It’s easy to tell when the McDonogh #35 High School Gospel Choir takes the stage in the Gospel Tent. The energy generated by the members of this enthusiastic ensemble gets fed right back to them by their schoolmates and the alumni who fill the audience. These friends and supporters know the songs and sing along. They’re up on their feet clapping and dancing.

“Our children are hams,” says choir director Veronica Downs. “They’re going to sing if there’s two people, but when they see their pe...