Maria Aponte has performed in all 26 years of the event’s existence.
The Landings Chorus once again brought the community together in spectacular fashion with its “Music of America” concerts performed on March 31 and April 1. Musical director Lynn Cisky led the talented singers and musicians. The performances were filled with energy, nostalgia, and patriotism, leaving audiences smiling, singing, and already anticipating the next show.
Every selection was a crowd pleaser, weaving together beloved classics that spanned generations. A highlight of the evening was Maria Aponte, a cherished member who has performed throughout all 26 years of the Chorus’s existence. She earned applause and admiration by delivering a beautiful solo of “You’ll Never Walk Alone,” a gorgeous Rodgers and Hammerstein song first heard in the Broadway play “Carousel” in 1945.
The program sparkled with lively medleys featuring favorites from the late 1950’s and early 1960’s including “Poison Ivy,” “Charlie Brown,” “Love Potion Number 9,” “On Broadway,” and “Stand by Me.” These familiar tunes had audience members tapping their feet and singing along.
Lonza Bartlett, a fourth-generation lead singer for the Platters, captivated the audience with his soulful renditions of two of their classics, “Only You” and “Smoke Gets in Your Eyes.” His performance drew visible admiration from fellow chorus members, who smiled and nodded in appreciation of his remarkable talent.
Additional standout performances included Charlie McCoy’s soulful, plaintive rendition of “Shenandoah,” one of his favorite songs, and Ben Shelfer’s spirited “Love Revolution,” both of which showcased the depth and versatility of the group.
The patriotic portion of the concert found the audience participating with enthusiastic hand clapping and a shared sense of pride. The evening concluded with a powerful and unifying moment as the entire audience joined together in singing “God Bless America”, featuring a solo by Tim Dennison.
Behind the scenes and on stage, the musical excellence was undeniable.
The talents of guitarist Liz Welsh and pianists Sylvia Friedl and Joe Labuta, along with audio technicians, Joe Bavender, Jim Willis and Keith Belfiglio, elevated the performance to a professional level.
Every member of the chorus contributed to the joyful evening. The Landings community is fortunate to enjoy such extraordinary talent in our midst.
As the final notes faded and applause filled the room, one sentiment echoed throughout the audience – gratitude. One of the evening’s songs performed by soloist Mary Paulson perfectly captured the mood: “Thank You for the Music”. With such memorable performances now behind them, many are already looking forward to the next highly anticipated event – the annual Landings Chorus Christmas Concert.
Photos by Cathy Webb
