About this Event
Get ready to be inspired, moved and uplifted by this soulful performer!
BenjaSoul is a composer, performer, and song leader who specializes in music of the Black Spiritual tradition. He can often be found leading songs at benefit concerts, vigils, protest actions, sacred services, circle songs, and workshops. He is on the board of directors of the Interfaith Movement for Human Integrity, an immigrant rights and anti-incarceration nonprofit, and is also the founder/director of the Joyful Noise! Gospel Singers.
Tickets are $25 advance, $15 for OCA members. $5 additional at the door. Doors open at 6:30 PM.
Benja is a third-generation professional musician. His mother is a professional singer and “grandaddy” was a jazz pianist who worked with legends like Sarah Vaughan and Charles Mingus. Benja counts among his mentors luminaries like Dr. Ysaye Barnwell of Sweet Honey in the Rock, concert pianist Kai Pangune Kim, and a host of session musicians in the world of jazz. He has directed adult and youth choirs for 20 years and is a strong believer in community singing.
When not performing music, Benja is a writer, public speaker, and workshop leader on issues of racial justice, civil rights, and Black History. He has worked as a leadership consultant in private, public, and nonprofit organizations. He is also a certified executive coach through the Berkeley Executive Coaching Institute.
Learn more about him at www.benjaminmertz.com
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Occidental Center For the Arts, 3850 Doris Murphy Court, Occidental, United States
USD 25.00
