March 10, 2023–Around 2018 Ben Swanson formed a local choir that performed about twice a year for a few years at area church venues. The choir, which had about 40 members in it, would perform spring and winter concerts.
Swanson had been a music major from James Madison University, and had been hired by the local school system as the Colonial Beach Elementary School music teacher.
Many of the choir members were long-time singers and some were novices to organized singing.
Swanson pulled them all together and made wonderful music with all of the combined voices.
When Swanson decided it was time to head north to the Washington area, there was great sadness amongst the choir members; as no one stepped forward to carry on the show.
But now Swanson is back!
He has been hired by the school system as the fall 2023 high school music teacher. “The great thing is that I will be teaching some of my old elementary school students again,” Swanson stated. Those former students are now in high school.
Swanson held an organizational “tasting session” of music last night at the Colonial Beach Baptist Church. About 15 prospective singers attended. There were seasoned voices from the earlier town choir and there were new voices; as well.
The next “tasting session” will be held Thursday, March 16, 2023 at 7 pm in the Colonial Beach Baptist Church. Members of all ages, 16 and older, are being invited to this event. “We welcome anyone who is interested in singing,” Swanson wrote to the community. “…Regardless of skill level or experience,” he added.
It is anticipated that rehearsals will generally be weekly with shows this summer and winter. Fees will be collected from membership to cover sheet music, accompanying musicians and other fees.
In addition to the choir and his job at the high school, Swanson will also be teaching voice lessons privately at his local studio. He may be contacted at StudioSwanson.com.