Earth and Heaven Sing!
GIA invites all ages, denominations, and levels of experience to join Dr. James Abbington for a special informance with hymns, spirituals, and inspirational songs.
Join in song with the expanded members of your local community while also learning the history behind the music.
Registration Includes:
- Experience the excitement of singing in a large group of enthusiastic people in your community.
- A music packet containing 10-15 pieces to add to your library.
- Choral and educational expertise from respected leaders Dr. James Abbington
- A rich, fulfilling afternoon of worship and song.
Find us this Fall!
September 20, 2025
9:30 AM - 12:45 PM
Durham, NC
Mount Vernon Baptist Church
1007 S Roxboro St
Durham, NC 27707
Early Registration: $25
Late / Walk-in: $30 (music packet not guaranteed)
This session will feature the One Faith, One Lord, One Baptism hymnal. A copy of the hymnal is included in the registration fee.
September 27, 2025
9:30 AM - 12:45 PM
Oklahoma City, OK
Saint John Missionary Baptist Church
5700 N Kelley Ave
Oklahoma City, OK 73111
Early Registration: $25
Late / Walk-in: $30 (music packet not guaranteed)
This session will feature Spirits that Dwell in Deep Woods. A copy of the book is included in the registration fee.
October 11, 2025
9:30 AM - 12:45 PM
Buffalo, NY
First Shiloh Baptist Church
15 Pine St
Buffalo, NY 14204
Early Registration: $25
Late / Walk-in: $30 (music packet not guaranteed)
This session will feature the One Faith, One Lord, One Baptism hymnal. A copy of the hymnal is included in the registration fee.
October 18, 2025
9:30 AM - 12:45 PM
Brooklyn, NY
The Concord Baptist Church of Christ
Gardner C. Taylor Boulevard
Brooklyn, NY 11216
(Formerly, 833 Marcy Ave Suite 1)
Early Registration: $25
Late / Walk-in: $30 (music packet not guaranteed)
This session will feature the One Faith, One Lord, One Baptism hymnal. A copy of the hymnal is included in the registration fee.
November 8, 2025
9:30 AM - 12:45 PM
Richmond, VA
Ebenezer Baptist Church
216 W Leigh St.
Richmond, VA 23220
Early Registration: $25
Late / Walk-in: $30 (music packet not guaranteed)
This session will feature the One Faith, One Lord, One Baptism hymnal. A copy of the hymnal is included in the registration fee.
Dr. James Abbington
James Abbington is currently Associate Professor of Church Music and Worship at Candler School of Theology, Emory University in Atlanta, GA, and adjunct professor of Church Music at Morehouse College in Atlanta. He was recently reappointed National Director of Music for the Progressive National Baptist Convention, Inc. and has been the Executive Editor of the African American Church Music Series published by GIA Publications for over 20 years.
Resources from Dr. James Abbington