Southern Gospel New York (SGNY) hosts The Lesters in concert on Friday, July 10, at Spencerport Bible Church 1948 North Union Street, Spencerport. The performance will start at 7 p.m. and is expected to last between 90 minutes and two hours.
The Lester Family gospel music ministry began in St Louis, Missouri, in 1925 with Harvey and Opal Lester. Much of their gospel singing was performed not only for churches, but also street meetings, tent revivals, and local missions in St. Louis. Their son, Herschel Lester, began singing with the family at a very early age. Herschel served in the Navy during World War ll and directed a band that entertained service members. He later earned a Masters Degree in music education.
Keeping up the long family tradition, Herschel’s son, Brian, is now the group’s lead baritone. “One might think after 90 years it would be time to stop, but for The Lesters, stopping isn’t an option. I can’t really explain it, but I have always known in my heart that singing gospel music is what God has placed me here to do. My heart’s desire has always been to sing the gospel in song; truly, it’s been the story of my life,” Brian said.
Brian’s son and daughter-in-law, Jonathan and Bailee Lester round out the trio singing tenor and alto, respectively.
The group’s most requested song of all time is, “He Didn’t Throw The Clay Away.” Brian says, “As long as there’s anyone to sing to, we’ll ‘keep on singing’ that message.”
There are no tickets needed for this event, but SGNYwill receive an admission fee at the door. Children up to five years old are free, ages six to 20 are $5, and 21 years and up are $10 each. Hand sanitizer will be available, and SGNY is taking precautions to make the concert safe for those who attend. Call 329-3840 with any questions.
Provided information and photo
