I just wanted to pass on how this group came about. I lead a song circle for children where we sing traditional ballads, call and response tunes, and then breathe some life into the old play parties and games. The parents said, "We want to do that, too!" These were adults who loved to sing, but were intimidated by the masterwork choral sings that were happening nearby at a local church (those one night sessions of reading through Bach's b minor mass). I called this group together last Spring...we met once every week. Friends brought other friends until we were up to thirty people. Some people were great harmonizers, and after teaching the kids on the melody, they took off and did their own thing. Soon the older children were off on the harmony parts, too. We sang things like, "Country Life" and "Away To Rio." I brought in some printed folk song arrangements, but our best tunes were learned by ear.

We completed our few months by singing for a group of retired firemen (and we did sing "Scotland's Burning" and "Hot Time In The Old Town Tonight"!). It was well received and the firemen joined in with us. The best part many members have said, is the rehearsing and passing the tunes on to the kids and working out harmonies with the school janitor (who is one great singer in our group). I must also state that I am a selfish Mom and I couldn't give my newly adopted son anything better than singing with people that he sees on the street of our small town. (Trying to answer Banjo Johnny!)

We will meet agin in the Fall and are looking for many more other tunes that can include everyone (I think a little bawdy and rough is okay). Also, any singing group has a share of egos and I am searching for a format that will give all levels of musicianship a chance to participate. Thanks so far.Sheba