A special feature of the concert is that the chorus will be joined by music students from the Saugatuck Public Schools who will perform solos and in small ensembles as well as joining the chorus to sing "Seasons of Love" from the musical "Rent."

Directors Tim Heck and Nancy Plantinga are both professional music educators who have been working to turn this musical dream into a reality for several years.

Tim Heck is a nationally recognized choral director and clinician. He recently retired after teaching for 23 years in District 214 in Illinois, most recently at John Hersey High School, where he directed seven choirs including the award winning show choir, OnStage. Mr. Heck received his Bachelor of Science degree in Music Education from the University of Illinois and his Master of Music degree from Northeastern Illinois University. During his tenure with District 214, he was a four-time recipient of the "Outstanding Contributions to Education" Award.

Nancy Plantinga has a Master's Degree in Music Education. While teaching instrumental music in Illinois for 18 years, her band programs were received honors including a performance at the Kennedy Center for Performing Arts in Washington, D.C. She was awarded the Outstanding Music Educator's Award as well as being awarded "Outstanding Teacher" while teaching in Naperville, Illinois.

This dynamic collaboration of multi-aged and faceted singers, music directors/teachers, accompanists performing a wide variety of choral literature will make this afternoon a musical delight!