The NoVA Lights Chorale hosts a free ‘America Celebrates 250’ concert

The NoVA Lights Chorale invites the public to a free concert next Sunday celebrating the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.

The concert will be held at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church at 3439 Payne St., in Bailey’s Crossroads, at 4 p.m. on June 7. A free reception will follow the concert.

This event is one of the Mason Arts 250 events organized by the Mason District Arts Council to commemorate the ideas at the heart of the American Revolution through the arts.

The concert features music from various eras of American history, including the Revolutionary War, the Civil War, and the Civil Rights movement, with narration connecting the songs together.

One of the songs on the program, “Testament of Freedom,” was composed in 1943 with lyrics from Thomas Jefferson’s writings. Another song, “Words of Lincoln,” features lyrics from Lincoln’s Inaugural Addresses.

The chorale will also sing “God Bless America,” “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” “Tribute to the Armed Services,” and “Workin’ for the Dawn of Peace,” among other songs.

“I’m happy to share this music with the community,” says Anna Ko, the chorale’s pianist. Ko is also the organist at the church and has played the piano professionally as a soloist, including several times at the Kennedy Center.   

Related story: Mason Arts 250: Reimagining the Ideas of the American Revolution 

The NoVA Lights Chorale has about 80 members, although generally half that number typically appear in performances.

There are no auditions; anyone who loves to sing can participate. “There are a variety of skill levels,” says Artistic Director Stanley Livengood. “I try to make the best of what I have. Some singers are really talented.”

“We have a wonderful director and accompanist,” says NoVA Lights Chorale President Johanna Droel, a soprano. “Everyone is very congenial. And we’re always open to new members.”