Who We Are

Founded in 1996 by Martha Weathers Brown, Voices in the Laurel began as a local community children’s choir and has grown into a thriving organization serving both youth and adult singers throughout Western North Carolina. Today, our singers come from Haywood, Buncombe, Jackson, Macon, and Swain counties, united by a shared love of singing and community.

Youth Choirs
Our youth choirs welcome singers from 1st through 12th grade, providing a fun and engaging environment where young people can develop their musical skills and confidence. These ensembles focus on building strong foundations in vocal technique, music literacy, and ensemble performance while exploring a wide range of choral repertoire—from classical works to contemporary pieces. Beyond music, our youth choirs nurture teamwork, creativity, and a lifelong appreciation for the arts, helping young singers grow into confident and expressive individuals.

Adult Choir
Our adult choir provides opportunities for singers of all ages to continue or rediscover their love of choral music. This ensemble explores a wide range of repertoire, from classical masterworks to contemporary compositions, allowing singers to deepen their musical understanding and experience the joy of collaborative performance. The adult choir also fosters connection and community, bringing together people who share a passion for music and the unique experience of raising their voices together in harmony.

At Voices in the Laurel, artistic excellence and personal growth go hand in hand. We are committed to performing high-quality choral literature that spans cultures, styles, and historical periods, while creating a rehearsal environment that is welcoming, inclusive, and joyful. Singers are encouraged to grow not only as musicians, but also as confident individuals, thoughtful collaborators, and engaged members of their community.

Beyond rehearsals and concerts, Voices in the Laurel Choirs is deeply invested in community engagement. Through performances, collaborations, and outreach, we strive to strengthen our region’s cultural life and share the beauty and impact of choral music with audiences of all ages. Together, we celebrate the power of voices raised in song—and the lasting connections they create.

​WHAT WE SING...

• ​Renaissance and classical pieces (a little Handel, a little Mozart)

• Jazz and folk songs

• World music (we've sung in over 36 languages and dialects so far!)

• A cappella (from Palestrina to Pentatonix)

• Early American, spiritual, and Gospel music

• Broadway, film, and popular music

• WE ALSO PREMIERE NEW COMPOSITIONS!