Zephyr Singers perform in annual spring concert

By LAURA ROBISON

The Progress

‘There is Music in the Air’ was the theme for the Zephyr Singers’ Spring concert on Saturday evening, April 20.

The performance showcased the talented singers and guest instrumentalists, and the selections chosen by director Gaye Nelson were poignant and had great meaning.

“Music strengthens me and voices lift me up,” said Nelson in a brief statement to the audience before the concert began. “Music can have a power in our hearts.”

Nelson then made a special presentation to Zephyrs pianist Linda Lyon. “I would like to dedicate this concert to Linda, who has retired from the group due to health reasons” Nelson said.
Lyon later said, “If I could, I would still be up there on that stage.”
Lyon has accompanied local choral groups for more than 60 years.

Nelson also paid tribute to her mother, 96-year-old Connie Whitney. “My mom is an inspiration to me as she still keeps music in her heart and keeps music in the air,” she said.

The evening’s music began with a lively, jazzy rendition of “Music in the Air”, a traditional spiritual mix of hopeful lyrics about the future.

Then the group performed “How Can I Keep From Singing,” with guest Brent Pettit on cello, which added depth to the arrangement.

The group then beautifully performed the sacred work, “This is the Christ.”

Pettit wrote the next number, “Feed My Sheep” and was also featured on the flute. The text is taken from John chapter 21.

The timeless classic “Homeward Bound” was then presented with gusto and commanding voices. It featured a piano duet with Sherrie Whitney and Katie Rose, along with Heather Lyon playing the alto recorder.

A highlight of the evening was the sweet, angelic voice of 12-year-old Jay Washburn, singing “Empty Chairs at Empty Tables” from the Broadway hit Les Miserables. Jay was accompanied by his mother Christine. The beautiful melody had spectacular high notes, and Jay was simply amazing!

“Alleluia” was performed with great reverence, featuring Brent Pettit on cello, Walter White on violin and Sherrie Whitney on the organ.

Soaring voices, piano and cello obligato came together to utter the exquisite choral prayer “Nearer, My God, to Thee.”

The last two songs were upbeat, jazzy and felt as if the audience had been transported back in time. American folk hymn “Down to the Water to Pray” was performed a cappella. Next was “Down by the Riverside,” a traditional American song with Brent Pettit joining in on bass.

The whole evening of music was met with a standing ovation at the conclusion.

Nelson concluded the evening by thanking all in attendance, as well as thanking the performers who shared their talents with the community.

The Zephyrs are always looking for singers to join the group. For more information contact Gaye Nelson at millig@mvdsl.com.