“Music, whether performing or listening, always brings back fond memories,” says Claus Bacher, who volunteers as the director of the Men’s Choir at Concordia Village, a Lutheran Senior Services Life Plan Community in Springfield, Illinois.
The Men’s Choir is a dedicated group of 10 men who meet weekly to sing together. Claus, whose parents have resided at Concordia Village for more than a decade, leads the group.Some members have extensive vocal performance experience, while others are new to music. “They have various backgrounds, but we all enjoy the ability to come together and sing
traditional songs,” says Claus.
The group focuses on an a cappella format, primarily “barbershop” style, in which there are vocals and no musical accompaniment. Their repertoire includes songs that were popular in the early 1900s, such as “Let Me Call You Sweetheart,” as well as more recent songs such as, “Love Me Tender.” They select songs that they believe other older adults will know and enjoy. “Often times audience members sing along or at least mouth the words as we sing,” says Claus.
Claus was recruited as the choir leader by a resident. “He heard I was knowledgeable about a cappella music. When I learned we had a whole group of guys who wanted to sing, I was 100% in!”
Music provides a powerful way to connect people. “In past years, we had a member of the choir who had progressing memory loss. But his ability to sing remained tremendous,” says Claus.
Recently, the Men’s Choir performed at each of the various neighborhoods of Concordia Village to showcase their skills and provide some fun. They were a hit! “It is so wonderful to see that the men’s efforts are enjoyed,” says Claus. The choir’s strong connection with each other is a reflection of the entire Concordia Village community as a whole, where friendships are forged
and residents support each other’s endeavors.
They were so popular they are thinking of taking their show on the road! “We recently have expanded to sing at a local senior community,” says Claus. “It was a great experience, and we may look for more opportunities to do that.”
What’s next for the Men’s Choir? “We will be working on putting together a Christmas repertoire,” said Claus. The Men’s Choir looks forward to helping Concordia Village residents, and perhaps residents of other nearby communities, celebrate the season in song.
Jacque Bogner, Concordia Village Executive Director, says, “The men really enjoy the camaraderie from making music together. And then when they get to share the music with others, everyone wins!”
