Bluebonnet Chorale brings the gift of music to the season
The Bluebonnet Chorale is gearing up for its 2013-2014 performance season. Fall and Christmas keeps the group busy, but the members entertain through May. The chorale is accepting requests for performances from groups and organizations. Several members, including Shirley Naylor (left), Martha McCutchan, Linda Boatman, Pat King and Willetta House, recently rehearsed for the new season. Courtesy photo
DANIEL CLIFTON • PICAYUNE EDITOR
SUNRISE BEACH — The women of the Bluebonnet Chorale want to lift you up with song this fall and the coming Christmas season. The chorus is rehearsing for the fall shows with the Christmas ones not far behind.
“We’re pretty busy, but we’re always willing to entertain a group that enjoys music and will get into our show,” said Mary Williams, the chorale’s director.
The Bluebonnet Chorale is accepting requests to perform during the 2013-2014 season. The season typically runs September through the end of May.
One of the biggest times of the year is the Christmas season.
“We have a complete Christmas program,” Williams said. “Some of it’s secular songs, but we have religious ones as well.”
The Bluebonnet Chorale currently has about 45 active members, but Williams said there are probably another 15 women who don’t regularly perform but enjoy being connected with the group. And while music is what formed the group, the women find more than singing keeps them together.
“We’re just one big sisterhood,” Williams said with a laugh.
The Bluebonnet Chorale formed about 16 years ago when a small group of women began singing together. Over the years, more women joined after seeing how much fun they could have performing. While there are some members who have Broadway experience, Williams said there are others who simply learn songs and music by ear.
“It’s a great group of women who just love to sing,” she said.
The chorale sings in four parts: first and second alto and first and second soprano. The groups repertoire spans a variety of styles and genres.
The Bluebonnet Chorale enjoys performing for groups and organizations.
“We like to sing for groups who will set aside time during their meetings to listen to us,” Williams said. “We perform for assisted living and retirement centers. There are some groups who will sing along with us and get into the performance. And we really enjoy that.”
The group doesn’t charge for their performances but does accept donations, which go toward purchasing new music.
Williams said the performances typically last 25-35 minutes but can be adapted to fit the organization’s schedule.
Mostly, members of the Bluebonnet Chorale want to spread an uplifting message through music. Williams understands the benefit of a song or a piece of music at just the right time.
“Whenever I have a bad day and go to practice in the evening, the music and singing just changes my day altogether,” she said. “Music definitely lifts my spirit.”
Email Williams at jrmmwms655@tstar.net for more information about the chorale or to schedule a performance.
daniel@thepicayune.com