Music connects generations, cultures, and communities – and nowhere is that more beautifully demonstrated than in the Asheville Senior Chorus. Our repertoire spans centuries of musical history, giving singers and audiences a chance to experience the richness of sound from multiple eras. From the intricate harmonies of Bach to the irresistible rhythms of The Beatles to the unforgettable melodies of Broadway, each era adds depth and joy to our performances. In this post, we explore why blending musical eras makes our chorus special.
The Timeless Beauty of Baroque Music
Johann Sebastian Bach’s music represents the brilliance of the Baroque era — structured, elegant, and deeply expressive. When the chorus sings pieces from this period, we step into a world where melody and counterpoint dance together with precision. Baroque works challenge singers to focus on breath control, clean articulation, and musical discipline. They also offer beautiful opportunities to experience the emotional depth of sacred and classical tradition.
What we gain from singing Baroque music:
The Joy and Simplicity of Folk and Early American Tunes
Early American and folk music bring a different kind of beauty to the repertoire. These songs are often rooted in cultural storytelling and communal experience. Their melodies tend to be warm, familiar, and easy to sing — which makes them audience favorites. Singing folk tunes helps chorus members connect with music that feels nostalgic, grounded, and authentically human.
Why folk music resonates:
The Revolutionary Sound of The Beatles
Jumping centuries ahead, The Beatles represent a musical revolution of the 20th century. Their songs — though simple on the surface — carry emotional depth, innovative harmonies, and rhythms that changed popular music forever. Arrangements of Beatles songs give the Asheville Senior Chorus a chance to explore contemporary choral harmonies while singing music that audiences instantly recognize.
How Beatles music enhances our repertoire:
The Magic of Broadway
Few musical traditions can stir emotion like Broadway. Whether it’s the sweeping ballads of Les Misérables, the playful charm of The Music Man, or the heartfelt storytelling of The Sound of Music, Broadway music invites singers to embody character, emotion, and drama. It’s fun. It’s expressive. And it builds confidence — especially for singers who love to perform.
Why Broadway is a chorus favorite:
The Power of Blending Eras in One Chorus
Part of what makes the Asheville Senior Chorus special is its ability to seamlessly merge these eras into one concert program. This variety keeps rehearsals engaging and audiences delighted. It pushes singers to grow in versatility — mastering classical discipline, expressive modern phrasing, and everything in between. It also reflects the diverse musical experiences of our members, who bring their own histories, memories, and tastes to the rehearsal room.
A Repertoire That Unites Us All
Whether we’re navigating the beauty of Bach, rediscovering the joy of Beatles harmonies, or stepping into the spotlight with a Broadway melody, each era reminds us of the power of music to connect people. The Asheville Senior Chorus celebrates that connection every time we rehearse and perform. By embracing a wide range of musical traditions, we honor the past, enjoy the present, and inspire audiences for years to come.
The Asheville Senior Chorus is an active Special Interest Group that meets every week as part of the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) at UNC-Asheville. Led by Chuck Taft, they produce harmonious tunes while also building strong bonds and valuing shared moments. Their concerts feature a diverse range of musical styles and periods.
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