By Allison Peck | North Platte Post/Sandhills Post
Listen to the full interview with Michael Douty on our Kubota Podcast Page
NORTH PLATTE — A holiday tradition nearly four decades in the making returns this weekend as the Heartland Singers present their annual Christmas concert, entitled "This Christmas", on Sunday, December 7 at 3 p.m. The performance will be held at First Evangelical Lutheran Church in North Platte, a venue the choir has embraced for its intimate setting and close connection with the audience.
Now in its 39th year, the Heartland Singers continue to bring choral music to the community with the same spirit that inspired their founding. Charter member Michael Douty—one of only a few still performing since the group launched—says the concert remains a beloved kickoff to the holiday season for many local families.
“People often tell us this concert is their opening segue into Christmas,” Douty said. “We’ve done it so long that it’s become part of their tradition.”
This year’s program blends traditional carols with contemporary holiday arrangements. Highlights include Andrea Bocelli’s “The Greatest Gift,” chosen for its rich harmonies, and a “Medieval Christmas Fantasy” filled with madrigal-inspired sounds. A special nod to the anniversary of Pearl Harbor will also be featured through the “Irving Berlin Christmas” selection.
The choir performs under the direction of Chrisanne Bailey, whose emphasis on intention and energy helps shape the group’s sound each season. Accompanist Jennifer Smallcomb—known throughout the community—will also be featured on flute during a Silent Night/Away in a Manger arrangement, accompanied by Dr. Janet Evans on piano. Percussionist Julie Jong will join the ensemble as well.
While the music continues to evolve, the choir itself is in a rebuilding phase. Once boasting more than 70 members, the group now performs with around 30 to 35 singers, including just four tenors. Douty notes that COVID-19 took a toll on membership, and busy schedules often make participation difficult. As a result, the Heartland Singers are actively seeking new voices, especially men, with auditions expected in January for the spring concert cycle.
Rehearsals take place Sunday evenings for eight weeks leading up to each performance. “It’s really not a heavy time commitment,” Douty said. “Two hours a week—and we work hard during those two hours.”
Sunday’s concert is free to attend, with freewill donations accepted. Contributions help cover costs for the director, accompanist, and increasingly expensive sheet music licensing. In past years, Douty said, donations have even outperformed traditional ticket sales.
To stay updated on future auditions and performances, the public can visit the choir’s website at heartlandsingernp.org or find the group on Facebook by searching Heartland Singers (North Platte). The website includes rehearsal materials, practice parts, and archived programs.
For those concerned about accessibility, Douty emphasizes that the church’s elevator will be available and staffed. "Don’t let the steps deter you," he said.
As the Heartland Singers approach their 40th anniversary, their mission remains unchanged—sharing music, community, and holiday spirit year after year.