Founder and Director of The Heritage Gospel Chorale of Pittsburgh, Dr. Herbert Jones has cultivated a multifaceted career as a choral conductor, educator, scholar, operatic bass, liturgical dancer, orator, pastor.  He has taught middle school through university levels, performed across the United States and Europe.  Dr. Jones holds degrees in Music, Psychology, Education, Dance & Drama, culminating with a doctorate in Choral Conducting & Music Education, and with additional study in Ethnomusicology.

A versatile vocalist and teaching artist specializing in opera,classical music, jazz, and soul, Anqwenique is heard all over the Pittsburgh region. She grew up in Pittsburgh, steeped in jazz as her father was a musician. A frequent teaching artist, Anqwenique is on the faculty of CLAZZ International Music Festival in Italy. She was named one of Pittsburgh’s 40 under 40 in 2017 and serves as director of programs for Arts Education Collaborative.

Internationally recognized singer, songwriter, teacher, choir director, and actress, Rev. Nicol “Nikki” Porter is Minister of Music at Eastminster  Presbyterian Church.  Nikki holds a bachelor’s degree from Duquesne University where she studied with Maureen Budway and founded Duquesne’s Gospel Choir.  Rev. Porter performs as soloist, teacher and choir director with the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra and Gospel Connection conference in Italy and was named Bynums Marketing & Communications’ 2024 Circle of Courage awardee.

​​Kenny Peagler is an award-winning, multi-genre pianist, composer, and musical director celebrated for his virtuosic technique and ability to weave intricate melodies and lush harmonies that evoke deep emotion. Originating from Pittsburgh, he received a full scholarship to the New England Conservatory of Music, where he honed his craft and caught the attention of industry insiders, leading to performances at prestigious venues and festivals worldwide.

Pittsburgh native Mikey Hood joined KDKA in March 2019. Mikey has had a public presence in Pittsburgh for quite some time through her online show PghSpot, a platform she created to highlight the movers and shakers in the Burgh! Mikey grew up in the East End of Pittsburgh and graduated from Taylor Allderdice High School. She is a graduate of the University of Pittsburgh where she studied Writing and Communications.

The Heritage Gospel Chorale of Pittsburgh is a multi-generational, multi-ethnic ensemble founded by Dr. Herbert V.R.P. Jones. The Chorale specializes in the performance and preservation of African-American Sacred Choral Music, Sacred Choral Music, Spirituals, Anthems, and Gospel Music. The Chorale has a seven- member Board of Directors and includes, in its Mission, collaborations with other choral and instrumental ensembles, organizations and musical entities.

Let Freedom Sing – Co-founders: Vanessa German, Herbert Jones, Kris Rust

Let Freedom Sing – Producer: Kris Rust

Featured Vocalist – Anqwenique

The Heritage Gospel Chorale – Director: Dr. Herbert Jones

MLK Festival Choir – Directors: Dr. Herbert Jones & Nikki Porter