Boychoir hires new director; sets concert

VW independent/submitted information

The Van Wert Area Boychoir has hired Van Wert native Scott Turner as its new choir director for the upcoming season and has begun weekly rehearsals for its spring performance

“I am excited to share music with the young students of my hometown,” the new director said. “To serve them in this capacity is a blessing.”

Turner is a music educator, instrumentalist, and composer now residing in Defiance. He currently serves as K-12 music director, choral director, and National Honor Society advisor for Ayersville Local Schools. 

Since 2015, Turner has also served as a summer assistant organist at First United Methodist Church in Van Wert. He maintains an active schedule as pianist, clarinetist, and organist. Turner has a Bachelor of Music Education degree from The Ohio State University and is a 2013 graduate of Van Wert High School. 

The new director noted that he was excited to work with the young Boychoir members, and pleased with their desire to learn and perform.

“I am continually surprised by these young men’s enthusiasm for singing,” Turner said. “This speaks not only to the value of music in their households, but also to the quality of music education in Van Wert county,”

The Van Wert Area Boychoir is open to all Van Wert area boys in grades 1-6. The mission of the choir is to provide opportunity for boys of all backgrounds and abilities to participate in a quality musical, cultural, and educational experience. There is no cost to participate in the choir.

Rehearsals are being held from 4:30-5:45 p.m. each Wednesday in the choir room of Trinity United Methodist Church. Melissa Clay serves as the boychoir’s accompanist and Larry Taylor is its arranger and technical director. 

Families with boys interested in singing with the choir can get more information by calling 419.513.0554 or 419.238.1962, or attending an upcoming rehearsal to meet the director. 

The spring concert is scheduled for 2 p.m. Sunday, May 17. More concert details will be provided to each participating family.

The boychoir is funded through donations from local individuals and area businesses, Van Wert Rotary Club, Van Wert Service Club, and a grant from the Van Wert County Foundation.