In a bygone era, families made their own entertainment by gathering together to sing songs popularized by performers traveling through the area. Once a melody was mastered, it was natural for curious singers to explore harmonies to the melody. The result was satisfying, and the process was fun.
The MountainTown Singers barbershop harmony chorus enjoys a similar process and wished to offer such an experience to the community. The MountainTown Family Chorus workshop was launched in spring 2019 to explore if there would be interest among area residents from all walks of life, of all ages 10 and up and of any gender. It turns out there was.
Thirty singers came together to begin a six-week “season” of learning songs and making them performance ready. The group included 22 singers new to four-part a cappella singing.
Two songs were selected and the group worked under the direction of MountainTown’s musical director, Kyle “Doc” Howard. After just nine hours of once-a-week rehearsals, the chorus wowed an enthusiastic audience at a June 27 show at Central Michigan University.
“As someone who has never sung in a public forum, I knew I’d be out of my comfort zone, but decided — why not take a chance and see what happens. I am so glad I did.” — Danielle S.
“Thank you for a wonderful experience of musical understanding and performance together with our children! This will be a treasured memory!” — Iva M.
The experiment worked. And the chorus continues, purposefully designed in periodic six-week seasons to accommodate and bring fun relief to busy lives.
MountainTown Family Chorus seasons are announced via the MountainTown Singers’ Facebook page. Season 2 is underway and wraps up with the Nov. 10 Acapellapalooza Nine. Come see us there!
Planning for the chorus’ season 3 is underway. If you love singing, you’re a perfect fit! Contact us if you wish to receive notification of the details. mtssingers@gmail.com.
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