Friday, June 27, 2008

Looking Back on June 24th Chapter Meeting and Send Off

Looking Back on June 24th Chapter Meeting and Send Off

(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record of the great things going on each week at an Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter meeting. —Ye Ed.)

The risers were set facing the stage and against the far wall with lots and lots of chairs in place for an audience. And the audience came. Even filled seats on the stage. Many were there at the start of the evening.

This annual tradition to have an open rehearsal and then a mini show for friends and family was another huge success. The rehearsal part was typical – serious work for warm up and pitch exercises our coach taught us.

Then some quick starts on the songs for the mini show and then concentrated work on the contest package.

Most men had already changed into the new contest outfit for the dress rehearsal and mini show. Fuschia tux shirts with black bow tie, mirrored button covers with black pants and shoes. The hall was extra warm with the crowds of guests, so the guys got a real workout.

Terry Jordan was back and did his usual MC job for this event. Many former members and long-time chorus friends were with us for the evening and were leading the cheers. But it also seemed there were lots of new friends and family members there last nite.

The chorus sang and entertained. As did CAMERON STATION, who sang a couple of their new songs for the crowd. Then Director Joe expressed his personal thanks to his team and the chapter leaders for their efforts in getting us to this point. He was not embarrassed to say he liked having 80 men to go to the International contest vs. 50 or so.

Ken White presented gift checks to our quartets going to Nashville to compete. Jean Stewart presented a check for $1000 from the FRIENDS OF HARMONY to the chapter in support of the trip to the big battle.

There were reps from other local chapters of the BHS and SAI who attended and made remarks.

After the show and then refreshments, the chorus continued its open rehearsal for guests who chose to stay – and many did so.

The rehearsal went right to the wire and everyone had to help get things packed and put away to clear the hall. It is on the extra rehearsal on Thurs. June 26th. AND THEN TO TN. The first rehearsal is Tues nite there.

Until next time – editorjack!