The Charleston Gospel Choir will present a tribute concert honoring Lucille Simmons Whipper at the 2026 Piccolo Spoleto Festival Saturday, June 6, at 6 p.m. at Second Presbyterian Church, 342 Meeting Street, under the musical direction of guest conductor Bryon K. Black, II.
Lucille Simmons Whipper, a graduate of Avery Institute who once denied entry to the College of Charleston became the College’s first Black human resources director and facilitated the establishment of her former school, the Avery Institute, into the College of Charleston’s Avery Research Center for African American History and Culture. Her initiative and perseverance steered the transformation of Avery into an archival repository, small museum, and cultural center for academic and public programming. She went on to become the first Black woman to serve in the state legislature.
Through song and written word, the Choir will pay homage to Ms. Whipper’s educational and political legacy performing moving sacred gospel standards including Shelton Becton’s "All Good Things Will Be Added Unto You," Walter Hawkins’ "Be Grateful" from The Preacher's Wife soundtrack, Whitney Houston’s arrangement of "I Go to the Rock," and other gospel gems.
“For 27 years, I have produced concerts that resonate deeply with my life experiences. It was a joy to see Ms. Lucille in the audience, where she consistently offered generous compliments. Her memorable words of encouragement to pursue choral excellence have meant a great deal to me, particularly as I have always admired her trailblazing career and unique spirit. Ms. Lucille made it a priority to attend our concerts whenever possible and frequently contributing financially to help present performances like this tribute. She truly deserves this acknowledgment, and we are honored to express gratitude to her through music,” said Lee Pringle, Choir Founder and producer of the event.
Tickets and Information
Charleston Gospel Choir | 2026 Piccolo Spoleto - Tribute Concert: Ms. Lucille Simmons Whipper
- Saturday, June 6, 2026 • 6 p.m.
- Second Presbyterian Church, 342 Meeting Street, Charleston, SC, 29403
General Admission Tickets
- $16.50 - $33.50 including fees on charlestongospelchoir.org; 888.512.9835; or at door (cash or check only) up to one hour before event