The West Hartford Women’s Chorale has gotten back to practice, and hopes to present a concert in December.

West Hartford Women’s Chorale. Courtesy photo

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After a difficult 18 months of being closed to in person rehearsals and performances, the West Hartford Women’s Chorale has returned, alive and well!

In person rehearsals began on Sept. 14, with more than 60 returning singers as well as some new ones. The Chorale follows strict COVID protocols for inside chorale singing and social distancing in its new home at Temple Sinai, Newington.

Responding to reports of the COVID-19 virus spreading rapidly in chorale rehearsals, the WHWC abruptly shut down in March 2020. Faced with no in-person rehearsals for the past two semesters, the Chorale Board and Music Director Ethan Nash pivoted to offering a schedule of virtual rehearsals that culminated in two virtual Chorale concert recordings. During a time when social connections were disrupted and many people endured isolation at home, it was important to continue the WHWC mission to offer a place to join with others in song.

Chorale members also reached beyond the mission of enriching the community with music by organizing several community projects. Members organized food drives, a card making project to support seniors isolated in local senior residences, and a summer book drive to support students at HANOC Community Center. Although, not able to sing together, members worked together to support needs in the community with empathy and generosity.

The WHWC community of singers is very happy to be able to sing together, but should conditions warrant, the Board is prepared to pivot to a virtual format.

“Singing with masks is not ideal but it’s possible and rehearsals are going well,” said Board President Robin Doyle. “We are so happy to be back together. Our plan is to present a December concert of the repertoire that we will be rehearsing this fall.”

The chorale fall repertoire includes classical pieces by Michael Haydn and contemporary composer, Sarah Quartel, as well traditional holiday pieces “with a twist.”

For more information about The West Hartford Women’s Chorale, go to www.whwchorale.org.

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West Hartford Women’s Chorale. Courtesy photo