When singers of the Community Chorus of Port Townsend and East Jefferson County get in the swing of the featured work in their upcoming concerts on April 12 and 14, they will be toe-tapping and swaying from some place deep and elemental.

Members say that’s the effect that Robert Ray’s “Gospel Mass” has on them as it certainly has had on the choir’s spring director, Jonathan Stafford.

“We’ll be rockin' and rollin',” tenor Yvonne Starkey said with a grin.

Stafford agreed.

“It’s a visceral type of musical experience,” he said. “It touches you on almost a primal level.”

The chorus plans two spring performances, 7 p.m. Friday, April 12, at First Presbyterian Church, 1111 Franklin St., in Port Townsend, and 3 p.m. Sunday, April 14, at Lutheran Church of the Redeemer, 45 Redeemer Way, in Chimacum.

Rounding out the chorus spring program, Stafford selected several songs of Americana, everything from folk songs and Stephen Foster classics, to iconic 1960s songs from the Beach Boys and the Mamas and the Papas.

Stafford chose the “Gospel Mass” for its contrast of energy and beauty, and its uncanny ability to move its participants. In his program notes, he said that while it isn’t the most technically challenging piece, the spirited “Mass” is hugely rewarding for singers, instrumentalists, audience, and director alike. “It’s my all-time favorite piece to perform.” He first conducted it about 20 years ago.

“We’re the vessel for this performance,” said Linda Noble, tenor and one of the soloists.

Composer Robert Ray wrote the “Gospel Mass” in 1981. It was intended as a one-time performance but has grown in popularity over the last several decades. Ray himself was surprised that it caught on to become a seminal piece of African-American music.

While the text is liturgical, the Mass isn’t just about its religious roots, Stafford said. He explained that the church has always been an avenue for musicians to present their work.

“The Mass can perhaps be described as soul-deepening – in turns exciting and smooth,” Stafford continued. “You sing from the bottom of your feet to the top of your head. It’s a perfectly gift-wrapped package.”

Linda Atkins, president of the chorus board and an alto agreed.

“The energy and joy expressed in the ‘Gospel Mass’ is amazing. I can't wait to share it with our audience, whatever their faith or belief system.” The soloists and all-ages participation are examples of “community” in the Community Chorus.

“Research shows that music and specifically singing improves health, both mental and physical,” Atkins said. “I believe that singing in a chorus magnifies the benefits by connecting with the community. By providing an open, non-auditioned opportunity to sing, our chorus offers great health benefits and it’s just plain fun! Additional support through music skills classes, bonus rehearsals and other tools makes it accessible to all.”

Tickets to both concerts are a suggested $15 at the door or at brownpapertickets.com.

Lynn Nowak has been a member of the Community Chorus since 1980.