When it comes to singing, the Lititz Area Community Choir's philosophy is "the more, the merrier."

The local ensemble is seeking new members as it prepares for its upcoming holiday presentation of "The Glow of Christmas" on Sunday, Dec. 17, at Grace Church, 501 W. Lincoln Ave., Lititz. There is no fee to join.

"The purpose of the Lititz Area Community Choir is to further enjoy singing, to enjoy singing in a group and enjoy the camaraderie associated with it," said the choir's director, Debbie Kline-Smith. "Music brings a lot of joy to people. The warmth and joy they feel in their heart from singing is amazing."

She noted that the choir also provides opportunities to form friendships.

Currently, the choir, which is still in its developmental stage, numbers around 75 members. Kline-Smith said she'd like to add 25 to 30 more singers.

"We'd like to have 100 people by Christmas," said Kline-Smith. "That's my goal. ... We're looking for whoever wants to come and sing, but everyone who has come out to this point has had some singing in their past."

A one-time Warwick School District music educator, Kline-Smith founded the Lititz Area Community Choir in August of 2022 as an alumni choir designed to give former Warwick singers an opportunity to continue nurturing their love of music. But in many ways, the choir has taken on a life of its own.

"When I was retiring, (a group of former students) said to me, 'Why don't we have an alumni choir?'" said Kline-Smith. "We got together, and I asked them, 'Do you think it will work?' And they said, 'Yes.' And the choir was born. Now there is something for people to be a part of, they speak to other people and that's how we got more members."

Kline-Smith said that the choir's spring showcase of "A Night on Broadway" produced 20 new members.

"It was well received by the community," said Kline-Smith of the spring show. "It's a win-win. Everyone gets to sing, and the community enjoys it."

"I strive for excellence, and they know it," she said. "People want to be a part of something that's successful. I want it to be fun, something to look forward to, something to be proud of."

The initial rehearsal for "The Glow of Christmas" will be held on Thursday, Sept. 21, at 7 p.m. at Brunnerville United Methodist Church, 517 Pine Hill Road, Lititz.

Singers interested in joining the Lititz Area Community Choir should email Kline-Smith at d.a.klinesmith@gmail.com.