From Show Tunes to Pop

“You gotta love music,” Vern Schumacher, of the Hatboro-based County Choraliers, said. 

Schumacher began singing with this 54 year-old nonprofit in 2000. The 40-member group not only sings religious music, but also performs show tunes, classical, pop, contemporary and Broadway. Members are dedicated to rehearsing every Monday night at in Hatboro and performing concerts throughout the year.

Schumacher found himself on a path to County Choraliers when some members of his church decided to join. He also sings in other groups, including the Abington Oratorio Choir's Easter Concert. There's a lot to be learned from singing with different groups.

“You learn something all the time when it comes to music – different techniques," he said. "Each director has their own style and warm up.” 

The County Choraliers' song choices are diverse. Schumacher said the first half of their concerts begin with religious songs, then show tunes along with other “lite” music comprises the remaining performance. Schumacher admits that religious music requires more focus due to different timing and styles of the music.

While based in Hatboro, the County Choraliers is comprised of a mix of singers from all over Montgomery and Bucks counties.

Warminster resident Arlene Kushwara has been with the Choraliers for more than 20 years. She recalled joining out of a sheer love of singing. The joy for Kushwara comes not only from singing, but also from the social aspect of being around others who share the same interest.

“We have a lot of fun,” said Kushwara, adding humorously, “I've been with them this long, I'm not about to quit now.”

Understanding how busy people are now, Kushwara urges people to make time to enjoy the County Choraliers concerts. She said next year the group is planning a big celebration for its 55-year anniversary.

In addition to Kushwara, others have spent lots of time participating with the County Choraliers. Music Director William S. Burd Jr., of Bensalem, has been with the Choraliers since 1998. He is a general/choral music teacher with the Trenton Public School System. His choral history includes serving as the assistant and ensemble director of the Greater Trenton Choral Society and Minister of Music in various Pennsylvania and New Jersey churches.

Betty Sporer, accompanist for the County Choraliers, joined the group in 1995. Sporer, of Warwick Township, began playing piano at age 6 and has performed with churches in Northeast Philadelphia and Southampton.