The Buchanan Community Chorus is getting ready for a new season, and there's still time to join.
The ensemble — which draws singers from Warren, Knox, and Henderson counties — begins its eight-week rehearsal cycle Monday, March 2. Rehearsals run from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at First United Methodist Church, 221 E. Broadway, Monmouth. Anyone interested is welcome to show up to the first rehearsal, pick up a folder, and sing through the new music.
This spring's program centers on a patriotic theme in honor of America's 250th anniversary. The concert will feature full ensemble selections including an Armed Forces Salute, a women's group performance of "Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy," a four-handed piano arrangement of "Stars and Stripes Forever," and two pieces by Monmouth-Roseville's Kevin Ferry — "Thank You Soldier" and "Brother My Brother," which carries a Civil War-era feel.
The chorus was founded in 1988 at the request of Grace Buchanan, whose estate also established the Buchanan Center for the Arts. Director Carolyn Kell has led the group since its founding. The chorus typically draws 25 to 35 singers and is currently looking for new members, particularly tenors.
Two performances are scheduled in May. The first is Friday, May 1, at 7 p.m. at Faith United Presbyterian Church in Monmouth. The second is Saturday, May 2, at First United Methodist Church in Monmouth. Start time for the Saturday concert is either 2 or 3 p.m. — check the Buchanan Community Chorus Facebook page for confirmation.
Joy Boostrom, a longtime member and organizer of the chorus, joined Jay Redfern and Tyler Gumm on Galesburg's Morning News Friday to talk about the spring season and what new singers can expect.