Last week, Westmoreland County Public Schools was expecting a visitor who, unfortunately, had other places to be. Although scheduling conflicts kept Dr. Cheryl Davis from attending the School Board meeting, she still found time to speak with Superintendent Kathy Rice, introduce her to the Chesapeake Chorale, and provide donations to the schools.

The Chesapeake Chorale is best described as a non-auditioned community chorus founded in 1996. It has grown from 30 members to more than 100. Comprised of residents from both the Northern Neck and Middle Peninsula, this 501(c)(3) charitable organization has donated over $275,000 in equipment and funds to improve school facilities and music programs.

Its members include teachers, doctors, artists, lawyers, homemakers, retirees, and students. The doors are always open to additional singers.

Their season typically begins on the Monday after Labor Day and concludes with a series of Christmas concerts in early December, though they have performed at other times as well. They meet weekly at Grace Episcopal Church in Kilmarnock.

Revenue from concert ticket sales is donated to school music programs.

“They generously give their time and talent to enrich the Christmas season with the joy their music brings,” Rice said as she described the Chorale and the donations the group provided to support the development of the school division’s music programs.

Cople and Washington District Elementary Schools each received $100 for their music programs. Montross Middle School and Westmoreland High School each received two $100 checks—one for the band program and one for the chorus.

Although the Board was saddened that Dr. Davis couldn’t present the donations herself, they were deeply grateful to receive them.

“We certainly appreciate Dr. Davis and wish she could have been here,” said Chairman Ralph Fallin.