SALISBURY, Md. - Church choirs from across Delmarva will strike a chord for a chance of a lifetime.
They're hoping to win big while sharing their faith during the Mountaire Communion of Choirs. Twenty-two choirs from Delaware and Maryland are competing this year.
Rev. Dean Defino who works at Trinity United Methodist Church in Salisbury, says the event is about more than just singing.
"(The community) is coming together for one purpose and that's really to worship the Lord," Rev. Defino said. "So it's more than just a competition. We see it as a great time in worshipping and giving praise to the Lord."
The tradition actually started 15 years ago when Mountaire created the "Gospel Talent Search."
Mountaire Spokesman Roger Marino said over the years, church choirs dropped out and only soloists competed. Marino said this new competition was a way for Delmarva to get back to its choral roots.
"To get away from an individual award we decided to do a 'Communion of Choirs,'" Marino said. "Which is a spiritual gathering."
Each group will have about 12 minutes to perform. Judges will check for tone, intonation, harmony, poise, personality and a unique presentation. And don't worry, we're told there won't be any dull moments.
"It won't be what I call tombstone singing," Marino laughed. "It'll be energetic."
The winning choir will not only take home bragging rights, but up to $5,000 in cash prizes. There is one new addition this year. Some participants will be selected and invited to join the "Delmarva Choir."
Organizers said the group will record a CD. Performances will be held at Trinity United Methodist Church in Salisbury.
They will run Thursday and Friday nights starting at 7 p.m., and Saturday morning starting at 9 a.m.
(Photo: WBOC)
