Branch County Community Chorus Welcomes New Singers for 2025–26 Concert Season
COLDWATER, MI — The Branch County Community Chorus (BCCC) is opening its doors to new members for the 2025–26 concert season, offering singers of all backgrounds a chance to join one of southwest Michigan’s most vibrant community ensembles. Sponsored by Kellogg Community College (KCC), the chorus begins its season on Tuesday, September 9, at 6 p.m. with rehearsals at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, 27 East Chicago Street, Coldwater.
Open to All Voice Parts
Under the direction of Dr. Gerald Case-Blanchard, professor of vocal music and music area coordinator at KCC, the chorus seeks singers in all voice parts — soprano, alto, tenor, and bass.
No formal audition is required to join; however, prospective members will meet briefly with Case-Blanchard for an informal vocal assessment. The welcoming process ensures that anyone with a love of music — regardless of experience — can participate.
Case-Blanchard describes the group as “a community of individuals who love making music and are always looking to expand its circle of musical friends.”
Rehearsals and Registration
Rehearsals will take place every Tuesday evening from 6 to 9 p.m. at St. Mark’s through May 2026. Singers must register through KCC’s Grahl Center campus in Coldwater under course designation MUSI C104.
Individuals may join for personal enrichment or for academic credit, and performing arts grants may be available for those who participate across two consecutive semesters.
2025–26 Performance Highlights
The upcoming season promises a rich blend of traditional and seasonal repertoire, with collaborations that connect the chorus to wider regional audiences:
- Nov. 23, 2025 — Handel’s Messiah, with the Monroe Community Chorale and Symphony in Monroe.
- Dec. 7, 2025 — Sounds of the Season, the chorus’ annual holiday concert at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church in Coldwater.
- April 12, 2026 — Singing in the Spring, a community celebration concert in Battle Creek.
These performances highlight the chorus’ role as both a local cultural anchor and a partner in regional music-making.
A Tradition of Community Music
The Branch County Community Chorus has long been a space where singers come together not only to learn and perform music but also to build friendships and foster artistic growth. Its programming emphasizes accessibility, collaboration, and the joy of live choral singing.
For those looking to engage more deeply with music in the 2025–26 season, joining the BCCC provides both artistic challenge and community connection.
Anyone interested in joining can contact the KCC Grahl Center at 517-278-3300 for registration information or reach out directly to Dr. Case-Blanchard at case-blanchardg@kellogg.edu.
For more local arts and community music opportunities across the Midwest, keep following ChicagoMusicGuide.com.