Profiles - Canyon Lake Choraleers

Patsy Bajema

If you’ve ever walked into rehearsal and been greeted with a warm smile and a gentle spirit, you’ve likely been welcomed by Patsy Bajema. Her kindness is immediate—but so is her musicianship.

Peter Bellanova

Peter Bellanova is our very own Italian tenor — equal parts old-world gentleman and delightful sparkle. With that unmistakable European polish and a hint of mischief in his smile, he steps onto the stage as though he’s just wandered in from a sunlit piazza.

Beverly Chavira

Beverly Chavira has the kind of presence that quietly commands a room. Tall and statuesque, with flowing silver hair and luminous blue eyes, she carries herself with the composed elegance of a true grand dame.

Sharon Curcio

Sharon Curcio may be a relatively new member of the Choraleers, but she arrives with a lifetime of remarkable experience. For decades, she served in the armed forces, carrying out her work inside a SCIF.

Larry Garland

Superman may wear a cape, but in Canyon Lake, Larry Garland carries the microphone. Charisma, presence, and unwavering commitment define Larry.

Becky Gasper

It’s a little bit déjà vu for Becky Gasper. Many years ago, she and her family owned a lot on Canyon Club Drive. Joining the lively, well-established Choraleers is no small undertaking—especially when returning to a community that has grown and reshaped itself over decades.

Marianne Gibson

Marianne proudly describes herself as one of the Choraleers’ backup singers, grateful to be surrounded by the strong, confident voices that help lift the entire ensemble.

Linda Hudson

For nearly thirty years, Linda Hudson has been a treasured member of the Canyon Lake Choraleers. After a three-year hiatus, she is joyfully returning to the alto section.

Loretta Iannalfo

Every group has its diva. The prim, proper, vocally precise musician. Among the second sopranos, she is affectionately known as “Diana Ross.”

Jeannie Johantgen

Where do you begin with Jeannie Johantgen? Vivacious, confident, and glamorous, she is often the one adding the finishing touches before showtime.

Brittney Johnson

Brittney Johnson brings a vibrant youthful energy to our soprano section. She is a classically trained soprano with a bachelor’s degree in Musical Theatre Performance.

Thelma King

Born and raised in Indianapolis, Thelma’s life has long been rooted in music. She has been singing in church for as long as she could tie her shoes.

Kathleen Kitts

Every choir benefits from a little edge — a LOT of sparkle — and a touch of cheeky playfulness. And in our soprano section, that energy belongs to Kathleen Kitts. Heels or boots, borrowed or planned — Kathleen always lands on her feet.

Fredda Koupal

We are blessed with musicians. Singers who read music fluently, understand structure, count carefully, and land confidently on their notes. And then there’s Fredda — who not only secures her own line with precision, but can gently guide you to yours. With the slightest lean and a knowing smile, she’ll nudge a wandering soprano back into place.

Jim Laurienti

Jim Laurienti brings with him a depth of musical experience that spans decades and several cities. Wherever he has lived, he has sung. It is less a hobby and more a lifelong pursuit.

Barry Ward

Barry’s musical journey began in the 1960s, singing along to the great groups he heard on the radio and raising his voice in classic church hymns as a youngster. Sitting front row center, Barry proudly recalls singing along when Glen leaned in with the microphone during “Wichita Lineman,” and he still likes to say he has sung with Glen Campbell.

Barbara Whitesides

For the longest time, anyone within earshot heard that the Choraleers snagged Barbara Whitesides straight out of water aerobics. I liked to imagine Barbara simply following the harmonies from the shallow end straight into rehearsal. But that version doesn’t quite hold water.

Colleen Whitt

Colleen Whitt has been part of the Canyon Lake community since 2015. Her path to the Choraleers is proof that anyone can join. She first attended rehearsal simply to bring her granddaughters, then decided to step in and give it a try herself.