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One of the things that makes springtime such a pleasure after a long winter is listening to the sounds of life returning, particularly the songs of birds.

Much the same can be said about people, as we begin to celebrate the return of the warm sun and the blooming of flowers and trees.

Music, of course, is one of the natural ways that we use to express our revived spirits at this time of year, either making it or listening to it.

One of the nicest community contributors to this springtime celebration is the East York Choir, which each year at this time brings the community a new and exciting musical exploration.

The choir has been an important fixture in East York since 1988 and under the musical direction of Jenny Crober it has blossomed into an exciting venue for exploring and discovering the diversity of musical traditions that surround us.

Also of note is Elizabeth Acker, who has provided piano and keyboard accompaniment for the choir for many years.

Previous spring concerts have featured the music of the Celtic and African traditions, each of which were warmly received by their appreciative audiences.

This next concert should prove to be no exception as the choir will be presenting an evening of Latin and jazz music on Saturday, May 24 at 7:30 p.m.

With the assistance of Isabel Bernaus, artistic director/conductor of the Jubilate Singers, the choir will sing an exciting repertoire of Latin songs from South America and the Caribbean.

To help provide an authentic sound to accompany singing, music will be provided by feature guest artists the Cassava Latin Rhythms, a dynamic group of Latin musicians, under the direction of Rodrigo Chavez.

This Toronto-based group has performed in many musical and rhythmic styles found in Latin America, including salsa from Cuba, bossa nova from Brazil, cumbia from Colombia, and contemporary Latin-jazz.

They have also performed at festivals and events across Ontario and the Maritimes, and have recorded a CD, Encuentros.

The choir will also perform several jazz vocal selections featuring renowned Toronto jazz bassist Rob Clutton. He has been a member of several jazz bands, including The Steven Koven Trio, NOJO (the Juno Award-winning big band), Jazzstory, John Millard and Happy Day, to name a few.

In addition, the performance will also feature Dylan Bell, a Toronto-based jazz vocalist, instrumentalist, arranger, composer and producer and recording artist, who is co-founder of the vocal jazz quintet Cadence.

This wonderful celebration of song and music will take place at the Eastminster United Church, 310 Danforth Ave., just west of Chester subway station and located beside Carrot Common.

Tickets for the concert are $20 general admission, $15 for seniors and $10 for students.

Be certain to arrive early as tickets go quickly and sold out concerts are normal for this choir. There will also be a silent auction and raffle, and refreshments can be purchased at the same time.