The Winnsboro Center for the Arts Community Choir will present its third annual Christmas Concert on Sunday, Dec. 6, 2:30 p.m. upstairs in the new Creative Learning Center building.

The performance will feature the adult ensemble and the debut of the children’s choir.

What began two years ago as a fledgling community music group in September 2024 has blossomed into a cultural heartbeat for the area.

Under the direction of Fran Leddy, the choir has expanded its ranks and is preparing for its upcoming third annual Christmas program.

When the community choir first formed, it brought together 20 to 25 singers. Through wordof-mouth and a welcoming approach to vocalists of all skill levels, the group grew to 30 members in its second year, and stands at 41 vocalists today.

Operating on a seasonal audition schedule that kicks off its fall and Christmas rehearsal cycles every September, Leddy has fostered an environment where experienced musicians and aspiring singers alike can participate. The repertoire blends sacred and secular pieces, elevated in the upcoming Christmas program by accompanying instrumentalists playing the cello and flute, and one 16-yearold vocalist.

“Bringing music into the life of people who thought they weren’t going to sing again, or who didn’t have an outlet, has been a big blessing,” Leddy said. “It gives a place for people to put that back into their lives.”

This season marks a milestone for the organization with the launch of its first children’s choir. Designed for students in grades four through seven, it has drawn 10 members in its first season.

Leddy, whose background includes decades of directing junior high, high school and church choirs, emphasizes proper vocal health and safe singing techniques. For young singers, joining the choir offers an introduction to harmony and performance.

Auditions for the winter and spring concert season are scheduled for the end of January, with spring performances planned in May