OUR PRIZED MUSICIANS
JAMES POWELL
Bassist, Instrumental Coordinator
and
Director of Logistics
James Powell has been, and continues to be, a huge asset in the Larry Bland & The Volunteer Choir organization.
Having joined the group in the Fall of 1983, James has a longstanding history of accomplished musicianship in the Richmond, Petersburg, Chesterfield and surrounding metropolitan areas of central Virginia. Prior to his joining forces with Larry Bland & The Volunteer Choir, he served as director for The Youth Gospel Singers who were based in McKenney, VA. In addition, he served as instrumentalist for the regionally televised, longest running (20+ years) locally produced (WRIC-TV8 Richmond, VA) television program "The Gospel Truth" under the direction of Rev. Vernon "Billy" Lee along with former members of The Petersburg Youth Choir.
Over the years, James has also served as interim director for the Volunteer Choir and continues to provide the foundation for the instrumental section for the group. In addition, he ensures band support for all Volunteer Choir rehearsals and performances; coordinates musician participation; and handles all logistics for staging and performances.
James is indeed a cherished and integral member of the organization.
We take great pride in presenting other aspects of Mr. Powell for your reference and information.
His group's website link is www.firstimpressionsmusic.com
DOC CHRISTIAN
Musician
Doc joined the group in 1984 and he faithfully travels over 100 miles just to be a part of the Larry Bland and the Volunteer Choir organization.
Doc and James Powell both served as studio musicians for the late Rev. James Cleveland and recorded one album with The Harmonizing-Four produced by Rev. James Cleveland.
Please check out Doc Christian's website at docchristian.net
Click on the "What We Do" tab and scroll down to see what Doc is doing to help in the ongoing mission of Larry Bland & The Volunteer Choir.
Doc is the National Music Director for "Rejoice Musical Soulfood Network" currently being heard on 50 radio stations nationwide. You can listen live at www.musicalsoulfood.com
Our Thanks and Love is extended to you Doc
ANNOUNCEMENT TAKEN FROM THE BELLE REPORT
TUESDAY, AUGUST 9, 2011
Doc Christian Leaves Rejoice Musical Soul to Become
New Voice of Impact TV
By Sheilah Belle
Virginia Beach, VA – After almost two years with Rejoice Musical Soulfood and their growing network, Doc Christian has left the building. Formally the evening personality from 7 to 12 midnight, Christian will now become the New Voice of Impact TV Network. Founded by Bishop Wayne T. Jackson, out of Detroit and Houston based, Bishop I.V. Hilliard, Christian said simply, “It was time to take advantage of a few more opportunities and with the current economy, sometimes you simply have to move.” Additionally, Christian will be spending time with Hampton University radio station, WHOV-88.1 FM, The Gospel Express, Amen 820 WGGM with Cavelle Phillips during weekday afternoons and will remain the voice for many radio stations around the country through Studio Center Worldwide Audio. Considering Doc’s voice and reputation, he will probably, always be heard on someone’s radio station around the world. He’s just that sort of guy!
Doc and James Powell both served as studio musicians for the late Rev. James Cleveland and recorded one album with The Harmonizing-Four produced by Rev. James Cleveland.
Please check out Doc Christian's website at docchristian.net
Click on the "What We Do" tab and scroll down to see what Doc is doing to help in the ongoing mission of Larry Bland & The Volunteer Choir.
Doc is the National Music Director for "Rejoice Musical Soulfood Network" currently being heard on 50 radio stations nationwide. You can listen live at www.musicalsoulfood.com
Our Thanks and Love is extended to you Doc
ANNOUNCEMENT TAKEN FROM THE BELLE REPORT
TUESDAY, AUGUST 9, 2011
Doc Christian Leaves Rejoice Musical Soul to Become
New Voice of Impact TV
By Sheilah Belle
Virginia Beach, VA – After almost two years with Rejoice Musical Soulfood and their growing network, Doc Christian has left the building. Formally the evening personality from 7 to 12 midnight, Christian will now become the New Voice of Impact TV Network. Founded by Bishop Wayne T. Jackson, out of Detroit and Houston based, Bishop I.V. Hilliard, Christian said simply, “It was time to take advantage of a few more opportunities and with the current economy, sometimes you simply have to move.” Additionally, Christian will be spending time with Hampton University radio station, WHOV-88.1 FM, The Gospel Express, Amen 820 WGGM with Cavelle Phillips during weekday afternoons and will remain the voice for many radio stations around the country through Studio Center Worldwide Audio. Considering Doc’s voice and reputation, he will probably, always be heard on someone’s radio station around the world. He’s just that sort of guy!
RONNIE “Ricky” COKES
Percussionist/Drums
Since May 2007, Larry Bland & The Volunteer Choir’s rhythmic and spirit filled presentations have been enhanced and driven by the extraordinary talent of Ronnie “Ricky” Cokes.
Mr. Cokes, a native of Richmond, will be graduated from Virginia State University in December 2009 where he will receive his Bachelor of Science degree in music education. During his matriculation at the university, Mr. Cokes was most notably a member of the VSU Marching Trojans Band. He is also an accomplished saxophonist and vocalist.
In addition to his anchoring of the rhythm section, Mr. Cokes currently serves as Minister of Music at his home church, Seed Time and Harvest Ministries as well as one of the key musicians at Fifth Baptist Church and Richmond’s First Impressions Band.
Mr. Cokes, a native of Richmond, will be graduated from Virginia State University in December 2009 where he will receive his Bachelor of Science degree in music education. During his matriculation at the university, Mr. Cokes was most notably a member of the VSU Marching Trojans Band. He is also an accomplished saxophonist and vocalist.
In addition to his anchoring of the rhythm section, Mr. Cokes currently serves as Minister of Music at his home church, Seed Time and Harvest Ministries as well as one of the key musicians at Fifth Baptist Church and Richmond’s First Impressions Band.
F.A.V.O.R.----Seed Time and Harvest Ministries
Ricky is pictured to your far left
in the white hat