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Warrenton Chorale plans soulful spring concert
Pick any of the definitions of soulful and you will have not only the characterization of the next musical presentation of the Warrenton Chorale, but the description of two of the group's longtime members. Both Mary Lou Houff, a member for 34 years, and Joan Broughton, a member for 45 years, are very expressive when it comes to their heartfelt love of music.Each joined the non-audition music group when it was under the direction of Barbara Stinson, the chorale's second director. Broughton knew Stinson through her participation in the Warrenton Presbyterian Church choir, but Houff answered a newspaper ad inviting people to join.
“I was scared to death. I thought I had to audition,” Houff recalled.
Though auditions aren't a requirement, the chorale does have some. Members should be “friendly, reliable, and able to read music (or willing to learn),” she said.
And the group certainly seems friendly. Houff explained, “When you see the members once a week, they're your friends.”
Broughton agrees, “I enjoy the members. It's like a family. We have a wide range of ages, from teenagers on up.”
Both women, now retired, spent many years working with all ages throughout their careers. Houff, a resident of Casanova, was always at the front desk of the Warrenton Library, checking out books. “I saw a lot of young kids grow up,” she said.
She continues to stay busy in her retirement. “I'm always on the go,” Hough said.
Broughton was also involved with young people. Teaching physical education for 40 years, she coached softball, cheerleading, basketball and track and field. “I had the opportunity to work with all levels [from high school, middle school and elementary school]. “
The retired educator continues to work with children, teaching Sunday School to middle schoolers at Warrenton Presbyterian Church, where she is involved in several committees and charities. Some of her most enjoyable times are spent with her two granddaughters.
“They are so much fun. It's a blessing to be close enough to enjoy them,” she said.
But what the two women share in their retirement is music. “I love music,” Hough said, as she described her excitement about the upcoming performance.
Broughton also likes the variety of music selected for the performances. “I find the practices rewarding and challenging,” she said, attributing that to Steve Aiello,the chorale's present director. “Steve spends a lot of time in the selection of music.”
Houff also gives credit to Aiello. “He's a perfectionist, and he gets the best out of us. We take a long time to get the songs in order,” she said.
The Spring Concert, entitled “Celebrate Spring—A Soulful Celebration, featuring jazz, gospel and Spirituals,” will be performed at 3 p.m. Sunday, April 26 and features a wide selection of music arrangements from composers George and Ira Gershwin to John Lennon and Paul McCartney.
Houff and Broughton will join the rest of their musical family to provide the audience with a “soulful” experience.
E-mail the reporter: afelts@timespapers.com.
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