For you have been my help, and in the shadow of your wings I will sing for joy.
Psalms 63:7
The Newton Highlands Congregational Church (NHCC) Senior Choir grew in size with the joyful participation of a number of guests for the worship service on Sunday, December 17, 2023.
The expanded choir sang a spirited rendition of “I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day” (arr. Longfellow/Huff).
For some participants, this was their first time ever singing with a group for an audience.
“Jan and the choir are amazing!” stated NHCC member Keirsten Lawton. “It felt a little intimidating to consider singing with them, but they are incredibly welcoming and patient.”
“I loved being able to participate and enjoyed hanging out with the choir,” said Joy Winslow.
Reducing barriers to entry for the choir by creating a Community Choir was the brainchild of Music Director Jan Zimmerman. She scheduled several open rehearsals this fall and provided materials so inexperienced singers could also listen to the tunes and practice at home.
“Come one, come all–we welcome anyone who would like to try singing with a group to join us!” she stated. “We will continue having occasional open rehearsals, and we look forward to seeing some new faces in the coming months.”