.

Founded in 2010, the choir has quickly become a musical force in the Baltimore Washington metropolitan area, garnering standing-room only audiences at its signature concerts each spring and fall. The annual fall concert is sponsored by Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Delta Lambda Chapter and the freewill offering taken will benefit programs for students in Baltimore City Public Schools. Since its inception, the choir has been called upon for performances around the state.

This concert is free and open to the public. Sharp Street Memorial U.M. Church is located at Dolphin and Etting Streets in Baltimore. A reception will be held for everyone following the concert in the church’s fellowship hall. For further information, contact Sharp Street U.M. Church at 410-523-7200 or Dr. Marco K. Merrick at 410-728-4129 or marcomerrick@aol.com