By Deacon Sal Lema
It has been five years since the Sounds of the Southwest Singers appeared at our parish. There was this little thing called a pandemic that through most everything off. But thanks to the Knights of Columbus the group was invited to return for this year.
Upon entering the community center, you are struck with this body of singers that cover the stage from one end to other and from top to the floor. By my count there were over 75 singers not counting the accompaniment musicians. And they were dressed alike with red tops and a scarf. Even their belts matched!
This concert was a tribute to Veterans, so right from the beginning when you walked in and received a flag and were encouraged to wave it whenever you felt like it you knew something special was about to happen. Fr. Willaims brought the crowd to a quiet moment with an opening prayer. As the concert began, we were asked to stand as the Sun City Posse presented the colors, and we listened to the Star-Spangled Banner, which was followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. What a beginning! you could feel the excitement building inside the community center. Flags began waving and there were plenty of times in which you would stand up and proudly wave your flag! Throughout the event!
Honoring those that served in the armed forces was a major part of the show. Present and former military were asked to stand during the songs. It was a proud moment for me as I stood during the Navy’s Anchors Away, and other service members stood as each song representing their branch of the service was played.
It was a patriotic event to be sure. But of course, saving the best part for last was the singers themselves and their illustrious founding director Matt Deller, whose presentation was a wonderful tribute to veterans and our great country. All the songs were delightfully orchestrated. At times throughout the presentation, you could hear toes tapping and the audience singing along. It was also a time of reflection, a time to remember and time to be grateful.
Before the end, a free will offering was taken to be shared with the Sounds of Southwest Singers and Operation Veteran Hope. As the last song was played an original of the Southwest singers Called, “Take the Music with You,” we all listened and cherished taking the music with us home.
