Beth Harris makes concert debut Friday
Although singer Beth Harris is making her debut at Tennessee Valley Theatre in Spring City, Tenn., this weekend, she’s already well-known to folks in Rhea County.
She has lived in Dayton, Tenn., for 14 years, singing at local and regional events, area churches and for weddings.
“I suppose I am a tiny bit nervous simply because it is a ‘first,’ but singing is something I truly enjoy, and I am glad to get this chance to share with others,” Harris says.
Harris has her first vocal concert at the theater, 184 W. Jackson Ave. in Spring City, at 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Aug. 11 and 12. Tickets are $10.
“Beth has a crystal-clear voice,” says Karen Hilleary of Tennessee Valley Theatre. “She has recorded many albums and is quite an outstanding singer.”
Growing up in a pastor’s home, Harris says her love for music began with gospel.
“My mom said I was singing before I was talking. Some of my first influences were Southern gospel groups. I loved the harmony. Also, some fabulous gospel soloists like Janet Paschal, Cindy Morgan, CeCe Winans and Babbie Mason,” she recalls of the music that filled their house.
So she has combined those gospel influences with music of Patsy Cline and Karen Carpenter for this weekend’s performances.
“Most of the program is based on the life of legendary country artist Patsy Cline. I will be singing several of her songs. There will be a couple of songs by some artists whom she inspired. I’ve been asked to sing a couple of songs by Karen Carpenter because some people think I sound like her. I also will sing a few of my own choosing from CDs I’ve recorded,” she lists.
Harris says her goal for each night is to “honor the legacy of Patsy Cline and the other artists I will represent and to provide the audience with a great night of entertainment.”
For more information: 423-365-7529.