Choral group for older adults is seeking singers 55 and older in the Baltimore and Columbia areas; no past experience required

Annapolis-based nonprofit Encore Creativity for Older Adults, the country’s largest choral organization for adults 55 and older, is looking for new singers to join their Baltimore and Columbia groups.

The organization, founded in 2007 by Jeanne Kelly during a study on how singing can benefit the mental and physical health of older adults, “now has more than 1,000 singers in 30 programs” nationwide.

Encore provides seniors a space for musical artistic expression “regardless of experience or ability,” so the choir does not hold auditions. Prospective members need only register and pay the $190 tuition for the 15-week program. 

Encore Chorale of Baltimore and Encore Chorale of Columbia are looking for new members.

The fall program begins Sept. 12. Singers will perform music from assorted styles and eras, concluding with a free holiday concert that is open to the public. 

“We continue our great community of deep friendships and love of singing under the direction of our beloved and talented conductor, Stephen Harouff,” said Esther Layton, who has been singing with Encore for 15 years and is the Chorale Master of the Encore Chorale of Baltimore. “I encourage others to join our fabulous group and reap the benefits of singing.” 

The Baltimore group will meet from 2-3:30 p.m. Mondays, starting Sept. 12, at Grace United Methodist Church, located at 5407 N. Charles St. in Baltimore.

The Columbia group will meet from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. Mondays, also starting Sept. 12, at the Owen Brown Interfaith Center, located at 7246 Cradlerock Way in Columbia.

Encore is also offering Encore University, a virtual singing program coupled with “music history, music theory, dance, art, movement classes.” Registration for that program begins Aug. 10 and tuition is $185 per person. 

For more information visit www.encorecreativity.org.