Rhythm of the Rockies is a chorus of energetic, enthusiastic women who sing 4-part a cappella harmony. Our members come to us not as trained singers but as women from all walks of life and of all ages who share a passion for singing. We are "ordinary voices making extraordinary music". Movement and dance helps us tell the stories we sing. Our repertoire includes a wide range of a cappella songs - jazz, swing, modern classics, as well as traditional barbershop arrangements.
We love to perform! We produce our own shows and sing in public venues for a variety of clients. To hone our vocal skills we also participate in an annual regional competition. We belong to an international sisterhood of over 27,000 a cappella singers called "Sweet Adelines International", "a worldwide organization of women singers committed to advancing the musical art form of barbershop harmony through education and performance". The opportunities for friendship and camaraderie, travel and personal growth are limitless.
Rhythm of the Rockies Chorus was formed in June, 2001 by 7 dedicated singers who wanted a fresh and exciting approach to a cappella singing, and became a chapter of Sweet Adelines in April, 2002. Over the years we've sung everywhere from street corners to concert halls - and everything in between. We've set high goals and achieved them. We've brought home first place gold medals in our division ... twice! We've grown to over 50 members and always welcome that new face on the risers.
Our mission is to offer top quality, eclectic a cappella entertainment. Perhaps you would like to join us in this quest...
Our director's passion for harmony singing gives Rhythm of the Rockies its reputation for energy and enthusiasm. Since 1985, Mary Hagar has been a member of three different choruses and several quartets. Mary has had everything from piano and voice lessons to music education courses, but, says Mary "I've received much more useful information on all the elements of singing well from Sweet Adeline courses and coachings than from any other source". What great experience she brings! Mary has been a vocal production coordinator, show chair, script writer/producer, Management Team member, Regional Education Faculty member, choreographer, assistant director, and since 1999, a director. She has directed choruses in every situation from street performances to medal winning competitions. "I love teaching and performing and Rhythm has allowed me free reign to pursue both passions", she says.
Mary's energy and enthusiasm are contagious. Every Rhythm of the Rockies rehearsal is filled with music, energy and laughter.
Our Choreographer Jo-Anne Killips has had a love affair with singing, dancing and music, in general, since she can remember. Her training in dance and classical piano also comes in handy at her day job as a kindergarten teacher. Jo-Anne discovered her passion for a cappella harmonies and the phenomenon known as Sweet Adelines in 1992 and since then she has held positions on Management and Music Teams, has worked as Assistant Director, and has been a member of various performance and competing quartets. Her love of dance and musical theatre lured her to become a choreographer over 12 years ago. She has planned and taught visual performance to two choruses and has coached others in the craft. Jo-Anne is currently choreographer, baritone section leader and assistant director for Rhythm of the Rockies. Her creative visual plans for the chorus are always exciting, innovative and fun.
Jo-Anne truly believes that this art form enriches the lives it touches.