ISAAC CATES
Gospel Honor
Honors Awards 2026
May 24 | Gem Theater | Historic 18th & Vine Jazz District
A Voice of Faith. A Composer of Legacy.
The 18th & Vine Arts Festival Foundation is proud to honor Isaac Cates as the 2026 Gospel Honoree — recognizing his international influence, musical scholarship, and enduring contribution to Kansas City’s sacred music tradition.
Isaac Cates represents the intersection of faith, excellence, and cultural preservation. His work has elevated gospel music onto global stages while remaining deeply rooted in Kansas City.
From Kansas City to the World Stage
A Kansas City native, Isaac began playing piano at the age of four. His studies at the University of Missouri–Kansas City Conservatory of Music refined his gift for arranging and composing sacred works that resonate across cultures and continents.
His original compositions have been performed in more than 17 countries and translated into multiple languages.
In 2005, he co-founded the ensemble Ordained, releasing multiple albums and touring internationally throughout Europe, Africa, and the Middle East — carrying the sound of Kansas City gospel worldwide.
Most recently, his original composition “It’s Working” was recorded and released on Shout For Joy, the first gospel album ever recorded by the legendary London Symphony Orchestra — a historic milestone in the fusion of classical and gospel traditions.
A Cultural Builder at Home
Isaac serves as Director of Music Outreach and Worship Leader at Church of the Resurrection — the largest United Methodist Church in the United States — where he founded the church’s gospel choir and led the acclaimed Affirmations: A Night of Worship series.
His commitment to education includes serving as:
• Adjunct Professor of Choral Music at William Jewell College
• Hearn Innovator Guest Lecturer for sacred music at Baylor University
He is also a proud voting member of the Recording Academy, helping shape the future of gospel and choral music nationally.
In 2023, Isaac was featured as both artist and narrator in I’m So Glad, the first documentary highlighting Kansas City’s rich spiritual singing tradition.
Why This Gospel Honor Matters
Gospel music is one of the deepest roots of Black American culture.
Isaac Cates carries that tradition forward — not only through performance, but through composition, scholarship, mentorship, and global collaboration.
Honoring him at the Gem Theater in the Historic 18th & Vine Jazz District connects Kansas City’s sacred sound to its broader cultural narrative.
This recognition affirms that gospel is not separate from culture — it is foundational to it.
What to Expect on May 24
At Honors Awards 2026, Isaac Cates will be celebrated through:
• A cinematic tribute highlighting his global and local impact
• A live gospel tribute performance
• An official City Proclamation
• A formal Gospel Honor recognition
The program remains fast-paced and intentional — no long speeches, only meaningful moments.
🌹 Join Us May 24
Be part of a night that honors the sound of Kansas City.
📍 Gem Theater
Historic 18th & Vine Jazz District
🗓 May 24, 2026
🎟 Be Part of the Celebration
Celebrate faith.
Celebrate music.
Celebrate legacy.
Give flowers — while they can still be received.