River’s Bend Community Chorus returns, organizer aims for regional reach

Perry County learned on November 20, 2025 that Gregory DuPont is organizing the return of a community chorus under the new name River’s Bend Community Chorus. DuPont, who recently returned to the area, is taking early organizational steps and conducting community outreach to recruit singers and supporters. He envisions the chorus becoming regional in scope and has announced plans for two concerts annually, a spring concert in April and a holiday concert in early December.

The announcement signals a revival of local performing arts activity at a time when rural communities are seeking opportunities for social connection and collective creativity. Community singing has been linked in public health research to reductions in loneliness, improvements in mood, and strengthened social bonds. For Perry County, a chorus that draws singers from across the region can help bridge geographic isolation and create shared cultural experiences that benefit mental well being and community resilience.

Organizers are in the early stages of building membership, securing rehearsal space, and recruiting volunteers and financial supporters. Those details will determine how accessible the chorus will be to people across Perry County, including residents who face transportation challenges or caregiving responsibilities. Equitable outreach and affordable participation will be important to ensure the chorus serves a broad cross section of the community rather than a narrow segment.

Beyond individual benefits, a regional chorus can contribute to local economic activity by drawing audiences to performances and encouraging partnerships with schools, faith based organizations, and civic groups. It can also highlight gaps in arts funding and community infrastructure that local leaders may need to address. As DuPont moves from planning to implementation, collaboration with county agencies, arts councils, and health partners could expand the chorus impact and ensure supports for participants who face barriers to participation.

River’s Bend Community Chorus is at a formative stage, and residents interested in singing or supporting the ensemble were encouraged to follow local notices from Perry County News for updates. The chorus could become a meaningful civic asset, offering artistic expression alongside social and health benefits, if organizers and the broader community commit to inclusive practices and sustained support.