The sounds of gospel music will be deemed the beginning stages of the Depot Days Festivities, which will begin Sept 10.

The Hartselle Area Chamber of Commerce is hosting a Depot Days Homecoming Singing at East Highland Baptist Church on the Sunday night, before the week’s events will begin. Everyone is invited to attend this community-wide celebration that will begin at 6 p.m. Singer and choir director Jerome Ward will head up this event.

“In the past, the local churches have gathered in one location on the Sunday prior to Depot Days to hold a joint service,” Ward said. “The homecoming sing will continue this tradition, but the service will be similar in style to the popular Gaither Homecoming events and will include congregational singing, as well as, performances by a community choir and some of the area’s Southern gospel groups and singers.”

Those scheduled to appear at the Singing are: The Living Faith Singers, The Glory Road Quartet, The Ward Family, Jaylynn and Trina Halbrooks, Jan Byrd, Glyndon Sparkman, Steve Ward, Will Kemp, Ty Ward, Carol Tyler, Lori Smith, Allison Keenum, and others.  Each group will sing a song, and the congregation will join in on many of the familiar hymns.  

Ward said for those interested in being part of the community choir should attend rehearsal at East Highland at 4:30 p.m. on Sept. 10.  Everyone is welcome, and there is no admission charge.