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Community Corner

County Choraliers to Perform at Southampton Estates

The Hatboro-based choral group, that invites singers from all over Bucks and Montgomery counties to perform, will sing for the residents of Southampton estates this evening.

You gotta love music,” stated Vern Schumacher, of the County Choraliers. Schumacher began singing with this 54 year-old non-profit group in 2000. The 40-member group not only sings religious music, but also performs show tunes, classical, pop, contemporary and Broadway. Members are dedicated to rehearsing every Monday night at St. John's Lutheran Church in Hatboro. They perform concerts throughout the year.

Schumacher found himself on a path to County Choraliers when some members of his church decided to join. He also sings in other groups including the Abington Oratorio Choir's Easter Concert. There's a lot to be learned, according to Schumacher, from singing with different groups. “You learn something all the time when it comes to music – different techniques, each director has their own style and warm up,” he said.

The song choices for the County Choraliers are diverse. Schumacher said the first half of their concerts begin with religious songs, then show tunes along with other “lite” music comprises the remaining performance. Schumacher does admit that religious music requires more focus due to different timing and styles of the music.

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 While based in Hatboro, members of the County Choraliers include a mix of singers from all over Montgomery and Bucks counties.

Warminster resident, Arlene Kushwara has been with the Choraliers for more than 20 years. She recalled joining out of a sheer love of singing. The joy for Kushwara comes not only from singing, but also from the social aspect of being around others who share the same interest.

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“We have a lot of fun,” said Kushwara, adding humorously, “I've been with them this long, I'm not about to quit now.” Understanding how busy people are now, Kushwara urges people to make time to enjoy the County Choraliers concerts. She said next year they are planning a big celebration for their 55 -year anniversary.

Music Director William S. Burd, Jr. has been with the Choraliers since 1998. He resides in Bensalem and is a general/choral music teacher with the Trenton Public School System. His choral history includes serving as the assistant and ensemble director of the Greater Trenton Choral Society and Minister of Music in various Pennsylvania and New Jersey churches.

Burd has an impressive background including voice study at Westminster Choir College and taking lessons from a New York City graduate of the Julliard School of Music. In 2003, Burd was chosen as “Teacher of the Year” and was selected for Who's Who Among America’s Teachers in 2005.

 Betty Sporer, accompanist for the County Choraliers has been with the group since 1995. She began playing piano at age six and has performed with churches in Northeast Philadelphia and Southampton. Sporer resides in Warwick Township.

The County Choraliers' next concert will be held at 6:15 pm on Monday, May 2, at the , 238 Street Road. Admission to the show is free.

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