tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32668603849656894252024-03-17T23:04:35.741-04:00The HarmoblogA blog for the Alexandria, Virginia, Chapter of the Barbershop Harmony Society.The Alexandria Harmonizershttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02079998018126639477noreply@blogger.comBlogger1002125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3266860384965689425.post-6939319773800005772024-03-15T08:06:00.003-04:002024-03-15T08:06:28.803-04:00 Looking Back on the Mar. 12, 2024 Alexandria Hybrid Chapter Meeting and DCPS Event<p> <b style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Looking Back on the Mar. 12, 2024 Alexandria Hybrid Chapter Meeting and DCPS Event</span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><br /><o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">The Alexandria A Cappella Collective (AACC) met at the AlexRenew building in Alexandria this week for their rehearsal. Traffic was a challenge for those who had to drive thru DC since there are already traffic jams from folks out to see the Cherry Blossoms.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">YeEd</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> heard that a few guys are walking from the Metro stations near AlexRenew – at King Street and on Eisenhower. Both are about 15 minute walks.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">There were a lot of members and guests present this week, including 21 Metro Voices singers. The warm up session for the combined ensembles was conducted by Harmonizer associate director, <b>Tony Colosimo</b>. He used the tag, “To The Last Goodbye” as part of the exercise.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Then artistic director, <b>Joe Cerutti</b>, just back from Ireland, thanked everyone for a super successful event with DC Public School music educators and their students. He declared it was a “milestone event” for the chapter and for youth education in the Barbershop Harmony Society (BHS), as well as for the music educators in DC. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="background: white; color: #1b1b1b; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">AACC provided support for the DC Public Schools Youth Harmony event at Capital Turnaround in the Navy Yard area of DC, Friday, March 8. The chapter helped with musical education and organization, brought risers and sound equipment, staffed rehearsal sessions, provided snacks and water for the day for the 100 or more student singers, and came to cheer and support the event. The chapter also hosted SIGNATURE quartet to come help with the training and to perform with the student chorus at 4 pm on Friday. A number of parents and members of AACC were on hand to cheer and encourage.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="background: white; color: #1b1b1b; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="background: white; color: #1b1b1b; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">The leadership team from DCPS arts department helped organize the participating schools and encouraged the local music educators to bring students and come experience the workshop as well. At the show, each of those educators were introduced and thanked for bringing their students by Robert Battle from DCPS music department. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="background: white; color: #1b1b1b; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><b><span style="background: white; color: #1b1b1b; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Tony Colosimo</span></b><span style="background: white; color: #1b1b1b; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> was dean of the event and host for the show. <b>Tessa Walker</b> was clinician for the day with help from <b>Sheryl Berlin, Julian LeFlore </b>and<b> Maggie McAlexander</b>. Their experience in local music education was important to the success of the day. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="background: white; color: #1b1b1b; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="background: white; color: #1b1b1b; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Some folks from the chapter also played important support roles like <b>Gary Cregan</b>, risers and equipment; <b>Cy Shuster</b>, sound set up; <b>Dean Rust</b>, refreshments for the day; <b>Dean </b>and<b> Carl Kauffmann</b>, general helpers during the event; <b>Liz Birnbaum</b>, refreshment set up; <b>Ken Rub </b>and<b> David Breen</b>, delivery of 60 large pizzas; <b>Doug White, David Breen, Ken Rub, Tony Colosimo, Cy Shuster, Adam Afifi, Patricia Chow, Tyler Carpenter, Carl Kauffmann </b>and<b> EJ Harold</b> helped with unloading and reloading the truck with all the equipment and supplies. A good number of members of both the Harmonizers and Metro Voices were present at various times during the day and particularly at the 4 pm show and move out. They also enjoyed the afterglow with the DCPS staffers who organized the event and with SIGNATURE.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="background: white; color: #1b1b1b; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="background: white; color: #1b1b1b; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Members of the AACC were generous in donating snacks and water bottles and/or cash donations to raise over $400 to stock supplies for the day. <i>(Info for this event provided by <b>Dean Rust</b>)<o:p></o:p></i></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="background: white; color: #1b1b1b; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><o:p> </o:p></span></i></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="background: white; color: #1b1b1b; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">This week before the two ensembles adjourned to their own rehearsal spaces, <b>Joe</b> made some general announcements. He started with a reminder that our major fundraiser, Spring2ACTion, will be Wed. April 24. The chapter will wrap up that day with our second cabaret night at The Bike Club where we will watch the results come in from the donations (patrons will be able to watch too). To add to the fun of that night, members of the chapter are encouraged to put together a <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="background: white; color: #1b1b1b; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">non-barbershop act. It can be solo, with other members or family, with instrument or comedy or magic. Auditions must be done by April 1. Interested entries should speak with <b>Joe </b>or<b> Terry Reynolds</b>. An accompanist will be available for all entries.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="background: white; color: #1b1b1b; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="background: white; color: #1b1b1b; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Next <b>Joe</b> highlighted the plans for another outreach opportunity for the two choruses to share their talents and friendship with members of the Northeastern District (NED) of BHS, May 3-4-5 in Lake George, NY. Leaders of that district have invited both ensembles to sing as mic testers for the chorus contest, to provide educational sessions and possibly coaching, and to do a show. A survey will come to all members soon to determine who will be going to sing and who will ride the bus or drive separately.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="background: white; color: #1b1b1b; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="background: white; color: #1b1b1b; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">The bus will likely depart from the metro area Friday afternoon and return Sunday, although some members may wish to drive with a carpool. Most expenses will be covered by the NED with AACC members covering some minimal costs. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="background: white; color: #1b1b1b; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="background: white; color: #1b1b1b; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">This will be the second time the chapter has gone to another BHS district as an outreach project. The first was to the Seneca Land District in Rochester, NY, a couple years ago in the fall. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="background: white; color: #1b1b1b; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Last week <b>Joe </b>announced that<b> </b>the combined ensembles will perform “Why We Sing” in Lake George. All NED members are getting the song in advance and will be invited to join us on the risers as the finale for the show.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">As a reminder of the upcoming schedule, the AACC choruses will gather at City Hall in Old Town, Alexandria, Mar. 19, and then serenade folks in restaurants and on the street. After the singing, singers will stay in Old Town for an afterglow. The following three weeks the chapter will meet back at AlexRenew.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">The chapter business session was managed by <b>Terry Reynolds</b> and he and <b>Joe</b> clarified the words for the tag of the chapter welcome song – “We’ll harmonize til break of day in the barbershopper way, barbershopper way.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Mary Cooper </span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> welcomed our two newest members <b>Ker Medero</b> and <b>William Vesilind</b>. She also welcomed the recent guests who were back: <b>Callie, Charley, Matt, Mary, Hannah </b>and <b>David; </b>and the<b> </b>first time guests this week: J<b>im, </b>a former barbershop singer in Lansdale, and <b>Tess, </b>a Metro Voices guest of<b> Catherine</b>. <b>Will Cox</b>, directed the chapter “Welcome Song.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Becca Williams </span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">and<b> Devin Gerzof</b> got everyone involved in a fun ice breaker before the two ensembles started their rehearsals. Both groups held sectionals during the evening. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Before the evening wrapped up, chapter secretary, <b>Heidi Krukowski</b>, presented membership renewals for <b>Bruce Roehm</b>, 23 years; <b>Brad Jones</b>, 32 years; and <b>Brian Ammerman</b>, 30 years. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Just after 9 pm <b>Joe</b> invited the guests and members to come to the Harmo House for an afterglow, and then he<b> </b>directed</span><span style="color: #1d2228;">“Keep the Whole World Singing.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="background: white; color: #1b1b1b; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">As a correction to last week’s <i>Looking Back,</i> a few members attended the graveside ceremony in memory of former member <b>Austin Cotton </b>and his wife<b>, Sue</b>, at Arlington National Cemetery on March 4. Harmonizers were invited to join other barbershop singers from nearby chapters to sing the “Irish Blessing.” <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Until next time –</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> <b>editorjack</b>!<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record for the great things going on each week during the 75<sup>th</sup> year of the Alexandria Chapter. - <b>YeEd</b>)</span></i><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></i><b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">The Chapter Mission Statement<i> <b>Enriching lives through vocal harmony in the greater DC area.</b></i><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3266860384965689425.post-89354557218075317882024-03-11T10:12:00.002-04:002024-03-11T10:12:15.554-04:00 Looking Back on the March 5, 2024 Alexandria Hybrid Chapter Meeting <p> <b style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> Looking Back on the March 5, 2024 Alexandria Hybrid Chapter Meeting </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">The Alexandria A Cappella Collective (AACC) met at The Bike Club in Alexandria this week for their rehearsal. Their regular meeting place was being used as a polling place in the city.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Some members attended the burial service for <b>Al Herman</b> on Monday, March 4 at Arlington Cemetery<b>. Al</b> served as finance committee chair for years even after he stopped singing regularly. The chapter singers joined other barbershop singers from the DC Metro area who came to honor <b>Al</b> and to sing at the service.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Associate director of the Harmonizers, <b>Tony Colosimo</b>, conducted warm ups in the theater portion of The Bike Club space. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Artistic director of AACC, <b>Joe Cerutti</b>, expressed his appreciation for all who worked so hard to make the Gala a success. It was a good start to a likely annual event for the chapter. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Joe</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> reports that 89 individual interviews were completed with members of AACC. Statistics and information about the results will be shared later. He thanked <b>Samantha Tramack</b> for help with Metro Voices interviews, Harmonizer section leaders for their help, and <b>Terry Reynolds</b> for overall coordination.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Late breaking news about the youth outreach project the chapter has with DC Public Schools: school administrators have asked if they could bring more students and so the number of participating singers is up to 140! <b>Tony </b>will be dean of the event and <b>Tessa Walker</b> will be clinician. Gold medal Barbershop Harmony Society (BHS) quartet, SIGNATURE, from Florida, will be guest coaches and mentors for the student singers. The event is on Friday, March 8, and concludes with a one hour show at 4 pm at Capital Turnaround at Navy Yard. Chapter members are encouraged to attend and support the youth singers and enjoy the performances. There will be an afterglow nearby at Ugly Mug about 5:30 pm for those interested.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">April 24 is the date for our major fundraising event, Spring2ACTion. At the end of that day, there will be a cabaret at The Bike Club that will also be a watch party to see how we are doing in reaching our goal of donations. AACC members are invited to audition any kind of act – with friends or members. Auditions deadline will be April 1 in person or for submitting a tape. Best to let <b>Joe </b>know you are thinking of throwing your hat in the ring. Last year’s cabaret was really fun. Hopefully several new members will try.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Next week, March 12, we are back at AlexRenew for our meeting – <b>Joe </b>will be returning from Europe for the rehearsal. March 19 we will sing in Old Town, and March 26 we are at AlexRenew.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Joe</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> launched the rehearsal of “Why We Sing” with the combined ensembles with news that we will perform that song at the Northeastern District (NED) barbershop convention at Lake George, NY. All NED members are getting the song in advance and will be invited to join us on the risers as the finale for the show.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">He also prompted the Harmonizers to get started working on their second contest song, “I’m Still Standing,” which is up on Groupanizer.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Before rehearsing “Defying Gravity,” J<b>oe </b>shared that for the chorus performance at Wolf Trap, AACC will be one of six Metro Area choral groups to sing on the show. Many other groups will sit in the audience and sing. AACC will sing this song with <b>Samantha</b> as soloist.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">The chapter business session was managed by <b>Terry Reynolds</b>. He reports that there will be a memorial service at Arlington Cemetery for <b>Bill Sowers</b> on May 8.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">President <b>Noah Van Gilder</b> thanked those who coordinated the GALA. He also thanked the team who got the new name tags produced for Metro Voices – <b>Tyler Carpenter, Adam Afifi </b>and<b> Tessa Walker</b>. Metro Voices members were issued their name tags.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Ben Watsky</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> welcomed guests and reported that three recent guests were back – <b>Jared Lescinsky, Callie Cirillo, </b>and<b>Charley Rothermel. </b>Two first time guests attended this week – <b>Matt</b>, who sang barbershop in St. Louis and is in town for a few weeks for a training class; and <b>David</b>, an Air Force member who found us on Google. <b>Maggie McAlexander</b>, assistant director of Metro Voices, led the chapter’s “Welcome Song.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">This week, the Harmonizers worked on “Lullaby” and “New York New York,” and Metro Voices worked “After You Who,” and “Fight Song.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">The evening wrapped up about 9 pm with an invitation to guests and members to come to the Harmo House for an afterglow, and then <b>David Breen </b>directed</span><span style="color: #1d2228;"> “Keep the Whole World Singing.” The tag singers were glad to have <b>Chuck Hunter</b> at the afterglow to join in the fun!<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Until next time –</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> <b>editorjack</b>!<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record for the great things going on each week during the 75<sup>th</sup> year of the Alexandria Chapter. - <b>YeEd</b>)</span></i><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></i><b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">The Chapter Mission Statement<i> <b>Enriching lives through vocal harmony in the greater DC area.</b></i><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3266860384965689425.post-81960131878454480782024-03-07T09:07:00.003-05:002024-03-07T09:07:49.672-05:00 Looking Back on the March 2, 2024 Gala for the Alexandria A Cappella Collective <p> <b style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> Looking Back on the March 2, 2024 Gala for the Alexandria A Cappella Collective </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">The first annual Gala for Alexandria A Cappella Collective was held Saturday evening, March 2, 2024, at The Garden venue on Eisenhower Ave. in Alexandria. There were 100 ticketed guests for the festive and fun event organized around the theme, “A Night at the Speakeasy.” When folks arrived at 6:30 pm, their tickets were checked outside and then they had to knock on the door and give the secret code to get in.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Many guests wore appropriate attire for the theme and the venue and tables were decorated too. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">The choices for the silent auction part of the evening were in an adjoining room. Bidders could have bid prior to arriving, and even could have bought the item directly. At the venue during the evening, bidders focused on the QR codes for the many items in categories such as art, travel, food, services, and music. There was a live auction after the dinner hour that was fun too – a stay at AKA Hotel Alexandria with breakfast and gift cards from local restaurants; and a basket of booze donated by chapter leadership. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">President <b>Noah Van Gilder</b> welcomed all the guests to the fund raising gala. Artistic director, <b>Joe Cerutti</b>, spoke about the chapter’s growth and movement into becoming an expanded community asset. (<b>Joe</b> was also the auctioneer for the evening.)<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Former member,<b> Don Dillingham,</b> and his group entertained with easy jazz as folks arrived and until the dinner began. The bar featured several original “speakeasy” drinks and seemed to be a hit. Waiters passed tasty hors d’ oeuvres prior to the sit down dinner which was served family style. The caterer and her staff were terrific for the evening – Joan Wolford’s Savoir Fare from Loudon County (and wife of baritone <b>Frank Shipp</b>). The meal was superb with fresh pear salad, beef brisket, tortellini pasta, and artichoke/spinach stuffed tomatoes. For dessert, there were home-made cookies and coffee choices, and free cigars or cigarettes (candy of course)!<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Special program entertainment was the recent Mid Atlantic District Barbershop Harmony quartet champion, SMOKE RING, from New York City – Becca Eckes, tenor; Stephanie Taglianetti, lead; Alexander Ronneburg, baritone; and Gabriel Spector, bass. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> The theme committee included <b>Kathy Kauffmann, Catherine LaValley </b>and<b> </b>general manager, <b>Susan Fitzpatrick. </b>The silent auction team headed by <b>Randall Eliason </b>included <b>Susan</b>, <b>Mary Cooper </b>and<b> Brad Jones</b>. <b>Ken Rub</b> gets full credit as overall organizer of the very successful first-annual Gala for the chapter! <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Results of the gala will help the chapter make it possible for more people, of all ages, to sing together in our community.</span><span style="color: #1d2228;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Until next time –</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> <b>editorjack</b>!<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record for the great things going on each week during the 75<sup>th</sup> year of the Alexandria Chapter. - <b>YeEd</b>)</span></i><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></i><b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">The Chapter Mission Statement<i> <b>Enriching lives through vocal harmony in the greater DC area.</b></i><o:p></o:p></span></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3266860384965689425.post-55953009274147729822024-03-01T08:37:00.003-05:002024-03-01T08:37:40.238-05:00Looking Back on the Feb. 27, 2024 Alexandria Hybrid Chapter Meeting <p> <b style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> Looking Back on the Feb. 27, 2024 Alexandria Hybrid Chapter Meeting </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">A large crowd of singers were back at AlexRenew this week after meeting last week at <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">The Bike Club. As it turns out, next week’s meeting will be back at The Bike Club and both ensembles will have a rehearsal that evening.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">This week, the Harmonizers launched their first run of one of the contest songs and Metro Voices worked on a new song for their ensemble. Both groups had a period of small group sessions this week.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Associate director of the Harmonizers, <b>Tony Colosimo</b>, conducted the warm up session this week for the combined ensembles. Artistic director, <b>Joe Cerutti</b>, welcomed all the singers and guests and reported that 83 individual interviews have been completed with just a few left to be done at the Harmo House on Thursday of this week.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">He was excited to report the plans for the chapter’s work with DC Public Schools (DCPS). We have a contract with them to provide something like an all-state choir experience. The event will be on Friday, March 8. We have invited gold medal Barbershop Harmony Society (BHS) quartet, SIGNATURE, to be the guest quartet for the event. <b>Tessa Walker</b> will be the clinician for the large number of youth singers who will attend at a venue in DC. There will be a 4 pm show but the venue is small and so neither of our chorus ensembles will sing, but interested members are encouraged to attend and support the event. <b>Joe</b> indicated that the DCPS has totally endorsed the formation of Capital Force too.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Chapter members are asked to support providing a supply of bottled water and snacks by donating cash (give it to <b>Dean Rust</b> next Tuesday night - he will purchase the supplies and bring them to the venue on March 8), or by bringing cases of water to next week’s meeting.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Looking ahead – spring2ACTion will be on April 24<sup>th</sup>. It has become our chapter’s largest fundraiser in recent years. It is organized by the City of Alexandria for not-for-profit groups. Last year we broke all records and we had a fun watch party to keep track of donations that came in. The party included a cabaret with a dozen or so talent acts from with the chapter family. The event will be at The Bike Club again this year and will be live-streamed for our donors to watch and enjoy too. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">So, this is the call for talent. Any combination of members or their family is great: solo, duet, trio, instrumental, standup. It will be a non-barbershop night. An accompanist will be available for the rehearsal and cabaret night. Members interested should let <b>Joe</b> know.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">After the two ensembles practiced a while, they gathered for an ice breaker event which was coordinated by <b>Turner Arndt </b>and<b> Becca Williams.</b> It was a fun chance for members of both groups to get to know each other more. Following the fun, communications director, <b>Steve Murane</b>, conducted a business session. President <b>Noah Van Gilder</b>reported that <b>Ken Ives</b> is doing well after a recent surgery. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Chapter development director, <b>Ken Rub</b>, updated members that ticket sales for the Gala on March 2 are going well. Tonight was the cut off though for ticket sales so food could be ordered by the caterer. The long list of impressive silent auction items for the Gala was sent via email blast to members and chapter patrons. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Locations for upcoming meetings are as follows: Mar. 12 – AlexRenew; Mar. 19 – singing in Old Town Alexandria; Mar. 26 – AlexRenew.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><b><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Ben Watsky</span></b><span style="color: #1b1b1b;"> managed guest registration this week and we welcomed back <b>William Vesilind</b>, <b>Jared Liscinsky, Kar Medero, Hanna Nesisch. Dave Ermlick</b> brought his wife, <b>Anne</b>, and their son, <b>Billy</b>, who was in the baritone section. First time guests were <b>Callie Cirillo </b>and<b> Md Fardous</b> – both guests following Metro Voices promotional efforts. <b>Ben</b>also welcome back members <b>Calvin Schnure </b>and<b> Geoff Berman</b>. Assistant director emeritus, <b>Will Cox</b>, directed the chapter “Welcome Song.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">The evening wrapped up about 9 pm with an invitation to guests and members to come to the Harmo House for an afterglow, and then <b>Samantha Tramack </b>directed</span><span style="color: #1d2228;"> “Keep the Whole World Singing.” There was great celebration at the afterglow to learn that <b>William </b>and<b> Kar</b> both passed their auditions after the chapter meeting this week! Welcome to them.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Until next time –</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> <b>editorjack</b>!<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record for the great things going on each week during the 75<sup>th</sup> year of the Alexandria Chapter. - <b>YeEd</b>)</span></i><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></i><b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">The Chapter Mission Statement<i> <b>Enriching lives through vocal harmony in the greater DC area.</b></i><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3266860384965689425.post-18615747931236947672024-02-15T08:57:00.001-05:002024-02-15T08:57:08.501-05:00 Looking Back on the Feb. 13, 2024 Alexandria Hybrid Chapter Meeting <p> <b style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> Looking Back on the Feb. 13, 2024 Alexandria Hybrid Chapter Meeting </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">(Thanks for notes from <b>EJ Herold</b> – <b>YeEd</b>.)<o:p></o:p></span></i></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><br /></span></i></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">The rehearsal opened with <b>Tony Colosimo</b> leading the warm-up and reinforcing the vocalization and breathing training from the last week’s meeting. Using a tag, “How Will I Get by Without You?,” he taught all of us the notes and techniques leading to a beautiful finish to the drills. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Artistic Director, <b>Joe Cerutti</b>, opened with announcements to the assembled Alexandria A Cappella Collective (AACC) group noting that we have quartets that will deliver singing greetings for Valentine’s Day tomorrow. A report of those activities from community outreach coordinator, <b>Dean Rust</b>, will be included in next week’s <i>Looking Back</i>report. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Joe</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> also gave an update on the progress of the annual interview process of all AACC singers. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Because AlexRenew is unavailable on Feb. 20, the chorus will meet at The Bike Club (99 Canal Center Plaza, Alexandria) for an evening of fun activities. Singers will choose from among several activities delivered in sequence or simultaneously to include: new member orientation; “You be the Judge;” barbershop “fails;” a class on proper breathing technique by <b>Tony</b> and a class by <b>Joe</b>.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">The group will be back at The Bike Club on March 5 as Alex Renew will be used as a polling place that evening. On March 19 the ensembles will sing in Old Town. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">The Metro Voices rehearsal with director, <b>Samantha Tramack</b>, worked on “Happy Together,” “Fight Song,” and “Sing/Swing Medley.” <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">The Harmonizers started with a ‘push out’ quartet activity singing “Hey Jude.” Comedic results were achieved as a couple singers lost their place but the overall effect was pleasing and fun! This will be a continuing practice to encourage quartet singing.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">It was announced that the music team plans to post the contest songs for the Harmonizers on Groupanizer by the end of the night. <b>Joe </b>said the chorus will start working both “Lullaby of Broadway” and “But the World Goes ‘Round” in two weeks. All singers were asked to focus on measures 101 to the end of “Lullaby”, though the leads were asked to skip measures 117-124 until further instructed. The annotated versions of the music will be coming soon. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">The chorus then worked on “Sit Down You’re Rockin’ the Boat” including the choreography led by <b>Turner Arndt</b>. Work on “Wee Small Hours of the Morning” and “Calling Dreams” to polish some of the more challenging spots, filled the rest of the evening.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Midway during the evening, there was a business meeting for the combined ensembles conducted by communications director, <b>Steve Murane. </b>Development director,<b> Ken Rub, </b>spoke about the upcoming Gala on March 2.<b> </b>His major message was for members to invite non-members to attend understanding that the goal is for it to be a successful fund raising gala.<b> </b>It is not a concert. There will be passed hors d oeuvres and a family-style dinner. The Mid Atlantic District (M-AD) quartet champ will sing. Dress is not black tie, but dress up. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Archives chairman, <b>Don Harrington</b>, announced that there were several framed chorus pictures from a former member set out on tables and free for anyone to take. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Conventions chairman, <b>Craig Kujawa</b>, spoke about members getting their registrations for the Barbershop Harmony Society (BHS) convention in Cleveland in early July. Note that early-bird prices end on Thursday, Feb. 15.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Membership director, <b>Jacob Broude</b>, welcomed five returning guests –<b>Alex Radt, Charley Rothermel</b>, <b>Jared Liscinsky</b>, <b>Ker Medero</b> and <b>William Vesline</b>. First time guest was <b>Avery Biggers</b>, a guest of <b>Jared</b>. We sang our “Welcome Song” for all of our guests, with <b>Maggie McAlexander</b> as director. It was great to have <b>Jim Kirkland</b> and <b>Dave Ermlick</b> back to sing. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">The evening wrapped up about 9 pm with the 50/50 drawing, an invitation to guests and members to come to the Harmo House for an afterglow, and then singing of </span><span style="color: #1d2228;"> “Keep the Whole World Singing” directed by <b>Jared.</b><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Until next time –</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> <b>editorjack</b>!<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record for the great things going on each week during the 75<sup>th</sup> year of the Alexandria Chapter. - <b>YeEd</b>)</span></i><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></i><b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">The Chapter Mission Statement<i> <b>Enriching lives through vocal harmony in the greater DC area.</b></i><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3266860384965689425.post-12391946461969800182024-02-08T12:35:00.003-05:002024-02-08T12:35:55.498-05:00 Looking Back on the Feb. 6, 2024 Alexandria Hybrid Chapter Meeting <p> <b style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> Looking Back on the Feb. 6, 2024 Alexandria Hybrid Chapter Meeting </span></b></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">This week’s rehearsal at AlexRenew continued work by both the Harmonizers and Metro Voices on preparing songs for 2024 shows and events. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">The opening warm up session for the combined ensembles was conducted by associate director of the Harmonizers, <b>Tony Colosimo. </b><o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Artistic director, <b>Joe Cerutti</b>, shared that the interview process is underway. Schedules and location charts were posted around the meeting place. New members will meet with <b>Joe</b>; Metro Voices singers will meet with their director, <b>Samantha Tramack</b>; and others will meet with their section leaders. It is important that each member complete the survey prior to their interview which will be scheduled by <b>Terry Reynolds</b>.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><b><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Joe</span></b><span style="color: #1b1b1b;"> also shared that there is a need for more volunteers to sing in quartets to deliver Singing Valentine messages on Wednesday, February 1. Our organization does not charge for these appearances, but sings to spread cheer and messages of the day in the Alexandria Metro area. Anyone interested should be sure <b>Terry Reynolds</b> knows what part of that day they are available and what part they sing. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">The location of the February 20 meeting for Alexandria A Cappella Collective (AACC) will not be at AlexRenew and that location will be announced soon.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><b><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Joe</span></b><span style="color: #1b1b1b;"> was able to confirm that the choruses would not be expected to sing at the March 8 program introducing barbershop to students and parents from DC Public Schools. He did suggest that it would be a positive showing if some members were in the audience. Past gold medal barbershop quartet, SIGNATURE, will be singing after they and an Alexandria team work with students during the day. <b>Tessa Walker</b> will be clinician. The event will be at Capital Turnaround at 4 pm in SE Washington, DC.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">At this point in the evening, Metro Voices adjourned to the board room to work on “Happy Together,” “Fight Song,” and “Sing/Swing Medley.” In other news from Metro Voices, they had fun social time at the Harmo House on Saturday evening, February 3. During this week’s meeting, they introduced two Harmonizers, <b>Tyler Carpenter </b>and<b> Chad Ross</b>, as part of an effort to help their members get to know members of the other ensemble. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">The Harmonizers worked on “Calling Dreams,” “Sit Down You’re Rockin the Boat” along with a reminder session for the choreography for that song, and “Wee Small Hours.” <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><b><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Joe</span></b><span style="color: #1b1b1b;"> had just received the learning tracks for the Harmonizers’ new contest package and he was eager to were play them for the singers. <b>Tony DeRosa</b> created the tracks. The ballad, “But The World Goes Round,” was arranged by <b>Kevin Keller</b>. It was often used by Liza Minnelli to close her shows. The uptune, “Lullaby of Broadway,” is a classic Broadway number used by Ella Fitzgerald. It was arranged by <b>David Wright</b>.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><b><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Tony </span></b><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">did a couple craft sessions to strengthen the skills of the singers during the rehearsal.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Midway during the evening, there was a business meeting for the combined ensembles conducted by communications director, <b>Steve Murane. Randall Eliason </b>prompted everyone to turn in any silent auction item they have collected for the fundraising GALA. They should be turned during the next two weeks. <b><o:p></o:p></b></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><b><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Kathy Kauffman</span></b><span style="color: #1b1b1b;"> was on hand to collect empty liquor bottles that she and the decoration committee will use for the Gala on March 2. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Metro Voices director, <b>Samantha Tramack</b>, reported the recent passing of a founding member of their ensemble, <b>Elaine Cooper</b>, who died from complications of surgery. The family plans a celebration of life in the future. <b>Joe</b> spoke to share that Elaine was a stronger leader of the Pride of Baltimore chapter. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Membership director, <b>Jacob Broude</b>, welcomed six returning guests –<b>Alex Radt, Routa Mesfin</b>, <b>Charley Rothermel</b>, <b>Shane Lawson</b>, <b>Jared Liscinsky</b>, and <b>William Vesline</b>. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">First time guests were <b>Tyler Greene</b>, a guest of <b>Turner Arndt</b>; <b>Ker Medero</b>, a guest of <b>Ben Watsky</b>; and <b>Jamie Brazen</b>, a guest of <b>Sheryl Berlin</b>. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">We sang our “Welcome Song” for all of our guests, with <b>Will Cox</b> as director. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">The evening wrapped up about 9 pm with the 50/50 drawing (<b>Joe</b> was shocked to have finally won the drawing for the first time!), an invitation to guests and members to come to the Harmo House for an afterglow, and then singing of </span><span style="color: #1d2228;"> “Keep the Whole World Singing” directed by <b>Lance Fisher.</b><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Until next time –</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> <b>editorjack</b>!<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record for the great things going on each week during the 75<sup>th</sup> year of the Alexandria Chapter. - <b>YeEd</b>)</span></i><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></i><b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">The Chapter Mission Statement<i> <b>Enriching lives through vocal harmony in the greater DC area.</b></i><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3266860384965689425.post-61691403572895006772024-02-01T09:11:00.003-05:002024-02-01T09:11:46.767-05:00 Looking Back on the Jan. 30, 2024 Alexandria Hybrid Chapter Meeting <p> <b style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> Looking Back on the Jan. 30, 2024 Alexandria Hybrid Chapter Meeting </span></b></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">This week’s rehearsal at AlexRenew launched work on preparing songs for 2024 shows and events. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><b><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Alan Wile </span></b><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">and<b> Walt Page</b> welcomed everyone when they arrived on the sixth floor (and invited them to get some 50/50 tickets). The winner keeps one half each week, and the other half is sent to the Mid Atlantic District (M-AD) Endowment Fund in the name of the chapter. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Speaking of M-AD, it is good to note that several of our members are in leadership positions on the district board. <b>Bob Eckman</b> is Immediate Past President, <b>Dave Welter</b> is treasurer, and <b>Sheryl Berlin </b>and<b> Mike Fasano</b> are members-at-large.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">The opening warm up session for the combined ensembles was conducted by <b>Tony Colosimo. </b><o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Artistic director, <b>Joe Cerutti</b>, was back from his trip to Hawaii and thanked all those who attended the celebration of life for <b>Geri Geis</b> at Arlington National Cemetery, Friday, January 26. During the service, her daughter Stacie gave the eulogy and shared that <b>Geri</b> was extremely honored to have been recognized at the chapter’s 75<sup>th</sup> anniversary when <b>Joe</b>welcomed her and suggested she was the matriarch for the Harmonizers.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">There were many Harmonizers there to honor her. The chorus sang “I’ll Walk With God” during the 3 pm service in the chapel, and then sang “I’ll Be Seeing You” at the graveside. <b>Terry Reynolds</b> directed. Attendees included <b>Ken Ives, Bob Wilson, Rick Savage, Geoff Berman, Troy Hillier, Jeff Ashford, Howard Nestlerode, Dean Rust, Steve White, Mike Wallen, Noah Van Gilder, Bob Blair, Dave Welter, Martin Banks, Michael Schwartz, Carl Kauffmann, Bob Bates, Rick Taylor, Sam Brothers, Greg Tepe, Terry Reynolds, TJ Donahue, Jack Pitzer, Chuck Hunter, Ken Rub, Brian Ammerman, Bruce Roehm, Craig Kujawa, Mark Klostermeyer, Ike Evans </b>and<b> Alan Wile</b>.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">After that, <b>Joe </b>invited input from members about the recent chapter events. He also encouraged all singers, especially any new members, to consider signing up to be in a quartet or ensemble on February 14 to sing Valentine messages in the Alexandria Metro area. Anyone interested should be sure <b>Terry Reynolds</b> knows what part of that day they are available and what part they sing. In preparation for this project, <b>Tony </b>had the singers do a quick run through of “Heart of My Heart” and “Let Me Call You Sweetheart” during the warm up, that are the songs the quartets will sing. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><b><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Joe</span></b><span style="color: #1b1b1b;"> also confirmed the plans for the eighth annual interview process when each member has a half hour interview with music team leadership. New members will meet with <b>Joe</b>; Metro Voices singers will meet with their director, <b>Samantha Tramack</b>; and others will meet with their section leaders. It is important that each member complete the survey prior to their interview which will be scheduled by <b>Terry Reynolds</b>.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">The location of the February 20 meeting for Alexandria A Cappella Collective (AACC) will not be at AlexRenew and that location will be announced soon.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">At this point in the evening, Metro Voices adjourned to the board room to work on “Happy Together,” “Fight Song,” and “Sing/Swing Medley.” The Harmonizers worked on “Hey Jude” which will be used at their participation in the Wolf Trap show with other local choral groups; plus “Calling Dreams,” “Sit Down You’re Rockin the Boat” along with a reminder session for the choreography for that song, and “Wee Small Hours.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Midway during the evening, there was a business meeting for all attendees. Operations director, <b>Gary Cregan</b>, asked for ideas on optional meeting locations for March 5, since that is an election day and AlexRenew will be used as a polling place.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><b><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Steve White</span></b><span style="color: #1b1b1b;"> and all his fellow Harmonizers who are members of the M-AD honor chapter, Delasusquehudmac (DELA), welcomed another chapter member who was recently elected to membership in DELA – <b>Sheryl Berlin</b>. Members are elected in recognition of their extra service at the district level in a variety of leadership and service positions. She joins 22 current members who are in the DELA chapter. (Delasusquehudmac is a made up name from the names of all the major rivers in the M-AD.)<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><b><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Kathy Kauffman</span></b><span style="color: #1b1b1b;"> made an appeal to all members to bring in empty liquor bottles next week that she and the decoration committee will use for the Gala on March 2. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Membership director, <b>Jacob Broude</b>, welcomed three returning guests – <b>Mary, Alex </b>and<b> Marcia</b>. There were four guests present for their first visit: <b>Routa Mesfin</b> who learned about us via MeetUp Alexandria; <b>Charley Rothermel</b>, a guest of <b>Rob Barnovsky</b>; <b>Shane Lawson</b>, a guest of <b>Matt Ambler;</b> and <b>William Vesline</b>, who saw us singing in Old Town in December. We sang our “Welcome Song” with <b>Terry</b> as director. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">The evening wrapped up about 9 pm with the 50/50 drawing, an invitation to guests and members to come to the Harmo House for an afterglow, and then singing of </span><span style="color: #1d2228;"> “Keep the Whole World Singing” directed by <b>Sheryl.</b><o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1d2228;">In other news, the chapter learned recently of the passing of <b>Bill Sowers</b> who died on January 3, 2024, due to complications following a serious fall. He and his wife <b>Charlie</b> were long-time supporters of the chapter long after <b>Bill</b>stopped singing. A private burial service will be held at Arlington National Cemetery. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Until next time –</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> <b>editorjack</b>!<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record for the great things going on each week during the 75<sup>th</sup> year of the Alexandria Chapter. - <b>YeEd</b>)</span></i><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></i><b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">The Chapter Mission Statement<i> <b>Enriching lives through vocal harmony in the greater DC area.</b></i><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3266860384965689425.post-84345316381023813532024-01-26T08:10:00.001-05:002024-01-26T08:10:13.675-05:00 Looking Back on the Jan. 23, 2024 Alexandria Hybrid Chapter Meeting <p> <b style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> Looking Back on the Jan. 23, 2024 Alexandria Hybrid Chapter Meeting </span></b></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">There was a good turnout for this week’s rehearsal back at AlexRenew. As is the custom there, early arrivals can help move tables and chairs and set up the large meeting space on the sixth floor. The chorus will meet there for the next four weeks and then will meet off site on Feb. 20. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">The opening warm up session for the combined ensembles was conducted by <b>Tony Colosimo</b>, associate director of the Harmonizers. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">While both ensembles were together for warm ups, there was a brief follow-up to the Jan. 16 kickoff session – comments were good and the plans for a full and fun year seemed to be appreciated by the singers. The Singing Valentines effort for 2024 is coming up soon and all singers were invited to add their name to the clip board offering their availability on Feb. 14 to make quartet appearances in the Alexandria area (such as at city hall, at senior living places, some restaurants and office areas, and at AlexRenew). Chapter leaders will assemble quartets and make appearance appointments.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">At this point, Metro Voices moved to the board room with their director, <b>Samantha Tramack</b>, to work on “Happy Together” and “Fight Song.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><b><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Tony </span></b><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">continued working with the Harmonizers on “New York New York,” “Hey Jude” which was a new arrangement for many, “Rockin the Boat,” and “Wee Small Hours.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">During the business session conducted by <b>Steve Murane</b>, communications director, <b>Randall Eliason</b> reminded all singers of the need to get gift cards and other major donations for the Gala on March 2. Development director, <b>Ken Rub</b>, alerted everyone that tickets are on sale for attendance at the gala. He also announced a request from the gala’s decorations committee for members to bring them empty wine, gin, bourbon or rum bottles for the speakeasy theme. (Bring them next week.)<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">President <b>Noah Van Gilder</b> reported that <b>Sam McFarland</b> is home and doing ok. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><b><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Terry Reynolds</span></b><span style="color: #1b1b1b;"> alerted all members that the survey will be coming to each person soon that they must fill out prior to their individual interview for 2024.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">The details for the funeral service for <b>Geri Geis</b> on Friday, Jan. 25 were reviewed. Those attending met after the meeting to review “I’ll Walk with God.” <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1d2228;">The service will begin at the Ft Myer Old Post Chapel which is on base which means you need to allow time to go through military security. Arrive at the Hatfield Gate off Rt 27/Washington Blvd near Rt 50. Have your photo ID and vehicle registration. At 2:30 singers will gather to rehearse (outside or inside the Chapel - TBD). At 3:00 pm the service begins - Harmonizers sing “I’ll Walk with God.” At about 3:20 the service will be at the gravesite - Harmonizers sing “I’ll Be Seeing You.” Wear your own coat and tie. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1d2228;">Membership director, <b>Jacob Broude</b>, was back and welcomed recent new members<b> Mark Oswald </b>and<b> Jimmy Miotto</b>, and guests <b>Alex Radt, Hannah Nesich </b>and<b> Marsha Mallett</b>. <b>Jeff Burkey</b> was back to sing too after a few years off the risers. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1d2228;">There were a few final announcements to wrap up the evening. The Catactones in Frederick, MD, sent an additional donation to go specifically to Metro Voices thanking them for singing on their holiday show. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1d2228;">As part of the ongoing project to have quartets available to accept singing jobs during the year, <b>Samantha </b>and<b> Mert Tramack</b> and their quartet SWEET AND SOUR, appeared in Lawrenceville, VA, recently; as did a quartet organized by <b>Tony </b>with three men from the Army Chorus. Our organization has a plan to have several smaller ensembles available, as needed, to fill requests when sending the whole chorus would not be possible. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><b><span style="color: #1d2228;">Cy Shuster</span></b><span style="color: #1d2228;"> won the 50/50 this week; and <b>Jeff Burkey</b> directed “Keep the Whole World Singing.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Until next time –</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> <b>editorjack</b>!<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record for the great things going on each week during the 75<sup>th</sup> year of the Alexandria Chapter. - <b>YeEd</b>)</span></i><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></i><b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">The Chapter Mission Statement<i> <b>Enriching lives through vocal harmony in the greater DC area.</b></i><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3266860384965689425.post-40153291252329412982024-01-22T14:49:00.003-05:002024-01-22T14:49:41.357-05:00 Looking Back on the Jan. 16, 2024 Alexandria Chapter Kickoff for New Year <p> <b style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> Looking Back on the Jan. 16, 2024 Alexandria Chapter Kickoff for New Year </span></b></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">The snow storm on Tuesday prompted chapter leadership to hold this important meeting via Zoom. It was weird to go back into Zoom-mood – even music team administration guy, <b>Terry Reynolds</b>, admitted he was a little “rusty” at setting it all up like we did during the Covid era.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">The meeting had been planned for The Bike Club in Alexandria with refreshments and a relaxing evening. But as it turned out, there were 83 attendees on the call including three guys from far away – <b>Bob Rhome, Keith Jones </b>and<b>Mike Edison</b>.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">In recent days, all members have received the complete set of slides used by chapter leadership for the kickoff presentation for Alexandria A Cappella Collective (AACC), so this report will give the general highlights of the meeting. Artistic director, <b>Joe Cerutti</b>, spoke on behalf of the music team. Before launching on 2024 plans, he welcomed comments about the successful and fun trip to NYC for MidWinter last week. He was proud and complimentary to the chorus, soloists, quartets, the student chorus from Seneca Valley, and the gold medal winners of the senior chorus contest. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Topics for this week’s Zoom presentation included announcement of music team members for both ensembles. There were basically no changes for the Harmonizers. The expanded list of section leaders for Metro Voices includes <b>Elisabeth Cosh,</b> for tenors; <b>Sophie Clark</b>, for leads; <b>Sheryl Berlin</b> for baritones; and <b>Leah Musico</b> for basses. <b>Tessa Walker</b> will be director for Capital Force youth mixed gender chorus for students in grades 8-11. There is a need for volunteers to help with the launch of this third ensemble – interested members or family members or former members should contact <b>Tessa </b>or<b> Sheryl.</b><o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">The plan to kick-off another ensemble of all gender seniors (age 55 and over) for a daytime chorus will be in 2025. <b>Terry Reynolds</b> is expected to be director for that group. Senior members of current ensembles will be welcome to join Vintage Blend as well as sing with the Harmonizers or Metro Voices.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">The calendar of events for 2024 was reviewed and all members are encouraged to post those events in their own calendar. <b>Joe </b>acknowledged that it will be a very busy year. There was a reminder to leadership to add the chapter’s annual Put Together Quartet contest to the calendar. Also, members were reminded that the meetings will be at AlexRenew for the year ahead except on the third Tuesday of the month. Alternate meeting locations will be used on those Tuesday nights – often for social or networking or outreach in the community.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><b><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Joe</span></b><span style="color: #1b1b1b;"> shared some details about the work with DC Public Schools on March 8. Gold medal quartet, SIGNATURE, will be back to work as clinicians for the day along with a guest soprano and alto clinician. The chorus will sing in the evening for the students and their family members. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">He was eager to share early plans for the trip to Lake George, NY, for the Barbershop Harmony Society (BHS) Northeastern District Convention and Contest. There will be a bus go up on Friday afternoon so we can do classes and coaching and networking, plus sing a couple times He hopes members will plan to participate in this important and fun weekend. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Songs for a return appearance at Wolf trap with six other choral groups in the area will be “Defying Gravity” and “Hey Jude” for the combined ensembles. That same weekend May 31- June 2 will be the annual retreat. We won’t go to Westminster, MD, this year but hold the combined weekend nearer the Metro Area. Things will start at 7 pm Friday and end between 2-3 pm on Sunday. Likely coaches for that weekend will be Steve Scott and Steve Tramack. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">For the July BHS convention and contests, Metro Voices will sing in the Festival event in Cleveland and the Harmonizers will sing “Lullaby of Broadway” and “But the World Goes Round” in the chorus contest. David Wright and Kevin Keller have arranged the songs for us and work will begin soon. Cy Wood will be creating a visual plan for the contest package. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">A couple other tidbits of info about the ’24 calendar: the holiday show will be two concerts at Fairlington United Methodist church; a search is on for a venue for a fall show; and with a reminder from <b>Dean Rust</b>, there will be an opportunity for chapter quartets to deliver Valentine appearances in the local community area. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><b><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Joe</span></b><span style="color: #1b1b1b;"> did share that there is talk about a possible International trip in 2025 – current idea is to go to Ireland.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">The current board taking AACC into 2024 are </span><span style="color: #333333;">: </span><b><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Noah Van Gilder, </span></b><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">from the Harmonizers – President; <b>Carolyn Griffin</b>, from the community - Vice President; <b>Terry Reynolds</b>, from the Harmonizers – Treasurer; <b>Cy Shuster</b>, from the Harmonizers – Secretary; <b>Turner Arndt</b>, from the Harmonizers – Member-at-Large; <b>Dave Kohls</b>, from the community – Member-at-Large; <b>Mary Cooper</b>, from Metro Voices – Member-at-Large; <b>Charlyne</b> “<b>Chuck” Miller</b> from Metro Voices – Member-at-Large; and <b>Michael Berkson</b> from the Harmonizers – Member-at-Large.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Priorities for ’24 at to continue work on fundraising/development; address public relations and outreach; continue managing inclusion and diversity. Goals reported for the board are to update the strategic plan, support and oversee the rebranding process, develop new outreach strategies and to approve a balanced budget for ’25.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">Day-to-day matters are managed by the operation team coordinated by executive director, <b>Stan Quick</b>. Other members of that team are:<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">General Manager – <b>Susan Fitzpatrick</b><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">Artistic Director – <b>Joe Cerutti, Jr.</b><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">Music Team Admin – <b>Terry Reynolds</b><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">Membership Director – <b>Jacob Broude</b><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">Contest Director – <b>Craig Kujawa</b><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">Chapter Secretary – <b>Heidi Krukowski</b><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">BHS Finance Director – <b>Dave Welter</b><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">AHI Finance Director – <b>Carl Kauffmann</b><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">Communications Director – <b>Steve Murane</b><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">Director of Shows – <b>Doug White</b><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">Operations Director – <b>Gary Cregan</b><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">Education Director – <b>Sheryl Berlin</b><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">Volunteer Activities Director – <b>vacant<o:p></o:p></b></span></p><p class="MsoNoSpacing" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">Archivist/Historian – <b>Don Harrington<o:p></o:p></b></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">As a reminder, the mission of our organization is “Enriching lives through vocal harmony in the greater DC area.” <b>Stan </b>has established a six-point measurement scale to determine the value and importance of activities. His “Measure of Impact” points include Quality, Community Outreach, Brand Awareness, Financial Health, Culture of Fellowship and Growth of the Organization.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><b><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Ken Rub</span></b><span style="color: #1b1b1b;"> shared some early plans for the March 2, 2024 Gala – our first development gala in recent years with committees at work to make ‘A Night at the Speakeasy’ a success. It will include a silent auction and all members have been asked to gather major gift cards and such for that event. Recent district quartet champ, SMOKE RING, will sing in our speakeasy-themed venue at The Garden on Eisenhower Ave. in Alexandria. There will also be a live auction.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><b><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Ken </span></b><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">also has plans for the Spring2ACTion event with another cabaret watch night at The Bike Club; and Giving Tuesday efforts to include a push for replace-my-dues from members. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Communications director <b>Steve Murane</b> stressed the importance that all members be certain the chapter has correct personal emails. <b>Michael Berkson</b> was thanked for his work to launch SLACK as a new communications tool for the chapter. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;"> <b>Terry Reynolds </b>and<b> Joe</b> took time to explain the traditional interview process for every. Member. Also, they explained the important survey each member needs to take before their interview that will be issued soon. Watch for complete details. Metro Voices will meet with <b>Joe</b> and their director, <b>Samantha Tramack</b>. New Harmonizers will meet with <b>Joe</b>and their section leader. All other members will meet with their section leader.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><b><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Joe</span></b><span style="color: #1b1b1b;"> did take time to review plans for the repertoire in the year ahead. Metro Voices will be adding “Happy Together,” “After You, Who?,’ and “The More I See You. The Harmonizers will add the two contest songs mentioned earlier and bring back “Hey Jude.” Joint songs for the two ensembles in AACC will be “Defying Gravity,” “Why We Sing,” and a new arrangement of “My Romance.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">The mic was open for questions and everyone bid farewell.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Until next time –</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> <b>editorjack</b>!<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record for the great things going on each week during the 75<sup>th</sup> year of the Alexandria Chapter. - <b>YeEd</b>)</span></i><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></i><b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">The Chapter Mission Statement<i> <b>Enriching lives through vocal harmony in the greater DC area.</b></i><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3266860384965689425.post-25432687318174022172024-01-20T10:23:00.003-05:002024-01-20T10:23:47.046-05:00 Looking Back on the Jan. 11-13, 2024 Alexandria Participation at BHS MidWinter <p> <b style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> Looking Back on the Jan. 11-13, 2024 Alexandria Participation at BHS MidWinter </span></b></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><i><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">(Thanks to reporters <b>Cy Shuster, EJ Herold, Brad Jones, </b>and<b> Dixie Kennett</b> for their reports to help create this report. <b>YeEd</b>). <o:p></o:p></span></i></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Members of Alexandria A Capella Collective made their way to NYC for the 2024 Barbershop Harmony Society (BHS) MidWinter convention and contests January 11-14. Many by train or bus. All events were at the Sheraton NY Times Square Hotel. Many members took advantage of the trip to see some Broadway shows as well.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Both the Harmonizers and Metro Voices were invited to sing on the Thursday, Jan. 11 show with a large contingent of other Mid Atlantic District (M-AD) ensembles. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="yiv2463053070msonormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Here is a report from <b>EJ Herold</b>: </span><span style="color: #1d2228;">The Harmonizers and Metro Voices assembled throughout the day on Thursday, arriving by all manner of conveyance to the Big Apple. As they gathered in their color-palette-approved raiment, they presented a feast for the eyes that would soon complement that for the ears.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="yiv2463053070msonormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #1d2228;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="yiv2463053070msonormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #1d2228;">Warm-ups were led by <b>Tony Colosimo</b>, associate director of the Harmonizers, as voices and bodies were limbered up to dispel tension and pre-performance nerves. Under <b>Terry Reynold’s</b> watchful-eye, the group was ushered through movements and stage blocking to prepare for a professional-looking series of on-stage transitions. Following a sound check of “Defying Gravity,” there was a warmup with Parkside Harmony, Parkside Melody and Gotham to prepare the closing song, “How Can I keep From Singing?” There was a palpable sensation of the camaraderie of singing. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="yiv2463053070msonormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #1d2228;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="yiv2463053070msonormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #1d2228;">During the performance, artistic director, <b>Joe Cerutti</b>, was at the helm for the combined Alexandria ensembles for stunningly emotional renditions of “San Francisco” and “Defying Gravity.” “New York, New York” proved to be a crowd-pleaser getting amused reaction to the “kick line;” and <b>Samantha Tramack’s</b> solo in “Gravity” was a tour de force that brought the audience to their feet. “San Francisco” got whoops and a standing “o” from the audience, as well. Finally, “Why We Sing,” with a touching introduction about the importance of the barbershop family, was another hit.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="yiv2463053070msonormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #1d2228;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="yiv2463053070msonormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #1d2228;">The Metro Voices performance appeared to go well but we were backstage with no way to observe the performance or audience reaction, other than hear enthusiastic applause. <b>Samantha </b>directed their performance.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><b><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Ye Ed</span></b><span style="color: #1b1b1b;"> gathered the following information about other Alexandria participation at the convention. There was a last minute change for the Harmonizer performance when <b>Zak Sandler</b> had to miss the trip to NYC due to illness and wasn’t there to accompany the Harmonizers for “San Francisco.” He helped <b>Joe </b>locate a piano accompanist in NYC about midnight before the performance! The substitute did a great job with little or no extra work with the chorus. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><b><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Tessa Walker’s</span></b><span style="color: #1b1b1b;"> mixed youth chorus, Seneca Valley Singers, from Germantown, MD, earned an Outstanding Rating in the Next Generation Festival for Junior Choruses on Friday, Jan. 12. There were 36 students in the group that sang three songs. She is a music educator at their school.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Many members from AACC went to the Massed Sing at Times Square as reported on SLACK.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Also, there were a large number of Alexandria singers in the M-AD Seniors Chorus that competed in the MidWinter Senior Chorus contest on Friday. The chorus was directed by Keith Harris. They sang “How Lucky You Are,” and “That Old Quartet of Mine.” The following members sang on the contest stage and earned gold medals for their first place finish: <b>Bob Blair, Chris Buechler, Frank Fedarko, Mike Geipel, Brad Jones, Adele Jones, Carl Kauffmann, Dave Welter, Steve White, Rick Taylor, Bob Wilson, Chris Yates, Mike Wallen, Tim Buell, </b>and<b> Biff Gaut</b>. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">SILVER ALERT quartet with <b>Kris Zinkievich, Kevin McKenzie, Mike Edison, </b>and<b> Steve Murane </b>placed 21<sup>st</sup> in the 2024 International Seniors Quartet finals contest, Saturday Jan. 13. They sang “Just in Time” and “Blue Velvet” – with some original words and arrangement work by the quartet family.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Society president, <b>John Santora</b>, attended meetings. Former BHS president, <b>Alan Lamson</b>, attended, as well. <b>Bill Colosimo</b> attended as chair for the BHS Leadership Development Committee. <b>Chris Buechler, Steve Tramack, </b>and<b>Mike Louque</b> were involved as judges at the convention. <b>Joe</b> was a busy member of the BHS staff as well as directing our chorus, and directed a mic tester chorus of convention attendees (which included several Alexandria singers). <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">For the Saturday night show, FIRST TAKE was one of the medalist quartets from last July’s contest invited to sing on the MidWinter show with <b>Tony Colosimo, </b>lead<b>, </b>and<b> Andrew Havens, </b>bass. As it turned out, their baritone, Drew Wheaton, was unable to make the trip, so seven other baritones each sang one of the songs with FIRST TAKE including Vince Sandroni, Ben Hawker, <b>Heather Havens</b>, <b>Lance Fisher</b>, and Tim Waurick. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Until next time –</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> <b>editorjack</b>!<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record for the great things going on each week during the 75<sup>th</sup> year of the Alexandria Chapter. - <b>YeEd</b>)</span></i><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></i><b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">The Chapter Mission Statement<i> <b>Enriching lives through vocal harmony in the greater DC area.</b></i><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3266860384965689425.post-16748588284971227302024-01-13T09:15:00.001-05:002024-01-13T09:15:05.608-05:00Looking Back on the Jan. 9, 2024 Alexandria Hybrid Chapter Meeting <p> <b style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> Looking Back on the Jan. 9, 2024 Alexandria Hybrid Chapter Meeting </span></b></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">It was a really cold and very rainy night, but a contingent of Harmonizers made it to the rehearsal at AlexRenew. The plan was to work on their songs for the Jan. 11 appearance at the Barbershop Harmony Society (BHS) MidWinter convention in NYC.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">The Metro Voices singers decided to all attend via Zoom with <b>Samantha Tramack</b> leading their rehearsal – also for their appearance at the MidWinter.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Harmonizer associate director, <b>Tony Colosimo</b>, conducted the rehearsal after a warm up session. Some Harmonizers did also attend via Zoom.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Assistant director, <b>Terry Reynolds</b>, managed all the links and connections and messages to those on Zoom and those at the meeting place.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">During a brief business session, president <b>Noah Van Gilder</b>, announced the recent passing of <b>Noreen, Jim Kirkland’s</b>wife. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><b><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Tony</span></b><span style="color: #1b1b1b;"> encouraged the members to lend support as possible to <b>David Breen</b>, whose father died recently.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">There were some reminders about the NYC trip: a reminder to get uniform clearance to be on stage; call time is 6 pm; arrive to the stage dressed for the show; have fun on the travels up (via train, bus or plane). <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Next week’s important Kickoff for 2024 will be at The Bike Club, 99 Canal Center Plaza #110, Alexandria, VA 22314. Usual 7 pm start time. Cake and goodies planned. Parking is $5 in the lot or street is free. Suggestion: bring your 2024 calendar and something to take notes on when artistic director, <b>Joe Cerutti</b>, the music team, and the board announce plans for the months ahead.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">As a reminder, the celebration of life for <b>Geri Geis</b> will be on Jan. 26 at Arlington Cemetery. Members will sing “I’ll Be Seeing You” and “I’ll Walk with God.” Current and former members are welcome to join and attend. Watch for more details as to reporting time and location. <b>Geri</b> was a major force in the gold medal years of the Harmonizers. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">The meeting ended at 9:30 after the 50/50 drawing and “Keep the Whole World Singing.” There was no afterglow this week.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Until next time –</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> <b>editorjack</b>!<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record for the great things going on each week during the 75<sup>th</sup> year of the Alexandria Chapter. - <b>YeEd</b>)</span></i><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></i><b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">The Chapter Mission Statement<i> <b>Enriching lives through vocal harmony in the greater DC area.</b></i><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3266860384965689425.post-37619839621972174322024-01-05T08:56:00.003-05:002024-01-05T08:56:34.704-05:00 Looking Back on the Jan. 2, 2024 Alexandria Hybrid Chapter Meeting <p> <b style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> Looking Back on the Jan. 2, 2024 Alexandria Hybrid Chapter Meeting </span></b></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">The chapter started the new year with a rehearsal at AlexRenew to prepare for the appearances by the Harmonizers and Metro Voices at the Barbershop Harmony Society (BHS) MidWinter convention in NYC on January 11<i>.<o:p></o:p></i></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">This was a follow-up session after a work time on Saturday, Dec. 30, that concentrated on the songs for NYC. At both rehearsals, many singers arrived early to have their uniform options checked by the task force of <b>Tony Colosimo, Maggie McAlexander </b>and<b> Tessa Walker</b>. (All uniforms for the NYC appearance must be approved by the task force – members can bring or wear their uniform or take a picture of themselves wearing it.)<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">A riser crew brought in the risers to store inside the AlexRenew building on Tuesday. Other singers helped set up chairs in the main room for the combined rehearsal of the two ensembles.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Associate director of the Harmonizers, <b>Tony Colosimo</b>, conducted the warm up session for the combined chorus before they concentrated work on “Defying Gravity.” Artistic director, <b>Joe Cerutti</b>, announced that <b>Samantha Tramack</b> will be the soloist for “Defying Gravity.” Then the combined chorus worked on “Why We Sing.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">After the combined session, each ensemble worked on the two songs they will do on the MidWinter show. The Alexandria groups will be appearing on a special show featuring Mid Atlantic District (M-AD) quartets and choruses. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><b><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Joe </span></b><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">explained to all that the annual chapter personal interviews will be held again this year (this will be the eighth year the chapter has done the interview process to gain input, ideas and suggestions from the singers). This year Metro Voices singers will meet with <b>Joe </b>and<b> Samantha</b>. New Harmonizers will each meet with <b>Joe, </b>and the other Harmonizers will meet with their section leader. Just prior to these interviews, each member of the Alexandria A Cappella Collective (AACC) will be asked to respond to a survey.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">The annual kick off session for the year will be Tuesday, Jan. 16 – it may be virtual if a meeting location cannot be found since AlexRenew is not available on the third Tuesday of each month. The annual kick off session is when the music team presents all the plans for 2024 – what will be the contest songs; who will be coaches for the year; who will be section leaders; what major shows or performance events are already on the calendar; what are the plans for kicking off our third ensemble, Capital Force,; and what the details about our first Gala fundraiser event. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">The celebration of life for <b>Geri Geis</b> will be on Jan. 26 at Arlington Cemetery. Chapter members will sing “I’ll Be Seeing You” and “I’ll Walk with God.” Current and former members are welcome to join and attend. Watch for more details as to reporting time and location. <b>Geri</b> was a major force in the gold medal years of the Harmonizers. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><b><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Joe</span></b><span style="color: #1b1b1b;"> also announced that <b>David Breen’s</b> father died unexpectedly in recent days. He was 69. All members send their thoughts to <b>David</b>.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">There was a business session during the meeting. President <b>Noah Van Gilder</b> asked for members to provide their nominations for the annual chapter awards. He sent a message recently and asked for a prompt turn-around of responses.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">During this week’s meeting, there was a transition to a new chapter secretary – <b>David DesPortes</b> is moving out of the area, and <b>Heidi Krukowski</b> has been named to fill the position. She and <b>David </b>presented three membership renewals: <b>Stephen Gudauskas</b> for two years; <b>Cy Shuster</b> for eleven years; and <b>Tessa Walker</b> for twelve years. The chapter thanked <b>David</b> for his years of service as chapter secretary. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><b><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Tessa</span></b><span style="color: #1b1b1b;"> reported activities for her youth chorus from the school where she teaches. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">There was a guest singer present for Metro Voices – <b>Christina</b>. The <b>Terry Reynolds</b> directed the chapter’s welcome song. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><b><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Alan Wile </span></b><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">and<b> Walt Page</b> managed the 50/50 event this week. Half of the monies collected become our chapter donation to the M-AD Endowment Fund, and the winner each week gets the other half.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">The meeting ended a little early after the ensembles worked on their songs. A small crowd made it to the afterglow at the Harmo House on a really cold night. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Until next time –</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> <b>editorjack</b>!<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record for the great things going on each week during the 75<sup>th</sup> year of the Alexandria Chapter. - <b>YeEd</b>)</span></i><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></i><b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">The Chapter Mission Statement<i> <b>Enriching lives through vocal harmony in the greater DC area.</b></i><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3266860384965689425.post-297494710048153712023-12-23T10:59:00.003-05:002023-12-23T10:59:21.986-05:00 Looking Back on the Dec. 19, 2023 Alexandria Caroling in Old Town <p> <b style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Looking Back on the Dec. 19, 2023 Alexandria Caroling in Old Town </span></b></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">After our great holiday shows, the singers of Alexandria A Cappella Collective met in Old Town Alexandria on Tues. Dec. 19 at 7 pm to sing for those folks out on the festive streets and restaurants in the area.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Everyone gathered at Market Square in the 27 degree weather with scarves and gloves. <b>Terry Reynolds</b> brought the chapter’s stash of Santa hats for everyone to wear. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><b><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Mark Klostermeyer</span></b><span style="color: #1b1b1b;"> had arrived early to stop into various restaurants on King Street asking if we could sing a few songs for their patrons. There were 6 or 7 stops on the walk with a few impromptu stops where there were folks to listen and enjoy. A mini performance was held on the steps at the Torpedo Factory.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Artistic director <b>Joe Cerutti</b> told each audience who the group was and invited interested singers to check the website. He directed the Harmonizers and <b>Samantha Tramack</b> directed Metro Voices. Each ensemble sang a song of their own and the combined group sang “Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas.” They sang “We Wish You a Merry Christmas” as they exited the restaurant.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">The evening ended with an afterglow at Chadwicks.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">It was great to have some family members along for the walk and fun, and some members who were in town for the holidays and came to see old pals.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">The next chapter gathering will be on Saturday, Dec. 30 at AlexRenew to work on music for the Jan. 11 performances in NYC at the MidWinter convention of the Barbershop Harmony Society (BHS). Metro Voices will work from 9-1 and the Harmonizers will work from 11-3 – thus an overlap for some time to work on songs both ensembles will sing together. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Until next time –</span></b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> <b>editorjack</b>!<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><i><span style="color: #333333;">(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record for the great things going on each week during the 75<sup>th</sup> year of the Alexandria Chapter. - <b>YeEd</b>)</span></i><b><span style="color: #1b1b1b;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></i><b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">The Chapter Mission Statement<i> <b>Enriching lives through vocal harmony in the greater DC area.</b></i><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3266860384965689425.post-39724776681913707972023-12-21T07:36:00.001-05:002023-12-21T07:36:06.155-05:00 Looking Back on the Dec. 16 and 17, 2023 Alexandria Holiday Shows<p> <b style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Looking Back on the Dec. 16 and 17, 2023 Alexandria Holiday Shows</span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">The singers in Alexandria A Cappella Collective (AACC) were busy with two major holiday shows on Sat. Dec. 16<sup> </sup>and Sun. Dec. 17. There was a dress rehearsal for those shows on Tues. Dec. 12.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">The Fredrick, MD, Catactones barbershop chorus invited the Harmonizers and Metro Voices to do a holiday show for them at Urbana High School in the Fredrick area. The theme for their show was <i>The Secret of Christmas</i> and started at 3:30 pm. The Alexandria part of the show included basically the same songs as were used for the show on Sunday. The Catactones had refreshments for all singers back stage and that allowed for the two groups to visit and meet each other. Great to see former Harmonizers Scott Hoge, Garry vom Lehn and Biff Gaut at this performance. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">On Sunday, the Harmonizers and Metro Voices repeated the holiday music and performance for their own show at Fairlington United Methodist Church (UMC) on King Street at 3:30 pm. Show patrons responded generously to bring canned goods to the show for Alive!, an Alexandria food gathering group to serve those in need. Over 500 pounds was donated!<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">The Sunday performance was Live Streamed and Harmonizer leadership from <b>Dean Rust</b>, made certain that residents at the following eight senior living facilities could watch the show: Brandywine Living; Sunrise of Mt. Vernon; Sunrise in Alexandria; Paul Springs; Elance at West Side; Woodbine Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center; Goodwin House Bailey’s Crossroads; and Goodwin House Alexandria. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">AACC shows director, <b>Doug White</b>, and chapter general manager, <b>Susan Fitzpatrick</b>, with some volunteers, welcomed all the patrons (who had preregistered for the free concert). Other volunteers helped collect the food donations at the door and helped patrons to their seats (patrons had arrived during a severe rain storm in the local area!).<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">The chorus filled the choir area and the patrons filled the sanctuary and its balcony – the acoustics were great. Singers wore dressy black attire with green and red accents (many guys pulled out red ties from a previous chorus uniform).<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Artistic director, <b>Joe Cerutti,</b> took his position to audience applause and the Harmonizers kicked off the concert with “J I N G L E Bells.” <b>Steve White</b> brought his family heirloom sleigh bells to ring during this fun number.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Terry Reynolds</span></b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> welcomed everyone to this special event during the 75<sup>th</sup> year of the chapter. All during the concert, various members came forward to introduce the song or tell a little story. Associate Harmonizer director, <b>Tony Colosimo,</b> directed “Deck The Halls;” <b>Joe</b> directed “Believe;” <b>Tony</b> directed “Little Saint Nick;” <b>Joe</b> directed “Let It Snow” and “Grinch.” <b>Terry</b> did the narration about the grinch with a crazy hat plus he created chaos as he told the story by moving all through the chorus and hiding behind some of the singers. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">A combined chorus of the two Alexandria ensembles performed “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas.” <b>Matt Ambler </b>and<b> Catherine La Valley</b> sang solos for this number.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">The Harmonizers left the stage and Metro Voices sang with <b>Samantha Tramack</b>, directing “Sing We Noel,” “Winter Wonderland,” and “The Man with the Bag.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Will Cox</span></b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> entertained the audience, as he has at many holiday shows, with his comedic recitation of “The Night Before Christmas” – even as he forgot some of the words, or made up some in order to make things rhyme. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Joe</span></b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> invited many of the singers out into the aisles to help with an audience sing-along – “Rudolph,” “Joy to the World,” and “The Twelve Days of Christmas” with singers coaching a few rows of the audience with crazy words for each of the twelve days. It was fun to bring back this tradition from the era of holiday dinner shows organized by the Harmonizers. Another tradition was for the chorus musical leadership to steal the spotlight for the ‘Five Golden Rings’ line – and our team stole the show with a louder and higher tag each time! Thanks to <b>Maggie McAlexander</b>, assistant director of the Metro Voices; <b>Samantha, Joe </b>and<b> Tony</b>.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">The Harmonizers returned to the stage and <b>David Breen</b> sang the solo to start “Let All Mortal Flesh.” A small ensemble sang an original “Dreidel” song created by <b>Josh Meyer</b>. The singers were <b>Kellen Hertz, Heidi Krukowski, Devin Gerzof, Michael Berkson, Matt Ambler, David Breen, Josh Meyer, Turner Arndt, Ben Watsky, Sheryl Berlin, </b>and<b> Tony Colosimo</b>. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Following that song, a quartet with <b>Lance Fisher, Tony Colosimo, Josh Meyer, </b>and<b> David Breen</b> sang “It Came Upon a Midnight Clear” which was an introduction for the chorus to sing “Silent Night.” <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">As a wrap up for the show, <b>Joe</b> thanked the Fairlington UMC for their welcoming help to host the show; thanked the folks at Alive! for their work; and thanked all those who made it to the show in the rain. He invited them to make a freewill offering as they left the church to singers stationed at the door. The final song was “Do You Hear What I Hear” with both ensembles combined for an eight-part arrangement. The soloists for this year’s version of this holiday show closer were <b>Frank Fedarko, Terry Reynolds, </b>and<b> Heidi Krukowski</b>.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">The chorus sang holiday greetings, “We Wish You a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year’ as the show ended.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Until next time –</span></b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> <b>editorjack</b>!<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><i><span style="color: #333333;">(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record for the great things going on each week during the 75<sup>th</sup> year of the Alexandria Chapter. - <b>YeEd</b>)</span></i><b><span style="color: #1b1b1b;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></i><b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">The Chapter Mission Statement<i> <b>Enriching lives through vocal harmony in the greater DC area.</b></i><o:p></o:p></span></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3266860384965689425.post-3312632831945454062023-12-08T08:08:00.002-05:002023-12-08T08:08:13.453-05:00 Looking Back on the Dec. 5, 2023 Alexandria Hybrid Chapter Meeting <p> <b style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Looking Back on the Dec. 5, 2023 Alexandria Hybrid Chapter Meeting </span></b></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Everyone made it to our new meeting location, AlexRenew, 1800 Limerick Street, Alexandria, VA 22314. Parking is pretty tight, so some had to walk several blocks and pay for parking. A riser crew had to get all of our meeting equipment from the Harmo truck – up the elevator to the sixth floor. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">However, the risers were full of singers at the 7 pm start time for <b>Maggie McAlexander</b>, assistant director of Metro Voices, who directed the warm-up session for the combined ensembles. She included an eight-part tag of “Lullaby and Good Night.” <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Artistic director, <b>Joe Cerutti</b>, welcomed all the members to AlexRenew. He reviewed the busy upcoming schedule. Dress rehearsal for the chapter’s holiday show will be next Tuesday night at Fairlington United Methodist Church, 3900 King Street (to clarify for new members – this is not a true dress rehearsal – just wear typical attire like any rehearsal); Sat. Dec. 16, show for Frederick, MD, Chapter, call time is 1:45 pm, show starts at 3:30 pm at Urbana, MD, High School Auditorium, “The Secret of Harmony;” Sun. Dec.17, our own show, “Believe,” at Fairlington UMC, call time is 2 pm, show actually starts at 3:30 pm; Tues. Dec. 19, Carol Crawl in Old Town; Sat. Dec. 30, extra prep session for the Midwinter convention performance - Metro Voices from 9-1 and Harmonizers from 11-3.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><b><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Joe</span></b><span style="color: #1b1b1b;"> shared that the popular sing-along for our show audience will include the crowd favorite “Twelve Days of Christmas,” with members encouraging them to have fun with the words. It was always a great event at our holiday dinner shows a number of years ago.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">There will be finale special numbers for Alexandria singers to know, which <b>Joe </b>explained.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">After the warm ups, the singers worked on the two songs the ensembles will singer together – both the Saturday and Sunday shows will be basically identical.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">The chapter business session was conducted by <b>Steve Murane</b>, communications director, and started with chapter secretary, <b>David DesPortes</b>, presenting a 47-year renewal membership card to <b>Steve White</b>.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Shows director, <b>Doug White</b>, explained that our Sunday show will include a system for attendees to make donations. Attendees are also asked to bring canned goods which the chapter will give to the church to add to their food drive for ALIVE in Alexandria. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">He also explained how the chapter is managing the sold out situation for the Sunday afternoon show. A stand by list is being managed by <b>Doug</b>. There were already a lot of names on it.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Associate Harmonizer director,<b> Tony Colosimo,</b> alerted all singers going to perform at the MidWinter in NYC to watch for a memo soon about attire for that event. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Chapter conventions coordinator, <b>Craig Kujawa</b>, also alerted the members about the urgency to register for the Barbershop Harmony Society (BHS) convention in Cleveland in July. He will be getting out directions on registration and housing. Take action!!! Rates will be going up before too long and there is concern that there might be a sellout for seating in Cleveland. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">There were several singing guests present and former member <b>Larry Nixon</b>, from 1971-2002, was present. <b>Will Cox </b>directed the chapter welcome song.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">The chapter held the 50/50 drawing organized by <b>Alan Wile </b>and<b> Walter Page;</b> and the chorus sang “Keep the Whole World Singing,” before the two ensembles moved to their own risers on the sixth floor.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">The singing ended about 9:30 pm and chapter operations director, <b>Gary Cregan</b>, coached the members in getting all of our equipment back onto our truck.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">A nice crowd attended the afterglow at the Harmo House after finding a new route from AlexRenew. <b><o:p></o:p></b></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><i><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Looking Back </span></i><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">readers: please note that there will be no report from the Dec. 12<sup>th</sup> dress rehearsal<i>.<b><o:p></o:p></b></i></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Until next time –</span></b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> <b>editorjack</b>!<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><i><span style="color: #333333;">(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record for the great things going on each week during the 75<sup>th</sup> year of the Alexandria Chapter. - <b>YeEd</b>)</span></i><b><span style="color: #1b1b1b;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></i><b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">The Chapter Mission Statement<i> <b>Enriching lives through vocal harmony in the greater DC area.</b></i><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3266860384965689425.post-59369457344777841692023-11-30T08:46:00.000-05:002023-11-30T08:46:01.928-05:00 Looking Back on the Nov. 28, 2023 Alexandria Hybrid Chapter Meeting <p> <b style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Looking Back on the Nov. 28, 2023 Alexandria Hybrid Chapter Meeting </span></b></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">This week there were really full risers despite the freezing cold temps and serious winds outside. Many singers were there to get caught up on the holiday show music. And it was the last night we will be meeting at the Scottish Rite Temple (SRT). Next week will be at AlexRenew, 1800 Limerick Street, Alexandria, VA 22314.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Another change will be for the pre-meeting dinner gathering spot – we will move to Glory Days, 3141 Duke Street, Alexandria. We gather about 5:30. There is an easy route from there to AlexRenew. Anyone who happens to get to town early is welcome to join the half-dozen regulars who gather each week. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Speaking of routes, there is also a pretty easy route to the Harmo House from AlexRenew for afterglow. And of course, the Eisenhower Metro is about a 12-15 minute walk to the new meeting space. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">It was a work-on-the-holiday-show-music for both ensembles this week again, and associate director of the Harmonizers, <b>Tony Colosimo</b>, conducted the warm up session. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">When artistic director, <b>Joe Cerutti,</b> started the evening reporting on some Thanksgiving travels. Then he expressed his grateful appreciation for the help from <b>Ashley Merryman</b> who replied to his request last week for help with a show script for the holiday show. She and <b>Joe</b> are collecting any person connection stories to the show songs.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">This week <b>Joe’s</b> special request was for two or three members who could drive SIGNATURE quartet around DC on Dec. 12<sup>th</sup>. The gold medal quartet from 2019 will fly to DC from Florida that day to help us demonstrate barbershop harmony and to extend invitations to DC Public School students to participate in our chapter youth event in March. The drivers will make it faster and easier for the quartet to get from school-to-school in the city. Tell <b>Joe</b> that you can help! You will get to spend some time with a great champion quartet. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Attire for the holiday shows was addressed and several questions were cleared up. The attire for the Midwinter performance in NYC on January 11<sup>th</sup> is still TBD.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Just to confirm, here is a list of upcoming meetings/rehearsals/events: next week, Tues. Dec. 5 at AlexRenew, 1800 Limerick Street, Alexandria, VA 22314; Tues. Dec. 12 dress rehearsal at Fairlington United Methodist Church, 3900 King Street; Sat. Dec. 16, show for Frederick, MD, Chapter, call time is 1:45 pm, show starts at 3:30 pm at Urbana, MD, High School Auditorium, “The Secret of Harmony;” Sun. Dec.17, our own show, “Believe,” at Fairlington UMC, call time is 2 pm, show actually starts at 3:30 pm; Tues. Dec. 19, Carol Crawl in Old Town; Sat. Dec. 30, extra prep session for the Midwinter convention performance - Metro Voices from 9-1 and Harmonizers from 11-3.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">At this point in the meeting, the two ensembles moved to their own practice area in SRT to work on their holiday show music. For a few minutes, the guys singing the “Dreidel Song” met with associate director, <b>Tony, </b>in the lobby. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">All singers reconvened in the auditorium for the business session coordinated by communications director, <b>Steve Murane</b>. He started it off with announcement of the food drive the chapter will have as part of its holiday show – our donations will go to the church as part of their efforts to provide needed goods for ALIVE. Members can bring some and can encourage their patrons to bring some canned goods.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><b><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Terry Reynolds</span></b><span style="color: #1b1b1b;"> reported that the large stash of sheet music of every song that chapter has ever sung is being digitized and so copies of that music were available for the taking in the lobby. Anything left in the boxes will go to the trash.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><b><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Mary Cooper</span></b><span style="color: #1b1b1b;"> from Metro Voices welcomed guests this week that came to sing with the ensembles. <b>Will Cox </b>directed the chapter welcome song.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">After the business session, the two ensembles worked on holiday songs they are singing together<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Operations team leader, <b>Gary Cregan</b>, coordinated taking out the risers and all of our property from SRT. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">The busy evening ended with the 50/50 drawing organized by <b>Alan Wile</b>. <b>Ben Hawker, </b>baritone in<b> </b>PRATT STREET POWER quartet,<b> </b>directed “Keep the Whole World Singing.” Orders for pizza were taken and a nice crowd attended the afterglow at the Harmo House. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><i><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Looking Back </span></i><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">readers: please note that there will be no report from the Dec. 12<sup>th</sup> dress rehearsal<i>.<b><o:p></o:p></b></i></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Until next time –</span></b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> <b>editorjack</b>!<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><i><span style="color: #333333;">(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record for the great things going on each week during the 75<sup>th</sup> year of the Alexandria Chapter. - <b>YeEd</b>)</span></i><b><span style="color: #1b1b1b;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></i><b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">The Chapter Mission Statement<i> <b>Enriching lives through vocal harmony in the greater DC area.</b></i><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3266860384965689425.post-43294917226046989922023-11-24T13:01:00.003-05:002023-11-24T13:01:26.033-05:00 Looking Back on the Nov. 21, 2023 Alexandria Hybrid Chapter Meeting <p> <b style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Looking Back on the Nov. 21, 2023 Alexandria Hybrid Chapter Meeting </span></b></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Well, this week it was a nasty weather night plus nasty traffic jams as people left the DC area for the holiday weekend. But still there was a good number of singers at the Scottish Rite Temple (SRT).<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">It was a work-on-the-holiday-show-music for both ensembles this week again, and associate director of the Harmonizers, <b>Tony Colosimo</b>, conducted the warm up session. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">When artistic director, <b>Joe Cerutti,</b> started the evening, he thanked members for making the effort to attend despite the weather. And he asked what folks were doing for Thanksgiving. Many are joining family – there were some large crowds planned for the big meal such as 22 and 20 and even 45! A few singers will be traveling to other countries over the holiday too<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><b><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Joe</span></b><span style="color: #1b1b1b;"> invited members of both ensembles who are interested in singing in a small ensemble (quartet or double quartet or the like) to sign up on the provided form. The chapter gets a number of requests for smaller groups and this effort will help the chapter shows director, <b>Doug White</b>, fill those requests.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Attire for the holiday shows was addressed and several questions were cleared up – basically, all black with something red or green to accent. Dressy – no black jeans or tennis shoes or any kind of sweat shirt. Accents could be a tie, a pin, a bracelet, a pocket stuffer, a belt – for a few ideas.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">The ensembles will need to learn a couple finales for upcoming events. Take note of the weekly email.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Just to confirm, here is a list of upcoming meetings/rehearsals/events: next week, Dec. 28 – at Scottish Rite Temple; Tues. Dec. 5 at AlexRenew, 1800 Limerick Street, Alexandria, VA 22314; Tues. Dec. 12 at Fairlington United Methodist Church, 3900 King Street; Sat. Dec. 16, show for Frederick, MD, Chapter, call time is 1:45 pm; Sun. Dec.17, our own show at Fairlington, UMC. call time is 2 pm; Tues. Dec. 19, Carol Crawl in Old Town; Sat. Dec. 30, extra prep session for the Midwinter convention performance - Metro Voices from 9-1 and Harmonizers from 11-3.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">At this point in the meeting, the two ensembles moved to their own practice area in SRT to work on their holiday show music. For a few minutes, the guys singing the “Dreidel Song” met with associate director, <b>Tony, </b>in the lobby. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">All singers reconvened in the auditorium for the business session coordinated by communications director, <b>Steve Murane</b>. He started it off with confirmation that there would be no bus to NYC for Midwinter. <b>Joe</b> suggested any singers not familiar with travel in NYC to speak to some who travel there often.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">President, <b>Noah Van Gilder</b>, alerted members about an email coming to all, asking input on nominees for the annual awards the chapter presents each year. All member can offer nominees. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><b><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Terry Reynolds</span></b><span style="color: #1b1b1b;"> reported that the large stash of sheet music of every song that chapter has ever sung is being digitized and so copies of that music were available for the taking in the lobby. This is preparation for moving out of SRT.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><b><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Chuck Miller</span></b><span style="color: #1b1b1b;"> from Metro Voices welcomed guests this week. <b>Mark Oswald</b> passed his audition as a baritone for the Harmonizers. <b>Chuck Hunter</b>, member and chorus coach, was in town for this week from Chicago. There were several other guests this week. <b>Terry</b> directed the chapter welcome song.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">After the business session, the two ensembles worked on holiday songs they are singing together. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">The busy evening ended with the 50/50 drawing organized by <b>Alan Wile </b>and<b> Walter Page</b>. <b>Carey Fagerstrom </b>from Metro Voices directed “Keep the Whole World Singing.” Orders for pizza were taken and a nice crowd attended the afterglow at the Harmo House. This week there was a Smores set up in the dining room! <b><o:p></o:p></b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Until next time –</span></b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> <b>editorjack</b>!<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><i><span style="color: #333333;">(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record for the great things going on each week during the 75<sup>th</sup> year of the Alexandria Chapter. - <b>YeEd</b>)</span></i><b><span style="color: #1b1b1b;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></i><b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">The Chapter Mission Statement<i> <b>Enriching lives through vocal harmony in the greater DC area.</b></i><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3266860384965689425.post-55944796390217180202023-11-16T07:43:00.003-05:002023-11-16T07:43:51.747-05:00 Looking Back on the Nov. 14, 2023 Alexandria Hybrid Chapter Meeting <p> <b style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Looking Back on the Nov. 14, 2023 Alexandria Hybrid Chapter Meeting </span></b></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">This week it took a while for the risers to fill up because streets were blocked and many routes jammed as the march on the National Mall ended about the time our members were headed to the Scottish Rite Temple (SRT).<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">It was a work-on-the-holiday-show-music for both ensembles this week and assistant director of Metro Voices, <b>Maggie McAlexander</b>, conducted the warm up session. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">When artistic Director, <b>Joe Cerutti,</b> came forward to direct, he welcomed a couple Harmonizers we have not seen for a while – <b>Ian Poulin</b>, and <b>Dave Hood</b> who is stationed in Colorado Springs with the military now.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><b><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Joe</span></b><span style="color: #1b1b1b;"> asked members to take the recent Pulse Survey if they have not done it yet. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">And he invited any singers interested in singing in a small ensemble (quartet or double quartet or the like) to sign up on the provided form. The chapter gets a number of requests for smaller groups and this effort will help the chapter shows director, <b>Doug White</b>, fill those requests.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">At this point in the meeting, the two ensembles moved to their own practice area in SRT to work on their holiday show music. For a few minutes, the guys singing the “Dreidel Song” met with associate director, <b>Tony Colosimo</b>. Also, <b>Susan Fitzpatrick</b>, chapter general manager, took close-up videos of singers to help promote the chorus appearance again this year on WETA holiday music specials.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">All singers reconvened in the auditorium for the business session coordinated by communications director, <b>Steve Murane</b>. He started it off with the good news that his quartet, SILVER ALERT, has been invited to sing in the senior’s contest at MidWinter.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Chapter development chairman, <b>Ken Rub</b>, encouraged members to support Giving Tuesday on Nov. 28<sup>th</sup> – and especially by suggesting to friends and patrons to do so too. As part of that giving campaign, <b>Ken</b> reminded all members that the chapter does not charge annual dues with the suggestion that members might donate the amount of their dues to the chapter. <b>Ken</b> suggested that those donations could be made as part of our Giving Tuesday campaign.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Shows director, <b>Doug White</b>, needs a 3-4 person crew to help decorate the performance space at Fairlington United Methodist where we will have our holiday show at 3900 King Street on Sunday, Dec. 17. This crew will do their work on Saturday, Dec. 16. Interested members should let <b>Doug</b> know of their offer to help. The chapter already owns the supplies needed – it is just a matter of putting things up like Christmas trees and wreaths.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">As a reminder, the uniform for both ensembles for both the chapter show on Dec.17, and for the appearance on the Fredrick, MD, Chapter holiday show on Dec. 16, will be semi-formal black clothes with red and green accents.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Chapter executive director, <b>Stan Quick</b>, spoke about the recent email he sent to members asking for volunteers to fill some chapter tasks. <b>Heidi Krukowski</b> has offered to fill the position of chapter secretary replacing <b>Dave DesPortes</b>. We still need someone to do the financial (bookkeeping) work done by <b>Carl Kauffmann</b>. There are a number of other jobs that <b>Stan</b> has to fill for next year, so members can speak with him about those duties.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><b><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Stan</span></b><span style="color: #1b1b1b;"> also updated the members about possible bus transportation to NYC for the January 11 appearance at the Barbershop Harmony Society (BHS) MidWinter convention. Be on the lookout for the final developments on this topic. <b>Joe</b> reported to everyone that singers should plan to be at the MidWinter venue by 6 pm and that they will be finished with their duties at 11 pm.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Joe also alerted all singers that in order to be ready for the Jan. 11 performance, there will NOT be a break in chapter meetings in January (as we have done in other years). Besides the January 2 and 9 chapter meetings, there will be a full rehearsal on Saturday, December 30<sup>, </sup>(location to be determined) for both ensembles. The schedule for that day will be announced soon. For those who can’t make it to the Dec. 30 rehearsal, there will be a Zoom call on January 4, to update those who missed it with any changes or important performance notes.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Members joined chapter secretary, <b>David DesPortes,</b> with the hand clap routine to recognize <b>Don Thompson </b>with his 31-year membership card. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">With <b>Jacob Broude</b> out, <b>Mary Cooper </b>welcomed five guests including barbershoppers, Duane and Kim Wallace, from New Zealand. <b>Terry Reynolds</b> directed our chapter welcome song that was sung for our guests.<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">The two ensembles then worked on two songs they will sing together – “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” and “Do You Hear What I Hear.” <b>Joe</b> thanked <b>Lance Fisher</b> for his work in adding the extra parts for Metro Voices to ”Do You Hear.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">The busy evening ended with the 50/50 drawing organized by <b>Alan Wile and Walter Page</b>. <b>Duane Wallace</b> directed “Keep the Whole World Singing” Orders for pizza were taken and a nice crowd attended the afterglow at the Harmo House. There was a member audition after the meeting too.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Until next time –</span></b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> <b>editorjack</b>!<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><i><span style="color: #333333;">(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record for the great things going on each week during the 75<sup>th</sup> year of the Alexandria Chapter. - <b>YeEd</b>)</span></i><b><span style="color: #1b1b1b;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></i><b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">The Chapter Mission Statement<i> <b>Enriching lives through vocal harmony in the greater DC area.</b></i><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3266860384965689425.post-89164354409055593192023-11-11T07:43:00.003-05:002023-11-11T07:43:48.333-05:00 Looking Back on the Nov. 7, 2023 Alexandria Hybrid Chapter Meeting <p> <b style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Looking Back on the Nov. 7, 2023 Alexandria Hybrid Chapter Meeting </span></b></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><i><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">(Thanks to <b>Brian Ammermann</b> for taking notes for this report. He signed his report “By <b>Not YeEd</b>” – so we will go with that. – <b>YeEd</b>.)<o:p></o:p></span></i></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">It was a perfect night to get together to sing, as most are, and this rehearsal was one of the last few we’ll have at the Scottish Rite Temple.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Greetings happened in the foyer as normal, with guests and new members getting name tags made, and 50-50 tickets being sold by our dynamic-duo of <b>Alan Wile </b>and<b> Walt Page</b>.<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Thankfully, this week we had the risers back in the auditorium, and we were called to them promptly at 7 pm by our associate director, <b>Anthony Colosimo</b>. We warmed with a variety of exercises for 20 minutes.<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Our artistic Director, <b>Joe Cerutti,</b> gave the welcome and some exciting updates. We will be singing at the Barbershop Harmony Society (BHS) Midwinter convention in New York City on January 11. We will be singing six songs: Metro Voices will sing their sing/swing medley, as well as “On the Wayside”, the Harmonizers will sing “New York, New York” (of course), and likely “San Francisco”, and the joint ensemble will sing “Why We Sing” and “Defying Gravity”. Transportation is still under discussion, whether there will be a bus or whether it will be on our own.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><b><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Joe</span></b><span style="color: #1b1b1b;"> said we have finalized our holiday show times. On Saturday, December 16, we’re singing with the Frederick, MD, chapter, with a showtime at 3:30 pm with the call time of 1:45. Our show at the Fairlington United Methodist Church on Sunday the 17th will begin at 3:30 as well, with a call time of 2 pm. The outfits for our holiday shows will be simple - we’ve been asked to wear black with red and green accents, so begin thinking about what you are going to wear.<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Then <b>Joe</b> gave the general flow for this week’s meeting and announced we would be rehearsing till 9:30 pm. He reminded the ensembles that singers need to be riser ready on “Merry Little Christmas” next week with recordings due this coming Friday to section leaders if you want feedback before next Tuesday.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">We then began working on “Merry Little Christmas” for the next 15 minutes with <b>Joe</b> at the helm, including a recording run through.<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><b><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Jason Lee</span></b><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">, in his usual, witty, crafty way, took us through a 5 minute, icebreaker. Questions included what’s your favorite color, and others questions I couldn’t write fast enough to record. Laughs ensued as always during the icebreaker.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">With <b>Steve Murane</b> out this week, executive director, <b>Stan Quick</b>, led us through the business points. There will be a pulse survey or two coming out to cover the topics of ‘how well you liked the new rehearsal space at AlexRenew,’ and ‘your opinions on the afterglow from the 75th anniversary show.’ <b>Stan</b> also let us know about the upcoming fundraisers.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Members joined chapter secretary, <b>David DesPortes,</b> with the hand clap routine to recognize <b>Ryan Mextorf</b> who received his five-year membership card. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">With <b>Jacob Broude</b> out, an equally dynamic duo from Metro Voices welcomed guests in the foyer, and announced them during the meeting. Thank you to <b>Mary Cooper </b>and<b> Chuck Miller</b>. We had a number of guests again this week. It is very encouraging to see such growth. And we sang our chapter welcome song to our guests.<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">The two ensembles moved to separate rehearsal space: Metro Voices to the cafeteria to work on the several holiday songs they will sing on the shows; and the Harmonizers remaining in the auditorium to sing “J I N G L E Bells” and “Let it Snow,” followed by 20 minutes of “Deck the Halls” in sectionals, and then reconvening to give it a go as a group. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Those who were riser ready on “Believe” stayed on the risers to work that with <b>Joe. </b>All others were in the seats so they could also<b> </b>learn. We finished off the Christmas music with a run through and touch up work on the “Grinch.” <b>Terry Reynolds</b> gave us his always wafty and grinchiest Grinch voice-over – our hears grew three sizes!<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Harmonizers then weaved their way downstairs to the cafeteria for 50/50 (congrats <b>Dennis Ritchey</b>) and to take it out with “Keep the Whole World Singing” with Metro Voices. It was directed by Rick Kazman, who is an active member of the Sounds of Aloha chapter in Honolulu and was here visiting.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Fingers for pizza were raised … folks departed for home or the afterglow at the Harmo House.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Until next week … work on your music!<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><b><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Not YeEd<o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Also - here is a brief recap of the Oct. 31 chapter gathering in Old Town on Halloween night. Both ensembles had singers there and the whole group walked around Old Town and down King Street to sing at three or four stops for the good crowds out celebrating the holiday. <b>Joe Cerutti</b> and <b>Samantha Tramack</b> directed. Some of our members wore their favorite costumes too. The chapter ended that night at Chadwick’s for an afterglow<b>. – YeEd. <o:p></o:p></b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record for the great things going on each week during the 75<sup>th</sup> year of the Alexandria Chapter. - <b>YeEd</b>)</span></i><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></i><b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">The Chapter Mission Statement<i> <b>Enriching lives through vocal harmony in the greater DC area.</b></i><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3266860384965689425.post-57696438025966020852023-10-28T07:48:00.003-04:002023-10-28T07:48:55.531-04:00 Looking Back on the Oct. 24, 2023 Alexandria Hybrid Chapter Meeting <p> <b style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Looking Back on the Oct. 24, 2023 Alexandria Hybrid Chapter Meeting </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">This week’s meeting was a trial visit to a possible new meeting location for the organization. We met at AlexRenew – a water renewal plant in a beautiful new high rise at 1800 Limerick, in Alexandria. The sixth floor is designed to be used by community groups and includes a large meeting room, a big board room, several smaller committee rooms that can be used for sectionals, and a warming kitchen. The whole place is carpeted and equipped with new chairs, tables and such. The building is about a 15-minute walk from the Eisenhower Metro Station.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Our operations director, <b>Gary Cregan</b>, arrived early to help members find the entrance to parking and to the lobby of the building. He helped <b>Terry Reynolds </b>and<b> Dennis Ritchey</b> to bring in the supplies needed to host a chapter meeting – sound equipment, a music-stand for the director, guest books, and name tags. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Thanks to community board member <b>David Kohls</b> and <b>Liz Birnbaum</b>, former community board member, for helping the chapter discover this community-friendly space. (Most members know that the current meeting space rental fees have been raised to unrealistic levels and thus the leadership determined we needed to find a new space. This week was a test for how it might work.)<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">The Harmonizers met in the large room and Metro Voices met in the board room space. Both ensembles had sectionals in the adjoining rooms and there did not seem to be sound bleed to interfere.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">NOTE that all of the chapter meetings in November will still be at Scottish Rite Temple as per our current contract there. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Associate director of the Harmonizers, <b>Tony Colosimo</b>, conducted a warm up session for the combined ensembles who were standing, or sometimes seated, in the hall. Risers were not set up this time. (There is some concern that the ceiling is too low for using the fifth row of the risers.)<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Artistic director of the organization, <b>Joe Cerutti</b>, welcomed a large crowd of member singers and also a large number of guests and visitors.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Joe</span></b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> reminded members of both ensembles about the appearance at the Barbershop Harmony Society (BHS) midwinter convention in New York City on January 11. Members can decide to register for the whole convention or just attend that day and sing. <b>Joe</b> took a straw poll to learn about member interest in a bus to the convention.=<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Members should note that the chapter will meet in Old Town on Oct. 31 (Halloween night) to sing and have fun - gathering at city hall at Market Square. This also helps members who are parents with family celebrations. Both ensembles are welcome to join in the evening which will likely end with a social time in Old Town. There is no dress code but costumes are fine, as are barbershop logo-items. Of course, dress for the weather too. The two ensembles will sing “Why We Sing” and then each do another song or two around the Old Town area. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Members can also mark their calendars with these plans: the Dec. 5 meeting will be back at AlexRenew; the Dec. 12 rehearsal will be at Fairlington United Methodist Church, 3900 King Street. This will also be the location of the holiday show on Sunday, Dec. 17. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Joe</span></b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> recognized <b>Samantha Tramack</b>, director of Metro Voices. She called on everyone to help thank and honor <b>Tessa Walker</b> who was organizational director to get Metro Voices up and going! All singers joined in the cheers and standing ovation. <b>Tessa</b> was given flowers and a gift from the treble chorus singers (later they treated her to cake (baked by <b>Jeanne Hillinck</b>) and goodies to thank her for dedication and leadership).<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">At this point the two ensembles began to work on their songs for the holiday show.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">After about a half-hour, the two ensembles met together for a business session. President <b>Noah Van Gilder</b> reported board action to choose a new name for the organization. It will be <i>Alexandria A Cappella Collective</i>. Much of the branding is on-going. Logos for both ensembles have been chosen too. This enables chapter leaders to order office name tags for Metro Voices. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Zak Sandler</span></b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> invited members to his one-man musical “Inside My Head” on Nov. 5 from 5-8 pm, at Crazy Aunt Helen’s, 713 8<sup>th</sup> Street, Washington DC 20003. Links for tickets for the show are on Slack. The show is about <b>Zak’s</b>experience with bipolar and the power that comes with not only accepting one’s mental health condition, but embracing it. He promises you will laugh, will cry, and hopefully you will learn.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Jason Lee</span></b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> organized a couple ice breakers for everyone. First, everyone had to get in a line by height – shortest to tallest but no talking. Then they had to get into line based on longest distance to come to the meeting place. It was fun.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">There were many guests present and new board member, <b>Mary Cooper</b>, filled in for membership director, <b>Jacob Broude</b>, to introduce all of them. Several visitors were in town as tourists from other barbershop chapters in our district and from Canada. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">The two ensembles came together as a combined chorus to work on the eight-part arrangement of “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas.” <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Joe</span></b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> recognized the Oct. birthdays in the chapter and invited folks to the afterglow at the Harmo House for birthday cake.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Russell Sketchley </span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">(a barbershopper friend of <b>Joe’s</b> from Nova Scotia who was visiting in DC with family members), directed “Keep the Whole World Singing” to end the evening.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Until next time –</span></b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> <b>editorjack</b>!<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record for the great things going on each week during the 75<sup>th</sup> year of the Alexandria Chapter. - <b>YeEd</b>)</span></i><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></i><b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">The Chapter Mission Statement<i> <b>Enriching lives through vocal harmony in the greater DC area.</b></i><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3266860384965689425.post-85309916244684355012023-10-19T08:33:00.003-04:002023-10-19T08:33:33.948-04:00 Looking Back on the Oct. 17, 2023 Alexandria Hybrid Chapter Meeting and Election<p> <b style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Looking Back on the Oct. 17, 2023 Alexandria Hybrid Chapter Meeting and Election</span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">A large number of chapter members were present in person at Scottish Rite Temple (SRT) or via Zoom to be present for the chapter election and to work on holiday music.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Risers were not up and so all singers formed a huge circle on the auditorium floor for the warm up session conducted by Metro Voices assistant director, <b>Maggie McAlexander</b>.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Chapter artistic director, <b>Joe Cerutti,</b> welcomed all the members and invited them to have a seat in the auditorium. He congratulated <b>Devin Gerzof</b> who was married over the weekend and the members cheered with good wishes.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Joe</span></b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> expressed his appreciation for the chapter team who help make the a cappella fellowship event with Alfred Street Baptist Gospel Men’s Choir another success. He received a call from the Alfred Street director who confirmed they were eager to meet again.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">He reminded singers about the opportunity to audition for various solos and speaking parts on the holiday shows – interested members may submit recordings or audition in person on Oct. 24. These auditions will be one-on-one and not in front of the chapter.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Then other big announcement was the plan for the chapter to checkout a new meeting space on Oct. 24 at the AlexRenew building at 1800 Limerick Street. Operations team director, <b>Gary Cregan</b>, will be outside the building to help members find the available parking space. The location is within a 15 minute walk from the Eisenhower Metro Station. This move is needed to check the new space for acoustics and space for our needs leading to a possible new meeting space to reduce costs and gain Metro convenience.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Members should note that the chapter will meet in Old Town on Oct. 31 (Halloween night) to sing and have fun – not at the usual meeting place. This also helps members who are parents with family celebrations. Both ensembles are welcome to join in the evening which will likely end with a social time in Old Town.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Current chapter president, <b>Noah Van Gilder</b>, presided at the annual meeting of the chapter to elect the board of directors for 2024. A quorum was present and the following board members were elected: </span><b><span style="color: #1b1b1b; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Noah Van Gilder, </span></b><span style="color: #1b1b1b; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">from the Harmonizers – President; <b>Carolyn Griffin</b>, from the community - Vice President; <b>Terry Reynolds</b>, from the Harmonizers – Treasurer; <b>Cy Shuster</b>, from the Harmonizers – Secretary; <b>Turner Arndt</b>, from the Harmonizers – Member-at-Large; <b>Dave Kohls</b>, from the community – Member-at-Large;</span><span style="color: #1b1b1b;"> </span><b><span style="color: #1b1b1b; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Mary Cooper</span></b><span style="color: #1b1b1b; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">, from Metro Voices</span><span style="color: #1b1b1b;"> – </span><span style="color: #1b1b1b; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Member-at-Large; <b>Charlyne</b> “<b>Chuck” Miller</b> from Metro Voices</span><span style="color: #1b1b1b;"> – </span><span style="color: #1b1b1b; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Member-at-Large; and <b>Michael Berkson</b> from the Harmonizers</span><span style="color: #1b1b1b;"> – </span><span style="color: #1b1b1b; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Member-at-Large. The annual meeting adjourned.</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><b><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Devin Gerzof </span></b><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">and<b> John Greene</b> retire as member-at-large board members. The members of the nominating committee were <b>Brad Jones, Ken Rub, </b>and<b> Sheryl Berli</b>n. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Chapter secretary, <b>David DesPortes</b>, presented new member packets to <b>Patricia, Lenna </b>and<b> Sylvia</b> for Metro Voices. He recognized <b>Paul Grimes</b> who has renewed as a 40-year Harmonizer member. <b>Paul</b> also was given a 40-year lapel pin as is a chapter custom.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Membership director for both ensembles, <b>Jacob Broude</b>, welcomed several guests who returned from the Oct. 10 guest night – <b>Mark, Jimmy, Becca </b>and<b> Chris</b>. A first time Harmonizer guest this week was <b>Jonathon Moy</b>. Assistant Harmonizer director emeritus, <b>Will Cox</b>, directed the chapter’s “Welcome Song.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Music team administrator, <b>Terry Reynolds</b>, invited Metro Voices to move to sectionals for work on their music including “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” “Winter Wonderland,” and “Sing We Noel.” Section leaders were <b>Maggie McAlexander</b> for the tenors, <b>Sophie Clarke</b> for the leads, <b>Sheryl Berlin</b> for the baritones, and <b>Samantha Tramack</b>, Metro Voices director, for the basses. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">The Harmonizers took time to record the “Friends” tag to send to the family of Henry Chow who died recently. Henry was a singer before a serious accident limited his movement and speech. His family brought him to SRT many times so he could enjoy music and smile with us. <b>Jacob</b> recorded a message of condolence to the family before the chorus sang the tag. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">This ensemble worked on the new arrangement of “Believe,” then “J I N G L E Bells.” They had sectionals to work on the eight-part arrangement of “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas.” Section leaders were <b>Joe Cerutti </b>for the tenors,<b> Lance Fisher </b>for the leads,<b> Jason Lee </b>for the baritones,<b> </b>and<b> David Breen </b>for the basses.<b><o:p></o:p></b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">The rest of their work session was on “Little Saint Nick” and “Let All Mortal Flesh”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">The two ensembles came together as a combined chorus for the Clay Hine arrangement of “Merry Little Christmas.” <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Sheryl Berlin</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">, directed “Keep the Whole World Singing” to end the evening before a large crowd headed over to the Harmo House for the</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> afterglow.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">An obituary was shared this week with chapter members for the late <b>Geri Geis</b> – parts of it are included here. </span><span style="background: white; color: #1b1b1b; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Geraldine Patricia Anne Geis (Geri) of Naples, Florida passed away peacefully on September 28, 2023. She was 84 years old and is survived by her daughter Stacey Geis, who resides in Northern California; Stacey’s husband Peter; two grandchildren, Hope and Parker; her sister Lindi Dowling and husband Peter; and numerous nieces and nephews who also loved her dearly. </span><span style="color: #1b1b1b; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><br /><br /><span style="background: white;">Born in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada she began acting at the age of 6 in numerous local productions. At one point, she was spotted by a New York talent agent who asked her to audition with Lillian Gish and Helen Hayes at the American Academy of Dramatic Arts in New York City. She was accepted and finished her studies there. </span><br /><br /><span style="background: white;">After graduation, <b>Geri</b> met <b>Royall Willis Geis</b>, who was also from Greenwich and a fighter pilot for the Marine Corps. </span><br /><br /><b><span style="background: white;">Geri</span></b><span style="background: white;"> continued to pursue acting as a career, working in theater, television, and radio in New York, California, Hawaii, and Virginia, always finding work wherever <b>Royall’s</b> military career took them. <b>Geri’s </b>creative talent extended outside of the theater. She was also an incredible artist and began selling her works in the 1980s. </span><br /><br /><span style="background: white;">In the early 1980s, <b>Geri</b> came to the Alexandria Harmonizers barbershop chorus where <b>Royall</b> sang, starting as their Stage Advisor and ultimately becoming the Artistic Director. For over 20 years, she choreographed their songs, helping them become international champions on four occasions. She helped them perform at Carnegie Hall, Wolf Trap, the Kennedy Center, and the Supreme Court, as well as performing for such luminaries as Ray Charles, Perry Como and several U.S. Presidents. She loved every moment of teaching the men how to sing from their heart, not their mind, and incorporating movement and dance that helped convey the meaning of a song to the audience. Over the years, she took her talents to other choruses throughout the U.S. and Europe. Earlier this month, the Harmonizers celebrated its 75th Anniversary in D.C. <b>Geri</b> attended and the chapter did a beautiful tribute to her, calling her the “matriarch” of the Harmonizers, a title she cherished. </span><br /><br /><b><span style="background: white;">Royall </span></b><span style="background: white;">and<b> Geri</b> moved to Naples, Florida in 2015 and never looked back, enjoying the warm weather, making amazing new friends, and continuing to travel abroad up until 2020 when <b>Royall’s</b> health made it too challenging. Last but not least, she loved<b> Royall</b> deeply in their 60 years together and missed him dearly since he passed away nine months ago. While her passing is too soon, there is comfort in knowing she is now with him. Like <b>Royall</b>, she will be sorely missed and fondly remembered.</span><br /><br /><span style="background: white;">A Memorial Service will be held at Arlington National Cemetery at a date to be determined. In lieu of flowers, kindly consider a charitable donation to the newly founded youth chorus at </span></span><a href="https://harmonizers.org/" style="color: #954f72;" target="_blank"><b><span style="color: #416ed2; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; text-decoration: none;">Harmonizers.org.</span></b></a><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Until next time –</span></b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> <b>editorjack</b>!<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record for the great things going on each week during the 75<sup>th</sup> year of the Alexandria Chapter. - <b>YeEd</b>)</span></i><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></i><b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">The Chapter Mission Statement<i> <b>Enriching lives through vocal harmony in the greater DC area.</b></i><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3266860384965689425.post-30386798313105044422023-10-12T08:30:00.003-04:002023-10-12T08:30:58.061-04:00 Looking Back on the Oct. 10, 2023 Alexandria Hybrid Chapter Meeting <p> <b style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Looking Back on the Oct. 10, 2023 Alexandria Hybrid Chapter Meeting </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">The chapter held a guest night this week – it has been a few years since we had an organized event and the response was great. (<b>YeEd</b> thinks there were about a dozen singing guests – many of them to visit Metro Voices.)<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">The chapter music team was well prepared and kept the first half of the night flowing with singing, fun and information for the prospective members. Depending on their past experience, many were on the risers for the warm up session with associate Harmonizer director <b>Tony Colosimo</b>. Assistant Metro Voices director, <b>Maggie McAlexander</b>, taught a fun round for all to sing and tried to stump the singers by asking them to sing by riser row. Everyone laughed and all finished at the same time!<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Chapter artistic director, <b>Joe Cerutti</b>, welcomed all singers on the very full risers in the auditorium, and introduced the chapter musical leaders to the guests. He invited all the guests to take a seat and the combined ensembles sang “Why We Sing” for them. He explained the evolution of the two ensembles – one in its 75<sup>th</sup> year and one just a few months old. He shared the goal of the chapter to become a community asset. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Next Metro Voices sang “On the Wayside” and their “Swing – Sing” medley for the guests. Then while the two ensembles changed places on the risers, <b>Tony</b> and Metro Voices director, <b>Samantha Tramack</b>, shared what a performance year looks like for the chapter members – municipal appearances, Veteran events, holiday shows and annual shows, and contests in the barbershop harmony world. In a year, the choruses might learn 4-8 new songs as recommended by a vibrant music committee.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">The weekly meeting goes from 7-9:30 most weeks with warm up, some fun, some time to meet other members, time to work on the music that is new and on the music that is being used in a show or concert. The evening ends with an afterglow.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Next the Harmonizers sang “I’m the Music Man” and “New York, New York” for the guests.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Director of the upcoming youth chorus, <b>Tessa Walker</b>, chose a demonstration quartet of <b>Maggie, Samantha, Lance Fisher </b>and<b> David Breen </b>to show what the four-part music is like and to be section leaders for learning the tag of “Keep the Whole World Singing.” At the end we even taught the guests our cheer – It’s Great to Be a Barbershopper!<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">There was a brief business session while all the singers were in the auditorium, starting with <b>Joe</b> sharing plans for the next week or two: next week, music work will be on a new arrangement of “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” for the combined ensembles. <b>Joe</b> also alerted members of some solo opportunities for the show – auditions will be Oct. 24<sup>th</sup> or singers may submit a recording with the learning track by that date – to </span><a href="mailto:recordings@harmonizers.org" style="color: #954f72;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">recordings@harmonizers.org</span></a><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Josh Myers</span></b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> has arranged a Dreidel song for a small group to sing. Interested members should let <b>Tony</b> know of their interest.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Communications director, <b>Steve Murane</b>, coordinated the rest of the business meeting. Next week is the annual meeting of the chapter and the election of the board of directors at 7 pm at Scottish Rite Temple. </span><span style="color: #1b1b1b; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">The nominating committee has selected three new members to fill at-large seats on the board: <b>Mary Cooper</b>, from Metro Voices; <b>Charlyne</b> “<b>Chuck” Miller</b> from Metro Voices; and <b>Michael Berkson</b> from the Harmonizers.</span><span style="color: #1b1b1b;"></span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">The slate will be comprised of the three new at-large candidates identified above, plus the following members who will be nominated for re-election: <b>Noah Van Gilder, </b>from the Harmonizers – President; <b>Carolyn Griffin</b>, from the community - Vice President; <b>Terry Reynolds</b>, from the Harmonizers – Treasurer; <b>Cy Shuster</b>, from the Harmonizers – Secretary; <b>Turner Arndt</b>, from the Harmonizers - Member At-Large; and <b>Dave Kohls</b>, from the community - Member At-Large<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><b><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Devin Gerzof </span></b><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">and<b> John Greene</b> will be retiring as member-at-large board members. The members of the nominating committee are <b>Brad Jones, Ken Rub, </b>and<b> Sheryl Berli</b>n. Chapter members should make every effort to attend the meeting on October 17 to ensure that we have a quorum.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">For the Oct. 24 meeting, the chapter will try out a possible new meeting space in Alexandria. Stay tuned for details.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Then on Oct. 31, Halloween, the chapter will take a break and gather in Old Town to sing for folks there that evening, and then stay downtown for some social time.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Membership director, <b>Jacob</b> <b>Broude</b>, also welcomed the many guests and announced that two new singers have passed auditions for Metro Voices – <b>Leah Musico </b>and<b> Masha Ansel</b>; and<b> </b>that <b>Tom Keeping</b> has passed his audition for the Harmonizers. It was great to see former active Harmonizers, <b>Gary Mankin </b>and<b> Rick Wagner</b>, in the hall this week. <b>Terry Reynolds</b> directed the chapter “Welcome Song.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">The two ensembles worked on their holiday music and all guests were invited to sing with them using guest books provided. Metro Voices worked on “Winter Wonderland” and “Sing We Noel.” Harmonizers worked on their new arrangement of “Believe” plus “Let All Mortal Flesh,” “Let It Snow,” and “Mr. Grinch.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">The Harmonizers have an a cappella fellowship event on Wed. Oct 11 at Alfred Street Baptist Church with the Men’s Gospel Choir – call time is 6:30 pm for the 7 pm start. The chorus will sing “I’m the Music Man,” “Calling Dreams,” and “New York, New York.” The church is at 301 South Alfred Street in Alexandria. There is a social time after all the singing. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Daniel Huitt</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">, a guest this week, directed “Keep the Whole World Singing” to end the evening before a large crowd headed over to the Harmo House for the</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> afterglow.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Until next time –</span></b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> <b>editorjack</b>!<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record for the great things going on each week during the 75<sup>th</sup> year of the Alexandria Chapter. - <b>YeEd</b>)</span></i><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></i><b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">The Chapter Mission Statement<i> <b>Enriching lives through vocal harmony in the greater DC area.</b></i><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3266860384965689425.post-58721032651698611242023-10-06T12:00:00.001-04:002023-10-06T12:00:06.047-04:00 Looking Back on the Oct. 3, 2023 Alexandria Hybrid Chapter Meeting <p> <b style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Looking Back on the Oct. 3, 2023 Alexandria Hybrid Chapter Meeting </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">This week’s chapter meeting was all about celebrating successes and fun at the recent Mid-Atlantic District (M-AD) contest and to launch plans for the upcoming holiday season.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Maggie McAlexander</span></b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">, assistant director of Metro Voices, did the warm up sessions for both ensembles to kick off this week’s gathering. <b><o:p></o:p></b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Since there was a lot to talk about, news to share and announcements for members of both ensembles, all singers started the evening in the auditorium seats.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Artistic director <b>Joe Cerutti</b> started off the evening with praise and congratulations to the quartets that represented the chapter in the fall contest in York – BREAKTHROUGH, LEGACY, REVERB, and BETTER TOGETHER. All of them did really well and the chapter is proud for them to carry the chapter’s name. And he led the cheers for the great performance by Metro Voices as mic testers at that convention. (They would have placed sixth in the chorus contest with the scores they earned from the judges).<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0in; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #333333;">He thanked associate director, <b>Tony Colosimo</b>, for stepping up to direct the chorus ballad in the contest; and shared his pride of the Harmonizer chorus in their tribute performance during the contest for our 75<sup>th</sup> anniversary and especially a salute to former artistic director, <b>Geri Geis</b>. At this week’s meeting, </span><b><span style="color: #1d2228;">Joe</span></b><span style="color: #1d2228;"> and several members shared their memories of <b>Geri</b> and her impact on them individually as well as the Harmonizers and BHS. <b>Joe</b> started it all off, </span><span style="color: #333333;">“</span><span style="color: #1d2228;">We can't overstate the impact <b>Geri</b> had on this organization and on barbershop as a whole.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Joe</span></b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> also confirmed that the chapter DID accept the invitation for Metro Voices and the Harmonizers to sing at the Barbershop Harmony Society (BHS) midwinter convention on Thursday, January 11 in New York City. Members should make plans to be there and are encouraged to register and attend the convention. Stay tuned for details on how to use a discount code for $50 off the registration coming to members next week.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">The MAD all-voice seniors chorus, which included several Harmonizers at the contest in York, did qualify to sing at Midwinter. So, if any chapter member who is over 55 is interested in participating in that group, chapter music leaders can help you join. In addition, BHS is offering the “Seniors Dream Experience” to sing at Midwinter under the direction of <b>Joe Cerutti</b>.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Joe</span></b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> launched holiday plans for the chapter. We have been hired to sing as part of the Frederick, MD, Catactones barbershop chapter holiday show, Saturday, December 16 at 3:30 pm. Details to come, but <b>Joe </b>and the music team are encouraging all to participate on this major show in the DC area for barbershop harmony.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Our own chapter holiday show will be Sunday afternoon, December 17 in a local area church that will be chosen soon. There will be two combined numbers this year for the holiday shows – “Do You Hear What I Hear?” with an updated part for Metro Voices, and an eight-part arrangement of “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” by Clay Hine. The two ensembles will both have other songs on the schedule for the holidays.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Joe</span></b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> recognized the tremendous service <b>Randall Eliason</b> gave the chapter during his time as executive director. He retired recently and passed that task on to <b>Stan Quick</b>. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">The Capital Force launch will not be held in October and in fact, we will not add that new ensemble until next year - giving time for musical leaders of the chapter (including the many school music educators we have) to focus on building relationships in Virginia schools next year.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #1d2228;">In that regard, DC Public Schools (DCPS) reached out to BHS for ideas about how to support vocal music programs in Washington, DC. BHS of course passed it to us. <b>Joe, Tessa Walker </b>and<b> Tony Colosimo</b> have had several meetings with the head of music programs for DCPS and they have asked us to run a Youth Festival for them in spring of 2024. This is huge for us, for BHS, and for DCPS<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #1d2228; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"> </span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0in; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #1d2228;">The Alexandria Chapter is proud to have so many members that have been inducted into the <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0in; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #1d2228;">M-AD Hall of Honor. Members are named to that group in recognition for major service to the district. Of the 103 members, 29 are from the Alexandria Chapter including our newest representative, <b>Sheryl Berlin</b>. She was recognized for her work with Harmony College East, as our chapter music education director, and as a chorus director in the district. She competed in one of the first mixed voice quartet in the contest system. And she is a founding member of Metro Voices.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0in; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #1d2228;"> </span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0in; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #1d2228;">She joins the following fellow active chapter members who have been previously named to the Hall of Honor: <b>Scott Werner, Jack Pitzer, Alan Wile, Mike Wallen, Steve White, Bill Colosimo, Rick Taylor, Keith Jones, Terry Reynolds, Mike Kelly, John Santora, Bob Eckman, Dennis Ritchey, </b>and<b> Joe Cerutti. <o:p></o:p></b></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0in; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="color: #1d2228;"> </span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin: 0in; vertical-align: baseline;"><b><span style="color: #1d2228;">Joe</span></b><span style="color: #1d2228;"> also paid tribute to <b>Carl Kauffmann </b>for being a 50 year (actually 51 year) member of BHS!<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">There was a business meeting coordinated by communications director, <b>Steve Murane</b>. <b>Sophie Clarke</b> prompted members of both ensembles to invite a guest for the Oct. 10<sup>th</sup> guest night. It is a rehearsal designed for interested new singers and it is best if they RSVP so the team knows who is coming. More prospects are needed for this event. It is easy to do from harmonizers.org.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Craig Kujawa</span></b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> reported on the Scrip fundraising program he manages for the chapter, and announced that the top fundraiser was <b>Randall Eliason</b> for the third year in a row. Thanks <b>Randall</b>.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Chapter secretary <b>David DesPortes</b> distributed new member packets to a group of recently added chapter members in both ensembles. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">President <b>Noah Van Gilder</b> sent out word about the annual meeting of the chapter and election of the 2024 chapter board to be held on Tuesday, Oct. 17 at 7 pm at Scottish Rite Temple.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">The nominating committee has selected three new members to fill at-large seats on the board: <b>Mary Cooper</b>, from Metro Voices; <b>Charlyne</b> “<b>Chuck” Miller</b> from Metro Voices; and <b>Michael Berkson</b> from the Harmonizers. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">The slate will be comprised of the three new at-large candidates identified above, plus the following members who will be nominated for re-election: <b>Noah Van Gilder, </b>from the Harmonizers – President; <b>Carolyn Griffin</b>, from the community - Vice President; <b>Terry Reynolds</b>, from the Harmonizers – Treasurer; <b>Cy Shuster</b>, from the Harmonizers – Secretary; <b>Turner Arndt</b>, from the Harmonizers - Member At-Large; and <b>Dave Kohls</b>, from the community - Member At-Large<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><b><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Devin Gerzof </span></b><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">and<b> John Greene</b> will be retiring as member-at-large board members. The members of the nominating committee are <b>Brad Jones, Ken Rub, </b>and<b> Sheryl Berli</b>n.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; margin-left: 0in; margin-right: 0in;"><span style="color: #1b1b1b;">Chapter members should make every effort to attend the meeting on October 17 to ensure that we have a quorum.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Membership director, <b>Jacob Broude</b>, welcomed two first-time singers this week <b>– Shalini Verma</b> for Metro Voices and <b>Bob Gudauskas</b> for the Harmonizers. <b>Bob is Stephen’s</b> brother. Assistant director emeritus, <b>Will Cox</b>, directed the chapter “Welcome Song.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">When the it was time to sing, both ensembles launched work on holiday songs. This is the first season for Metro Voices, so all of the holiday tunes will be new for them. They have begun work on “Sing We Noel” and “Winter Wonderland.” <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">The Harmonizers will repeat some holiday songs each year, but they added “Believe” from “The Polar Express” – which is another arrangement by Jim Clancy who seems to have done lots of great holiday songs for choruses to sing. This week the work time included “J-IN-G-L-E Bells,” “Silent Night: - another Clancy arrangement, and “Mr. Grinch.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Associate director <b>Tony</b> <b>Çolosimo,</b> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">directed “Keep the Whole World Singing” to end the evening before a good crowd headed over to the Harmo House for the</span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> afterglow this week.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Until next time –</span></b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> <b>editorjack</b>!<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record for the great things going on each week during the 75<sup>th</sup> year of the Alexandria Chapter. - <b>YeEd</b>)</span></i><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></i><b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">The Chapter Mission Statement<i> <b>Enriching lives through vocal harmony in the greater DC area.</b></i><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3266860384965689425.post-27711787609471860522023-10-04T09:03:00.003-04:002023-10-04T09:03:32.288-04:00 Looking Back on the Sept. 29-30, 2023 M-AD Contest and Convention with the Alexandria Chapter <p> <b style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Looking Back on the Sept. 29-30, 2023 M-AD Contest and Convention with the Alexandria Chapter </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">It was a great weekend of barbershop harmony and fun for the members of the chapter who sang on stage in the two choruses and in the four quartets that represented our chapter. The drive to York, PA, was just a couple hours or so and not bad on Friday. Some members actually drove up Saturday morning and went home that night. We were staying in hotels all along Rte. 30 which seemed be like a parking lot some times. Our members got to mix and mingle with members from throughout the Mid Atlantic District (MAD). <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">After the chorus contest, some members ventured out to explore York and found a local brewery. Some found the nearby diner for chow. Others were free to sit in on some special program events: a roundtable discussion on how to improve membership in chapters in MAD; a Q and A session with the chief financial officer of the Barbershop Harmony Society (BHS), Erik Dove, from Nashville (he was the official BHS representative to our M-AD convention); and a Gold Medal Hour with MIDTOWN quartet who took the gold last summer in Louisville.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Friday night’s quartet contest saw four quartets with Harmonizers in the semifinal round: </span><span style="color: #1d2228; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">REVERB with <b>Dennis Ritchey, Reed Livergood, Paul Grimes </b>and<b> Steve White</b>; LEGACY<b> </b>with <b>Rick Taylor</b>; BREAKTHROUGH<b> </b>with <b>Mike Fasano, Jordan Zimmerman, Jason Lee </b>and<b> Ken Whit</b>e; and BETTER TOGETHER<b> </b>with <b>Elizabeth </b>and<b> Tony Colosimo </b>and<b> Heather </b>and<b> Andrew Havens</b>.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #1d2228; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #1d2228; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Three advanced to the finals round on Saturday night with BREAKTHROUGH as mic tester quartet having placed 12<sup>th</sup>. LEGACY ended up 8<sup>th</sup>. BETTER TOGETHER set the standard high in their performances but came in second place with 3,048 or 84.7 per cent when a quartet from Hell’s Kitchen, NY, SMOKE RING, outscored them by six points!! REVERB finished 18<sup>th</sup>.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">The chorus contest got an early start on Saturday morning. Metro Voices was invited to be the mic tester chorus and they were terrific! They scored 1,384 points or 76.9! Founding-director, <b>Tessa Walker,</b> was director for this performance with </span><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Maggie McAlexander, Sheryl Berlin, Sophie Clarke, Lenna Jawdat, Heidi Suckow-Krukowski, Cadence Flaherty, Elisabeth Cosh, Mireille Kouagou, Elaine Cooper, Mary Coooper, Jeanne Hillinck </span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">and<b> Sylvia Kelty</b>. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">The 55 Harmonizer singers captured a score of 1,611 points or 89.5 percent. This score entitles them to compete in the 2024 International contest in Cleveland, OH. When the curtain opened, <b>Joe</b> spoke briefly to share that this package was a tribute for our 75<sup>th</sup> anniversary and also to honor our former artistic director, <b>Geri Geis</b>, who died recently. Both of the presentation plans for the songs were designed by her. It was a moving performance and top-notch entertainment – “Wee Small Hours of the Morning/Always” arranged by Walter Latzko, and “New York, New York” with it’s exciting front row kick-line ending. The chorus wore the pants and vest from the blue suit with orange ties. The front row guys wore their orange sox and they were visible, for sure, during the kick line. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Associate director <b>Tony Colosimo</b> stepped forward after <b>Joe</b> spoke to be the director for the ballad in the package. A major honor for all he has done to teach, coach and lead the chorus.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">The chorus did their warm up time outside since the meeting rooms in the school were small. This was the first contest performance for several of the newer members. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">The Harmonizers did not compete in the division contest in the spring and therefore were not eligible to compete for the district championship. The chorus was allowed to compete for score in order to qualify for Cleveland. Parkside Harmony was named chorus champion. In the end, five choruses will go to Cleveland to represent M-AD based on their scores – Parkside Harmony, Alexandria Harmonizers, Gotham, Parkside Melody, and East Coast Sound.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">As is often the case, there were a number of Harmonizers. both past and current, who sang with other choruses on stage on Saturday: The Virginians from Richmond included <b>Mike Wallen, </b>director, and<b> Bob Wilson, Tom Berkey, Scott Beach, Jim McConnell, Clark Chesser </b>and<b> Mike Geipel</b>; Dundalk with <b>Rick Taylor</b>; Loudon County with <b>Sam McFarland, Frank Shipp, </b>and<b> Bob Arbetter</b>; Parkside Harmony with <b>Sean Devine </b>and<b> Chris Yates</b>; Patapsco Valley with <b>Kris Zinkievich</b> as director and <b>Biff Gaut, Bob Hirsh, </b>and<b> Tim Buell</b>; East Coast Sound with <b>Josh Meyers</b>; and about a dozen singers from the Harmonizer family were in the new seniors chorus that was formed for this contest. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">After the chorus contest, the annual induction of new members to the M-AD Hall of Honor – members who have provided significant services to the district. Many Harmonizers have been added over the years, and one more was added this weekend – <b>Sheryl Berlin</b>, our chapter director of education, a founding member of Metro Voices and a major leader for the M-AD Harmony College East.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Four of our members serve on the M-AD events team to run things back stage for the contest – <b>Dennis Ritchey, Brian Ammerman, Ken Rub </b>and<b> Mike Kelly</b>.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Steve White</span></b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> is coordinator of MADAQC – Mid Atlantic District Association of Quartet Champions. It was their 25<sup>th</sup>anniversary this year and as always, they welcomed the new quartet champs into their ranks at the end of the Saturday night session. Here again, there were several from the Harmonizer family who were there to sing and welcome the new champs. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Until next time –</span></b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> <b>editorjack</b>!<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record for the great things going on each week during the 75<sup>th</sup> year of the Alexandria Chapter. - <b>YeEd</b>)</span></i><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3266860384965689425.post-66265718534957546112023-10-04T09:02:00.003-04:002023-10-04T09:02:26.481-04:00 Looking Back on the Sept. 26, 2023 Alexandria Hybrid Chapter Meeting <p> <b style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Looking Back on the Sept. 26, 2023 Alexandria Hybrid Chapter Meeting </span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">The week’s chapter meeting was all about preparing for the Mid Atlantic District (MA-D) contest and convention coming up in York, PA, Sept.29 and 30. Several members are also competing with their quartets that week end - </span><span style="color: #1d2228; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">REVERB with <b>Dennis Ritchey, Reed Livergood, Paul Grimes </b>and<b> Steve White</b>; LEGACY<b> </b>with <b>Rick Taylor</b>; BREAKTHROUGH<b> </b>with <b>Mike Fasano, Jordan Zimmerman, Jason Lee </b>and<b> Ken Whit</b>e; and BETTER TOGETHER<b> </b>with <b>Elizabeth </b>and<b> Tony Colosimo </b>and<b> Heather </b>and<b> Andrew Havens</b>.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Samantha Tramack</span></b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">, director of Metro Voices, did the warm up sessions for both ensembles on the risers. She concluded the warm up with a new exercise with the words “I Breathe In PEACE and I Breath Out LOVE.” <b><o:p></o:p></b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Associate director <b>Tony</b> <b>Çolosimo,</b> welcomed <b>Chuck Hunter</b> who was the coach for the two Harmonizer contest songs this week. <b>Tony </b>reported on the health status of former artistic director <b>Geri Geis</b> in FL – all communications with her should go to <b>Bruce Roehm</b>, </span><a href="mailto:brsigmachi@aol.com" style="color: #954f72;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">brsigmachi@aol.com</span></a><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Tony</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> asked for a show of hands for how many first timers to sing on the district chorus contest stage. A big number! <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Metro Voices will be mic testers for the chorus contest and will receive a score and an evaluation from the judging panel. The Harmonizers will receive a score hoping to qualify for the International chorus contest in Cleveland in 2024.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Tony</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> also asked about Harmonizers singing in other chorus groups and there were several hands raised including those men who will sing with the M-AD Seniors Chorus.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">The chapter business session was held early before the two ensembles worked on their music. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Music team coordinator, <b>Terry Reynolds</b>, alerted all singers that there will not be a meeting of the two ensembles on Friday night in York as previously announced. The first call for Metro Voices is at 8 am. The Harmonizers will all go into the contest arena to cheer for them, then those singers will go to their meeting room. Both groups should arrive dressed in their contest uniform/outfits. <b>Terry</b> assured everyone that he would be sending final word in a message to all members about the weekend. As an advance alert, everyone should bring their casual outfit if the chapter is invited to sing on the Saturday night show.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Terry </span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">also shared that next week work will start on holiday songs including a new song that is already on Groupanizer. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Membership director, <b>Jacob Broude</b>, reminded the whole chapter that there will be a guest night for the chapter on Tuesday, Oct. 10<sup>th</sup>, at the Scottish Rite Temple (SRT). Each member is expected to bring one prospective singer for either ensemble. This week there were five returning guests – two Harmonizers and three Metro Voices. Assistant director emeritus, <b>Will Cox,</b> directed the chapter “Welcome Song.”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">The two ensembles then started work on their two songs for the weekend. In working with the Harmonizers, <b>Chuck</b>spent his allotted time to help the men know the story and true message of the song; and to recognize the gems in the arrangement that <b>Walter Latzko</b> gave us for “Wee Small Hours.” <b>Chuck </b>helped the men recognize contrasts, emotions, flow of the song and lessons learned by the story teller. It was an awesome work session and yielded power to the performance. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">For “New York, New York” his opening remark said it all – “it always has to be a new song!”<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">There were several repetitions for the benefit of all. Then near the end of the evening, each group sang their package for the other.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Chuck</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> directed “Keep the Whole World Singing” to end the evening. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">All hands were needed to load out all of the chapter’s equipment from the auditorium for the weekend. Operations director, Gary Cregan, helped things go to the right places. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">The afterglow was at Rampart’s this week.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">Until next time –</span></b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> <b>editorjack</b>!<o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record for the great things going on each week during the 75<sup>th</sup> year of the Alexandria Chapter. - <b>YeEd</b>)</span></i><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><i><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></i><b><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;">The Chapter Mission Statement<i> <b>Enriching lives through vocal harmony in the greater DC area.</b></i><o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> <o:p></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; margin: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif;"> </span></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0