Lighthouse Chorus to offer free singing lessons

NILES — The Michiana Metro Lighthouse Chorus, a local men’s a cappella chorus, will be offering free singing lessons on six consecutive Thursday evenings starting Jan. 3, 2019 and ending Feb. 7, 2019.

Those interested do not have to read music to participate.  The Lighthouse Chorus recommended this opportunity to anyone who can carry a tune, sing in the shower or along with a radio. Science has proven that with proper instruction and practice, anyone can learn to sing.   

The singing lessons will be presented by Gene Hanover, director of the Lighthouse Chorus. Hanover has been a professional voice teacher and instructor for more than 30 years. Each session will run from 6:45 to 8:30 p.m. at the Grace United Methodist Church, 501 Grant St., Niles. The lessons are open to anyone in the Michiana area and will be presented in a warm, friendly atmosphere appropriate for both beginners and experienced singers who want to review the fundamentals of singing. 

Each lesson will provide 45 minutes of instruction on the basics of singing in a cappella style.  After that, singers will get to stand on the risers and learn some songs with the Lighthouse Chorus. All necessary materials will be provided free of charge.

Registration for the course is limited, so people are encouraged to reserve a place in the class immediately by calling Bruce Nurton at (269) 663-8867 or Tom Sackett at (269) 463-3778.

Kindle Your Christmas Spirit to take place in downtown Berrien Springs

BERRIEN SPRINGS — Downtown Berrien Springs will host a Kindle Your Christmas Spirit celebration from 6 to 9 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 6.

The downtown streets will be closed for people to enjoy strolling from store to store, live music, ice carving, horse drawn carriage rides and tram rides down to Grove Park and back. Tram rides will also travel from the public library to downtown. 

Additionally, the 1839 courthouse complex will be open. There will be a live nativity, Christmas tree lighting ceremony with hand bell choir, face painting, children’s crafts, treats, specials in the stores and more. Mr. and Mrs. Santa Claus will be located at the Village Hall.