By Andrea Duncan

Artistic Director Josh Overby at work

When Joshua “Josh” Overby steps onto the podium this spring, he brings more than musical expertise to the Low Country Chorale — he brings a deeply personal belief in the power of community singing.

Overby, the chorus’s new artistic director, will lead the ensemble in its upcoming concert, Poems and Prayers for Peace, on March 27 at 7 pm at St. John’s Lutheran Church in Beaufort.

Now in its 29th season, the non-auditioned Low Country Chorale has long welcomed singers of all backgrounds and experience levels. Founded on Dataw Island, the group has become a familiar presence in Beaufort’s cultural life, offering themed performances ranging from traditional concerts to its once popular ‘dessert series.’

For Overby, the organization’s sixth director, the mission of a community chorus is personal.

He credits his early life experiences with shaping his belief in the importance of belonging and creative expression. “Music became an outlet and a guiding force for me,” he said. “Giving others a place to express themselves is one of my biggest goals.”

Born in New York City and raised in Charleston, Overby discovered music early when students from the Juilliard School visited his elementary classroom to introduce instruments to children. “I picked up a cello, and that’s how I got into music,” he recalled.

He later earned a Bachelor of Arts in Music from the College of Charleston, studying choral conducting with Dr. Robert Taylor and William Bennett. Today, Overby serves on staff at Grace Church Cathedral in Charleston and as associate conductor of the nationally recognized Taylor Festival Choir. He previously served as music director at St. John’s Lutheran Church.

A tenor with an active performing career, Overby has appeared with ensembles including the Taylor Festival Choir, Chicora Voices, Charleston Opera Theater, Franklin Chamber Choir, and Charleston’s Spartina Consort.

His interests extend musically from Gregorian chant and Renaissance polyphony to modern technology and Japanese visual storytelling traditions such as anime and manga — an eclectic mix that reflects both historical curiosity and contemporary creativity.

Members of the chorale say his enthusiasm and teaching style are already energizing rehearsals. “I’ve learned more about improving my singing voice in a few weeks with Josh than in years of previous chorale singing,” one member said.

The ensemble itself includes singers ranging in age from 21 to 92, united by a shared belief in the value of making music together. Overby notes that as arts funding declines in many communities, groups like the Low Country Chorale play an increasingly important role.

“Singing keeps people grounded,” he said. “It helps with everyday stress and brings real joy into life.”

Longtime accompanist Gloria Bockelman agrees. “It’s all about the people,” she said — a sentiment Overby echoes: “The importance of a community chorus can’t be overstated.”

The March 27 concert is free and open to the public. The program spans a wide range of music, from Mozart to Amazing Grace, and includes a gift basket fundraiser.

 

Andrea Duncan is a community contributor and member of the Low Country Chorale