Everyone knows that “It don’t mean a thing if it ain’t got that swing,” but the next lyric in Duke Ellington’s classic song offers a remedy; “It don’t mean a thing, all you got to do is sing!” Preparation for the spring season of the Lake Land College Community Choir begins on Tuesday, Jan. 31. Rehearsals are held on Tuesday nights in the Lake Land College Theater from 7-9:30 p.m.
All singers age 18 and older are welcome to participate, and no audition is required. The choir includes college students as well as area residents, forming a group of approximately 45 mixed voices.
Choir members may earn one hour of college credit for singing in the choir. Interested singers can complete a registration form at the first rehearsal, or register online for MUS-104-11565.
Registration for college credit is not required, however, and participation in the choir is free for those who do not register.
Selections for the spring season include a medley of Ellington classics, with “Take the ‘A’ Train,” “Mood Indigo,” “Satin Doll,” and others. The choir will perform settings of Psalm 23 and Psalm 150 featuring French horn accompaniment. Favorite songs from The Music Man fill out the program, such as “76 Trombones,” “The Wells Fargo Wagon,” and “Till There Was You.”
Nancy Caldwell, director of the choir and Lake Land music instructor, said “Singing in a large group is a great antidote for cabin fever. If you are looking for something to make the winter months pass more quickly, join the choir for smiles, laughter, and great music; and bring a friend!”
Caldwell went on to say that the community choir has brought many residents to the Lake Land campus for the first time. “The college is happy to sponsor this activity as a form of community outreach, sharing its facilities and also creating an opportunity for personal growth.”
The season will conclude with a concert on Sunday, March 26, at 3 p.m. in the Theater.
Contact Caldwell at 217-821-6469 with any questions.