Children’s Gospel Choir Grows from One Dream

What began as a child’s simple wish has grown into a musical community in London, where young voices now come together in song. The London Kids Community Gospel Choir traces its origins to an idea from seven-year-old Haddie Wallace, who imagined singing gospel music alongside other children. With encouragement from her mother, that idea quickly took shape.

Today, the choir includes 35 members between the ages of 7 and 17, an increase from its original seven participants. For Haddie, who has begun stepping into a leadership role, the experience has become about more than music. “The thing that I love about gospel music is the three part harmony, the joyous sounds, the choir,” she said, describing the sense of unity created when each section contributes its voice.

Her mother, Achlaï Ernest Wallace, a music educator and psychotherapist, founded the group and serves as its director. She says the growth of the choir has been rewarding, particularly as young singers develop both musically and personally. Haddie has observed that transformation up close. “A lot of times, I see kids that come in very shy, and my mom lets them come out of their shell,” she said, adding that the discipline involved is matched by care.

The choir’s work is rooted in the history of gospel music, a tradition shaped by enslaved Africans in the United States and carried across generations in North America. Achlaï emphasizes its cultural and emotional significance. “The beauty of song has always kept carrying those people,” she said. “I think it still resonates today because their blood flows through my veins. It’s part of my history.” She also describes gospel music as a source of resilience, adding, “It’s about joy in the midst of struggles, about joy in the midst of suffering.”

For many of the young performers, joining the choir has been transformative. Twelve year old Chinedu Godwin Njoku admits he was uncertain at first. “At first I was skeptical because I’ve never been to a choir before,” he said. “But after a while, it got really fun.” Performing at Black History Month events has given his participation deeper meaning. “I’m doing my part to help by using my voice and my talent to help other people.”

Thirteen year old Abhishek Omondi has also gained confidence. “I don’t feel shy in crowds anymore,” he said, noting how singing has helped him develop his voice.

For Haddie, the choir represents something larger than performance. “We don’t just sing for fun. We sing to declare the message,” she said. Describing the group as a family, she points to the shared joy and support that define it.

Auditions for new members aged 7 to 17 are expected in late summer or fall.

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