Registration for White Rock Singers’ fall session is just a few days away, and director David Proznick has a wide variety of music picked out for this year’s group.

From Andrea Bocelli’s Time to Say Goodbye and Josh Groban’s Believe, to classics such as Dust in the Wind and Here Comes the Sun, Proznick said the collection has something for everyone.

And, because the fall singers will be performing in a December concert, a few Christmas songs will also been thrown in the mix, including John Rutter’s Christmas Lullaby and O Holy Night.

It won’t be until the group is formed, however, that Proznick will know for sure which pieces will become part of the repertoire.

He hopes to get an idea of who will comprise this fall’s White Rock Singers – and what songs they like – on Monday (Sept. 21), when registration is held at Semiahmoo Secondary’s music room.

Traditionally, anywhere from 50-95 singers ranging in age from 18-93 have signed up, and Proznick is hoping for similar numbers this year.

While he expects about 60 per cent of people to be returns from last season, Proznick said anyone – including those without experience – can take part.

“It’s one step out of the shower singing,” he said. “It’s a non-threatening kind of an environment. The focus is singing for the joy of singing.”

It’s members’ love of the art that has kept the group afloat for more than 30 years.

That dedication was once again proved this year, when the White Rock Singers was dropped from Surrey School District’s Continuing Education program.

“The group wanted to keep going, so they organized themselves and rented the same facility we’ve been using,” Proznick said, noting the group now handles all of its own administrative responsibilities.

This session, singers will meet every Monday except Thanksgiving from 7:15 to 9 p.m. at the school, 1785 148 St., where Proznick retired as a music teacher six years ago.

“I feel very at home there. I feel welcome too,” he said. “It’s a very welcoming building.”

During weekly practices, the singers will rehearse for a Dec. 13 concert at Crescent United Church, which will collect donations for a local charity.

If people are unsure about making the commitment, Proznick said they can sit in on the first meeting to get a taste of what the group is about.

And, if they don’t know which section they sing in, they can experiment in different places to find the most suitable placement.

The group’s numbers will be accompanied by pianist Linda Fowler, and Proznick said he will assemble a rhythm section – complete with a drummer and bass player – for certain pieces.

Proznick said there are numerous benefits, both mental and physical, to participating.

“It gives your lungs a good workout,” he said. “It’s documented medical proof that music is good for your health.”

The Monday evening practices are also an escape from the daily grind, he added.

“The draw is just being able to come on out of your everyday hum drum life and just have a couple hours where we relax.”

For Proznick, in his 11th year as director, the involvement keeps him connected to teaching, which he did for more than 40 years.

“There’s a mutual admiration between the singers and myself. They treat me so well.

“Instead of going to a therapist, I just go to a choir practice.”

For more information about White Rock Singers, e-mail davidproznick@shaw.ca or call 604-538-5456.