But these are not ordinary voices. They are vocalists who captivate audiences with talent, wit and joy. They are: Jerry Parkstone, Julie Maughan, Iris Neilson and Brent Carter.

The quartet's beginnings were orchestrated by the association its members had while singing with the Cathedral of the Madeleine Choir. As the demands of the choir increased, the foursome decided to venture out and start their own group.

What began as a way to earn a little extra money has crescendoed into a philanthropic venture. Sotto Voce has performed at numerous charity functions, including ones at senior-citizen centers and at fundraisers for Primary Children's Hospital, among others.

Churches also are a popular venue for Sotto Voce members.

At one such event, the money from their performance was donated to St. Paul United Methodist Church. The church in Copperton used the proceeds to keep its doors open to the community.

"Doing the charity work is the best thing about singing professionally," says Sotto Voce member Parkstone.

This year, Sotto Voce agreed to perform again for St. Paul United Methodist Church. Carol Loftin, pastor if the church, agreed but wanted the money to go a charity of the group's choice.

That was how the idea for Cubby's Cause for Paws was born.

After experiencing the death of his cat, Cubby, as well as seeing a friend die of AIDS, Parkstone wanted to take action.

He decided to create a pet food bank that would donate food to AIDS patients who needed assistance feeding their pets.

Past philanthropic efforts raised 500 pounds of food. This year's concert reaped another 500 pounds of food and several-hundred dollars for the cause.

"We feel if we can touch just one person with our music, that all of our efforts are worth it," Parkstone says. "We love to give the gift of music to everyone, and look forward to many more years of singing and performing together."