Two weeks after John Matthews moved to Northwest Arkansas from Shreveport, La., he saw a "help wanted" ad in the paper. The Bella Vista Men's Chorus was in need of a new musical director, and the longtime performer sent in a resume. A few weeks later, Matthews was hired.
He led the more than 35-year-running choral group for a spring performance and is preparing the men for a second round that takes place this weekend. In addition to a new leader, the chorus has several new members and a new old home. The chorus returns to the Bella Vista Community Church after a few years away because it holds a larger crowd, and the response to the group's first show under Matthews' leadership was so strong.
FAQ
Bella Vista Men’s Chorus:
‘Let’s Go to the Movies’
WHEN — 7:30 p.m. today & 3 p.m. Sunday
WHERE — Bella Vista Community Church in Bella Vista
COST — $10, available at Arvest Bank locations in Bella Vista
INFO — 268-5391 or bellavistamenschoru…
Matthews credits the enthusiasm to the talent he inherited.
"Most of the guys are retired professionals. I was floored at how really good this chorus is," he said.
The spring concert featured about 30 voices. This weekend's program, "Let's Go to the Movies," will feature about 45 voices performing classics from cinema. That's on purpose, and it's also a bit of a shift in philosophy, Matthews says.
"In the past few years, they've done some esoteric music. But not a lot of audience favorites. My aim is to make the chorus something to look forward to, and I'm going to start having themed concerts," he says.
The likely theme for the spring will be a night of gospel favorites. The group's other annual event is a Christmas show that will return later this year.
-- Kevin Kinder
NAN What's Up on 09/11/2015