Mendota High School concert choir prepares for their fall concert to be held Thursday, Nov. 1 at 7:30 p.m. The concert is free and will be held in the MHS auditorium; refreshments will follow. Helping them prepare is Keith Hampton of the Chicago Community Chorus. (Reporter photo by Jennifer Sommer)

MENDOTA –Mendota High School band and choir students are busy preparing for their first concert of the school year. The MHS Band & Chorus Fall Concert will be held on Thursday, Nov. 1 at 7:30 p.m. in the MHS auditorium.

To help the choir students, guest clinician and specialist in the field of gospel music, Keith Hampton worked with the singers on a gospel selection during class on Oct. 19.

Keith Hampton, affectionately known as “Doc,” is the founder and artistic director of the Chicago Community Chorus. In addition, Dr. Hampton is a classically trained organ performer, conductor, composer, educator, church musician, adjudicator, and workshop clinician.

He is the vocal and instrumental instructor at the Chicago International Charter School, Bucktown Campus and the president of Dr. KT Productions, Inc., Chicago. Hampton is the director of music/organist at St. Thomas Episcopal Church and assistant director of music at Trinity United Church of Christ, both in Chicago.

Refreshments will be served immediately following the concert.