Press Clips
It was in South Africa that he found the sound he was looking for: impish, jittery concertina, spidery, high-ly-strung guitar, low-slung, elliptical bass-lines, andrapid-fire Zulu singing.
Andrew Jones, Freelance journalist
Oliver Jones comments; “Trevor has done so much for so many people; encouraging young musicians who have played with the choir, giving a chance for talented singers to gain recognition, and providing a wonderful opportunity for musical fulfillment for those members who are happy singing in the choir.”
Peter Kerr, Editor: The Montrealer
During our conversation it is apparent that Trevor is a deeply spiritual man. “My Grandmother lived her faith as a totally committed Christian, and it affected me. You cannot grow up in a black family and not be aware of spirituality.”
Peter Kerr, Editor: The Montrealer
Who knew that the 10 year old boy picking out popular songs on a friend’s piano would have such a magnificent impact on so many people’s lives – sharing the joy of Gospel Music with a spectrum of people that includes Queen Elizabeth, Nelson Mandela and the audiences at The Montreal International Jazz Festival, the world’s largest jazz festival.
Peter Kerr, Editor: The Montrealer
Outside of music, Trevor has a passion for cooking, gardening, and chess, having studied with Russian master Roman Pelts.
Peter Kerr, Editor: The Montrealer
It was the last major concert of the Montreal International Jazz Festival, and the choir, directed by the dynamic Trevor Payne, turned that toughest of halls into a rollicking temple of joy.
Irwin Block, the Gazette
“There I was, sitting amongst UN Ambassadors, and some very dedicated people. When I leaned forward to receive my award, I whispered in Governor-General Romeo Leblanc’s ear; ‘I have no idea why I’m here. His reply; ‘That’s what most people say – let me assure you that we don’t just give these away…’
Peter Kerr, Editor: The Montrealer
Temple of joy: Montreal Jubilation Gospel Choir raises the roof
Irwin Block, the Gazette
Trevor’s investiture include his contributions to Montreal’s Black Community, founding the Montreal Jubilation Choir, his teaching, leadership and motivation of young students at John Abbott College, his role as a mentor to young Black students, his significant fundraising efforts for community groups, and his enhancement of Canada’s international image.
Peter Kerr, Editor: The Montrealer
The choir meets the challenge, and the results are spectacular. Listen to the force and grace the choir brings to the dynamics and counterpoint of Nkosi Sikelel’iAfrika, the South African National Anthem.
Andrew Jones, Freelance journalist
JUBILATION! The Jubilation Choir is celebrating twenty-five years of glorious singing. Trevor Payne – Founder, Director, recipient of the Order of Canada and numerous other awards visits with The Montrealer.
Peter Kerr, Editor: The Montrealer
They were on their feet, swaying and clapping in the second balcony of Salle Wilfrid Pelletier last night. Close to 3,000 people were taking the Highway to Heaven with the Montreal Jubilation Gospel Choir.
Irwin Block, the Gazette
It’s the thoughtfulness of providing free tickets for the Christmas Concert at St. James United Church to people a little down on their luck – seeking peace and inspiration with the music of the Jubilation Choir – that provides a glimpse of this man’s humanity, his humility, and his faith
Peter Kerr, Editor: The Montrealer
Along the way, Trevor was awarded the Order of Canada. In a voice choked with emotion, “You cannot – I mean you absolutely cannot imagine what that award means to me.
Peter Kerr, Editor: The Montrealer
“I don’t think you can be an artist without having a strong sense of spiritually.”
Peter Kerr, Editor: The Montrealer