Valley Soul Returns: Community, Harmony, and Purpose in Song

The Valley is alive with music once again. On Tuesday evening, about 50 residents (including me!) gathered for the first of six rehearsals of Valley Soul, the region’s volunteer gospel choir. Over the next several weeks, voices from across Ansonia, Derby, Seymour, Shelton, Oxford, Beacon Falls, and Naugatuck will come together to prepare for the annual concert on December 9 at the Church of the Good Shepherd in Seymour.

A Choir with a Mission

Valley Soul began as a way to unite the community through the power of music. Organized with support from Griffin Health and led by Angela Clemmons, a seasoned performer and vocal director, the project blends gospel, soul, and holiday music in an inclusive, joyful atmosphere.

Unlike professional ensembles, Valley Soul is open to anyone—no auditions required. Participants learn by ear, with guide tracks provided, making it easy for singers of all levels to contribute. The result is something bigger than individual voices: a full-bodied, uplifting sound that reflects the spirit of the Valley.

Beyond music, Valley Soul has a purpose. The modest $25 registration fee and donations collected at the concert benefit TEAM, Inc., the Valley’s community action agency supporting local families. The choir is also underwritten by the President’s Fund at Griffin Hospital, underscoring its role as a gift of gratitude to the community.

Coming Back to the Choir

For some singers, this is their first Valley Soul season. For others—like me—it’s a return. I sang in the inaugural choir years ago, and this season marks my first time back.

As someone who sang in concert choir all four years of high school but now only sings at home or the occasional karaoke night, I felt both rusty and exhilarated. But what struck me most was how quickly strangers became companions in song. Within just a couple of hours, we sounded like a true choir.

I knew a handful of people already, but when parts were assigned, I found myself sitting next to new friends. That, in many ways, is the essence of Valley Soul: connection through harmony.

Looking Ahead

The six rehearsals will build toward the free community concert on December 9, open to all. More than just a performance, it’s a night designed to lift spirits, celebrate togetherness, and raise funds for TEAM’s work in the Valley.

Valley Soul is a reminder that music has the power to bridge divides. It doesn’t matter whether you’re a seasoned singer or someone dusting off their vocal cords for the first time in years—what matters is showing up, joining in, and letting your voice add to the whole.

This December, as Valley Soul takes the stage, it won’t just be a choir that the audience hears. It will be the sound of community—resilient, joyful, and in harmony.