Sunday, April 6, 2003

Brampton, ON - Toronto Mass Choir won the "Contemporary Christian/Gospel Album of the Year" award for their latest CD release "Instrument of Praise" at the 2003 JUNO awards ceremonies held in Ottawa on April 5th, 2003.

Karen and Oswald Burke, along with three other members of the choir accepted the award from presenter Molly Johnson, well known in the Canadian jazz circle. This is the choir's first JUNO win having received a previous JUNO nomination in 1999 for their "Follow Him" CD.

The members of this gospel ensemble hail largely from the Greater Toronto area and all are excited at winning this award that comes as the choir celebrates its 15th anniversary this year.

The category also included nominees Jake, Starfield, the Montreal Jubilation Choir and the "Northern Blues Gospel All Stars" album featuring Hiram Joseph, Amoy Levy & Danny Brooks amongst others.

This Juno award will provide the choir with an increased platform to continue doing what we love best which is to honour and glorify our Saviour Jesus Christ", says TMC's musical director, Karen Burke. Karen and Oswald Burke have been at the helm of the choir for most of its 15-year history and are supported by a talented group of singers and musicians representing many different denominational backgrounds.

"Instrument of Praise" was released in February 2002 at a sold-out concert held at Malvern Christian Assembly in Scarborough. This album is the choir's fourth CD release and was produced by Roy Oommen and recorded at Emmanuel Productions in Scarborough.

"Instrument of Praise" can be purchased on-line at the choir's website, www.tmc.ca or at record stores and Christian Bookstores across Canada.

→ More info: http://www.tmc.ca/news.htm