Patriotic concert tradition returns to Wayne County

Performance planned for nation’s 250th anniversary

Published April 27, 2026 - 3:06 p.m.

Elderly couple reading books in a living room. — Gary Kobs and Janet Borton, co-chairs of the Wayne County Christian Community Choir and Orchestra, look over the choral score of "With Liberty and Justice For All," to be performed June 29 at the Wayne County Fair Event Center. They are looking for people who sang the music 28 years ago as well as new members to join the group.

Two choir directors are reviving a local tradition of a patriotic concert performed by area singers and instrumentalists for the United States 250th-anniversary celebration.

Gary Kobs and Janet Borton are co-chairs of the Wayne County Christian Community Choir and Orchestra, which will present “With Liberty and Justice for All” at 7 p.m. June 29 at the Wayne County Fair Event Center. The center is accessible to people with disabilities.

Originally formed 28 years ago, the choir and orchestra presented concerts near or on the night of the fireworks in Wooster and Orrville. More than 50 churches were represented to make up the choir of 100 singers, a full orchestra and portrayers of key historical people.

“They braved the elements to perform patriotic and Christian music telling how our great nation was formed,” Borton said. “Over the years, people would greet me and say they wished we could do it again.”

The 250th celebration seemed like a good time for that to happen.

The group is seeking former singers to join, as well as a younger generation of high school-age and above vocalists, Borton said.

Rehearsals will be from 7-9 p.m. Mondays, May 11 and 18, June 1, 8, 15 and 22, at Pleasant Hill Baptist Church, 7605 Pleasant Home Road, Wooster. To sign up for the choir, call 330-345-6472.