The new Orcas Peace Chorus will have its first gathering on Monday, Sept. 24, at the Emmanuel Episcopal Parish Hall in Eastsound. Led by Orcas Island residents and musicians Michael Hurwicz and Sharon Abreu, the chorus will sing songs from around the world that express and envision peace and help people feel more peaceful in themselves.

“We’ll do songs to buoy us up and give us hope, songs of longing, and songs that are just fun,” said Abreu.

The Orcas Peace Chorus is an all-inclusive, no-audition community choir. All voices are welcome. No singing experience is required.

“We’ll come together to sing in harmony for personal, local and global transformation. We’ll sing to open our hearts, re-enchant our spirit, and connect with each other,” said Hurwicz.

There will be a free introductory session on Monday, Sept. 24, from 7-9 p.m. for people to experience some of the songs and singing together, and see if this is for them. After that, the group will meet six more times at the Emmanuel Parish Hall from 7–9 p.m. on Thursdays, Oct. 4 and 11, and Nov. 8, and Mondays, Oct. 15, 22 and 29. On Sunday, Nov. 11 (Veterans Day/Armistice Day), from 3–5 p.m., the group will share some songs with the community.

There is a suggested donation of $50 to $100 for all seven sessions. Give as you are able. Scholarships are available. Hurwicz and Abreu are graduates of the Community Choir Leadership Training which takes place each year in Victoria, British Columbia. For more info, contact Michael Hurwicz or Sharon Abreu at 360-376-5773 or orcaspeacechorus@gmail.com. Also see http://www.orcaspeacechorus.org.