NCGCC Chairman Rev. Derrick Roberts Passes

The National Convention of Gospel Choirs and Choruses (NCGCC) mourns the loss of their beloved Chairman Rev. Derrick E Roberts who passed away after a brief illness on December 13th.  Roberts, an  accomplished musician, former educator, school administrator and minister of music was elected to the position in 2010, having previously served as a Vice President. The National Convention of Gospel Choirs and Choruses is the oldest African American singing organization in America, organized by the Father of Gospel Music, Professor Thomas A. Dorsey in 1933. Reverend Roberts, a Toledo native, received a bachelor of music degree with an emphasis in vocal music and minor in piano from Bowling Green State University.  He went on to complete a master’s degree in supervision and administration from the University of Toledo.  Roberts served as music director and trained choirs at a number of churches in Toledo, which eventually led to his founding of the 100+ voice Toledo Interfaith Mass Choir.

Funeral Arrangements are pending at this time.