"How Sweet The Sound" church choir competition

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"How Sweet The Sound" church choir competition

Photos of the "How Sweet The Sound" regional church choir competition at Philips Arena.

Eight church choirs belted out their best notes in the "How Sweet The Sound" competition at Philips Arena on Monday night. Here, Marcus Ross and the Beulahland Bible Church choir of Macon get into their song. "I felt like a star on stage," Ross said.

The winner of nationwide competition will take home $25,000.

Jennifer Hanson belts out her solo with the Due West United Methodist Church choir. "This has been one of the finest times of my career," Hanson said.

Nadine O'Brien, center, celebrates as the Atlanta West Pentecostal Church choir is announced as the winner. The choir received $15,000 and moves on to the national competition and win the title of America's best church choir.

From left, Adrienne Lovell, Jessie Owensby and Lisa Dixon dance in their seats. "I'm here for the pure enjoyment," Dixon said.

Ricky Dillard, center, and the Hope Cathedral Church of Christ choir perform with Hezekiah Walker (not pictured). Walker is a Grammy Award-winning gospel music artist and pastor of a New York church.

Hezekiah Walker takes a break from judging to perform for the crowd.

LaShaundra Weathersby, center, and the Enon Church choir move with the lyrics.

The Hope Cathedral Church of Christ choir performs with Hezekiah Walker.

Joy Norris, center, and the Atlanta West Pentecostal Church choir perform.

Judges from left, Hezekiah Walker, Marvin Sapp and Coco Brother discuss the music.

Pam Mansfield, center, and the Due West United Methodist Church of Marietta get ready to take the stage.

Celia Stockton, director of the Hamilton Mill United Methodist Church in Dacula, leads her group. "I have Jesus in my feet," Stockton said.

Gospel artist Donald Lawrence opens the choir competition.

Gospel star Ann Nesby, of Peachtree City, arrives on the red carpet.

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Eight church choirs belted out their best notes in the "How Sweet The Sound" competition at Philips Arena on Monday night. Here, Marcus Ross and the Beulahland Bible Church choir of Macon get into their song. "I felt like a star on stage," Ross said.

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