Children’s concert opens to full house
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RONAN – Voices rang out in harmony in the Faith Lutheran Church on Sunday during this season’s first Mission Valley Children’s Choir concert.
Fifteen children filled the stage wearing matching green shirts with the choir’s MVCC logo on them. The shirts were purchased with donations.
The children stood on the stage and began clapping in synchronized rhythm. Choir Director Cathy Gillhouse explained during a practice session that people don’t expect the clapping to go first so it will be unique.
“I wasn’t nervous,” Corbin Carlson said of the concert. “Well, maybe a little.”
Songs included the soft melodies of “Are You Sleeping” and toe-tapping music of “Yankee Doodle.” The children practiced every Wednesday after school for several weeks to get ready for the concert.
“The kids learn how fun singing can be and they get to sing in a group,” Gillhouse said. “It allows them to be part of something.”
Gillhouse retired a few years ago from teaching at the high school level after 41 years. She worked with the high school choir and directed the Ronan High School’s show choir. She still likes to stay involved with the kids, so when she was asked to develop a children’s choir, she agreed. She works with Pastor Seth Nelson to organize the program and Robyn Carlson accompanies the group on piano.
The choir had a successful first season last year when the program first started as a way to bring children together to experience music in a group setting, and children are invited to join choir. Practice is at the church after school. The only requirement is being able to read since the songs are written out for the kids to practice, which usually includes children at the second-grade level. The group is practicing for the next concert with a Christmas theme. Gillhouse plans to present a series of concerts at schools and nursing homes. If anyone wants to join or make a donation to the choir, contact Gillhouse at gill4748@ hotmail.com
