The Sonatrice Singers will present their annual spring concert, Life’s Rhythms, with performances on Thursday, April 23 and Friday, April 24 at 7:30 p.m. at Carman United Church.
The theme reflects the many ways rhythm shapes everyday life — from the natural cycles of seasons and sleep to emotional highs and lows, musical patterns and shared human experiences.
Anne Hamilton said the program was designed to reflect both the science and experience of music.
“Research shows there are positive benefits to singing together, including synchronized heartbeats, and those benefits can extend to audiences as well,” she said. “Listening to music can reduce stress and improve overall well-being.”
Hamilton said that sense of connection is woven throughout the repertoire.
The program touches on life stages with Wide Open Spaces, emotional moods through classics like Blue Moon and Mood Indigo, and quieter reflective moments in pieces such as The Seal Lullaby and Homeward Bound. Seasonal and natural rhythms are also explored in selections like Everything’s Coming Up Roses and A Girl’s Garden, leading into the finale, Rhythm of Life, which will include local references to Carman and the Boyne River Bridge.
Audiences can expect a wide variety of music, from a medley of familiar 1950s tunes to the upbeat and percussive Come Alive from The Greatest Showman.
“We’re really focusing on emotional connection and conveying the meaning behind each song,” said Hamilton, adding that balance between the soprano and alto sections is key to the choir’s sound.
Musical highlights also include The Cat’s Ramble, a lively medley of Irish melodies that showcases the choir’s precision and musicality.
The 21-member choir is directed by Brenda Doell, with Audrey Myers accompanying on piano. The acoustics of Carman United Church help highlight the ensemble’s warm, blended choral sound.
Hamilton said Sonatrice has remained strong for more than 50 years thanks to both musical leadership and the relationships within the group.
“With a core group of members who have sung together for years, the choral sound blends into a warm tone, and newcomers become part of that Sonatrice sound,” she said.
She added that the experience goes beyond performance.
“There’s something special about learning a full repertoire together each season — building those harmonies, making connections through breathing and listening, and sharing that sense of achievement.”
Preparation for the concert has included weekly rehearsals, individual practice and sectional work, where each voice group refines challenging passages before coming together as a full choir.
“We aim to reach that point where the music is polished but still full of life and spontaneity,” Hamilton said.
Tickets are valid for one performance and may be used for either evening. Posters promoting the concert can be found in local businesses throughout the community.
Hamilton encourages residents to attend and experience the performance.
“Come once, tell a friend — or bring a friend and come twice. Sit back and enjoy.”
