VALENTINE, Neb. - Many of you may remember the days when church choirs were the heart of Sunday mornings. But across the country, their numbers are dwindling. Over the past 20 years, the percentage of congregations with choirs has dropped by 12%, with fewer than half now featuring them, according to the National Congregations Study.

The Valentine Community Choir is striking a different tone. The choir brings together singers from all walks of life, blending voices from different churches, backgrounds, and generations.

“It’s a way for people who love to sing to get back together,” said accompanist Connie Rhoades.

In fact, for 90-year-old Edith Bachelor, this choir has been her melody since it formed 40 years ago.

“We fellowship together. We laugh together, and look at each other and think, ‘We hit the wrong note there,’” said Edith.

Edith first started singing in grade school when a teacher pointed out her potential.

“I had a wonderful teacher who came to the classroom, and he said, ‘Edith.’ I thought, ‘What have I done now?’ He said, ‘I need someone in the band. You have good rhythm. Will you play the drums?’” said Edith.

While you won’t see Edith rocking out to the drums anymore, and her hands tremble slightly while holding the hymnal, this 90-year-old’s voice is strong, and her spirit even stronger.

“This year they said, ‘Aren’t you going to come back?' I said, ‘I’ll give it a try.’ My husband passed away eight years ago,” said Edith.

Edith said that her husband’s death was one of the most difficult chapters in her life and her music.

“He and his friend and my friend and me all sang at so many funerals—the four of us. When all else failed, they called us,” laughed Edith.

All jokes aside, Edith says she’s learned some serious life lessons through the sound of music.

“The messages are always there if people listen to the wording. If you make mistakes in singing, just smile and go on,” said Edith.

“When I hear this choir perform, I have learned to play with tears in my eyes a lot,” said Connie.

A harmony of emotion and community that Edith hopes will echo for generations to come.

“The community enjoys us doing it,” said Edith.

The Valentine Community Choir will perform its Christmas Cantata on Sunday, Dec. 15, at 7:00 p.m. at the Valentine Methodist Church.