The Sanctuary Choir
History and Purpose
The Senior Choir was organized in 1899, under the leadership of Rev. Watkins, the 6th Pastor of Trinity Baptist Church. The Senior Choir was officially organized under the pastorship of Rev. Burwell T. Harvey who served as the 8th pastor from 1909-1930. During his tenure, Ernest Royal and Anita Meadows served as the first choir director and pianist, respectively. Upon their retirement Arline Royal became the director and organist.
The Rev. Dr. William Wade Carter succeeded Rev. Harvey as pastor in 1931 and under his leadership the first organ and church pews were installed. It was during his tenure that the choir flourished and grew in numbers. They were known for their rendition of sacred music.
In the early years, the Senior Choir bought the word in song and presented numerous concerts and plays to support the church. Under the leadership of Professor Walters the choir travelled throughout the greater New York area and the country with our previous pastor, the late Rev. Dr. Nathaniel Tyler-Lloyd.
In 2000, due to declining membership, the Senior Choir was combined with the Choir School under the direction of Dr. Loretta Holkman- Reid. These combined choirs are currently known as the Sanctuary Choir. Kenneth Bentley is the director and Jose Mirabal serves as the pianist/organist.
