Singing a new tune

Suzie Harrison

As a haven for the arts Laguna has its art festivals, community

theater and a community band. But three locals decided something

important was missing and decided to gather the troops and form a

community chorus.

Not long after Roxanna Ward, Pat Kollenda and Lisa Morrice thought

of the idea, LagunaTunes was born.

Ward, who is well known for her talent and sharp wit, thought of

the name and brought aboard a friend to co-direct, voice coach

Christin Cornell. The idea was born in February and started gestating

in April with the first official concert in June for the high

school’s Baccalaureate ceremony.

“Our new community chorus is an expression of joy and typical of

the talent, energy and creativity of Laguna Beach,” Ward said.

Kollenda said that they thought it would be a fun addition to the

community.

“So many people love to sing and entertain,” Kollenda said. “We

brought in Christin, having two directors is just phenomenal.”

She pointed out Ward’s amazing humor and both directors’

experience with different types of -- Cornell specializes in more

classical pieces.

The chorus practices every Tuesday night. At a recent rehearsal

the group was preparing for an upcoming concert on Dec. 7 with the

Community Concert Band. It will also be strolling and singing carols

during Hospitality Night on Dec. 5.

“The music Roxanna has is some real fun stuff and there will be

some serious songs too,” Kollenda said. “Our concert will vary from

pop, to musical comedy to spiritual and holiday favorites. We’ll be

performing all types -- there’s something for everyone.

Starting out small, LagunaTunes is constantly growing. Now there

are about 30 members, but they encourage anyone to join and are

especially in short supply of male singers.

LagunaTunes gives the opportunity for people to sing in parts and

people of all abilities are welcome. One doesn’t have to know how to

read music to be a part of LagunaTunes.

Ages range from ninth-grade students to people in their 70s and

80s.

“It’s a great blend, it works great,” Cornell said. “The young

people are really mature and add a lot. I think the young people

enjoy singing with the older people -- and the older people get

energy from the students.”

She said the blend adds to the sense of community.

Marisa Reisman, 17, is part of LagunaTunes and said there are

about six high school students that are part of the chorus.

“Roxanna Ward is the high school choir director and she encouraged

whoever wanted to be a part to sing,” Marisa said.

Marisa, who is a senior, would ordinarily be in the school choir

but time does not permit it.

“It gives another opportunity to sing and practice music,” Marisa

said. “There is a wide range of talent levels and experience levels,

which adds to it the diversity.”

She said it is a great opportunity to learn music and vocal

techniques and has a wonderful dynamic.

“I think the concert will be fun for sure,” Marisa said. “I love

singing and performing. What good experience.

The concert is from 5 to 6 p.m. Dec. 7 at the Neighborhood

Congregational Church at 340 St. Ann’s Dr. LagunaTunes and the Laguna

Community Concert Band will join forces performing a free Christmas

concert. For more information, call (949) 494-8119.