The Upper Valley Women’s choir, a vibrant ensemble of women spanning multiple generations and backgrounds, is coming together once again with a shared purpose: to lift spirits through the power of music.
Led by director Heidi Pyper, the choir is preparing for its annual spring concert, themed “All Things Bright and Beautiful.” Pyper says the theme was carefully chosen to offer the community a sense of hope and encouragement.
“We just felt the need to have an uplifting concert that focuses on the things that are good in the world because it’s kind of a difficult world right now,” Pyper said.
The choir, founded in 1978, has performed annually ever since—missing only one year during the COVID-19 pandemic. Pyper, who has been involved with the group for more than 20 years, says what makes the choir special is the sense of unity it fosters.
“All these women are different ages, and in other settings you might not interact with each other. But in choir, we all just become girls,” Pyper said.
This year’s concert will also feature guest performances to enhance the evening’s musical experience. Talented harpists Kristin Moncayo and Jill Weaver will join the ensemble, along with several duets that promise to add richness and variety to the program.
“The main message we’re trying to share—and feel ourselves—is that regardless of what is happening in the world, there are so many good and wonderful things,” Pyper said. “We can focus on those things, celebrate them, and try to make the world more full of things that are bright and beautiful.”
The concert is Monday, May 12 at 7:30 p.m. in the Rexburg Tabernacle Civic Center. Admission is free, and donations are welcome.