Finding a common thread of interest for the older and younger generations is not an easy task to take on.

Embracing this challenge, the Baker Community Choir is bringing people of all ages and nearby communities together to celebrate a passion for music.

“I always thought a community choir would be a great idea,” Director of Choral Activities Matthew Potterton said. “In the various places I lived, I never found a place I thought it would work. After living here [Baldwin City] a few months, I think it will take off.”

Incorporating Baker students into the new community choir, the choral group University Singers has gone from being a women’s choir to both male and female. The new class time is now 6-8 p.m. Thursdays in McKibbin Recital Hall and is open to everyone. There are no auditions required.

“I see this as a neat opportunity,” Potterton said. “There will be a lot of challenges with teaching, but I think everyone will help one another.”

After reading about the choir in her local paper, homemaker Candy Wasser, 53, sees the Baker Community Choir as a chance to share what she loves doing with others.

“I am without a church right now, and do not have many opportunities to sing anymore,” Wasser said. “Music is your heart and soul, and it feels good to be a part of something bigger.”

Singing since she can remember, Alexandria Rader, 13, heard about the choir through her voice lessons teacher. Taking advantage of a chance to be part of a choir, Rader is not intimidated by her older peers. Instead, she is looking forward to learning from this opportunity.

“I love singing, but do not have time to be in choir because of band,” Rader said. “What I hope to get out of this group is more experience because I would like to sing professionally someday.”

Performances are scheduled for Feb. 17 at the First Methodist Church in Baldwin City, during the Ash Wednesday services, and May 2.