The all-female a cappella group Accidental Sisters is set to perform two concerts this Mother’s Day weekend, bringing a rich blend of global music and heartfelt harmonies to audiences in Jamestown and Newport. Under the direction of Julie Beth Andrews, the ensemble will present a diverse program titled “It’s About Time,” featuring songs from various cultures including Haiti, Bosnia, and Mexico. The concerts are scheduled for 7 p.m. on Saturday, May 9, at Central Baptist Church in Jamestown and 4 p.m. on Sunday, May 10, at Channing Memorial Church in Newport.
The group’s repertoire for these shows includes selections by renowned artists such as Cyndi Lauper, the Indigo Girls, and Sweet Honey in the Rock. The performances aim to celebrate women’s strength, resilience, and connection through music. Kate Longo, Meaghan Brower, and Alison Hosford—the Kelly Sisters—will join the ensemble, with Longo also serving as guest conductor.
Members of the Accidental Sisters come from a wide range of musical and professional backgrounds but share a deep passion for singing. Since its founding in 2009, the group has fostered a supportive artistic community where musicians can grow together while embracing challenging harmonies and multilingual songs. New member Ellen Koehler expressed how meaningful she finds the experience, highlighting the relaxed yet high-level atmosphere that encourages both musicianship and personal connection.
Beyond music, the ensemble is committed to social causes. Proceeds from these concerts will be donated to Sojourner House, a Providence-based organization that supports victims of domestic abuse, sexual violence, and human trafficking. This charitable focus aligns with the group’s mission to combine their love for singing with efforts to benefit women and children in need.
Longtime member Nancy Shanahan reflected on the group’s evolution from humble beginnings rehearsing in a private home to performing complex pieces in multiple languages at local churches. She noted that their current repertoire is more challenging than ever but embraced the growth as an exciting opportunity for artistic development.
Barbara Mariconda, another ensemble member and educator who recently joined the group, shared her appreciation for how the Accidental Sisters create a welcoming space for new residents in the state while uplifting audiences during difficult times. She mentioned that singing songs from the feminist musical “Suffs” has been a particular highlight for her this season.
The diverse song selection offers a powerful experience despite some members not fully understanding every language sung. Mariconda explained that through music they discover themes of resilience, unity, and hope that transcend words. The collective dedication of these women to both artistic excellence and social impact makes their upcoming concerts an event that promises to inspire and connect communities through song.
