Singing for the Community Since 1986

Claremore Community Chorus will celebrate spring with a free concert on Tuesday, April 30 at Claremore First United Methodist Church.

With a mixture of music – from old casual songs to more modern ones – the Claremore Community Chorus invites the public to attend their free ­concert set for Tuesday, April 30 at 7:30 p.m. at Claremore First United Methodist Church, ­located at 1615 N. Hwy. 88. A reception will follow.

    “Spring’s Musical Bouquet” is the theme for their 29th ­concert. “Most people will remember and know the songs that we will perform,” says Donna Nickols, chorus member.

    “We are a group of people who like to sing and perform above and beyond our daily jobs and church choirs,” says Nickols. “We are currently in rehearsal for our spring concert and ­welcome anyone who would like to sing to please come join us. Anyone from the area is ­welcome to join. We have ­members from as far away as Locust Grove.”

    Claremore Community Chorus provides an opportunity for vocalists to share their talent with the community. “Being able to share your talent provides a great escape from the hectic demands of life,” she adds. “We always welcome new people. We currently need some new voices, especially men.” Reading music is not a requirement, she adds. “You also don’t have to try out. You just need to love to sing.”

    The chorus performs a broad spectrum of musical ­selections when they perform their annual winter and spring concerts. In addition, the chorus participates in other community events, including caroling for Dickens on the Boulevard, the Claremore Christmas parade and Will Rogers Days. During ­preparation for their two annual concerts, chorus members ­practice weekly on Tuesday evenings from 7 to 9 at St. Cecilia Catholic Church, 1304 N. Dorothy in Claremore.

    Claremore Community Chorus, organized in 1986, has enjoyed a rich and interesting history. The community’s ­financial support has been ­essential to its success, says Nickols. Rogers State University Music Department Professor Dr. Don Trot founded the chorus. Under his and Buddy Watson’s direction, the chorus was invited to join other choirs around the nation to perform at Carnegie Hall in New York City. The ­chorus has also joined efforts with other area choirs to present Handel’s “Messiah” with the Tulsa Philharmonic Orchestra.

    After its establishment, ­several talented directors, ­including Larry Mitchell and Buddy Watson, have directed the chorus. Currently, the chorus is under the direction of Vicki McCuistain, who has been a member and soloist for many years prior to becoming director.

    Claremore Community Chorus is governed by a board of directors elected by its members. “The current new leadership is excited about the potential for new chorus members as well as seeking out additional opportunities for us to participate in community events,” Nickols says. “Over the years, the Claremore Community Chorus has performed concerts at different facilities, including St. Cecilia Catholic Church, First United Methodist Church, Church of the Nazarene, First Christian Church, Redeemer Lutheran Church and New Life Baptist Church. By welcoming Claremore Community Chorus in this way, these places help the choir remain a viable part of the Claremore community, as it participates in community-oriented events year-round.”

    If you are interested in becoming a member or to learn more about the chorus, please visit Claremorecommunitychorus1986 on Facebook or email eat0@eau0eav0eaw0.

For more information, contact

Claremore Community Chorus

(918) 693-0359