Patrick D. McCoy honored for his tenure as Minister of Music at Takoma Park Baptist Church

PRLog (Press Release) - Jul. 3, 2012 - Patrick D. McCoy bid a fond farewell to the members of Takoma Park Baptist Church as he played his final service at the Washington, D. C. church.  Shortly after finishing the Master of Church Music at Shenandoah Conservatory in Winchester, Virginia, McCoy accepted the position at Takoma Park Baptist Church where for the past six years he has led the choirs and congregation in song.  McCoy presided at the organ for one last time as he accompanied the choir in several hymns, including "Guide Me O, Thou Great Jehovah" and the rousing favorite, "He's Done So Much For Me."

Terri Allen and Pamela Simonson of the national arts advocacy organization, Coalition of African Americans in the Performing Arts presented McCoy an award of recognition during the service for his work at Takoma and his work as a music journalist.  Notably present was Wayne Brown, Director of Opera for the National Endowment of the Arts.

"Sunday was truly one of the most memorable days of my life.  The show of appreciation from the Takoma Park church family made my last service very special."  McCoy said.

Guest soloist Monique Steele Griffiths set the tone with her stirring rendering of "Great is Thy Faithfulness" and Terrence Bradford Tarver brought a sacred reverence to Malotte's "The Lord's Prayer."

Listen to Patrick D. McCoy accompany Monique Steele Griffiths during the service.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_HMHJ9vMrL8&feature=share




"I am eternally grateful to my family for their love and support.  Moments like this truly have me floating."  McCoy reflected.

Following the service, a lovely reception was held in the church's social hall in McCoy's honor. Cecelia Dade-Winfield and Louise Muse, both members of the choir made presentations on behalf of the choirs and music ministry.  Special thanks to Takoma Park choir member and VSU Trojan, Rosalind Gray for coordinating the reception.

Among McCoy's other friends in attendance were Victor and Ciara Simonson, Neal Arp, II, Eric Bennett, Sabrina Hare, Ashley Baker, Ruth Abena and Chester Williams.

A native of Petersburg, Virginia, Patrick D. McCoy is a graduate of Virginia State University, where he earned the Bachelor of Music in Vocal Performance.  At the present, he will continue to make his home in the Washington, D. C. area where he maintains a busy calendar as a music journalist and performing artist.

Photo:
http://www.prlog.org/11914631/1