Open calls for membership in Kellogg Community College’s Branch County Community Chorus will be held from 6:30 to 9 p.m. Tuesdays Sept. 4, 11 and 18, at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, 284 W. State St., Coldwater.
The ensemble is one of three residential choirs at Kellogg Community College and is seeking new singers for its fall 2012 concert season, which includes three major choral events from Oct. 27 through Dec. 8:
Fall Choir Retreat
9 a.m. to noon Saturday, Oct. 27
First Presbyterian Church, 111 Capital Ave. NE, Battle Creek
G.F. Handel’s “Messiah” with the Monroe Symphony and Community Chorale
3 to 5 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 2
IHM Motherhouse Cathedral, 610 W. Elm Ave., Monroe
“Sounds of the Season” (Handel’s “Messiah” with guest soloists, organ, chamber orchestra and chorus)
7:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 8
St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, 27 E. Chicago St., Coldwater
Gerald Blanchard, director of the Vocal Music Area at Kellogg Community College and artistic director of the Branch County Community Chorus, said anyone interested in singing – with or without previous experience – is invited to join.
“The 22-plus member ensemble is made up of community members and students performing choral works from various periods and genres,” Blanchard said. “Members have a variety of musical backgrounds, which range from having very little formal music training to those who have degrees in music.”
Those wishing to join the group will go through a brief vocal placement assessment and interview with Blanchard before the start of rehearsals. There is no formal audition process and no need to prepare any music in advance, though choir members must register for the ensemble through Kellogg Community College’s Enrichment Program at the Grahl Center, 125 Seeley St., Coldwater.
Blanchard noted that the ensemble is in particular need of lower voices – basses and tenors in particular – but that openings are available in all vocal areas.
“Come lend your talents to this fine group of dedicated singers,” Blanchard said. “ There is space waiting for you!”
For more information about registration, contact the Grahl Center at 517-278-3300. Those interested in financial assistance should contact Gerald Blanchard at blanchardg@kellogg.edu.
For more information about the Branch County Community Chorus, visit www.kellogg.edu/performart.
Pictured above is a photo of the Branch County Community Chorus in 2011.