Move over Brenda Lee, Sandy Macdonald and other talented residents participating in The Watermark at Morrison Ranch’s Christmas Chorale will use their voices to have friends, family and the community rockin’ around the Christmas tree. 

Macdonald has mobilized her neighbors over the past two years to ensure they can continue to pursue a passion for music into retirement. She is excited to share the results  this holiday season. 

With songs such as “We Wish You a Merry Christmas” and “The Christmas Song” on the program, the concert will be held at 7 p.m. on Dec. 14 at Morrison Ranch, 3333 E. Morrison Ranch Parkway, Gilbert. 

“Christmas music speaks to every heart,” said Macdonald, 85. “Everyone recognizes the beauty of the songs. The music is uplifting, and the chorale is so happy to use our gifts to spread holiday cheer to others.” 

Macdonald has always enjoyed music and learned to play the piano and French horn, but singing has been “the light of her life.”

She would sing lullabies to her nine children as part of their bedtime routine, and accompanied many church choirs on their travels.

After moving to Morrison Ranch four years ago, Macdonald joined the Watermark Resident Chorale and sings with about a dozen other community members once a week. 

“If you can sing in the shower, you can sing in the choir,” Macdonald said. “I believe if you are given a talent, you should share it with others.” 

In addition to the songs, the concert will feature a resident who will play the guitar and sing “Silent Night” in Spanish. As he plays, another community member will stand beside and interpret the song using American Sign Language.

Before performing a song, a narrator will read a passage containing interesting facts about each selection. 

Macdonald said the community has been supportive of all the chorale’s concert plans, and associates have assisted in bringing ideas to fruition.  

“Our residents are beyond talented, and we are excited to share their gifts with the community,” said Rebecca Mitchell, community life director at Morrison Ranch. “We encourage all our residents to find their passion and will support them on this journey.”