Welcome Night: New Women's Chorus Launch in Ruston

A new melody is rising in Ruston as Southern A'Chord, a women's community a cappella chorus, announces its formation and invites area residents to a harmonious beginning. The group will host a Welcome Night on Thursday, Sept. 12, at 6:30 p.m. in the fellowship hall of the Presbyterian Church of Ruston, 412 N. Bonner.

Chorus leaders say Southern A'Chord's purpose is to bring music to the community and to provide a place for women to enjoy and grow their musical skills. All women who have a love for singing are encouraged to attend the recruitment event. It will provide a chance to meet the director and fellow singers, discover more about the chorus's mission and upcoming activities, and experience the delight of singing in a group. With a repertoire that spans pop, patriotic, gospel and holiday, Southern A'Chord offers a sound that resonates with diverse audiences. As a new non-profit organization, the chorus has a roster of 14 members from multiple parishes. Regular rehearsals are held Thursdays from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at the same location as the guest night. Visitors and singers from other groups are welcome any time. Southern A'Chord is not yet affiliated with any other organizations but would like to partner with local arts and community groups to serve North Louisiana, its leaders say. One of the chorus goals is to do community service outreach. Director Candice Bassett, of Grayson, has extensive a cappella chorus training and background, having earned a director's certification and international medals with other singing groups. Assistant Director Lynette Murphy, of Choudrant, is the choir director and piano teacher for Ruston High School and serves as worship leader for First Baptist Church in Choudrant.

For more information concerning either membership or booking a performance, visit the website southernachordchorus.org or the Facebook page Southern A'Chord Chorus, or contact Murphy at 501-318-8701.