The Fernán Gómez Theatre, part of Madrid's Cultural, Tourism and Sports Area, will celebrate the 32nd edition of the grandes del góspel festival from 3 to 12 December, an event that has become a staple of the city's Christmas festivities.
This year's programme features international gospel choirs and offers a musical journey through the genre's African American roots, its spiritual dimension, and its connections to soul, jazz, and popular traditions.
One of the highlights of this edition will be the return of the Soweto Gospel Choir, a South African ensemble that has won three Grammy Awards. They will present their new production, JOY, in Europe for the first time. This emotionally charged performance celebrates the spirit of South Africa through music and pays tribute to the legacy of Nelson Mandela, combining spiritual songs with hits from South African singer Miriam Makeba. It promises to showcase one of the most internationally recognised choirs, known for their vocal power, stage energy, and ability to convey the richness of South African culture.
Also returning to Europe is The Black Heritage Choir, which, following the success of their tour commemorating the 50th anniversary of Aretha Franklin's Amazing Grace, will present The Soul of Gospel. Under the direction of pianist Jerry Calvin Smith, the choir will take audiences on a journey through the history of African American religious music, from its origins in plantations to its more urban expressions. The current production updates The Sound of Gospel in celebration of their 20th anniversary, honouring the evolution of a genre that has profoundly influenced contemporary music.
The festival will also feature the energy and rhythms of The New Orleans Gospel Choir, who will present Mardi Jazz Party, a new production for grandes del góspel. This show combines a gospel segment with the festive sound of brass bands, paying homage to Mardi Gras, one of the world's most spectacular carnivals. It offers an imaginative journey through the streets of New Orleans, where music is an integral part of daily life, featuring an original repertoire that intertwines various musical traditions.
National talent will also be prominently featured, with Gospel Living Water participating in the Oh Madrid Happy Day programme. This Madrid-based choir, recognised at the Gospel Music Awards in Italy as the Best International Group, was the first Spanish ensemble invited to the Music+Arts Global seminar in London, created by gospel legend Edwin Hawkins, the author of the famous Oh Happy Day. Their involvement underscores the festival's commitment to promoting the genre and supporting groups that keep its tradition alive in Spain.
With this 32nd edition, grandes del góspel reaffirms its connection to Madrid and its place in the city's Christmas cultural programme. Each year, it invites audiences to celebrate music, share emotions, and discover the extraordinary ability of gospel to unite generations and cultures.
