Performance of Greene, Washington women to benefit Habitat for Humanity
A group of 35 women from Greene and Washington counties have been preparing for a concert of joy, the proceeds of which will benefit Habitat for Humanity.
“There will be some catchy, up-beat songs, but also some thought-provoking songs that pull at the heartstrings about finding joy again,” said Daughters of Grace Women’s Choir director Jonella Williamson.
The choir will perform at 7 p.m. April 6 at Greene Valley Presbyterian Church, 104 E. Greene St., Carmichaels, in the second of three concerts focusing on the theme, “The Joy of the Lord, Our Strength in All Circumstances.” Admission is free, and a goodwill offering will be donated to Greene County Habitat for Humanity.
“Since forming, we have helped different groups by raising over $30,000,” said Williamson. “We’ve made a commitment that this is not just about us, it’s an avenue to raise money for local nonprofits.”
In 2004, Williamson was directing a choir of teenage girls that performed for area churches when her friend said to her, “I wish there was something like this for women.”
“That’s how we got started,” said Williamson. “We welcomed any woman that wanted to sing.”
Women from all denominations make up the choir, which has had anywhere from 30 to 50 members since inception. Members have ranged from teens to nonagenarians, and have included teachers, postmasters, social workers, bankers and bakers.
There are no auditions, and some members don’t read music at all. Instead, they learn their parts from rehearsal CDs.
“Our only requirements for membership are a love of singing and a desire for fellowship with other ladies,” said Williamson.
Rehearsals and performances are held in Greene Valley Presbyterian Church. The group performs a spring and fall concert, and sometimes a summer one, as well.
In addition to songs of worship, they performs secular music, and have performed genres including rock-and-roll, international, folk and patriotic.
Choir director Jonella Williamson, center, with member Bethany Dorean and her father, John Dorean, of Habitat for Humanity
“We are all Christian women, that’s the tie that holds us together. But we don’t always do sacred music,” Williamson said.
The concert on April 6 will feature 12 selections, including hymns, folk songs, a piece in Latin and several poems arranged for choir. A pianist will accompany most songs, with an organist, percussionist and flutist joining for some.
“We’ll be singing about exuberant joy, but also about the joy that comes from appreciating creation, the joy found in forgiveness, the joy found in serving others, and a couple of songs that reinforce our belief that true joy is not the same thing as happiness,” said Williamson. “Happiness is an emotion, but joy is a decision to live your life drawing strength from God and His promises.”
A short presentation on Habitat for Humanity will be given during the concert, and refreshments will follow.
New choir members are always welcome. For more information, call 724-825-9489.