Type “Kara Bishop” into any search engine and the results will render the world-­famous Lyric-­coloratura soprano singing Ave Maria or Gershwin’s Summertime . It comes as no surprise, after hearing her voice, that Bishop is a seasoned classical opera singer who has performed in the prestigious concert halls of Europe, and was one of the elite few to perform at the Aegean Festival in Syros, Greece. It may come as a (wonderful) surprise, however, to learn that Bishop is the guiding force behind South Walton’s Children’s Chorus. Under her direction, the South Walton Children’s Chorus offers a unique learning experience. Children between the ages of 9-­13 can register to join ($50) until Oct. 16. Rehearsals will be held every Monday at Christ the King Episcopal Church from 4-­5:30 p.m., beginning Oct. 9. “This chorus offers an opportunity to not only learn songs, but also learn how to read and comprehend music, build singing technique, make friends, and help build the music culture of the community,” Bishop said. Open to children from the Santa Rosa Beach and Destin communities, the chorus teaches a variety of singing warm-­ups, skills to recognize rhythmic patterns and solfege, and methods to strengthen musical creativity. “Music is so empowering, and brings everyone together in a positive way. It is also so important for children’s brains…music instruction appears to accelerate brain development in young children,” Bishop touts, an unabashed musicophile. The South Walton Children’s Chorus’ upcoming events include a Winter Concert at Christ the King Episcopal Church on December 17 at 1:00 p.m. For more information, follow the South Walton Children’s Chorus on Facebook or register at

http://tinyurl.com/y7uh6478 .