Veteran singer can't cool his pipes

WHO: David A. Corp of Watertown has a passion for singing that has had an affect on the community. Over the years Mr. Corp has sung in different groups. He is a founding member of the Northern Choral Society, which started in 1954. Among places he has sung was at Westminster Abbey in London.

The Northern Choral Society formed in 1954 when the Asbury Choir was joined by a few singers from other churches in July of that year for the dedication of the George Harlan McClung Memorial Organ at Asbury United Methodist Church on Franklin Street.

In 1988, Mr. Corp retired from the state Department of Transportation, which freed up more time for exercising his vocal chords.

When did you start singing?

"I've been singing since I was 15 years old. I started in the church choir.I was 32 when the Northern Choral Society started and I've been singing ever since. I'll be 87 years old, with a birthday coming up in January — January 20th."

Have you ever missed a performance?

"No! I've been at every single one. There was one I didn't sing in, though. I just had heart surgery, but my son brought me to the concert. I was there in the congregation."

Do you have a favorite song?

"I like mostly anything. I like music, period."

What about a favorite Christmas carol?

"All of them are good."

What other music groups have you been a part of?

I was a member of the Watertown Male Chorus, but they've been gone for a number of years now. I was also part of Voices of the River, in Lowville. I sang with the Islanders Barbershop Chorus for 30 years. At one point in time the Northern Choral Society had a spring concert, but not anymore."

What part did you sing?

"I usually sang tenor or bass in the Barbershop Chorus. I sing bass more or less in the Northern Choral Society now."

Why do you still sing?

"I just enjoy doing it. I thought maybe this would be my last year, but people keep telling me I should stay."

Does anyone in your family share your love for music?

"I have a great-niece who sings in the Syracuse Chorale. I told her that I was transferring the family tradition to her."

If you have a suggestion for a Q&A subject can contact Sarah Haase at shaase@wdt.net.