Choir brings harmony to Broken Arrow Senior Center

A newly added class at the Broken Arrow Senior Center is bringing harmony to its hallways. The choir goes by the name of 'The Sound of Broken Arrow' and was founded at the center last April.

The Sound Was Born

The idea came about over tea as old friends, Norma Browning and Debbie Berndt, caught up and shared stories of their days teaching choir. Both said they missed the camaraderie, musical skill sharpening, fellowship, and fun of a choir. Turns out, others felt the same, because once they started rehearsing at the Broken Arrow Senior Center, 20 people signed up for class. "We have got a choir director, we have got former organists, we have quite a few people that have never sung before and they do not read music, and this choir is for all of them," Berndt said.

Classroom to Community

The Sound of Broken Arrow meets on Wednesdays in the east building of the Broken Arrow Senior Center. The class is from 1-2:30 p.m. and is included in the membership. The choir started out performing for the other members, but now visits local assisted living facilities, city council meetings, and community events. "We call them popcorn performances and sometimes we even take popcorn with us," said Berndt. "It is just to pop in and say we appreciate you, thank you for being our friend."

Join the Choir

A membership to the Broken Arrow Senior Center is $40 a year for city residents and $50 for non-residents. There are more than 100 classes available to members weekly as well as a fitness center and cafeteria. You must be 55 or older to become a member. Choir member Lisa Everley said she participates in several of the activities to stay active and meet new people. "If you are just kind of sitting there lonely, just get out there and jump in," she continued. "You will be surprised because you can participate any way you want to."

For more information, visit the center's website.