Friends-in-a-Chord,  the ladies barbershop chorus at The Plantation, recently elected officers for  the 2010 - 2011 year, and they are as follows:

We are an active and fun women's barbershop chorus and always welcome new members.

Friends-In-A-Chord History

   Friends-In-A-Chord began in 1997, with a small group of twelve as a result of an article in the Plantation Times by Pris Bowman and Barbara Hakesley.  These are the Charter Members:  Marge Bennett, Jo Bisbee, Pris Bowman, Barb Fisher, Barbara Hakesley, Joan Hughes, Joyce Jesen, Pat Manassa, Jill Sharp, Cathi Thorsen, Lois Woods and Donna Yoder. 

The group began their rehearsals in early May of 1997 and rehearsed in a home for about six months before moving to The Manor. Since Cathi Thorsen had been a vocal instructor she began as director.  By the following fall, Joyce Jesen, who had a background in barbershop singing directed until 2003 when Joyce’s health prevented her to continue.  Bill McCord who had been directing a men’s barbershop chorus in Orlando agreed to direct Friends-In-A-Chord in 2003 and continues to lead these ladies. 

Out of the twelve original charter members, there are still seven ladies remaining in today’s chorus: Pris Bowman, Barb Fisher, Barbara Hakesley, Joan Hughes, Pat Manassa, Jill Sharp and Donna Yoder.  The chorus has grown to around 50, with several former “Sweet Adelines”, and has performed for a variety of audiences:  Plantation’s Tops group at Harbor Hills Country Club (first concert),  Yalaha German Bakery, LRMC North, Morrison United Methodist Church, Tavares Elks Club, Downtown Leesburg, Lake Port Square, Vic Embers, Hawthorne, Highland Lakes, Waterman Village, Mt Dora Christmas Walk, St James Episcopal Church, Fruitland Park Holy Trinity Church, Leesburg Women’s Club, several Plantation Village parties, part of the Plantation Choral Society’s Concerts twice a year, plus many many more. 

                                                   Commercials:

 The chorus is looking to expand the number of voices so, ladies, you are welcome to join us.  Rehearsals are scheduled from 1pm to 3pm each Tuesday afternoon at Hermitage Hall.  If you are interested please contact Bill McCord at 728-6625.

Friends-In-A-Chord is available to entertain your group with wonderful barbershop harmony, either at Plantation or off site.