"Be The Voice Of Peace" with me!

"May I use words of love and light and healing;

May they reflect the oneness of all life;

May they express the joy and wonder of my heart's own path;

And may they build a bridge of peace—that reaches 'round the world." -Janis Kelly

Dear Friends,

I am thrilled to invite each one of you to "lift your voice" with me as we kick off the 12th annual Season For Nonviolence (www.agnt.org). Hosted by the Foothill Center for Spiritual Living in Auburn, CA, "Be The Sound of Peace" is a choral workshop and culminating concert that will take place on Saturday, January 31 from 12:30-5:00 p.m. (workshop) and from 7:00-8:30 p.m. (concert). I am honored to be invited to serve as the director of this special event and hopeful that you will choose to join me as we endeavor to create a 50-voice mass gospel choir that comes together in a shared commitment to peace, love and unity--within our homes, our communities and, ultimately, our world.

As stated on the attached event flier, you do NOT need to be an experienced singer or choir member in order to participate in either the workshop or the concert; rather, you simply need to have a love of singing--especially soulful, gospel-infused music--and the desire to join with other like-minded souls in creating something of beauty and purpose. My intention is to bring together a wonderful cross-section of former and current students, choir members, colleagues and friends who make such beautiful music together that we decide to make it an annual event in a new location each year!

As for the concert repertoire, we will be drawing from a variety of influences, including South African freedom songs; popular classics such as "People Get Ready" and "Imagine;" rousing gospel standards such as "Oh Happy Day!" and "Hold On, Help Is On The Way;" and even some of my original choral arrangements. There will be ample solo opportunities, should you be interested, as well as the opportunity to take part in a small acapella ensemble (if you are a strong sight-reader).

I have assembled a c.d. that includes nearly all of the concert selections and is available NOW by request, as is printed music, although I will be teaching the workshop primarily from the aural tradition. (These are included in the cost of the workshop, as is your concert admission.) If you would like to make a reservation for the workshop and concert, please reply to this email or call me at (916) 873-4856. Please indicate at the time of your reservation that you would like a c.d. or printed music and I will arrange to get them to you in a timely manner. Also, please feel free to forward this email, along with the flier, to your own friends, family, neighbors, co-workers, etc. EVERYONE IS WELCOME!

Thank you for taking the time to read this invitation and to consider participating with this powerful and historical event. Remember, "Peace--deep peace--begins with me."

Peace, blessings & brilliance,

Janis Kelly
www.janis-kelly.com