By Colleen Pierson
The Grand Rapids Chorus of Sweet Adelines won first place overall and first place midsize chorus at the Regional Competition held in Cleveland, Ohio on May 17-20. This enables them to compete Internationally in New Orleans in 2019. The group is a four-part acappella singing group with members ranging from 21-years of age on up.
“I felt pure joy when they announced our name as the contest winners,” said Denise Van Dyken, Master Director of the group. “Lots of brains and talents with these women. We competed against a five-state region and we are all so proud and honored to represent the Grand Rapids Area and bring home the awards.”
Eighty-five-year-old Beverly Noirot drives three hours every Monday from Gaylord, Michigan, to practice with the group at its rehearsal facility in Kentwood. It’s her 33rd year with the group. “I love to sing with the best,” she explained with a huge smile on her face.
Beth Herrington has sung with the group for 42 years. “I have so many lifelong friends and it is like having 65 sisters. The challenging music and friendships are what keep me performing.”
The group is no stranger to being champion harmonizers. They have been competing both regionally and internationally since their beginning 65 years ago. Numerous second place Regional designations as well as six first place medals have been collected. They have been on the International Stage six times and have traveled worldwide to shared their musical gifts.
“We have had the thrill of singing in Washington D.C. to help with the inauguration of the World War II memorial,” said Management Team Coordinator Diane Thompson. “And we have been privileged to be able to sing in other countries, like Italy, Germany, Russia, and Paris.”
The Sweet Adelines also has quartets that represented the group as well. The best novice quartet award was given to Sticky Notes and fourth place awards went to the quartet Sublime.
Upcoming events include a performance at Festival of the Arts on the Calder Stage from 4:15-5 p.m. on Sunday, June 3, WhiteCaps on Labor Day weekend, September 2, and the group’s Fall show at Grandville High School on September 8.
Visitors and singers interested in auditioning are always welcome. The group rehearses every Monday from 7-9:30 p.m. at 1800 44thStreet SE, Kentwood.
