A choir is a choir is a choir, right? Not in the case of Loyola’s Genesis Gospel Choir, a group that accepts all singers and worshipers, works to inspire campus organizations, and delivers a spiritual message through music.

“We don’t discriminate at all,” choir president and psychology sophomore Mashonda Taylor said. “We accept everybody because that’s what we are about.”

The choir is made up of about 40 Loyola students, plus a few outside musicians. Like most choirs, they have rehearsals and shows, but their main priority is not the music.

“The main thing about the choir is that it’s a ministry; it’s a way of praising God and that’s what most of us are there for. It’s a music ministry,” choir member and advertising sophomore Melinda Simpson said.

The choir is run by students, who make up the e-board and serve as musical directors.

Taylor serves as an all-encompassing leader.

“We are a family, basically, so I have to make sure that everyone is doing ok,” Taylor said.

Though the choir’s message is delivered through music, they do not require members to audition.

“Genesis doesn’t hold auditions to get in; it’s just for whoever wants to come and praise the Lord, that’s the main message,” Simpson said.

Members may audition for solo singing roles for individual songs.

Simpson said that she enjoyed her experience as a soloist for the song “Bow Down.”

“It’s more about if I touched anybody, not if I sounded pretty,” Simpson said. “I saw some teary eyes and that’s what made me think I did what it was supposed to do.”

In addition to doing performances at churches in the area, the group has made an active effort to bring their music ministry to Loyola.

“We all work together, because when it comes down to it, Genesis is an inspiring thing for other organizations on campus,” Taylor said.

The recently performed on campus for the Mass of the Holy Spirit, University Ministry’s Hour of Power and even a House of Blues-style gospel brunch.

The choir will hold its big spring concert in late April and will also perform smaller shows throughout the semester.