5/28/2008  Email this article Print this article  
Harmony Singers head to Carnegie Hall

By Lorraine Gregusc, columnist lgregus@thealmanac.net

Forty-two years have passed since a small group of singers first raised their voices to form the Westminster Community Singers in the South Hills. Renamed the Bob Locklin Singers the following year, a new name was introduced in 1976 and continues today as the Harmony Singers of Pittsburgh.

For 32 years, Harmony's spring musical variety show has become an annual event filling auditoriums and other local venues.

Members are men and women who not only have an interest in music and singing but enjoy doing it together. Their extensive choral presentations include duets, solos and lively choreography setting the Harmony Singers apart from other vocal groups.

Years of commitment, practice and passion for singing are paying off for the Harmony Singers of Pittsburgh. Talented and dedicated, the choral group has been chosen to perform in New York City's Carnegie Hall Sunday, June 1.






Along with choirs from Kansas, Virginia, Ohio and Tennessee (seven in all), approximately 200 voices will be accompanied by the New England Symphonic Ensemble. Renowned conductor and composer Mark Hayes is the director.

As luck would have it, Harmony director Cynthia Pratt first learned of the upcoming choir concert at New York's world-famous concert hall while attending a choir clinic conducted by Hayes. Notified of their good fortune late last year, excitement grew for the South Hills singers. Lifestyles were soon adjusted and travel plans confirmed. Rehearsing the concert's music became foremost with the singers.

Creating the stage to present great music to audiences, three pieces written by Hayes will be performed including the premiere performance of "Spirit Suite II" based on three African-American spirituals, "Te Deum" and "Magnificat."

Hayes' vocal and instrumental writing is widely acclaimed. His choral settings draw from gospel, jazz, pop, folk and classical sounds. He is a recurring recipient of the Standard Award from the American Society of Composers and Performers. His album, "I've Just Seen Jesus" received the Dove Award, the gospel music equivalent of a Grammy.

The singers have entertained thousands with their snappy tunes, classical sounds and toe tappin' dance routines introducing comedy as well.

The repertoire includes selections from Broadway, Swing, Blues, Rock'n Roll, Comedy and seasonal tunes. Members look forward to performing for civic, social, church and business group functions.

Male and female singers of all ages and voice types are welcome to join. Rehearsals are held at 7:30 p.m. Tuesdays at Brightwood Christian Church in Bethel Park. For details, call Bernie Komoroski at 412-381-7175. Information about the Harmony Singers is also available at www.harmonysingers.org.

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