It was like a scene out of a Hallmark holiday movie set in a small town where carolers walk door-to-door singing.
Only, this was the Washington Square neighborhood in the heart of bustling Santa Ana.
Spreading holiday cheer with each song, the Chamber Singers from Godinez Fundamental High School moved through the neighborhood sharing classics such as “O Holy Night,” “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” and “Jolly Old Saint Nicolas.”
The carolers were led by Godinez High choir director and Washington Square resident Jeanette McMahon.
“This is the 20th year singing for the neighborhood,” she said. “I’m from a small town and singing for the neighborhood gives me a lot of pride. It’s my way of contributing to the magic that is Washington Square.”
Samantha Middleton, a Freeman Street resident who had family visiting for the holidays, said, “We heard the carolers coming down the street and everyone rushed to the front door! It truly made it feel like Christmas.”
The 33 students of the Chamber Singers had to memorize 20 four-part carols and this week are singing at other venues throughout the district, including for retirement communities.
“I’ve given kids the gift of music and they experience the feeling of giving that gift back to the community,” McMahon said. “It’s a priceless gift that can’t be bought.”
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