This summer, the
Mall City Chorus is shifting from its normal role as entertainers to a summer
role as church choristers. In what has become an annual tradition, the chorus
will be substituting for church choirs in the
This is the third year that the Mall City Chorus has substituted for area church
choirs. "The Chorus members represent many faiths. Singing in the various
churches gives the men an opportunity to experience different rituals and
sanctuary settings, which they enjoy and appreciate greatly," says Herman
Dykema, coordinator for the church performances. The chorus's director, Chris
Fenner, is a Minister of Music, which has given him a special insight into
transforming these barbershoppers into worshippers. "When I was in the
process of selecting our summer repertoire, I wanted music which would be
worshipful and would speak to he hearts of local congregations. Some barbershop
arrangements of sacred songs and spirituals are cute and fun, but they don't
really carry a message. I think you'll see that we've selected songs which are
beautiful and insightful and will lead people into a spirit of worship."
This reflects in the comments the chorus has received from grateful
congregations. Gary Forsleff, former director of music at First United Methodist
Church of Kalamazoo, praised the chorus for its performance at 1st UMC in 2002:
" Please know that the directors and men of the chorus were sincerely
appreciated. A hum-drum, hot and humid Sunday became memorable because of the
excellent music contributed by the well-prepared and dedicated musicians of the
ensemble. We are truly grateful for their well-received efforts."
Rehearsals for the 2004 summer church tour begin on the first Tuesday of May;
music and learning CD’s will be provided. Attendance at all performances is
not required. The performances are as follows: