GREENSBORO, N.C. — A gospel music gathering drew thousands to the Triad last week for performances and celebration.

It was the first time the Gospel Music Workshop has been held in North Carolina.

What You Need To Know

  • Thousands attended the 56th Gospel Music Workshop of America in Greensboro last week

  • This year was the first time the workshop has been held in the state

  • More than 20,000 come to the event every year

"For it to be held here in North Carolina, it is great," said Gospel Workshop of America ambassador Rick Franklin. "It speaks volumes. We are excited."

Franklin says he started attending the annual event, which features choir performances, speakers and vendors, in 1979 in New Orleans. 

He says hundreds of participants travel from overseas to attend the workshop, now in its 56th year, at the Koury Convention Center in Greensboro.

"France, Poland, Bahamas, Canada — we are excited about that. For them all to come to Greensboro, to North Carolina, speaks volumes," Franklin said. 

More than 20,000 people attend the event every year. 

The celebrations ended Friday with a performance by singer John P. Kee.