Brian Winnie, director of choral activities and voice at Southwestern College, is looking for individuals to join the newly created Southwestern College Choral Union (SCCU).  The community based choir is looking for various talent levels.

“Whether you are a seasoned veteran singer, need brushing up on your skills, or have never sung before, we invite you to join us this January for the start of our inaugural spring season production of ‘America the Beautiful!’” Winnie says.  “This program is a true celebration of America and all we hold dear, featuring American patriotic songs and modern classics by well-known American composers.”

There aren’t auditions to be a part of the SCCU however there will be placement screenings on Jan. 6-7.  This will be an opportunity for members to get to know Winnie and to sing for him.  He will then be able to place participants with others members with similar skill and talent.  

Beginning in January, rehearsals will be held every Tuesday from 7-9 p.m., in the Darbeth rehearsal hall in the Darbeth Fine Arts building. 
The SCCU will perform twice in the spring of 2015.  On April 19, the SCCU will have a collaborative concert with the Southwestern College choirs.  The SCCU will have its own concert in Richardson Performing Arts Center on Saturday, May 2, at 7:30 p.m.  

There will be a fee to participate in the SCCU.  According to Winnie, for this organization to pay its bills, which includes music, printing and mailing costs, licensing royalties, and its staff, the dues process is structured at a nominal rate of $80 per concert season for adults; $30 for SC or high school students.  In the future Winnie hopes to be able to offer scholarships to interested participants and is hoping some local people or businesses might sponsor the organization.  

“We hope you community members and students will join us here as we reawaken community choral singing in Winfield,” Winnie says.  “If a business is interested in a presenting sponsorship, providing scholarships, or other contributions or donations, I hope they will contact Charles McKinzie (development officer at Southwestern College) or myself.”

If you have any questions regarding this opportunity or would like more information about the SCCU, please contact Winnie or McKinzie at (620) 229-6302 or (620) 229-6288.