Many however, are more interested in each other’s outfits than the program agenda. “I love your shoes; they match,” said one little blonde.
“I can’t believe you found that skirt,” said another, “You’re killing me, it’s soooo cute.”
But friendship and fellowship are just as important as the songs themselves in this cluster of musical enthusiasm, and Director Joyce Moxin knows it.
“They are just a wonderful group of kids,” said Moxin. “They sing their hearts out and they love it. It’s all a lot of fun.”
Now in their second year, the Promise Singers are comprised of children ages 6 through 11 who meet once a week to mingle and sing.
Moxin, a music teacher in the Byron Union School District, founded the program as a way for children to express themselves in a comfortable and companionable atmosphere. And although the program is held at the Delta Community Presbyterian Church, it’s open to voices of all denominations.
“This is a non-audition choir, and everyone is welcome,” said Moxin. “It’s just a nice way for the kids to create and hold onto the music, especially in a time when music programs are sometimes cut out of the schools. This gives them another place to go.”
While decidedly non-professional, the ensemble’s voices are sweet, strong and clear. With toes tapping and hands clapping, the chorus moves from song to song, under the gentle direction of Moxin, hitting their high notes with unexpected expertise.
Summer Ross, 7, agrees: “We sound good and it’s fun, but sometimes it’s hard, too, because we sing all kinds of songs and we have to remember them.”
Jason Phoebus, 8, enjoys the experience “because we kind of do a lot of singing and acting.”
“I just like to sing songs,” said Molly Cunningham, 7.
This, of course, is the reason they come together. “All they need to be here is a desire and willingness,” said Moxin. “That’s what we’re all about.”
The Discovery Bay Promise Singers will perform their Christmas Concert at the Delta Community Presbyterian Church on Dec. 16 at 4 p.m. All are welcome.
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