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26 | THE COLONY NEWS | SEPTEMBER 2024 | Colony Chorus By Ken Luekens Doesn't September sometimes feel like the start of the year? Forget that January baloney (or the first moment of Aries for the astrology fans among us). For the Colony Chorus, September starts the year. If you attended our Meet & Greet or read any of the past three Chorus articles in e Colony News, you know that for us the season begins with practice on Thursday, Sept. 5, from 9 to 11:15 am, and continues thereafter every Thursday. This season, Lorilee Bajema, our talented director, will take us to a Celtic Christmas. That means mostly songs with an Irish, Scottish Gaelic, or Welsh background (no accent is required). This will culminate with our Kind of a Celtic Christmas concert on Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 7 and 8. Mark your calendars now. With that theme in mind, the Chorus is looking for help. We want to find someone who plays bagpipes, and we are also searching for a fiddle player. If you know of anyone in the area who has either of those skills, please let us know. You can call me, or the Chorus President, Connie O'Brien at 619-322-0144. Ticket sales will start mid-October. Both concerts sold out this past spring (thank you for your support). So be ready. Would you like to show extra support for the Colony Chorus? Consider becoming a Chorus Patron. The Chorus truly appreciates our Patrons. Many have supported us for years. As a Patron, you will enjoy the benefit of a reserved seat in the front. Get in touch with Dee March at 760-271-9002 or Julie Benningfield at 520-975- 0224. If you enjoy singing, consider joining the Chorus. No audition required. Just be there on Thursday, Sept. 5, at 9 am. You'll enjoy singing, and I'm sure you'll make friends and have fun. Most of us love music, but we probably do not realize how valuable it is to our mental health and happiness. According to AARP Magazine, many studies show that music's power affects us both psychologically and physically. Singing with others causes the brain to secrete oxytocin, which creates warm sensations of bonding, unity, security, and awe, and it can alleviate pain and anxiety. When you play and sing with others, it is very difficult to feel bad! We would love to have you get some oxytocin with us any Friday at 1 pm in the Annex. We can teach you how to play the ukulele and you can sing and laugh with us. You can call me for more information. Colony Strummers By Judy Moore, 949-468-7375