Alexandria Choral Group for Older Adults Seeking Participants for Fall Season
ALEXANDRIA, VA – Encore Creativity for Older Adults, America’s largest choral organization for adults over 55, welcomes new and returning singers to the fall session of its Encore Chorale of Alexandria, a popular local choral group that sings a fun and eclectic mix of music from many different eras, and Alexandria ROCKS, a rock & roll chorus that takes singers back to their favorite hits from the 50s through the 80s.
Encore is accepting registration now for its 15-week programs that begin in September, 2022. No auditions are necessary. The sessions will culminate in a holiday concert that is free and open to the public. Encore Chorale of Alexandria welcomes new conductor Jacquelynne Fontaine, voice teacher, conductor, stage actress, and soprano who has performed nationally and abroad in both opera and musical theater. Jeffrey Dokken, director of Encore ROCKS and music director and conductor of the Symphony Orchestra of Northern Virginia, will conduct Alexandria ROCKS.
“It’s exciting to come together to spread joy through music,” said Linda Carter, who joined Encore in 2013 when her neighbor took her to a rehearsal. Currently singing with the Encore Chorale of Alexandria and Alexandria ROCKS, she is looking forward to performing songs that will bring memories and smiles to the audience.
Both programs will take place at Good Shepherd Lutheran, 100 W. Luray Avenue. Encore Chorale of Alexandria will meet on Mondays, starting September 12th, from 10:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Alexandria ROCKS will meet on Wednesdays, starting September 7th, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Tuition is $190.00 per person for each 15-week program. Encore will follow all City, State and Federal Covid-19 guidelines. For more information and registration, visit www.encorecreativity.org or call 301-261-5747.
Founded in 2007 by Jeanne Kelly during an NIH-funded study to address the mental and physical health benefits of singing for older adults, Encore Creativity for Older Adults now has more than 1,000 singers in 30 programs across the nation, including Chorales and ROCKS and Sentimental Journey Singers, a choir for those with early Alzheimer’s or memory impairments and their care partners, plus a vibrant online university, summer camp, winter retreat and travel abroad programs. Encore’s mission is to provide an accessible arts education and performance opportunities for older adults regardless of ability or experience.
