VALDOSTA, Ga. — The Sine Nomine Singers will serenade Valdosta just one more time after 10 years of performing together.

The classical ensemble will continue its farewell tour with a concert at First Baptist Church, 4 p.m. Sunday, May 20. First Baptist also hosted the singers’ inaugural performance May 18, 2008.

“It’s bittersweet because this has been 10 years of love for people and for music and for sharing what we’ve learned with the community,” said David Johnson, founder and director.

The finale of the Sine Nomine Singers is due to Johnson relocating. He started the invite-only troupe with 21 singers. Sine Nomine means “without name.”

“We started this group simply because I felt like there was a need in Valdosta for a different kind of choral group, one that was really committed to singing excellent choral literature and working toward becoming a good ensemble,” he said.

Not only has Sine Nomine sung regionally in parts of South Georgia, it has traveled to Italy, Poland, Scotland and New Mexico to hold concerts.

Sue Ellen Rumstay has been performing with Sine Nomine since its inception, and she said she is devastated it is ending.

“Traveling with Sine has really, I think for all of us, it’s been a way to meet other people in a very positive fashion,” she said.

Philip Barr has also been with the group since the beginning, and he said there is discussion as to where the members will now sing.

“I’m going to find somewhere to sing; I don’t know where,” he said. “I’m not ready to stop, yet.”

There is no cost to see the 32-member group as it sings “Amazing Grace,” “Hear My Prayer” and a Kenyan religious song, “Wana Baraka.” Donations are welcome.

Sine Nomine will give its final performance in Albuquerque, N.M., in June. 

Amanda Usher is a reporter at The Valdosta Daily Times. She can be contacted at 229-244-3400 ext.1274.