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Wheaton Today
By the People, for the People
Naperville Nonprofit Celebrates Gospel Music's Legacy
Mays Music Centre of Excellence hosts annual 'Lift Every Voice' concert to honor the culture, history, and impact of gospel music.
Apr. 8, 2026 at 2:54pm
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Mays Music Centre of Excellence, a Naperville-based nonprofit, is hosting its Fourth Annual Lift Every Voice Celebration on April 11, 2026, at Benedictine University's Goodwin Auditorium. The event pays tribute to the rich legacy of gospel music, featuring performances by choirs from the local community and beyond. Proceeds from ticket sales will support MMCE's Scales Campaign Building Fund, which aims to make music education more accessible.
Why it matters
Gospel music has played a crucial role in shaping culture and community, serving as a vehicle for comfort, resilience, and unity. By honoring this enduring art form, the Lift Every Voice Celebration helps to preserve and celebrate the genre's profound impact, particularly in the Chicagoland area.
The details
The Fourth Annual Lift Every Voice Celebration will feature an exciting lineup of choirs, including the Divine Sound Gospel Choir (a collaborative partnership between MMCE and Benedictine University students), the Wheaton College Gospel Choir, the DuPage AME Church Mass Choir, and Pastor Derail Smith and the Warriors. The event will be hosted by Minister Tim White and will pay tribute to Empress Dianne Williams, a prominent gospel singer known for her powerful lead vocals.
- The Fourth Annual Lift Every Voice Celebration will take place on Saturday, April 11, 2026, at 3PM.
- The event will be held at Goodwin Auditorium on the campus of Benedictine University, 5700 College Rd., Lisle, Illinois.
The players
Mays Music Centre of Excellence (MMCE)
A Naperville-based nonprofit dedicated to providing high-quality, diverse, and accessible music programs in the region.
Mikel Mays
The CEO and founder of MMCE.
Empress Dianne Williams
A prominent gospel singer best known for her powerful lead vocals.
Minister Tim White
The Master of Ceremony for the Lift Every Voice Celebration.
Divine Sound Gospel Choir
A collaborative partnership choir comprising MMCE and Benedictine University students.
What they’re saying
“We are excited to present our 4th annual Gospel Celebration this year more than ever as we highlight culture and encouragement.”
— Mikel Mays, CEO and founder of MMCE
“The beautiful thing about gospel music is its ability to bring community together through its complex art form and inspiring lyrics.”
— Mikel Mays, CEO and founder of MMCE
What’s next
Tickets for the Lift Every Voice Celebration are available for purchase at maysmusic.org. Prices are $20 for adults, $10 for youth, and free for children under 5, with group discounts also available.
The takeaway
The Lift Every Voice Celebration showcases the enduring power of gospel music to unite and inspire communities. By honoring this rich cultural heritage, the event helps to ensure that the legacy of gospel music continues to shape and uplift the Chicagoland region.
