Who is the Winchester VSAarts Chimers?
The Winchester VSA Chimers is comprised of fourteen men and women members from the Winchester and Fredrick County area who have a variety of developmental disabilities. The initial group of chimers totaled nine members. Today, they still have seven of the original chimers from 15 years ago. The group is supported through “shadows” and musicians who are undergraduate and graduate students from the Shenandoah University Music Therapy program. This musical experience enhances each member’s sense of achievement through teamwork and cooperation, while developing each member’s self esteem and the sense of belonging to the music community. In 2000, the VSA Chimers performed for tourists at the White House during President Clinton’s term.