The White Oak Singers started 25 years ago when Congregational Church of Tryon member Jim Jackson presented to the congregation the idea of having a group go to White Oak each week to sing.

Since then, White Oak residents have had 30 minutes of music every Tuesday morning, all 52 weeks of the year, nearing 1,300 times in the past 25 years. Jackson still sings with the group every week.

“On a typical Tuesday, we have eight to 12 musicians that come to lead the singing,” said director Clifford Joens. “Our instruments include two guitars, two banjos and a baritone Ukulele. About half of the current group is from the Congregational Church of Tryon, but the group also includes musicians from Lutheran, Episcopal, United Methodist and Baptist churches. They come from as far away as Flat Rock.”

The residents are provided with tambourines, maracas and other instruments so that they may take part in the event, if they can or chose.

The White Oak Singers led the Congregational Church in singing some of their favorite songs on Sunday, May 27.

“I was very happy with our part in the church service. Having 14 musicians was a great response; we had fun, and the congregation seemed to enjoy it,” Joens said.

Those interested in becoming part of the White Oak Singers may call the Congregational Church office at 828-894-9414.

– Submitted by

Ellen Harvey Zipf