As the Hickory Choral Society continues to navigate choral singing in a pandemic, we’ve remained focused on what we can do to fulfill our mission of bringing quality choral music to the region and beyond. Although we are eager to resume in-person music making, we are grateful that our virtual performances have allowed us to connect with broader audiences and increased access to composers and singers. The May 9 concert will include another chapter in that effort by including a short video montage of HCS singers sharing the joys and trials of singing virtually during the past year.

Musically, the May 9 program will present three pieces recorded this spring. Subsets of the choir will be featured, including tenors and basses on “You Do Not Walk Alone” by Elaine Hangenberg. The listener will hear Celtic influence in her beautifully ethereal setting of this Irish blessing — music that the composer intends to “offer comfort in a time of uncertainty.” Then, sopranos and altos will offer J. David Moore’s “Will the Circle Be Unbroken,” an Appalachian folk song arrangement with bluegrass and Gospel elements. In recognition of Mother’s Day, this piece will be dedicated to mothers and all people responsible for passing music down to younger generations. The concert will conclude with the entire choir singing “You Will Never Walk Alone” from the musical Carousel. The text and music capture a spirit of camaraderie in an ensemble that has “walked on” during the past year despite the challenge of rehearsing while distanced. It also highlights the optimism we have for the future. We’ve felt you, our audience, walking alongside us in support this year, and we remain hopeful for a return to live performances this fall where we can express that gratitude in person.