It started as a joke, but the idea of The Albemarle Chorale performing music from the Beach Boys took hold.

This spring’s concert developed “almost by happenstance,” according to Lynwood Winslow, the director.

The first performance will be at the Perquimans County High School April 28 at 4 p.m. Admission is free for both concerts, but donations are accepted.

“Our last several concerts have been fairly heavy, serious music. It’s time to do some lighter things, mainly secular things.”

As Winslow looked for musical selections that fit this bill, several pieces came to mind. As he discussed the idea with Chorale members, some additional suggestions were made.

A final, somewhat joking, comment about adding a Beach Boys medley to the mix, which was positively received, rounded the concert format.

But the icing on the cake came when the Chorale received an invitation from the Edenton 300th Anniversary Celebration Committee to join forces in promoting the Edenton portion of this spring concert.

The Chorale’s second performance, at Swain Auditorium, on May 5, at 4 p.m. will come at the end of a weekend of ongoing festivities being planned for Edenton’s 300th Anniversary. Although exactly the same as the first concert, this one will have an additional focus on the very special celebration.

Both concerts are titled “An American Portrait.”

The Albemarle Chorale is a College of The Albemarle continuing education class. When registration for next fall opens, call COA in Edenton at call at 482-7900.

For more information, call 426-5022.