News

Montcalm Community College’s Alumni & Friends Choir will present its fall concert “The Beatles” on Nov. 19 at 4 p.m. in the Activities Building on MCC’s Sidney campus. Admission to the concert is free. 

MCC Emeritus Performing Arts Coordinator Val Vander Mark said choir members have been talking about having a Beatles concert for quite a while now.  

“I realized that 1963 was the year the Beatles began to get popular, so I thought it was a great time to do a 60-year anniversary concert,” she said. “It turns out, with the new song they have just released, called ‘Now and Then,’ they are back in the spotlight, so it’s a great time to highlight their music right now.” 

Vander Mark said the choir will be singing 38 of their songs, including early ones and later ones, and many of the classics. 

There are 35 members in the choir. Kathy Jo VanderLaan and Jamee Gunn will be singing two duets with their guitars. The concert also will feature a few soloists including Larry Moss on “Revolution” and John Hoppough singing “Blackbird,” accompanied on guitar by Ken Crump. 

“Everyone knows at least one Beatles song, and I’m looking forward to delighting the audience with their favorites!” she said. “We’ll also be asking the audience to sing along at one point.” 

Concertgoers should brush up on their Beatles trivia because there will be a Beatles quiz. They are also welcome to wear 60s and/or Beatles attire, if they like. There will be a place for a great photo opportunity. 

A collection of non-perishable food items will be accepted for those wishing to contribute to benefit United Way of Montcalm and Ionia Counties.