By Kathy L. Collins
If you love to sing, then come out and try singing with the Southern Chorus Company, a chapter of Region 9 in Sweet Adelines International. This is a fun, female barbershop chorus open to women of all ages. The local chapter meets on Monday evenings from 7-9:30 p.m. at Bell Shoals Church of Christ located at 2908 Bell Shoals Rd. in Brandon.
According to Shirley Litton, section leader for the Baritones, “As part of a very large organization that has choruses all over the world, it is a great hobby and learning experience for those that like to sing and be part of something bigger.” Litton added, “As an all female group, there is wonderful camaraderie and friendship that develops!”
Litton has been a member of the local chorus for 14 months, but she was a member of a Sweet Adelines Chorus in the Pacific Northwest for eight years prior to moving to Florida. “I joined because I love to sing, and I love the four-part barbershop a capella harmony. When I joined years ago, I just wanted to sing. But the uniqueness of the blend became addicting. There’s no way to describe how being part of the four-part chord feels. The connection and richness of all the parts together make you feel like an artist.”
Southern Chorus Company is looking for women that love to sing and can carry a tune. You do not have to have prior musical training or be able to read music. Litton said, “Every rehearsal is not only about practicing our music together, but it’s also about learning the craft of barbershop and vocal instruction.”
You must be committed to coming to practices and learning both the music and choreography. Members pay monthly dues. In return, you receive “The Pitch Pipe” magazine. You are also eligible for coaching and music lessons, and the dues pay for All Event tickets for regional competition and classes.
The group sings at events by invitation. Traditionally, they put on a Christmas show and compete in regional competition in the spring. Last year the group sang a patriotic package at the grand stand at the Annual 4th of July Parade in Brandon.
If you are interested in learning more about the Southern Chorus Company, please visit www.southerncompanychorus.org.
