Jack Lane remembers fondly the records that his father kept in their high-fidelity stereo cabinet. He reminisced about a specific recording of “Ol’ Man River” from the 1951 film adaption of the musical “Show Boat” that he would listen to as a child.
Years later, at 83, Jack helps bring that same musical nostalgia to seniors in the Arlington community in his role as producer of the St. Ann’s Chorale.
Founded by Josephine “Jo” Schuda and co-founded by Lane back in the 1990s, the chorale first started at St. Charles before shifting to St. Ann years later. Going into their 29th year, the chorale’s mission has been consistent: serving more than 10 nursing homes in the Arlington area with the gift of song. On Sunday evenings from March to May, the chorale practices for the four shows that they perform in the summer (one each weekend in June). Unlike the St. Ann’s choirs, the chorale focuses on non-religious choral pieces.
The chorale would not be possible, Lane said, without the efforts of chorale Director Chris Gunty, Assistant Producer for scheduling Deborah Morone and accompanying pianist Dee Divens. Lane as producer, keeps it all running from recruiting new members to unlocking the practice room at the parish for rehearsals.
This year’s theme for the performances is “Broadway” with a special focus on musicals from the 1960s. Songs will be taken from notable productions such as “Fiddler on the Roof” and “Anne of Green Gables.”
Lane explained more about the initiative to visit nursing homes emphasizing the enjoyment that comes from the community. “They enjoy the songs, songs they remember from years ago,” he said. The residents often tend to sing along during the chorale’s performances. He also said that visiting the homes “expands our singing repertoire,” as it is an opportunity to sing more “fun” music. “The chorale is a very open group,” he said. “There is variety to what we sing that may not be there with the regular choir.”
Lane’s drive to organize and manage, things that have been cultivated from past life experiences, have helped the chorale flourish. “I’m a person who enjoys planning,” he said. Before his retirement, he had worked for the federal government for 45 years, served in Vietnam as an Army officer 1965-68, and had worked for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers at the Humphreys Engineer Center. At the HEC, he enjoyed organizing pick-up soccer matches with people from Fort Belvoir and Quantico. Lane was also instrumental in organizing a seasonal chorus at the HEC that would sing carols in the lobbies during Christmastime.
As the St. Ann’s Chorale begins to approach its 30th year, Lane hopes the group will continue to grow. He encourages younger members to join the chorale to carry on the mission of singing fun, meaningful music. By bringing familiar melodies to residents of local nursing homes, the chorale provides more than entertainment — it creates moments of genuine connection and joy.
