In 1994 in Salt Lake City. I had the pleasure of meeting Jester Hairston He was conducting both The Mormon Tabernacle Choir and The Rowan Chamber Choir which I was a member of.

We were performing a series of African-American Spirituals under his direction. During one of the rehearsals Mr. Hairston in attempt to clarify the sound and style he was trying to obtain, made a comment in reference to the diction and feel of the song. He said to both choirs " I want you to sing this song like a Baptist Choir" The energy and humor in this composer was truly magnificient. Oh and by the way. "He did get the feeling and style he was looking for".