Danette White brings to this young group her enthusiasm, energy and a joy for singing that’s been a lifelong interest --- both in church and professionally.

“Music is something that is so much a part of me, and has been since I was very young, that it's something I enjoy sharing, “ she said. “I originally started working with the kids to get my son involved, but found that I really enjoyed it and the kids seemed to have a good time, too.“

GSLC Director of Music Peter Schmidt welcomed Danette to the Music Ministry staff as Cherub Choir di-rector in September. Rehearsals are held on Wednesday nights and Sunday mornings. In addition to offering anthems each month for worship, the choir provides youngsters with music training and a way to make new friends. Beginners are welcome.

Danette said her goal for Cherub Choir is “getting back to the basics and just making it a lot of fun for the kids. I think it's wonderful to hear them sing the standards, especially around the holidays, and I believe that it gives them something to relate to when they're in church with their parents.” The kids’ choir also will offer “some of the more modern praise songs because they've just got such a good beat and they're easy for the kids to learn and perform,“ she added.

A soprano with a generous voice and wide range, Danette began singing in the adult choir at her home church in Missouri in third grade. She sang in church choirs for more than 15 years in Kansas City before moving to the Washington area in 2004. As a music ministry leader, she has directed children’s choirs and led music for Vacation Bible School.

She majored in music therapy at the Conservatory of Music at the University of Missouri at Kansas City, but ended up getting a Liberal Arts degree. She performed professionally in theaters in Kansas City, for KC’s Renaissance Festival chorus, and sang and danced at Kansas City dinner theaters Tiffany's Attic and Waldo Astoria. Danette’s out-of-the-ordinary college choral performances included shows for Norwegian Cruise Lines and at an elementary school in Grand Cayman Islands.

The White family joined GSLC in October 2004. Danette sings in Chancel Choir, serves as a cantor, frequent soloist and has led Contemporary worship. Working as an IT project manager, she is currently employed as a contractor by MedImmune. She lives in Damascus with her husband Larry and son Chris, 10, a fifth grader at Watkins Mill Elementary School. “They're both musical, but not as into it as I am,” Danette said.

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Last Updated:  04/11/08 07:23 AM