The results of seven weeks of choir practice will be heard in the VPAC theater at 7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 8. The fall concert will feature the college’s three choirs, the Concert Choir, the Chamber Singers and the Symphonic Community Choir.

Music Professor Ronald Staton said the groups have been practicing about three times a week since the beginning of the semester.

The songs being performed will be Christian hymns and a few jazz pieces such as “Til There Was You” by Meredith Wilson and “A Day in the Life of a Fool” by Paris Rutherford.

Training students to be better vocalists is something Staton takes pride in.

“I enjoy taking students from where they are now and setting the standard higher and watching them grow, achieve and develop the talents that they have,” Staton said.

The Chamber Singers are comprised of 21 voices and students must audition to join.

The Concert Choir is comprised of 25 voices and is available to any students who want to enroll.

The Symphonic Community Choir is comprised of 90 voices and open to anyone in the community who wants to sing.

Concert admission is free.

Vocalist Casey Shirk is a member of the Chamber Singers. She said she has been in choir since her mom signed her up in eighth grade. Casey attended Norman High School and her major is Music Education.

When asked about Professor Staton’s role in the choir, Shirk said his part is vital.

“He listens to us and tells us how to blend as a group,” Shirk said. “He teaches us how to listen to each other so that we are all aware of what we are doing.”

Shirk said singing in a group is a great way to build teamwork skills and boost self-confidence. She said she would recommend it to anyone who wants to work with great people and improve their musical talents.

For more information on the choirs offered at OCCC, contact Staton at rstaton@occc.edu.