Canadian singer brings joyful voice to beach

Grayton Beach State Park is a favorite recreation area for both visitors and locals in South Walton. Exploring the beach and coastal dune trails at the park is always a delightful outdoor experience. However, there are two weeks out of the year visitors may experience an unusual treat at the park – the sounds of classical melodies emanating from the beach access restroom. On any given morning in late April or early May, you may hear Canadian resident Serge Labrecque exercising his lungs and vocal chords.

A former math teacher and vocalist with the Orchestre Métropolitain in Montreal, Labrecque began learning his craft at the age of 43. Now retired, he spends time traveling North America with his wife in their RV. To keep his voice and lungs strong, Labrecque practices an hour and a half every morning at various locations he finds acoustically suitable. Area churches are a popular choice, or in this case, the restroom at Grayton.

“I sing arias to keep my voice in the right place,” Labrecque said. He practices breathing and keeping a smile in his head before he sings. He doesn’t always remember the words, however does keep his energy in the right place. He finds pleasure in seeing what his body can deliver in sound.

“I feel good, it’s a nice drive for the day, to stay upright, breathing and good posture,” Labreque said with a smile.

Fortissimo!