Sip n’ Song: It’s Time to Party in the Park

Grass Valley: InConcert Sierra and the Sierra Master Chorale present the third annual “Sip ‘n Song” at Pioneer Park on Saturday, October 12 from 3pm to 6:30pm.

InConcert Sierra and the Sierra Master Chorale had to reschedule the original July date for Sip ‘n Song due to extremely hot weather. Coincidentally, the SMC’s spring concerts were canceled in May because of a Covid outbreak and were rescheduled for the next month, on June 23, 2024.

“This group deserves a big community party after dealing with such unexpected obstacles. We’re ready to sing, dance, and just be together with our friends, families, and supportive community,” said Alison Skinner, SMC Music Director.

The rescheduled date in October will shift the focus from a lively summer vibe to a fun festive autumn celebration, with an afternoon of music, dancing, raffles, and community, all in support of the Sierra Master Chorale’s programs.

The audience can listen and dance to the music of “Sons of Boogie” and “Then Again,” with both bands featuring members of the Sierra Master Chorale.

“Sons of Boogie” delivers a lively mix of rockin’ blues and favorite nostalgic hits from the ’70s and ’80s. With smooth vocal harmonies and high-energy stage antics, their main goal is to get everyone up and dancing. Original members Dave McLellan (lead guitar) and Doug Morgan (bass), both former SMC singers, have been playing together since the late ’70s. In the early ’90s, they were joined by powerhouse drummer Kevin Woolard. In 1997, they welcomed the addition of lead vocalist and harp player Steve Mendoza (SMC tenor and ICS board member) and guitarist John Liron.

 “Then Again”  plays the music of the Beatles, Joni Mitchell, Simon & Garfunkel, Carole King, Fleetwood Mac, Crosby Stills and Nash, and more from the late 50s to the early 80s. The band includes SMC members Kathy Chastain (vocals, keyboard) and Steve Nicholson (vocals, bass guitar), along with James May (vocals, guitar) and Ben Schley-May (drums). With three-part vocal harmonies and classic songs, they infuse their performances with an infectious spirit of fun, inspiring audiences to dance and sing along.

Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and a picnic lunch or dinner; however, outside alcohol is not permitted. Freshly popped popcorn and treats from CoCo’s Lazy Dog Confectioners will be available for purchase, along with beer on tap from Grass Valley Brewery, kombucha from Gold Vibe Kombuchary, a selection of wines from Alta Sierra Wine Shop, and a variety of non-alcoholic beverages.

As this event is a fundraiser for the chorale, there will be exciting raffle prizes and additional playful ways to support the SMC. Bring the entire family; however, no pets are allowed.

The Sierra Master Chorale is a high-caliber community choir of auditioned singers who traditionally perform with the InConcert Sierra Orchestra. The chorale was founded in 2008 and is a program of the local nonprofit classical music organization, InConcert Sierra, which was founded in 1946.

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