Contact: Hilary Clay Hicks, Heritage Music Foundation, 626-821-9532

LOS ANGELES, Oct. 4, 2011 /Christian Newswire/ -- "The world is in trouble. Everyone, especially young persons, should learn about our roots in gospel music to change the self-image of the community," says Dr. Margaret Pleasant Douroux, founder of the Heritage Music Foundation.

Gospel singers from all over the country will attend the Heritage Music Foundation 26th annual Gospel Music Conference, October 19-22 in Los Angeles. All Gospel music enthusiasts are invited to register and participate.

Proceeds benefit the development of HMF Gospel House. "Gospel House will be a shrine to Gospel music in Los Angeles," says Dr. Douroux, who began her career as a school teacher. "Our strategic plan is to nurture and preserve Gospel music in Los Angeles and worldwide."

Wednesday evening, October 19, is HMF's grand kick-off concert, "Remolding the Image," featuring noted recording artist, D.J. Rogers whose songs have been recorded by a galaxy of stars, Dr. Margaret Pleasant Douroux and the Heritage Mass Choir, and the L.A. chapter of the Gospel Music Workshop of America directed by Dr. Rodena Preston.

The Thursday Night, October 20 Youth In Concert program features special guests Tony Jones and the GMWA Young Adult Choir, former NBA star Minister Tyrone Powell of Fredericksburg, Virginia; and D.C.'s multitalented Rodney Teal with the Heritage Conference Choir.

The Grand Finale Concert Friday night, October 21 is an all-star Gospel celebration with Houston's renowned composer-recording artist, V. Michael McKay, and special guests recording artist Tunesha Crispell from Charlotte, N.C., Remnant, all female Gospel quartet from Washington, D.C., and noted Dove Award winner Dr. Beau Williams of Houston.

Saturday morning, October 22, wraps the week with the Annual Breakfast and Fashion Show with music by conference guests and the Founder's Message at 8:00 a.m.

Registrants will participate in Dr. Douroux's "Living Treasures" morning seminars on the art and historical timeline of gospel on Thursday and Friday, and mass choir rehearsals Wednesday through Friday afternoons featuring new composers and compositions. Full registration is $95.00 plus $30 for the breakfast. For details, call (310) 674-1903; or register online at www.hmfgospel.com.