Lads and Lasses of Enchantment in 2018 at United Church of Los Alamos. Courtesy photo
By Bernadette Lauritzen
Los Alamos
The time of year has arrived when a true lover of love may decide to throw caution to the wind and send a Valentine that really sets the tone of their affection.
If that person is you, either because you are extremely behind, you really want to find the perfect gift or want a surprise that is high-brow, have we got the idea for you.
You can send a spectacular, well-dressed, one of a kind a capella Valentine. A capella is another name for a special kind of singing done by some very special local talent. So, how can you help a local starving artist? Well, first of all, if only starving for attention, you can also save the planet with no gas up-charge for a gift that originates right in the community. Plus, it keeps Three Nice Guys off the streets, well technically on the streets, but we can discuss that more later.
Maurice Sheppard, is the supreme leader of an incredible group of lads and lasses, known and the Lads and Lasses of Enchantment. The awesome a capella chorus has been sidelined for the last three years by a little thing called COVID. Now as life still begins to resume some normality, a LA LOE quartet would like to make the rounds by delivering singing Valentines to your sweetheart or someone who needs a boost to their heart. If you want to donate one, I will make sure they have a list of names on hand.
“A capella, close harmony is my favorite music,” Sheppard said. “A fun, supportive group that loves to sing with each other, cares for each other like family and accepts anyone.”
While the group, according to Maurice is not worried about winning a competition, they strive for continuous improvement and to be the best. If the community is lucky, we may even see the return to a live show in 2023.
The choir sings a range of different songs, including patriotic songs, gospel music, country music, pop music, occasional Broadway musical numbers, Christmas carols and plenty of those good old traditional, “Barbershop tunes”. The opportunity to join is open to everyone, just contact a member or President John Baillie for more information.
The Valentine quartet will deliver some enchanting, golden, melodious tones on Valentine’s Day. The dynamite delivery will be handled by The Three Nice Guys. Yes, while of course a quartet is comprised of four, the greater community is left to guess which one of the four isn’t quite so nice. They all must be pretty grand though because they are willing to sing to anyone, for a fee. Their self-reported “sappy delivery” includes love songs and a rose, wherever you want them and/or it is legal to go.
The fee is $50, but helps the larger chorus pay for a variety of costs throughout the year. If lady luck shines down one of those fees is for a winning quartet that travels to New Mexico as a headliner for the local show.
So don’t waste too much time pondering what is already a vivacious Valentine, call to schedule your seranade today at 505.662.9127 or 505.672.5049. Those interested in knowing more about joining can call John Baillie at 505.660.0484.
