Concert to feature Paul Smith, internationally acclaimed music educator and co-founder of VOCES8; the VOCES8 North American Scholars; members of the St. Andrew Chancel Choir; and audience participation

 St. Andrew United Methodist Church invites the community to a free concert featuring the VOCES8 North American Scholars, which consists of 12 young singers (2 from Texas) at the beginning of their careers; Paul Smith, internationally acclaimed music educator and co-founder of VOCES8, the award-winning British vocal ensemble; and members of the St. Andrew Chancel Choir, on Sunday, September 30, from 4 – 5 p.m. in the narthex at St. Andrew, 5801 W. Plano Parkway, Plano, 75093. The event will also include audience participation games and improvisations.  Additionally, the evening will feature the U.S. premiere of Smith’s musical story, “A New World.” This concert is free and open to the public.

Throughout this week, the VOCES8 scholars are studying the VOCES8 Method, a unique teaching tool, with Paul Smith at St. Andrew. Smith, who created the VOCES8 Method, implements it around the world as a clinician and conductor and head of the VCM Foundation (http://vcm.foundation/). This concert is the culmination of the group’s week-long coaching session with Smith.

“St. Andrew is excited to host Paul and this talented group of scholars this week,” said Taylor Davis, director of music and worship arts, St. Andrew United Methodist Church. “This is our second year to help launch the scholar's season, and we plan to be the home for this launch each fall – with Paul and scholars working in the community as music educators on behalf of the church.”

No reservations are required to attend this free event.

“We hope the community will join us on this enjoyable Sunday evening,” added Davis. “The interactive portion of the concert provides lessons in rhythm, patterns and melody that are unexpectedly fun.  Because they are improvisational, all are completely unique to each audience.”

St. Andrew United Methodist Church began more than 30 years ago in the spirit of its namesake, a disciple of Jesus. The life of the Apostle Andrew embodies the church's mission, which is to invite the Christian-ish and the unchurched to become passionate servants of Christ. St. Andrew is a congregation of people who follow Jesus, live in relationship, serve others, and take risks in faith. Worship includes four services each weekend on a 21.2-acre campus at the corner of Plano Parkway and Mira Vista in Plano, Texas, where nearly 2,000 people gather each weekend. The church has been repeatedly selected as a "Best Place to Worship in Plano” by the readers of the Plano Star Courier. Groups gather on campus and throughout the region seven days a week, including small group and Bible studies; a renowned music ministry; service through missions such as The Storehouse of Collin County, providing services to qualifying Collin County residents to help escape the poverty cycle; 4 Corners Global Outreach, reaching remote villages needing medical care; Career Care, a workforce assistance program; and more. St. Andrew United Methodist Church is located at 5801 W. Plano Parkway, Plano, Texas  75093.  Visit www.standrewumc.org; call 972-380-8001.