Great Rivers Choral Society Plans Free Concert Series to Promote Connection
The Great Rivers Choral Society is bringing "Many Voices One Anthem" to Glen Carbon, Alton and Godfrey. Learn where to catch the free concerts and why the theme matters to its singers.
Great Rivers Choral Society Marks 25th Season with Three “Many Voices, One Anthem” Concerts
ALTON/GLEN CARBON/GODFREY - Community members across the Riverbend region can enjoy a unique choral concert this weekend.
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The Great Rivers Choral Society will present “Many Voices One Anthem” at 7 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 16, 2026, at New Bethel United Methodist Church in Glen Carbon; 3 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026, at First Presbyterian Church of Alton; and 3 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 18, 2026, at Godfrey First United Methodist Church. Singers Pat Stewart and Dennis Wilson look forward to sharing music with the community.
“The more we sing, the happier we are,” Wilson joked. “It’s been fun. It was life-changing for me.”
The concert will feature music ranging from pop tunes to gospel songs. Wilson and Stewart promise “a classic choral concert” that’ll be sure to hit all the right notes.
They added that it’s completely free to attend all Great Rivers Choral Society (GRCS) concerts. There will be an opportunity to give a freewill offering, which helps the organization pay for music and their pianist.
Stewart noted that this concert series’ theme, “Many Voices One Anthem,” feels especially important right now. Music Director Raynard Brown has noted that people are brought together by music, which is the aim of GRCS.
“We live in such a diverse world, but music is one common thread,” Stewart explained. “An anthem is not an anthem unless you have the distinct, unique voices that come together and make it so.”
This year marks the 25th anniversary of GRCS. Over the past few decades, the society has gained “quite a following” from people who enjoy choral music and want to support local musicians.
Wilson and Stewart, both longtime members, noted that the organization is always looking for more singers. The group rehearses at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesdays at Godfrey First United Methodist Church. They will begin practicing for their holiday concerts after this weekend.
Stewart and Wilson emphasized that you “don’t have to be a music major” to join and enjoy the experience. Some singers sight-read sheets of music, while others use practice tracks and learn the music by ear. Everyone is welcome and everyone has fun.
“We welcome all skill levels, from accomplished musicians to beginners,” Wilson said. “If you’re interested in singing, come see us.”
For the musicians, the concert will be a fun chance to share everything they’ve been working on. Stewart and Wilson promise “toe-tapping” music as they celebrate the choir’s 25th year in the community. They hope to welcome big audiences to each of the three performances for a fun hour of music.
“It brings such joy,” Stewart added. “Hear the beautiful anthems that we’re singing and just the camaraderie it creates, the vibe of community.”
For more information about the Great Rivers Choral Society, including how to join, how to support them, or additional concert dates, visit their official website.
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