Harmony Fusion Performs at Autumn Harmony to Benefit Homeless and Battered Women, Children

By Garrienne Nakano

The Harmony Fusion Chorus of Sweet Adelines is fortunate to have two sets of talented sisters that come together once a week to do what they love: singing and performing.

Hayward twins Jean Marie and Lee Anne Boles joined Harmony Fusion a little over a year ago. Jean Marie sings baritone and LeeAnne sings lead (melody). However, they come from a long line of singers.

Their grandmother was also a Sweet Adeline and their grandfather sang in a barbershop quartet. Their love of four-part a cappella singing grew with their parents. Their mother sang in the San Lorenzo chapter of Sweet Adelines, known as the "Belles of Eden." Their father continues to sing with the San Lorenzo chapter of the men's barbershop society, the New Dimension Chorus.

San Lorenzo resident Debbie Nunn influenced her sister, Billie Harris, from Hayward to start singing with the group four years ago. Debbie, a member of Sweet Adelines for over 30 years, encouraged Billie to join the group when she retired and needed something fun in her life.

Whenever there's a local singing convention or performance for the chorus, they are always each other's company. Debbie sings bass and Billie sings lead (melody).

The sisters, along with nearly 40 women of the Harmony Fusion Chorus will perform in concert this Saturday, Nov. 5 at the in Pleasanton. Proceeds from the concert, "Autumn Harmony," benefit Shepherd's Gate, a shelter for battered and homeless women and children.

The concert begins at 3 p.m. For ticket information, contact Harriett at 510-653-7664 or e-mail hfeltman@pacbell.net.

Cost of tickets bought in advance:

• Adults - $18
• Seniors 65+/Students - $15
• Group Rate (10 or more) - $12 each

Cost of tickets at the door:

• Adults - $20
• Seniors 65+/Students - $18

Harmony Fusion's members enjoy singing and are constantly perfecting their craft of a cappella four-part harmony. The chorus rehearses every Monday evenings at 7 p.m. inside the Hill and Valley Club (1808 B St., Hayward). Guests are always welcome to join them for an evening of fun. For more information, visit www.harmonyfusion.org.