Peggo Horstmann Hodes believes everyone can sing.
And that’s the great thing about the Songweavers women’s community chorus. No matter what level of experience you have flexing the old vocal chords, you’re welcome to join the group, and well, sing.
There’s about 120 members in all – with all levels of singing ability – and about 100 will be on stage this Saturday for the annual Songweavers spring concert.
“Songweavers is an opportunity for people with experience and no experience to sing,” Hodes said. “It’s about as flexible of a chorus as you’ll find.”
The theme of this year’s concert is Lean On Me. The chorus will explore how music and community help us manage trying times. Now, we know that most of you probably have the Bill Withers classic “Lean On Me” playing on repeat in your head right about now, and for good reason – it’s a catchy tune.
Don’t worry though, it will subside and if it doesn’t you can make your way to South Congregational Church on Saturday and see the Songweavers perform it live.
Another tune you might recognize (if you go to the concert) is “Let the River Run” by Carly Simon, but most of the songs will be ones that you’re hearing for the first time.
“All the songs are about how we can lean on each other,” Hodes said.
In all, Songweavers will perform 15 songs. Some will be strictly a cappella, while others will be accompanied by piano or guitar. The Songweaver Drummers will also perform with the chorus, using African-style hand drumming and other percussion.
“I like to have a variety, so they don’t all sound the same,” Hodes said.
The interesting thing about Songweavers, besides the fact that anyone can join (if you’re a woman), is that the group learns its songs by listening.
“It’s all done by ear. I sing them the part and they sing it back to me. It’s very old school,” Hodes said. “There’s something very powerful learning it by ear.”
The concert will be held at 5 p.m. Tickets are $20 for adults and $15 for students and seniors. While there might still be tickets at the door, considering the size of South Church, you might want to plan ahead and just buy them now. Visit ccmusicschool.org or call 228-1196 for tickets or more info.
“It gives people a chance to sing,” Hodes said. “If you’re not in a church choir, there’s not a lot of opportunities.”
