Sweet Adelines perform at nursing home

Goshen —“What did you do this weekend?” This common question is asked and answered by millions of Americans every Monday morning, with responses ranging from going to a ball game or having a picnic to catching the latest movie or going to a see a play. However, if a member of Song of the Valley Sweet Adelines had been asked what she did on a recent summer weekend, the answer could have been that, for an afternoon, she and other chorus members shared the joy of music and singing with elder residents and staff of the Valley View Center for Nursing Care and Rehabilitation on Quarry Road, Goshen. Under the direction of June Pierson, Assistant Director, with Kathy Dembek, Walden, serving as MC, the chorus presented a varied and upbeat musical program. As each familiar song was performed, several audience members openly expressed their appreciation with huge smiles and exclamations such as, “That was beautiful,” or “Bravo,” much to the delight of the chorus. There were two special highlights of the afternoon. One was the “sing-a-long,” when chorus members joined the residents in singing many traditional songs known to all. Two of these, “Take Me Out to the Ball Game” and “I’m Looking Over a Four-Leaf Clover,” were among those sung most joyfully and enthusiastically by the audience. The second highlight was during the last segment of the performance, which focused on patriotic songs. Residents and staff were asked to join in the final singing of “God Bless America.” They did so with a gentle and honest fervor that reflected the true meaning of this beautiful song and personally touched many members of the chorus. After the performance, a number of members commented on the power and meaning of these kinds of performances. Joan Gambino, Pine Bush, summed it all up when she said, “This is really what being a member of our chorus is all about…sharing our music and bringing joy to others.” Song of the Valley Chorus, a Chapter of Sweet Adelines International, invites women. who love to sing. to visit a rehearsal. Rehearsals are held on Tuesdays, 7:15 p.m., at the Parry Building, Valley View Center for Nursing Care, Quarry Road, Goshen. In addition, the Chorus is available for performances throughout the Mid-Hudson region and will contract to provide a complete show package for community fund-raising events. Information: 744-3879 or 229-5973.