On a warm evening in May 2022, Dwan Hill and a passionate group of musicians gathered in Columbia A, a studio on Nashville’s vibrant Music Row, owned by Belmont University. With a stack of black folders filled with printed lyrics, Hill set the stage for an event that would soon become a cherished community tradition. As the attendees trickled in, it became evident that they weren’t just there for the charcuterie board; they were there to sing.
This inaugural meeting marked the birth of The Choir Room, a unique gathering where music lovers come together to create a joyful sound. Initially, Hill thought this would be a one-off event, but as the evening unfolded, he realized that this informal approach to collective singing was filling a significant void in the community.
The Choir Room invites singers of all abilities to join in a round, with Hill and a few instrumentalists at the center. There are no auditions, and reading music is not a prerequisite. Instead, participants learn new songs, clap, sway, and engage in a shared experience that celebrates the essence of community through music.
Hill, a Grammy and Dove Award-winning producer and songwriter, has deep roots in the Black church and gospel music. His journey into music ministry began at a young age, influenced by his family’s musical legacy. He started The Choir Room with a simple invitation on Instagram, curious to see who would join him in this musical adventure.
As the months progressed, attendance soared from around 100 to an impressive 700 to 1,000 participants per event. The Choir Room has hosted renowned artists such as We The Kingdom, Ben Rector, and Matt Maher, and in October 2024, they released their first album, Let’s Have Church (Live). However, Hill emphasizes that the music is not the primary focus; it’s about fostering a sense of community and spiritual connection.
In an interview with Christianity Today, Hill shared insights about the origins of The Choir Room and why he believes choir singing is essential for today’s church. He explained how his upbringing in both predominantly white schools and the Black church shaped his understanding of community through music. Choirs provided him with a space for fellowship, mentorship, and spiritual growth, and he longed to recreate that experience as an adult.
Hill’s vision became a reality when he prayed for a space to hold choir gatherings. Shortly after, a friend offered him a venue on Music Row, and thus, The Choir Room was born. The initial gathering revealed a hunger for communal singing, and Hill was pleasantly surprised to see such diversity among attendees, many of whom came from different church backgrounds.
The power of communal singing lies in its ability to unite people across various divides. Hill cites Colossians 3:16, which encourages believers to sing psalms and hymns together, highlighting the spiritual significance of music in worship. Singing allows participants to express shared truths and experiences, fostering a sense of unity that is often lacking in our fragmented world.
Hill also recognizes the challenges modern churches face in creating a culture of participation in worship. He leads worship at Cross Point Church in Nashville, where he works to diversify the musical expression and encourage congregational singing. He notes that many church settings may inadvertently discourage participation by focusing too much on individual performances rather than collective worship.
To cultivate a healthier singing culture, Hill suggests practical steps for church leaders. He emphasizes the importance of selecting familiar songs and providing context for the lyrics, making it easier for congregants to engage. He believes that even small gatherings can have a profound impact, as Jesus taught that where two or three are gathered in His name, He is present.
For those inspired by The Choir Room but lacking resources, Hill encourages them to start where they are. Singing can happen anywhere, whether in a small living room or a larger venue. The essence of choir music is that it brings people together to lift their voices in praise, creating a beautiful harmony that transcends individual talent.
In a world that often feels divided, The Choir Room stands as a reminder of the power of music to unite hearts and foster community. As Dwan Hill continues to lead this movement, he invites others to join in, reminding us all that if we have breath in our lungs, we have a reason to sing.
For more insights on the significance of music in worship and community, explore resources from The Gospel Coalition and Worship Leader Magazine.