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Northeast Texas Choral Society performs a Celtic Christmas program. Auditions for the spring concert are scheduled Jan. 13. Courtesy Photo
Culuture | Arts | Music
For 25 years, the North East Texas Choral Society has held a place at the core of the local arts culture, with more than 50 public performances since 1998 and hundreds of rehearsal hours by its singing members.
The group lives out its mission statement, “The Best is Yet to Come,' by heading into a new year. On Saturday, Jan. 13, auditions for a few new soprano, alto, tenor, and bass voices will be held, and rehearsals will begin Monday, Jan. 15 for the concert of spirituals planned for the first weekend in May 2024.
Harvey Jones is president of the board of directors and began singing with the NETCS a decade ago.
“I continue to be impressed with how great it is to work with this bunch of positive people. They contribute something unique,” he said. “You know, coming in every Monday night for a two-hour rehearsal takes a commitment, and it’s quite a worthwhile one. Carol Allen’s passion is choral singing, and anyone who loves to sing can benefit from her instruction. During most concerts, Carol directs not only the 100-voice choir, but also directs a small orchestra. For me, it is a joy to be a part of the artistry that she brings.'
Allen’s 30-year professional career has been in music ministry and vocal instruction. She especially believes that children need the arts in their schools and in their lives.
“Families who bring their children to concerts help them to experience live music and enable them to appreciate music throughout their lives. The vision of our choral society is ‘Music makes a difference’, and that is really true,” shared Allen.
During the wrap-up for the 2023 Christmas concert, recognition was given to NETCS charter members John and Suzi Kramer, who are moving away; and special appreciation was also shown for pianists Ken Hanushek, Denise Stuart and Deanna Spraggins, whose talents are at the core of each season.
People who like to sing and want to audition for a place in the NETCS can arrive between 10 a.m. and noon on Saturday, Jan. 13, at the Fellowship Hall of First United Methodist Church in downtown Sulphur Springs. Rehearsals begin Monday, Jan. 15, at 7 p.m. in the FUMC Fellowship Hall. Find out more at singerscount.org.