John Fisher is confident everyone who takes part in his song workshop will leave with a smile on their face.

“I’ve been in the gospel music business for more than 35 years,” John explained, “it’s inspirational and uplifting.”

The 49-year-old, from Croydon, south London, is bringing his Individuals Dedicated to the Ministry of Christ choir to Redbridge on April 9.

The Seven Kings United Free Church, in Meads Lane, Seven Kings, are holding a special gospel workshop run by John and his team.

After a three hour teaching session during the afternoon, there will be a two and a half hour concert in the evening for all the participants to showcase what they have learned.

John said: “We are trying to teach a sense of singing with power and passion.

“If you have ever seen a gospel choir sing in person you will have noticed the passion, and that is what we want go get across.”

John explained gospel music originated in African American congregations in the 19th and 20th century to bring people together.

Famous civil rights activist Martin Luther King used the songs as a form of protest in the 1950s and 60s.

“We use these influences in our music now, but we also have some modern touches to our choir.”

John originally got involved in gospel music as a drummer, and after years of supporting choirs he decided to set up his own.

“We are different from American gospel choirs, we have a different story to tell, a British story.”

People from all faiths are welcome to attend the workshop, and no experience is required.

Tickets cost £15 for everything and £5 for concert only – call Reverend Christine Powell on 020 8590 3288 for more information.