More Than a Concert: Brighter Day Community Choir of Charlotte Creates a True ‘Family Affair’

This was the second time this writer has had the opportunity to experience the Brighter Day Community Choir of Charlotte in concert, and once again, they did not disappoint. From the opening selection to the final note, A Family Affair delivered an afternoon filled with authentic worship, exceptional musicianship, and a genuine sense of community.

Founded by Zacch Estrada-Petersen, the Brighter Day Community Choir is the continuation of a vision that has blessed Charlotte for years. Before launching Brighter Day, Estrada-Petersen founded and directed the Voices of Eden Gospel Choir, which served the Charlotte community for 16 years. Today, Brighter Day is made up largely of Voices of Eden alumni, along with fellow church members, family, friends, and community members who share a passion for worship. The choir’s mission is simple but powerful: to foster faith, community, and fellowship throughout the Charlotte area through the gift of music.

That mission was on full display throughout the afternoon.

One of the concert’s standout moments came when recording artist Karen Poole took the stage to sing “Sovereign God.” Her heartfelt delivery was both sincere and compelling, drawing the audience into a moment of worship. Rather than simply performing the song, Poole ministered through it, allowing its message of God’s faithfulness and sovereignty to resonate throughout the sanctuary.

Another unforgettable highlight came when Luis Acosta performed “Te Alabamos.” Singing entirely in Spanish, Acosta delivered the song with passion, reminding everyone in attendance that worship transcends language and culture. It was a beautiful expression of praise that reflected the diversity within the choir itself.

The international flavor of the concert continued with BJ Yahnquee‘s energetic performance of the Nigerian worship song “Jehovah Mo.” The vibrant praise anthem brought a unique cultural richness to the program and served as another reminder that the gospel unites believers from every nation and every tongue.

The afternoon also featured inspiring performances by Montrell Dupri, Miranda Meaders, Regina McKoy, Virginia Rush, LaVita Hill, Shumon Hudson, Kerrisha Glover, and Mitchell Johnson, all backed by an outstanding choir and band that performed with excellence.

The concert reached its highest point with the finale, “The Presence of the Lord Is Here,” featuring Mitchell Johnson with the Brighter Day Community Choir.

By that final song, the sanctuary had erupted in praise. People were on their feet, clapping, singing, and celebrating together as the choir’s rich, robust sound echoed throughout the room. The energy was contagious, and the atmosphere was electric. It was one of those moments that reminded everyone why gospel music continues to have such a powerful impact. The finale was not just heard; it was felt.

Brighter Day Community Choir continues to be one of Charlotte’s brightest musical forces, bringing together singers from different churches, backgrounds, and cultures to worship as one body. Under the leadership and vision of founder Zacch Estrada-Petersen, the choir continues to build community through music while pointing hearts toward Christ.

If you missed A Family Affair, you’ll want to keep an eye out for their next event. Follow the Brighter Day Community Choir on Facebook to stay informed about upcoming concerts, worship experiences, and other community events.