Look just about anywhere on the risers at One Voice’s upcoming holiday concert and you’ll see LOTS of new faces (both naughty and nice). That’s because a record number of new singers turned out for the chorus’s 2013-2014 season. In all, nearly 20 new singers have joined voices with our returning members, leading to one of the largest groups to take the stage for a One Voice holiday concert in nearly a decade. So who are these newbies, and what brought them to One Voice?
“Singing is my passion”
According to new member Jon Parker Douglas, it was the season’s theme that drew him in several ways. “I joined One Voice with the “home” theme in mind. I needed a home base while in Charlotte studying,” shares Jon, who is currently in law school. “Sure, I have some wonderful friends and family in town, but there is nothing quite like a weekly gathering of like-minded individuals to keep me grounded. I’m also proud of the work One Voice is doing with Time Out Youth around the issue of home and homelessness.”
New soprano Sally Hinson, owner of the consignment boutique Margaret’s Closet in Concord, NC, joined out of a love for singing. She explains, “Singing is my passion, but I haven’t sung in a while. I felt like I was missing an essential part of me. Now [rehearsal night] has become my favorite time of the week!”
“Like long lost family”
All are welcome in One Voice. Our singers come from all walks of life—united by a love of music and a belief in the chorus’s mission of LGBT equality. This incoming group of members is no exception. Some are gay, lesbian, bi and gender-queer. Some are straight allies. They range in age from 20 – 60+ and drive from just minutes to nearly an hour to get to rehearsal each Tuesday. And we’re glad they do!
Speaking of glad, when asked what makes her glad to be part of One Voice, Sally says, “My favorite part is the friendliness of the choir. Everyone has welcomed me with such open arms… like long lost family.”
Welcome to the family, One Voice newcomers!
Click here to learn more about how to join the chorus.
Want to become part of One Voice’s extended family? We invite you to sign up for our free e-publication CommunityNotes from One Voice, full of stories like this one. Sign up now and we’ll deliver a fresh copy to your inbox bimonthly! (Like magic, only more newsy.)