On Sunday, April 29, 2018, Dr. Joan Hillsman, noted music educator, author, 
lecturer/demonstrator, university professor, African American music historian, church music clinician, curriculum writer and board member of the National Gospel Music Workshop of America will direct the United Church of Fayetteville Choir with organist/pianist, Jared Shepard, Director of Music Ministries at UCF.
As an experienced musician and educator in gospel music, Dr. Hillsman has brought her talents and hard work to children and teachers in schools in Washington, DC where she was District Supervisor of Music. She was also professor of music at Bowie State University in Maryland. Dr. Hillsman taught fundamentals of music, theory, introduction to music, classical piano and gospel choir. Since retiring to Syracuse to be closer to her son, SU women’s basketball coach, Quentin Hillsman and family, she continues her work with students, adults and choirs in our area.
Included in Sunday’s worship service will be such gospel anthems and spirituals as: This Little Light of Mine, Wade in the Water, I’m Gonna Live So God Can Use Me and Give Me Jesus. Dr. Hillsman’s mission is to “educate, empower and to positively impact the lives of musicians, soloist and choirs”. The choral service will be at 10:00 AM on April 29th. All are welcome!