Come sing! Just for fun! Led by some of the Upper Valley’s favorite directors! All singers welcome. Scores available to borrow. Attend any or all sessions.

Wednesdays in August, 6:30–8:30 p.m. Suggested donation $10.

For each session, scores will be provided to borrow, and participants are asked for a suggested donation of $10 to help defray costs. Come to any or all! Wednesdays (July 31- August 28) from 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm. All sessions are at Unitarian Universalist Congregation, 320 US-5 South, Norwich, except on August 14, which is at Montshire Museum’s Outdoor Pavilion, 1 Montshire Road, Norwich.

Wed, July 31: Life & Power. An exciting selection of contemporary music exploring the themes of existence and influence. Director: Andrea Nardone (leads Hartford High School choral groups). Accompanist: Rob Gattie.

Wed, August 7: Love & Glory (from Sacred to Secular). A variety of short selections around the theme of celebration (from Vivaldi’s “Gloria” to John Lennon).  Accessible and beautiful pieces. Director: Christopher McWilliams (leads Randolph Singers). Accompanist:  Steven Ionov.

Wed, August 14: Beethoven’s Ode to Joy, with Upper Valley Symphony Orchestra, Montshire Museum’s Outdoor Pavilion, 1 Montshire Road, Norwich VT. In anticipation of its performance of the entire Ninth Symphony next Summer (2025), the Upper Valley Symphony Orchestra will join this Summer Sings session in a reading/working rehearsal of the symphony’s final choral movement. Featuring local soloists. A collaboration with Upper Valley Music Center. Director: Mark Nelson (leads Harmony Night; Bach Study Group). **Bring your own folding chair.

Wed, August 21: Deep River.  A variety of African American Spirituals, including familiar/traditional and newer/hybrid (including elements of gospel) settings. These songs, beloved across generations, originated from oral tradition among enslaved Africans in the American South. They express the deepest joys, sorrows, hopes and faith of a people, while also “reaching into the universal heart.” Director: Jane Woods (leads Bel Canto and NCCT Teen musicals). Accompanist: Henry Danaher.

Wed, August 28: Unsung Favorites. Learn and sing through 5-6 choral works by contemporary composers that you will be glad to get to know. These will all become instant favorites! Director: Kevin Quigley, director (leads Upper Valley Voices). Accompanist: Steven Ionov.