Looking Back on June 17th Chapter Meeting
(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record of the great things going on each week at an Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter meeting. —Ye Ed.)
The call to the risers was a few minutes early this week since there was so much to do and most of the troops were already sitting or standing on them!
Tony took charge right away and implemented the serious and important warm up exercises we learned at the retreat.
Then Chuck used “Danny My Boy” tag as a learning exercise to utilize the better singing skills learned at retreat.
Director Joe plowed thru the Anaheim package songs really fast – just so the troops get a chance to work on them as an ensemble. He is counting on all to be working on them at home!
Terry Reynolds checked on his buddies on the risers to see how many had made their goal of 15 minutes a day working on this year’s contest package. Great results!!! Keep it up guys.
Then we did the contest package. And introduced coach Kirk Young. (Also introduced Burt Szabo who had been at Harmony College East this past weekend and as he usually does, he came to see us before going back to FL. He usually stays with Wachter.)
Kirk jumped right in to work on many little details that now pop out since the chorus had made many improvements in big things and is singing and performing well.
During the chapter meeting, members were invited to sign a get well card for Fred King.
Regarding Nashville: the annual chapter member convention book, prepared by Dixie, was distributed. Reminder that there is a rehearsal this Thurs at Jeff Houston school next door. And that the send off is on June 24th at Durant. Guests and former members should come about 8 to cheer and see the package. There were shirts to pick up if you ordered one from Roger Day. There were uniform parts, including a new tux shirt for this year’s contest chorus to get from Tom Kern AND any other clothing items you need like the Harmo bow tie. Jack Cameron has extended the chance to order and pay for chorus photos from Nashville – see him by the 24th.
Roger Day gave emphasis regarding uniform plans for Nashville. He stressed that the new blue casual shirt with kaki pants and black accessories is only for official functions. He stressed that you try on the new tux shirt from Tom so if you need a different size you can get it Thurs nite. TOM is gone next week! And be sure you press the new shirt.
Button covers will be used with the new tux shirt. So there is a call to all former members to bring in their’s. And current members who have one or two extras – they will be needed too. See Roger.
Keith Jones needs all members (any member gets a ticket even if not singing in the contest) to pick up or speak up for their ticket for the Togetherness Breakfast on Fri in Nashville. And to buy any extra tickets for friends or guests. Need to clean that up on 24th!!
I was told that the Harmo schedule in the convention packet has some time changes etc. compared the early bird edition published by our chair Rhome. So be sure you take note.
Secretary Chris gave a second Man of Note award to Vince Cazenas for bringing a man into the Fauquier Chapter. And Bob Sutton got a certificate for having brought ten men into the BHS.
Roger introduced the guests.
And then after a good break we worked hard the rest of the nite on the contest package with our coach.
Until next time – editorjack!
Friday, June 20, 2008
Friday, June 13, 2008
Looking Back on June 10th Chapter Meeting and Retreat
Looking Back on June 10th Chapter Meeting and Weekend Retreat
(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record of the great things going on each week at an Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter meeting. —Ye Ed.)
The Retreat was at McDaniel College in Westminster, MD, over the weekend of June 6 and 6. For those of us who drove up Saturday morning, it was a VERY foggy trip. But as promised the retreat organizer, Chuck McKeever, had things well organized. And the coffee and muffins and juice ready. The Harmo truck was a welcome site and the starting point for registration and getting to the rehearsal hall in a new facility we had not used before. Luckily the AC was working well – some guys were cold but no one complained cause we were glad to have the AC. The rooms this year were new and really nice too.
Coach David Wright made a lot of new barbershop friends this weekend. His advice was easy to follow, it made huge differences in the sound and total package, and it lifted the level of the chorus. Joe and his musical team were busy all weekend too adding, taking notes, asking questions, seeking advice, coaching the visual and helping the chorus members benefit from the experience.
The Saturday morning program started with a check to see that the Class of 2008 had their bandanas. They did! The warms ups were as usual. All tenors were present for the weekend! As is tradition, there were members asked to give reflections – Garling, Fess, Grimes, Sutton and Reynolds. All were different in approach and in message. All were strong.
The Saturday nite party tradition continued, and the Class of 2008 presented a really funny skit that made us all laugh and laugh. Good job guys. The class is Kieba, Kraus, Hughes, Grimes, Kim, Ammerman, VanGilder, Poulin, O’Brien, Kelly, Adams, and Blomgren.
Sunday morning was an early one after such a long day and evening on Saturday, but David did one of his famous warm up sessions (they are often open to the public at International and attract a crowd to see how the Ambassadors do it).
We concentrated on adding meaningful and personal visual plans to the ballad on Sunday. We ended with our usual “Friends” tag – which it turns out was arranged by David Wright.
Tuesday nite the 10th, the gang was ready to go. Many had worked hard to learn and refresh from the Retreat. We met in the school, since Durant was used for a graduation ceremony. The crowd arrived early and eager.
There was a pledge to keep silent and not talk or ask questions and interrupt the musical leaders up front. It worked and was a welcome treat.
Terry “Regular Joe on the Risers” Reynolds extended his challenge to the guys to spend at least 15 minutes on their music and the package. Many hands went up when asked who had done that since the retreat!
Director Joe reviewed the new tag for the ballad and some important spots in the song. Then on to the important reminders for the uptune. There were some good laughs when we worked to recall the new cutoff for the uptune too.
For the chapter meeting period, Bob Blair substituted for Bob Rhome. President Stamps announced no Thursday rehearsal this week (but there will be Thrs rehearsals on the 19 the 26th of this month). There will be NO board meeting this week either.
Terry Jordan is on the mend and sends his regards. He is up and about the house but not out driving just yet. He also has been on the phone a lot – line is always busy!!
Dick Dangel was guest accordion player for Ben Horen’s high school music concert at W.T. Woodson recently. Dick provided background rhythm for one girl’s ensemble number.
Jim Connaughton was quoted and photographed on the front of Washington Times recently as environmental advisor to the Bush administration
Retreat chair McKeever thanked his team: truck driver, Blair; presentation spotters, K Jones and Pitzer; sound, Kahlor; booklet, Pence; logo design, Day; music spotter, Hohl; logistics, Riffer, Eckman, Dornberger; quad leaders, Day, Blair, Cameron, TJ Jones.
Tom Kern has make up kits for sale.
Secretary Buechler offered to order Harmo logo clothing items for the members.
Some one announced the Harmo Send Off on Tuesday nite June 24th at Durant. Usual start time at 7 pm, guests can arrive about 8 pm. No one said, but I bet we have to wear the contest uniform that nite too.
Roger Day announced newest member who passed audition – Ben Nelson (age 14, I hear) and a new bass. His grandparents were there last nite too and his Dad and fellow chapter member. At the end of the nite, he directed KTWWS.
There was a FRIENDS meeting last nite.
Before the break, the CLASS OF 2008 was asked to show their bandanas. Two penalties were issued.
Chuck Hunter taught another tag – “My Love Is Your Love Til I Die.”
Luckily the AC was working in the school. And the strawberry lemonade was a hit too.
After the break, the rest of the evening was used to polish the contest package. There is a huge amount of energy and excitement in the air. Hang on.
Until next time – editorjack!
(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record of the great things going on each week at an Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter meeting. —Ye Ed.)
The Retreat was at McDaniel College in Westminster, MD, over the weekend of June 6 and 6. For those of us who drove up Saturday morning, it was a VERY foggy trip. But as promised the retreat organizer, Chuck McKeever, had things well organized. And the coffee and muffins and juice ready. The Harmo truck was a welcome site and the starting point for registration and getting to the rehearsal hall in a new facility we had not used before. Luckily the AC was working well – some guys were cold but no one complained cause we were glad to have the AC. The rooms this year were new and really nice too.
Coach David Wright made a lot of new barbershop friends this weekend. His advice was easy to follow, it made huge differences in the sound and total package, and it lifted the level of the chorus. Joe and his musical team were busy all weekend too adding, taking notes, asking questions, seeking advice, coaching the visual and helping the chorus members benefit from the experience.
The Saturday morning program started with a check to see that the Class of 2008 had their bandanas. They did! The warms ups were as usual. All tenors were present for the weekend! As is tradition, there were members asked to give reflections – Garling, Fess, Grimes, Sutton and Reynolds. All were different in approach and in message. All were strong.
The Saturday nite party tradition continued, and the Class of 2008 presented a really funny skit that made us all laugh and laugh. Good job guys. The class is Kieba, Kraus, Hughes, Grimes, Kim, Ammerman, VanGilder, Poulin, O’Brien, Kelly, Adams, and Blomgren.
Sunday morning was an early one after such a long day and evening on Saturday, but David did one of his famous warm up sessions (they are often open to the public at International and attract a crowd to see how the Ambassadors do it).
We concentrated on adding meaningful and personal visual plans to the ballad on Sunday. We ended with our usual “Friends” tag – which it turns out was arranged by David Wright.
Tuesday nite the 10th, the gang was ready to go. Many had worked hard to learn and refresh from the Retreat. We met in the school, since Durant was used for a graduation ceremony. The crowd arrived early and eager.
There was a pledge to keep silent and not talk or ask questions and interrupt the musical leaders up front. It worked and was a welcome treat.
Terry “Regular Joe on the Risers” Reynolds extended his challenge to the guys to spend at least 15 minutes on their music and the package. Many hands went up when asked who had done that since the retreat!
Director Joe reviewed the new tag for the ballad and some important spots in the song. Then on to the important reminders for the uptune. There were some good laughs when we worked to recall the new cutoff for the uptune too.
For the chapter meeting period, Bob Blair substituted for Bob Rhome. President Stamps announced no Thursday rehearsal this week (but there will be Thrs rehearsals on the 19 the 26th of this month). There will be NO board meeting this week either.
Terry Jordan is on the mend and sends his regards. He is up and about the house but not out driving just yet. He also has been on the phone a lot – line is always busy!!
Dick Dangel was guest accordion player for Ben Horen’s high school music concert at W.T. Woodson recently. Dick provided background rhythm for one girl’s ensemble number.
Jim Connaughton was quoted and photographed on the front of Washington Times recently as environmental advisor to the Bush administration
Retreat chair McKeever thanked his team: truck driver, Blair; presentation spotters, K Jones and Pitzer; sound, Kahlor; booklet, Pence; logo design, Day; music spotter, Hohl; logistics, Riffer, Eckman, Dornberger; quad leaders, Day, Blair, Cameron, TJ Jones.
Tom Kern has make up kits for sale.
Secretary Buechler offered to order Harmo logo clothing items for the members.
Some one announced the Harmo Send Off on Tuesday nite June 24th at Durant. Usual start time at 7 pm, guests can arrive about 8 pm. No one said, but I bet we have to wear the contest uniform that nite too.
Roger Day announced newest member who passed audition – Ben Nelson (age 14, I hear) and a new bass. His grandparents were there last nite too and his Dad and fellow chapter member. At the end of the nite, he directed KTWWS.
There was a FRIENDS meeting last nite.
Before the break, the CLASS OF 2008 was asked to show their bandanas. Two penalties were issued.
Chuck Hunter taught another tag – “My Love Is Your Love Til I Die.”
Luckily the AC was working in the school. And the strawberry lemonade was a hit too.
After the break, the rest of the evening was used to polish the contest package. There is a huge amount of energy and excitement in the air. Hang on.
Until next time – editorjack!
Thursday, June 5, 2008
Looking Back on June 3rd Chapter Meeting
Looking Back on June 3rd Chapter Meeting
(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record of the great things going on each week at an Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter meeting. —Ye Ed.)
Lots of activity around the hall, as usual, with SP classes, front row, unloading the Harmo truck that came back from the weekend show in Lancaster, distribution of the Harmo watches, picture sales for Nashville, and shirt sales for Nashville. But right at 7 pm things started with some good music for doing exercises to. Then the chorus had a solid warm up session.
Terry Jordan spoke briefly about the road to contest and medals and our 60th year as a chapter. He will be missing some weeks following an operation on Wed. to make sure they got it all the first time, on his back. He did speak with me that the plans are still rolling for a chapter anniversary potluck and talent review in August. So stay tuned.
Then Director Joe and his staff worked on some non contest songs like “I’ll Be Seeing You” “Almost Like Being In Love” “Music of the Night” and “God Bless the USA.”
During the evening I learned that Sam McFarland has been promoted to International president of AHSOW (Ancient Harmonious Society of Woodshedders). AHSOW is an affiliate of the BHS. Ask Sam about it. I know they usually have a place at the International convention for woodshedding.
The past weekend events at Western Division contest and M-AD send off involved a bunch of our guys.
Mic tester quartet was RINGERS with Mike Pinto. In the contest there were four quartets with our guys – SURPRISE! with Minnick and Hirsh; CLASSIC CONNECTION with Mattes and McFarland; TEMPORARY INSANITY with Flynn; and INGTERROBANG as a college quartet with Patrick Kim and Tom Kraus along with former member Will Mudd Simmons who is in college in KY and one of his barbershop buddies from there James Pennington.
Sunday on the send off show, Rick Taylor sang with OLD SCHOOL, Pinto sang again with RINGERS, the Wallens and Colosimos sang with LAST KIDS PICKED. Eric Wallen’s new college quartet, CRUNCH TIME, and who will be going to Nashville to compete, sang as well.
Both Dundalk Chorus and the Harmonizers sang on that show. Mike Kelly was MC and Terry Jordan took over, so Mike could change into a chorus outfit, and announced our guys.
Before break Tuesday nite, the chorus had sectionals to work on the ballad. When the singers came back into the main hall, they worked on “Second Star” “From This Moment On” and “Peter Pan Medley.”
During the meeting time, President Stamps announced the recent passing of John Reisinger who sang in quartets with Bob Wachter for over 25 years. He also told the chapter of the recent stroke suffered by Fred King.
Ops VP Rhome let all the chairmen for Nashville details make a plugs – breakfast tickets from K Jones, shirts from Day, uniform from Kern (NOTE: Tom will be gone the week before Nashville, so be sure you have you stuff you will need!).
Some also gave a plug for all guys to mark their calendars for our FALL SHOW, Sept. 26 and 27.
Secretary Buechler was firm in telling all those who need to renew their membership before appearing on stage in Nashville to do so this week electronically – and if you have questions, call him.
Martin Banks was presented a 25 year pin and Rick Savage presented a 35 year pin.
Then the secretary handed out renewals to a long list of guys: Kujawa for 5 years, Berkey for 11, B Miller for 12, DePuy for 19, Lucey for 20, Buechler for 23, Eckman for 24, Plaag for 24, K Jones for 21, Cotton for 33, Nestlerode for 33 and Dick Hall for 44 years.
Roger Day introduced the guests.
The coffee pot returned and so we had coffee and goodies for break.
After that the chorus worked the rest of the evening on the contest package and some staging effects for the ballad were added.
Everyone was encouraged and ready for the retreat this weekend in Westminster, MD, at the college. Famous coach and arranger, David Wright, will be with us for the weekend.
Until next time – editorjack!
(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record of the great things going on each week at an Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter meeting. —Ye Ed.)
Lots of activity around the hall, as usual, with SP classes, front row, unloading the Harmo truck that came back from the weekend show in Lancaster, distribution of the Harmo watches, picture sales for Nashville, and shirt sales for Nashville. But right at 7 pm things started with some good music for doing exercises to. Then the chorus had a solid warm up session.
Terry Jordan spoke briefly about the road to contest and medals and our 60th year as a chapter. He will be missing some weeks following an operation on Wed. to make sure they got it all the first time, on his back. He did speak with me that the plans are still rolling for a chapter anniversary potluck and talent review in August. So stay tuned.
Then Director Joe and his staff worked on some non contest songs like “I’ll Be Seeing You” “Almost Like Being In Love” “Music of the Night” and “God Bless the USA.”
During the evening I learned that Sam McFarland has been promoted to International president of AHSOW (Ancient Harmonious Society of Woodshedders). AHSOW is an affiliate of the BHS. Ask Sam about it. I know they usually have a place at the International convention for woodshedding.
The past weekend events at Western Division contest and M-AD send off involved a bunch of our guys.
Mic tester quartet was RINGERS with Mike Pinto. In the contest there were four quartets with our guys – SURPRISE! with Minnick and Hirsh; CLASSIC CONNECTION with Mattes and McFarland; TEMPORARY INSANITY with Flynn; and INGTERROBANG as a college quartet with Patrick Kim and Tom Kraus along with former member Will Mudd Simmons who is in college in KY and one of his barbershop buddies from there James Pennington.
Sunday on the send off show, Rick Taylor sang with OLD SCHOOL, Pinto sang again with RINGERS, the Wallens and Colosimos sang with LAST KIDS PICKED. Eric Wallen’s new college quartet, CRUNCH TIME, and who will be going to Nashville to compete, sang as well.
Both Dundalk Chorus and the Harmonizers sang on that show. Mike Kelly was MC and Terry Jordan took over, so Mike could change into a chorus outfit, and announced our guys.
Before break Tuesday nite, the chorus had sectionals to work on the ballad. When the singers came back into the main hall, they worked on “Second Star” “From This Moment On” and “Peter Pan Medley.”
During the meeting time, President Stamps announced the recent passing of John Reisinger who sang in quartets with Bob Wachter for over 25 years. He also told the chapter of the recent stroke suffered by Fred King.
Ops VP Rhome let all the chairmen for Nashville details make a plugs – breakfast tickets from K Jones, shirts from Day, uniform from Kern (NOTE: Tom will be gone the week before Nashville, so be sure you have you stuff you will need!).
Some also gave a plug for all guys to mark their calendars for our FALL SHOW, Sept. 26 and 27.
Secretary Buechler was firm in telling all those who need to renew their membership before appearing on stage in Nashville to do so this week electronically – and if you have questions, call him.
Martin Banks was presented a 25 year pin and Rick Savage presented a 35 year pin.
Then the secretary handed out renewals to a long list of guys: Kujawa for 5 years, Berkey for 11, B Miller for 12, DePuy for 19, Lucey for 20, Buechler for 23, Eckman for 24, Plaag for 24, K Jones for 21, Cotton for 33, Nestlerode for 33 and Dick Hall for 44 years.
Roger Day introduced the guests.
The coffee pot returned and so we had coffee and goodies for break.
After that the chorus worked the rest of the evening on the contest package and some staging effects for the ballad were added.
Everyone was encouraged and ready for the retreat this weekend in Westminster, MD, at the college. Famous coach and arranger, David Wright, will be with us for the weekend.
Until next time – editorjack!
Thursday, May 29, 2008
Looking Back On May 27th Chapter Meeting
Looking Back on May 27th Chapter Meeting
(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record of the great things going on each week at an Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter meeting. —Ye Ed.)
Many accolades for the work of the guys in the chapter and their partners and friends in hosting the Southern Division Contest. Lots of us had fun taking down the stage and drapes and poles and wiring in record time. Also a big thanks to the guys in the Fairfax Chapter who filled in while the Harmonizers were getting ready to sing as mic testers.
Director Joe took the mic right away after the early warm up session and thanked all those who worked, sang and helped this past weekend. And he led the cheers for the quartets and their successes.
And during the chapter meeting section of the evening, Ken White offered congrats to all the quartets. People were talking about how many quartets had Alexandria listed as a chapter for some one or all of the members. FULL TILT with Ed Cazenas, Nick Aiuto, Pete Frank and Steve White too first place. PRIME TIME with Bob Sutton, TJ Barrangar, Gary Plaag and Ken White came in at second place. BACHELOR PARTY with Mike Fasano, Greg Tepe, Ken Rub and Terry Reynolds took third place. YOUTH RECLAMATION PROJECT with Mike Wallen singing lead were fourth place.
DOWNTOWN with Drew Fuller on tenor and Kevin Flynn on bass were fifth place. FRiDAYS! with Dan O’Brien, Bob Caldwell, Ken Ives and Steve Murane took seventh place. KING STREET with Eric Hughes, Brad Jones, John Hohl and Kyle Blomgren were eighth place. CAPITAL A CAPPELA had Kevin Flynn on bass and were thirteenth.
The chorus scores, tho unpublished as mic testers, were good and the music team was pleased with the results. They and the chorus members were also happy with the coaching session provided contestants by the judges.
As usual other chapter leaders were working to make things go well – Dennis Ritchey and Terry Jordan did MC work during the weekend. Chuck Harner was helping run things as district officer in charge. Dixie Kennett did the lights and Mike Kelly was working in the sound booth.
James River, VA, Chapter won first place overall in the chorus contest and Ian Poulin, one of our guys, sang with them. And yes, there were some of our members who sing in other choruses who were there in Richmond and DC and maybe others.
The mic tester quartet was LAST KIDS PICKED with the Wallens and Colosimos.
Back to the singing time, the chorus worked on “Clap” and some adaptations to the SP.
Then coach Stephanie worked with the chorus on the contest package too.
After that there was time to run thru the up tune for 2009.
Back to the meeting, President Stamps thanked Southern Division chairmen and those who helped them: Keith Jones, Bill DePuy, Sandra Stamps, Chris Buechler, Bob Eckman, Gary Bibens and Audrey. The district chairman for the Events Team, Dennis Ritchey, also expressed his appreciation for the good support the chapter gave to running the contest.
Ken White also announced a couple quartets that will be competing this weekend at the Western Division Contest in Lancaster, PA. SURPRISE with Bob Hirsh and Bruce Minnick, and a collegiate quartet with Tom Kraus and Patrick Kim (and two guys from KY – one is former Harmonizer Will Mudd Simmons).
In prep for Nashville, Jack Cameron is taking orders for chorus photos. Roger Day is selling shirts with a special logo. Chris Buechler can order Lands End shirts or other items with the regular Harmo logo. See him next week.
And Mark Your Calendar – the annual open rehearsal and local send off celebration for the chorus will be Tues. June 24th at Durant. Rehearsal starts at 7 as usual. Then about 8 we will do our contest package a couple times. This is a great way for family and friends to see us at our best, especially if they are not gonna get to Nashville to cheer for us.
After the break last nite, CAMERON STATION sang one of their new songs—“St. Louie Woman.” Then Joe took the chorus thru a solid session on “Drunken Sailor” in prep for our singing this weekend at the International Send Off in Lancaster on Sunday.
There was one injury last nite – Dick Dangel got an elbow in the cheek just under his right eye. He was applying ice to keep down the swelling.
Can you believe Terry Reynolds won the 50/50 again? This time he did share!
Until next time – editorjack!
(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record of the great things going on each week at an Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter meeting. —Ye Ed.)
Many accolades for the work of the guys in the chapter and their partners and friends in hosting the Southern Division Contest. Lots of us had fun taking down the stage and drapes and poles and wiring in record time. Also a big thanks to the guys in the Fairfax Chapter who filled in while the Harmonizers were getting ready to sing as mic testers.
Director Joe took the mic right away after the early warm up session and thanked all those who worked, sang and helped this past weekend. And he led the cheers for the quartets and their successes.
And during the chapter meeting section of the evening, Ken White offered congrats to all the quartets. People were talking about how many quartets had Alexandria listed as a chapter for some one or all of the members. FULL TILT with Ed Cazenas, Nick Aiuto, Pete Frank and Steve White too first place. PRIME TIME with Bob Sutton, TJ Barrangar, Gary Plaag and Ken White came in at second place. BACHELOR PARTY with Mike Fasano, Greg Tepe, Ken Rub and Terry Reynolds took third place. YOUTH RECLAMATION PROJECT with Mike Wallen singing lead were fourth place.
DOWNTOWN with Drew Fuller on tenor and Kevin Flynn on bass were fifth place. FRiDAYS! with Dan O’Brien, Bob Caldwell, Ken Ives and Steve Murane took seventh place. KING STREET with Eric Hughes, Brad Jones, John Hohl and Kyle Blomgren were eighth place. CAPITAL A CAPPELA had Kevin Flynn on bass and were thirteenth.
The chorus scores, tho unpublished as mic testers, were good and the music team was pleased with the results. They and the chorus members were also happy with the coaching session provided contestants by the judges.
As usual other chapter leaders were working to make things go well – Dennis Ritchey and Terry Jordan did MC work during the weekend. Chuck Harner was helping run things as district officer in charge. Dixie Kennett did the lights and Mike Kelly was working in the sound booth.
James River, VA, Chapter won first place overall in the chorus contest and Ian Poulin, one of our guys, sang with them. And yes, there were some of our members who sing in other choruses who were there in Richmond and DC and maybe others.
The mic tester quartet was LAST KIDS PICKED with the Wallens and Colosimos.
Back to the singing time, the chorus worked on “Clap” and some adaptations to the SP.
Then coach Stephanie worked with the chorus on the contest package too.
After that there was time to run thru the up tune for 2009.
Back to the meeting, President Stamps thanked Southern Division chairmen and those who helped them: Keith Jones, Bill DePuy, Sandra Stamps, Chris Buechler, Bob Eckman, Gary Bibens and Audrey. The district chairman for the Events Team, Dennis Ritchey, also expressed his appreciation for the good support the chapter gave to running the contest.
Ken White also announced a couple quartets that will be competing this weekend at the Western Division Contest in Lancaster, PA. SURPRISE with Bob Hirsh and Bruce Minnick, and a collegiate quartet with Tom Kraus and Patrick Kim (and two guys from KY – one is former Harmonizer Will Mudd Simmons).
In prep for Nashville, Jack Cameron is taking orders for chorus photos. Roger Day is selling shirts with a special logo. Chris Buechler can order Lands End shirts or other items with the regular Harmo logo. See him next week.
And Mark Your Calendar – the annual open rehearsal and local send off celebration for the chorus will be Tues. June 24th at Durant. Rehearsal starts at 7 as usual. Then about 8 we will do our contest package a couple times. This is a great way for family and friends to see us at our best, especially if they are not gonna get to Nashville to cheer for us.
After the break last nite, CAMERON STATION sang one of their new songs—“St. Louie Woman.” Then Joe took the chorus thru a solid session on “Drunken Sailor” in prep for our singing this weekend at the International Send Off in Lancaster on Sunday.
There was one injury last nite – Dick Dangel got an elbow in the cheek just under his right eye. He was applying ice to keep down the swelling.
Can you believe Terry Reynolds won the 50/50 again? This time he did share!
Until next time – editorjack!
Friday, May 23, 2008
Looking Back on May 20th Chapter Meeting
Looking Back on May 20th Chapter Meeting
(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record of the great things going on each week at an Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter meeting. —Ye Ed.)
Well we had another change in the meeting hall setup this week – the risers were backed up to the stage. The guests were seated near the Harmo Photo Board. Admin folders and guest sign in station was in the usual corner.
Risers were full early again and the exercise music was cranked up right on the nose at 7!
Vocal coach Gayle Doughtie was here too to work with individual singers.
Behind the scenes – I learned the Howard Nestlerode conducted the annual financial review of our chapter treasurer books.
Before the meeting started, there were guys working on the chorus line up chart, special bright colored shirts to buy for Nashville (created by Roger Day like he does every year) for $35.
Chorus worked on “Second Star” and “Battle Hymn.”
During the meeting period, President Stamps thanked those who are lined up to work at Southern Division Contest weekend in Reston. He announced the new plan for us to abide by Rec Center rules and get out by 10 or 10:15 pm. And he announced the tragedy in Brad Jones family.
Director Joe invited all members to stay around the judges critique/coaching session on Sat. afternoon in Reston.
Keith Jones announced the start of issuing tickets for the Harmonizer Breakfast in Nashville on Fri. July 4th at 8:15 am. Free to any member; $20 for any guest we bring. See him for your tickets.
Quartet Promo guy Ken White gave cash gifts to all quartets from our chapter who have reps in contest this weekend. There are 24 members singing in the quartet contest.
Secretary Chris gave Kyle his new member kit and a 5-year card to Bill Stewart and a 27-year card to Rick Wagner.
Roger Day introduced several first time guests and some fellows who have been with us a few times before.
I overheard one member paying $100 for Safeway gift cards. He and his wife use them to buy their groceries each week, and the chapter makes a few bucks. We should all do some of that.
Chuck Hunter did another good craft session last nite.
Most of the second half seemed to be on the contest package – both visual alone and combined. There were some great things happening on the songs.
Now Chuck Hunter won the 50/50 and he did show up to share his rewards!!
Until next time – editorjack!
(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record of the great things going on each week at an Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter meeting. —Ye Ed.)
Well we had another change in the meeting hall setup this week – the risers were backed up to the stage. The guests were seated near the Harmo Photo Board. Admin folders and guest sign in station was in the usual corner.
Risers were full early again and the exercise music was cranked up right on the nose at 7!
Vocal coach Gayle Doughtie was here too to work with individual singers.
Behind the scenes – I learned the Howard Nestlerode conducted the annual financial review of our chapter treasurer books.
Before the meeting started, there were guys working on the chorus line up chart, special bright colored shirts to buy for Nashville (created by Roger Day like he does every year) for $35.
Chorus worked on “Second Star” and “Battle Hymn.”
During the meeting period, President Stamps thanked those who are lined up to work at Southern Division Contest weekend in Reston. He announced the new plan for us to abide by Rec Center rules and get out by 10 or 10:15 pm. And he announced the tragedy in Brad Jones family.
Director Joe invited all members to stay around the judges critique/coaching session on Sat. afternoon in Reston.
Keith Jones announced the start of issuing tickets for the Harmonizer Breakfast in Nashville on Fri. July 4th at 8:15 am. Free to any member; $20 for any guest we bring. See him for your tickets.
Quartet Promo guy Ken White gave cash gifts to all quartets from our chapter who have reps in contest this weekend. There are 24 members singing in the quartet contest.
Secretary Chris gave Kyle his new member kit and a 5-year card to Bill Stewart and a 27-year card to Rick Wagner.
Roger Day introduced several first time guests and some fellows who have been with us a few times before.
I overheard one member paying $100 for Safeway gift cards. He and his wife use them to buy their groceries each week, and the chapter makes a few bucks. We should all do some of that.
Chuck Hunter did another good craft session last nite.
Most of the second half seemed to be on the contest package – both visual alone and combined. There were some great things happening on the songs.
Now Chuck Hunter won the 50/50 and he did show up to share his rewards!!
Until next time – editorjack!
Friday, May 16, 2008
Looking Back on May 13th Chapter Meeting
Looking Back on May 13th Chapter Meeting
(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record of the great things going on each week at an Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter meeting. —Ye Ed.)
I got to the hall about 10 til 7 last nite and found the front row working hard in the lobby. (I gave a plug to a potential singer who was waiting there to teach another class in the building – always gotta be ready to promote joining us!)
Inside the main hall, the stage was full of guys working on SP with Chuck McKeever, risers were up and all the AV equipment in place, and guys all around talking and even a quartet singing in the corner.
Right on the nose at 6:59 pm, the call went out for RISERS and those who were not already in place (some guys, I note, make an effort to be on the risers about 5 til each week) climbed on board.
Tony took over for a solid warm up session on breathing and good singing—at all times.
Director Joe started work on “Drunken Sailor” and then sent the chorus out in sections, with members of CAMERON STATION taking the teaching duties for the song with the guys who also sing the same part. Back in 10 minutes. Joe was pleased with the results of the review and concentration.
Then there were sectionals to work on the future contest song “Star” and after that, two sets of the current contest package.
For chapter meeting, there were the usual plugs for 50/50 sales, gift cards and last chance orders for Harmo Anniversary watches.
Then there were several pleas to help the chapter manage hosting the Southern Division contest, May 23-24. Eckman needs helps with registration Fri. 5-7 pm and Sat. 5-7 pm. De Puy needs help with risers Fri. 8-11 am at the Hyatt in Reston. Keith Jones needs help with contestant guides/hosts Fri. at 5 pm. and Sat. 8 :30 am. Call them if you can help. There is always a need for three or four more helpers.
Bibens reminded the chorus that we are the mic testers for the Southern Div. chorus contest EARLY Sat. morning in Reston. New guys and returning guys get uniform parts from Tom Kern!
Gary also reminded everyone to mark their calendar for the trip to Lancaster, PA, where the chorus will do the contest package as part of a District Send Off Celebration for the quartets and choruses going to Nashville in July. It is not considered a singout but a mandatory performance. Plan ahead for the 2.5 hour or more drive. Watch for reporting times and such to be announced. Uniform is same as Southern Div.
The board meeting is May 21st.
NOTE these date changes: There will not be an extra rehearsal on June 12th, but instead there will be one on June 19th and 26th at the school adjacent to Durant. AND Cindy Hansen will be teaching us the SP for the future contest package on Monday, July 21st and so there will not be a chapter meeting on the 22nd.
Secretary Chris reminded all that have a June 2008 renewal due to get to work on it, as it takes time to get thru the system at Society headquarters.
And if you want any Harmo logo items ordered from Lands End, see Chris right away.
Membership VP Roger introduced some out of town barbershoppers who were in the DC area for visits or work, and then some fellows who are in the process of joining.
After a good break, new quartet promotion chair, Ken White, introduced FRiDAYS! quartet with Dan O’Brien, Bob Caldwell, Ken Ives and Steve Murane. They did a test run performance in preparation for their appearance at Southern Division. (Yes – that is how they spell the name of their quartet.) They are one of several quartets we hear are going to compete there. And the rumor mill is at work confirming some new college quartets with guys in them from our chapter, who are competing at other division contest in the next few weeks, hoping to qualify for the Collegiate Quartet Contest in Nashville.
The rest of the evening was mostly dedicated to the contest package, with several run-throughs, a chance to make a self-improvement tape, and a time to tweak some of the moves taught earlier.
Ken White also won the 50/50 money again, and like his friend Terry Reynolds, took off with his winnings and did now show up to buy drinks after rehearsal!
Until next time – editorjack!
(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record of the great things going on each week at an Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter meeting. —Ye Ed.)
I got to the hall about 10 til 7 last nite and found the front row working hard in the lobby. (I gave a plug to a potential singer who was waiting there to teach another class in the building – always gotta be ready to promote joining us!)
Inside the main hall, the stage was full of guys working on SP with Chuck McKeever, risers were up and all the AV equipment in place, and guys all around talking and even a quartet singing in the corner.
Right on the nose at 6:59 pm, the call went out for RISERS and those who were not already in place (some guys, I note, make an effort to be on the risers about 5 til each week) climbed on board.
Tony took over for a solid warm up session on breathing and good singing—at all times.
Director Joe started work on “Drunken Sailor” and then sent the chorus out in sections, with members of CAMERON STATION taking the teaching duties for the song with the guys who also sing the same part. Back in 10 minutes. Joe was pleased with the results of the review and concentration.
Then there were sectionals to work on the future contest song “Star” and after that, two sets of the current contest package.
For chapter meeting, there were the usual plugs for 50/50 sales, gift cards and last chance orders for Harmo Anniversary watches.
Then there were several pleas to help the chapter manage hosting the Southern Division contest, May 23-24. Eckman needs helps with registration Fri. 5-7 pm and Sat. 5-7 pm. De Puy needs help with risers Fri. 8-11 am at the Hyatt in Reston. Keith Jones needs help with contestant guides/hosts Fri. at 5 pm. and Sat. 8 :30 am. Call them if you can help. There is always a need for three or four more helpers.
Bibens reminded the chorus that we are the mic testers for the Southern Div. chorus contest EARLY Sat. morning in Reston. New guys and returning guys get uniform parts from Tom Kern!
Gary also reminded everyone to mark their calendar for the trip to Lancaster, PA, where the chorus will do the contest package as part of a District Send Off Celebration for the quartets and choruses going to Nashville in July. It is not considered a singout but a mandatory performance. Plan ahead for the 2.5 hour or more drive. Watch for reporting times and such to be announced. Uniform is same as Southern Div.
The board meeting is May 21st.
NOTE these date changes: There will not be an extra rehearsal on June 12th, but instead there will be one on June 19th and 26th at the school adjacent to Durant. AND Cindy Hansen will be teaching us the SP for the future contest package on Monday, July 21st and so there will not be a chapter meeting on the 22nd.
Secretary Chris reminded all that have a June 2008 renewal due to get to work on it, as it takes time to get thru the system at Society headquarters.
And if you want any Harmo logo items ordered from Lands End, see Chris right away.
Membership VP Roger introduced some out of town barbershoppers who were in the DC area for visits or work, and then some fellows who are in the process of joining.
After a good break, new quartet promotion chair, Ken White, introduced FRiDAYS! quartet with Dan O’Brien, Bob Caldwell, Ken Ives and Steve Murane. They did a test run performance in preparation for their appearance at Southern Division. (Yes – that is how they spell the name of their quartet.) They are one of several quartets we hear are going to compete there. And the rumor mill is at work confirming some new college quartets with guys in them from our chapter, who are competing at other division contest in the next few weeks, hoping to qualify for the Collegiate Quartet Contest in Nashville.
The rest of the evening was mostly dedicated to the contest package, with several run-throughs, a chance to make a self-improvement tape, and a time to tweak some of the moves taught earlier.
Ken White also won the 50/50 money again, and like his friend Terry Reynolds, took off with his winnings and did now show up to buy drinks after rehearsal!
Until next time – editorjack!
Friday, May 9, 2008
Looking Back on May 6th Chapter Meeting
Looking Back on May 6th Chapter Meeting
(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record of the great things going on each week at an Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter meeting. —Ye Ed.)
Room set up took a new direction this week – the tables for coat/briefcase drop off were set up along the wall behind the risers. And the mail folders and sign up sheets for events were set up under the Harmo Photo Board.
Then sales and admin desks were set up along the wall where coats used to go. Goal was to increase flow to admin tables, coffee station and general networking area.
As usual, there was a class on stage for SP. And a number of guys worked to get out risers, AV equip, membership station, director’s music stand.
After warm up session, Director Joe introduced former Harmonizer (in 1992) Steve Tramack. Steve is director of Granite Statesmen in Northeast District. He came to lead a Barbershop Singers Boot Camp for our chorus. It was sold hard work for the first half of the evening. There were demonstration groups called out, and there were break outs of small groups to try and experiment with the concepts. Plus he had AV presentation too.
The chapter meeting started with President Stamps accepting a check for the recent sing out from Bruce Lauther. And a reminder to the board of their rescheduled meeting now on May 21st.
The Chapter is hosting the Southern Division Contest May 22-23 in Reston. (For new guys: a division contest is where quartets and choruses earn the right to move up to our district contest in the fall.) Bill DePuy is back stage manager for us and is already seeking names of guys to set up risers and such. See him to help.
Chapter Secretary Buechler reported a phone visit with Baker Collins, who was asking about paying his dues. Baker has been a member for 50 years and so gets free membership. Chris sent the card to Baker in FL. Joe Cerutti was given his 7 year card tonite too.
Roger Day announced the guests present. There was a good break; everyone was busy.
After break, Steve conducted 15 more minutes of his class. Then Joe worked the chorus hard on contest songs, and took them thru “First Star on the Right” a couple times.
Note: if you turn in Campbell Soup labels into the big can on the admin table, be sure you have gotten the Bar Code off the can or container. Otherwise they do not count. We give these coupons to the school next door for them to turn in for rewards.
Until next time – editorjack!
(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record of the great things going on each week at an Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter meeting. —Ye Ed.)
Room set up took a new direction this week – the tables for coat/briefcase drop off were set up along the wall behind the risers. And the mail folders and sign up sheets for events were set up under the Harmo Photo Board.
Then sales and admin desks were set up along the wall where coats used to go. Goal was to increase flow to admin tables, coffee station and general networking area.
As usual, there was a class on stage for SP. And a number of guys worked to get out risers, AV equip, membership station, director’s music stand.
After warm up session, Director Joe introduced former Harmonizer (in 1992) Steve Tramack. Steve is director of Granite Statesmen in Northeast District. He came to lead a Barbershop Singers Boot Camp for our chorus. It was sold hard work for the first half of the evening. There were demonstration groups called out, and there were break outs of small groups to try and experiment with the concepts. Plus he had AV presentation too.
The chapter meeting started with President Stamps accepting a check for the recent sing out from Bruce Lauther. And a reminder to the board of their rescheduled meeting now on May 21st.
The Chapter is hosting the Southern Division Contest May 22-23 in Reston. (For new guys: a division contest is where quartets and choruses earn the right to move up to our district contest in the fall.) Bill DePuy is back stage manager for us and is already seeking names of guys to set up risers and such. See him to help.
Chapter Secretary Buechler reported a phone visit with Baker Collins, who was asking about paying his dues. Baker has been a member for 50 years and so gets free membership. Chris sent the card to Baker in FL. Joe Cerutti was given his 7 year card tonite too.
Roger Day announced the guests present. There was a good break; everyone was busy.
After break, Steve conducted 15 more minutes of his class. Then Joe worked the chorus hard on contest songs, and took them thru “First Star on the Right” a couple times.
Note: if you turn in Campbell Soup labels into the big can on the admin table, be sure you have gotten the Bar Code off the can or container. Otherwise they do not count. We give these coupons to the school next door for them to turn in for rewards.
Until next time – editorjack!
Friday, May 2, 2008
Looking Back on April 29th Chapter Meeting
(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record of the great things going on each week at an Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter meeting. —Ye Ed.)
There was a sense of relaxation from the pressure of the show last weekend tonite, but there was a lot of musical work to do. So things rolled along right from the first call to RISERS.
Director Joe had a memory recall session when he had the chorus work on “Armed Forces Medley.” Chuck Hunter incorporated things taught during warm ups in his Barbershop Craft Class.
Then as part of the new plan to get things ready a whole year in advance, Joe had the chorus do a couple sing-thrus of a new ballad destined for Anaheim , “Second Star to the Right.”
Next musical workout was on this year’s contest package and especially the uptune. The visual team had cameras running during this session and later in the evening let the chorus see themselves for a self evaluation of visual.
During the meeting session, President Stamps thanked everyone for their hard work and for making last minute adjustments all weekend.
Alan Wile asked members to consider chapter leadership positions for next year, as he is chair of the nominating committee. A member can self nominate or suggest another member. Those suggestions go to Alan.
Ike Evans invited all to check out the new feature on the Harmo Photo Board – a special section with a picture and bio of new members.
As part of continual efforts to reduce what we have in storage (and thus save money on rental fees for storage units), the tools left over from our “Lazy Bones” package were brought out so they can go back to their original owners.
Gary Bibens was next on tap to express the chapter’s thank you to all the hard workers who did “above-and-beyond” work for the Spring Tonic this past weekend. He was assisted by show business manager, Tom Kraus.
The reunion chorus was a fun addition to the show and was organized by Terry Jordan. (These men sang at one or all of the performances: John Adams, Bud Arberg (who directed one of the songs we sang), Bob Bates, Mike Bell, Geoff Berman, Neil Bibens, Chuck Botts, Alan Durick, Paul Durning, Mike Everard, Mike Geipel, Paul Greiner, Dave Guenther, Allen Hanenbaum, Al Herman, Roger Hinkley, John Hohl (who directed one of the songs we sang), Keith Jones, Terry Jordan, Arthur Lewis, Jack McKendree, Tommy Morris, Dick Newton, John Parkinson, Jack Pitzer, Jeremy Richardson, Paul Ritchey, Burt Stueve, Jerry TePaske, Don Thompson, Bob Wells, Chris Buechler, Bruce Minnick, and J.T. Price.
During the show weekend, Secretary Buechler caught Jerry Kindred in audience to give him his 31 year card, Jim Stockton to give him his 36 year card, and Jeff Taylor to give him his 16 year card. Tuesday nite Chris presented Joel Golden his 3 year card, Dick Newton his 24 year, Dean Rust his 28 year, Chuck Hunter his 36 year and John Hohl his 41 year card.
Also Will Cox was presented his 30 year pin. (Our chapter is likely one of the few that honors membership milestones for its members and buys them a Society pin in recognition of service starting at 25 years.)
Roger Day introduced a cadre of guests who are working into membership at differing stages. He gave a plea for all of us to bring in new guys who would enjoy the hobby. This is a major task for newer guys, but all of us have to ask and invite, then follow up and even bring prospects.
After a good break, there was extended work on “Clap Your Hands” to include integration of the visual plan with good singing.
And finally, a good review of our often used ballad, “I’ll Be Seeing You.”
Terry Reynolds won the big pot of money for two weeks of 50/50. Just before KTWWS, Will Winder, a former member who stopped by to say hello while in town to visit family, was introduced.
The Harmonizers have experienced another milestone: a beginner’s barbershop arrangement class for our own members was held off site. Taught by Hohl and Cerutti. Big sign up.
Until next time – editorjack!
(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record of the great things going on each week at an Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter meeting. —Ye Ed.)
There was a sense of relaxation from the pressure of the show last weekend tonite, but there was a lot of musical work to do. So things rolled along right from the first call to RISERS.
Director Joe had a memory recall session when he had the chorus work on “Armed Forces Medley.” Chuck Hunter incorporated things taught during warm ups in his Barbershop Craft Class.
Then as part of the new plan to get things ready a whole year in advance, Joe had the chorus do a couple sing-thrus of a new ballad destined for Anaheim , “Second Star to the Right.”
Next musical workout was on this year’s contest package and especially the uptune. The visual team had cameras running during this session and later in the evening let the chorus see themselves for a self evaluation of visual.
During the meeting session, President Stamps thanked everyone for their hard work and for making last minute adjustments all weekend.
Alan Wile asked members to consider chapter leadership positions for next year, as he is chair of the nominating committee. A member can self nominate or suggest another member. Those suggestions go to Alan.
Ike Evans invited all to check out the new feature on the Harmo Photo Board – a special section with a picture and bio of new members.
As part of continual efforts to reduce what we have in storage (and thus save money on rental fees for storage units), the tools left over from our “Lazy Bones” package were brought out so they can go back to their original owners.
Gary Bibens was next on tap to express the chapter’s thank you to all the hard workers who did “above-and-beyond” work for the Spring Tonic this past weekend. He was assisted by show business manager, Tom Kraus.
The reunion chorus was a fun addition to the show and was organized by Terry Jordan. (These men sang at one or all of the performances: John Adams, Bud Arberg (who directed one of the songs we sang), Bob Bates, Mike Bell, Geoff Berman, Neil Bibens, Chuck Botts, Alan Durick, Paul Durning, Mike Everard, Mike Geipel, Paul Greiner, Dave Guenther, Allen Hanenbaum, Al Herman, Roger Hinkley, John Hohl (who directed one of the songs we sang), Keith Jones, Terry Jordan, Arthur Lewis, Jack McKendree, Tommy Morris, Dick Newton, John Parkinson, Jack Pitzer, Jeremy Richardson, Paul Ritchey, Burt Stueve, Jerry TePaske, Don Thompson, Bob Wells, Chris Buechler, Bruce Minnick, and J.T. Price.
During the show weekend, Secretary Buechler caught Jerry Kindred in audience to give him his 31 year card, Jim Stockton to give him his 36 year card, and Jeff Taylor to give him his 16 year card. Tuesday nite Chris presented Joel Golden his 3 year card, Dick Newton his 24 year, Dean Rust his 28 year, Chuck Hunter his 36 year and John Hohl his 41 year card.
Also Will Cox was presented his 30 year pin. (Our chapter is likely one of the few that honors membership milestones for its members and buys them a Society pin in recognition of service starting at 25 years.)
Roger Day introduced a cadre of guests who are working into membership at differing stages. He gave a plea for all of us to bring in new guys who would enjoy the hobby. This is a major task for newer guys, but all of us have to ask and invite, then follow up and even bring prospects.
After a good break, there was extended work on “Clap Your Hands” to include integration of the visual plan with good singing.
And finally, a good review of our often used ballad, “I’ll Be Seeing You.”
Terry Reynolds won the big pot of money for two weeks of 50/50. Just before KTWWS, Will Winder, a former member who stopped by to say hello while in town to visit family, was introduced.
The Harmonizers have experienced another milestone: a beginner’s barbershop arrangement class for our own members was held off site. Taught by Hohl and Cerutti. Big sign up.
Until next time – editorjack!
Thursday, April 24, 2008
Looking Back on April 22nd Chapter Meeting
Looking Back on April 22nd Chapter Meeting
(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record of the great things going on each week at an Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter meeting. —Ye Ed.)
The hall was a busy place on Tuesday! Big crowd of guys learning the SP for contest and show songs from Chuck on the stage at Durant. Usual set up of risers, mirrors, sound equipment, registration station, tables, guest chairs.
After the solid musical warm up with Tony out front, we worked on the three songs to be sung as the Reunion Chorus on the Spring Tonic this weekend. Terry Jordan introduced Bud Arberg as guest director for that group. Bud added some fun info as to how he came be get the nod as our third chorus director in 1951. Jack Pitzer introduced John Hohl, also a former director and medalist quartet guy, who will be the other guest director for the Reunion gang. Jack also introduced Bob Bates, who wrote the words for “A Place On The Risers for You” when John did the music.
There was a large crowd of the 30+ guys who will sing in the reunion chorus who came on Tuesday for a live rehearsal. Some stayed and used the guest books to get a barbershop music fix. I forgot the list of names, so I won’t even try to mention them all here.
Then Director Joe and his musical staff launched a rehearsal for all the songs to be sung at the gig on Wed nite, April 23rd.
During the chapter meeting period, President Stamps asked the Southern Division leadership team to meet with him. And he formally announced the funeral of Mike Gorham that was held earlier in the day. About 35 barbershoppers were there – some from other chapters and M-AD leaders plus our guys.
Bibens plugged the Wed nite singout and also asked for a work crew of guys who were not gonna do the singout to come to Bishop Ireton to help with Tonic technical things.
Pitzer substituted for the voice-less Roger Day. There were several men present who are in the process of joining including Mike Kelly. And again, the large group of guys who will sing in the reunion chorus (about half are still members, but not active singers).
It was Dick Hall’s birthday and we sang to him in special recognition of his years of dedication to call every member on that man’s birthday!! It was also Dick Dangel’s birthday and we had a great huge cake, thanks to his wife Carol, to share with the coffee.
We had to keep the break short, so the guys were pushed to eat fast, buy things, sing up for things, get t heir uniform parts from Tom Kern, etc. But we didn’t do bad in keeping it close to 5 minutes.
Then Kirk Young, our music coach, worked the chorus hard on “Clap” rhythms and solid singing skills at the same time we do the SP. He also helped Joe with ideas on what to do to make things happen. Because he is a band instructor, Kirk also offered some tips to the percussion team for “Kiss de Girl.” Ken White has a whole new take on the intro of the song which is funny and we all enjoyed a good laugh.
No winner on the 50/50 so better get a ticket next week!
We dismantled the place and headed out in record time too – which included loading the Harmo Truck for the shows this week and weekend.
Until next time – editorjack!
(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record of the great things going on each week at an Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter meeting. —Ye Ed.)
The hall was a busy place on Tuesday! Big crowd of guys learning the SP for contest and show songs from Chuck on the stage at Durant. Usual set up of risers, mirrors, sound equipment, registration station, tables, guest chairs.
After the solid musical warm up with Tony out front, we worked on the three songs to be sung as the Reunion Chorus on the Spring Tonic this weekend. Terry Jordan introduced Bud Arberg as guest director for that group. Bud added some fun info as to how he came be get the nod as our third chorus director in 1951. Jack Pitzer introduced John Hohl, also a former director and medalist quartet guy, who will be the other guest director for the Reunion gang. Jack also introduced Bob Bates, who wrote the words for “A Place On The Risers for You” when John did the music.
There was a large crowd of the 30+ guys who will sing in the reunion chorus who came on Tuesday for a live rehearsal. Some stayed and used the guest books to get a barbershop music fix. I forgot the list of names, so I won’t even try to mention them all here.
Then Director Joe and his musical staff launched a rehearsal for all the songs to be sung at the gig on Wed nite, April 23rd.
During the chapter meeting period, President Stamps asked the Southern Division leadership team to meet with him. And he formally announced the funeral of Mike Gorham that was held earlier in the day. About 35 barbershoppers were there – some from other chapters and M-AD leaders plus our guys.
Bibens plugged the Wed nite singout and also asked for a work crew of guys who were not gonna do the singout to come to Bishop Ireton to help with Tonic technical things.
Pitzer substituted for the voice-less Roger Day. There were several men present who are in the process of joining including Mike Kelly. And again, the large group of guys who will sing in the reunion chorus (about half are still members, but not active singers).
It was Dick Hall’s birthday and we sang to him in special recognition of his years of dedication to call every member on that man’s birthday!! It was also Dick Dangel’s birthday and we had a great huge cake, thanks to his wife Carol, to share with the coffee.
We had to keep the break short, so the guys were pushed to eat fast, buy things, sing up for things, get t heir uniform parts from Tom Kern, etc. But we didn’t do bad in keeping it close to 5 minutes.
Then Kirk Young, our music coach, worked the chorus hard on “Clap” rhythms and solid singing skills at the same time we do the SP. He also helped Joe with ideas on what to do to make things happen. Because he is a band instructor, Kirk also offered some tips to the percussion team for “Kiss de Girl.” Ken White has a whole new take on the intro of the song which is funny and we all enjoyed a good laugh.
No winner on the 50/50 so better get a ticket next week!
We dismantled the place and headed out in record time too – which included loading the Harmo Truck for the shows this week and weekend.
Until next time – editorjack!
Friday, April 18, 2008
Looking Back on April 15th Chapter Meeting
(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record of the great things going on each week at an Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter meeting. —Ye Ed.)
There was a buzz in the air last nite as many former singers came to Durant to get some rehearsal time for the Reunion chorus songs. So there was a lot of greeting (and whispering – who is that guy over there [ha]). It was great to see them all.
The usual frenzy to get things set up for the chapter and chorus.
After warm ups, we did indeed work on the Reunion songs for the anniversary show coming up next weekend.
Then there were sectionals to work on “Ed Sullivan.” Noted that Wayne Adams was helping with the basses. Front row guys and some fill-in helpers worked on how to manage all the props and their timing. And Nick Aiuto was on had to do the “Lady of Spain” solo. What fun.
We had a review of “God Bless The USA”.
Bob Madigan from WTOP Radio, 103.5, was there to tape some singing and did a few minutes chat with Director Joe.
Then there were a lot of reps for “CLAP” with both music and visuals included. Sure seems to be coming along.
The meeting period included announcements about the request of FRIENDS IN HARMONY for all members to bring cookies, bar cookies, snacks and such for them to sell in the lobby at the show. Bring them before Fri nite show at 6 pm or before Sat shows.
Those who need housing in Nashville, see Bob Rhome. Those who need uniform pieces, see Tom Kern tonite.
President Stamps had the hard task of announcing the death on Monday of Mike Gorham. Services will be Tues, April 22, at 11 am at Everly Wheatly. Singers look for email – but likely at 10:30 and wear suit and tie.
Bibens filled us in on chorus call for a good paying gig on April 23rd at Reagan Bldg. about 9 pm for the Aircraft Electronics Assoc. Thanks to salesman Bruce Lauther.
Saddest news of the nite was only 30% of tickets sold for the three shows this coming weekend.
Bob Sutton filled in for the ailing Roger Day as membership guy – he welcomed former members back to sing, and several guests.
Secretary Buechler recognized Andy Smith for his 32 years of membership; and presented Bob Mattes with his membership packet. Bob is a dual member from Dundalk.
After the break (there was a big effort to keep it to 10 minutes) the chorus sang “Battle Hymn” and then did a chunk of work on “I Love You Truly” and also “Kiss de Girl” and “Music of the Night.”
A new item was on sale tonite – a 60th anniversary wrist watch. Much like the ones we had a few years ago, and only $20 for man’s or woman’s size. Sale continues thru April 29th. Order goes in on May 1st. Members and former members and guests may buy one too. They will be on sale at the show.
Busy nite for the Harmonizers. With more to come just like it. HURRAY!
Until next time – editorjack!
(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record of the great things going on each week at an Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter meeting. —Ye Ed.)
There was a buzz in the air last nite as many former singers came to Durant to get some rehearsal time for the Reunion chorus songs. So there was a lot of greeting (and whispering – who is that guy over there [ha]). It was great to see them all.
The usual frenzy to get things set up for the chapter and chorus.
After warm ups, we did indeed work on the Reunion songs for the anniversary show coming up next weekend.
Then there were sectionals to work on “Ed Sullivan.” Noted that Wayne Adams was helping with the basses. Front row guys and some fill-in helpers worked on how to manage all the props and their timing. And Nick Aiuto was on had to do the “Lady of Spain” solo. What fun.
We had a review of “God Bless The USA”.
Bob Madigan from WTOP Radio, 103.5, was there to tape some singing and did a few minutes chat with Director Joe.
Then there were a lot of reps for “CLAP” with both music and visuals included. Sure seems to be coming along.
The meeting period included announcements about the request of FRIENDS IN HARMONY for all members to bring cookies, bar cookies, snacks and such for them to sell in the lobby at the show. Bring them before Fri nite show at 6 pm or before Sat shows.
Those who need housing in Nashville, see Bob Rhome. Those who need uniform pieces, see Tom Kern tonite.
President Stamps had the hard task of announcing the death on Monday of Mike Gorham. Services will be Tues, April 22, at 11 am at Everly Wheatly. Singers look for email – but likely at 10:30 and wear suit and tie.
Bibens filled us in on chorus call for a good paying gig on April 23rd at Reagan Bldg. about 9 pm for the Aircraft Electronics Assoc. Thanks to salesman Bruce Lauther.
Saddest news of the nite was only 30% of tickets sold for the three shows this coming weekend.
Bob Sutton filled in for the ailing Roger Day as membership guy – he welcomed former members back to sing, and several guests.
Secretary Buechler recognized Andy Smith for his 32 years of membership; and presented Bob Mattes with his membership packet. Bob is a dual member from Dundalk.
After the break (there was a big effort to keep it to 10 minutes) the chorus sang “Battle Hymn” and then did a chunk of work on “I Love You Truly” and also “Kiss de Girl” and “Music of the Night.”
A new item was on sale tonite – a 60th anniversary wrist watch. Much like the ones we had a few years ago, and only $20 for man’s or woman’s size. Sale continues thru April 29th. Order goes in on May 1st. Members and former members and guests may buy one too. They will be on sale at the show.
Busy nite for the Harmonizers. With more to come just like it. HURRAY!
Until next time – editorjack!
Chorus Notes #16 - Chapter Meeting April 15, 2008
Special Thanks to Dean Rust for this week's chorus notes!
A Place on the Risers for You
- "There will always..." (beginning): connect the sounds, enunciate, no mush mouth, shoot for "ways".
Side by Side
- Learn the song; listen to the recording; bring the music if you need it next week; if you don't know it, don't sing it.
- Intro: tall vowels, lots of support, use whole instrument, all four parts sing "side" when tenors come in. Crescendo the last "side."
- "See that sun in the mornin..": sing it out, needs a lot of energy after the strong intro.
- "Peeking over the hill...": "Peeking" with a "P".
- Lead, "Through all kinds of weather..." (ms 33-34): Get the melody line right, it's different than some are used to.
Climbin Up the Mountain
- "...was a mighty day. Oh Lord" (m 40, key change): "day" is a quarter note, go right on to "Oh".
- "... didn't come here for to stay." (ms 43-44, after key change): straight, not syncopated.
Ed Sullivan
- Watch Will - follow his tempo - don't get distracted.
- Sing out on the "dum dah dah, dah dah dah dum dah dah..."
- Bass: Let's hear the "bm's"
God Bless the USA
- Big sound when chorus enters and then sustain the intensity.
- "ones who died"
- Bari, "and defend her still today": like violins
Clap Yore Hands
- "Clap-a yore hands (m 29, etc): connect the sounds, got to hear the "c" on clap but make it quick and crisp.
- "shake yore shoe time" (m 41): three hand flicks on "shake yore shoe" but no floppy fingers.
- "Come on you children gather around" (Bass solo, ms 63-64): Bass, bring it home, connect the sound, stay on top of the pitch on "round; Lead: on "woe" need presence, but not too loud.
- "(and we will) lose ...called the Voo doo!" (ms 66-69): must be together on "lose"; give a huge punch to "Voo doo."
- "On the sands of time..." (2nd time, ms 71-72): remember to sway, rows 2-3 start to the left, rows 4-5 start to the right, time the sways so you don't stop until "trouble".
- "hands", last chord: no "z", make the "nds" quick.
Battle Hymn
- "Brum" - roll "r" but don't sound the "r" and the roll of the "r" comes before the beat.
- Think subdivide during the intro.
I Love You Truly
- Know where "do" is.
- Watch Joe's hands; make all breaths inaudible; no blank faces; connect with your sweetheart through Joe.
- Baris, "Coming home": Show your pride.
- "Coming home to you.": same vowel on "to" and "you".
- Bass, "sweetheart" (m 14): press through the sound on the slide on "sweet".
- "I love you truly" (ms 17-18: need absolute precision on the entrance, start with an "h" and turn the dipthong together, sustain the energy into the "l" of love.
- Bass, "feel you are near" (ms 27-28): higher on half-step up on "near."
- "...by your side to stand" (ms 38-40): watch Joe for growth in intensity on "stand" in preparation for "Gone."
- "Gone" (m 41): The "G" needs to be on the pitch and from the heart, not hard; target is "aw"; make it a big chord, but not with loud singing, keep it bright and forward.
-"...is the sorrow." (ms 41-42): sustain the intensity through the phrase.
- "For you love me truly" (ms 45-46): quick turn from "tru" to "ly"; Bass, higher on the jump up on "tru."
Kiss the Girl
- "Sha la la la don't be scared you got the mood prepared..." (ms 56-58): with anticipation, sustain energy on "scared" and "prepared", don't hit them and then back off, ditto on subsequent phrases.
- "You got to kiss the" (ms 77-78, near the end):sing out on these barbershop chords.
Music of the Night
- pull pitch off the last note of the recorded intro which is "ti".
- Beginning: the different vowels being sung need to be distinct.
- "Grasp it, sense it, tremulous and tender' (ms 21-22): no break and Bass bring some emotion to "tremulous"
A Place on the Risers for You
- "There will always..." (beginning): connect the sounds, enunciate, no mush mouth, shoot for "ways".
Side by Side
- Learn the song; listen to the recording; bring the music if you need it next week; if you don't know it, don't sing it.
- Intro: tall vowels, lots of support, use whole instrument, all four parts sing "side" when tenors come in. Crescendo the last "side."
- "See that sun in the mornin..": sing it out, needs a lot of energy after the strong intro.
- "Peeking over the hill...": "Peeking" with a "P".
- Lead, "Through all kinds of weather..." (ms 33-34): Get the melody line right, it's different than some are used to.
Climbin Up the Mountain
- "...was a mighty day. Oh Lord" (m 40, key change): "day" is a quarter note, go right on to "Oh".
- "... didn't come here for to stay." (ms 43-44, after key change): straight, not syncopated.
Ed Sullivan
- Watch Will - follow his tempo - don't get distracted.
- Sing out on the "dum dah dah, dah dah dah dum dah dah..."
- Bass: Let's hear the "bm's"
God Bless the USA
- Big sound when chorus enters and then sustain the intensity.
- "ones who died"
- Bari, "and defend her still today": like violins
Clap Yore Hands
- "Clap-a yore hands (m 29, etc): connect the sounds, got to hear the "c" on clap but make it quick and crisp.
- "shake yore shoe time" (m 41): three hand flicks on "shake yore shoe" but no floppy fingers.
- "Come on you children gather around" (Bass solo, ms 63-64): Bass, bring it home, connect the sound, stay on top of the pitch on "round; Lead: on "woe" need presence, but not too loud.
- "(and we will) lose ...called the Voo doo!" (ms 66-69): must be together on "lose"; give a huge punch to "Voo doo."
- "On the sands of time..." (2nd time, ms 71-72): remember to sway, rows 2-3 start to the left, rows 4-5 start to the right, time the sways so you don't stop until "trouble".
- "hands", last chord: no "z", make the "nds" quick.
Battle Hymn
- "Brum" - roll "r" but don't sound the "r" and the roll of the "r" comes before the beat.
- Think subdivide during the intro.
I Love You Truly
- Know where "do" is.
- Watch Joe's hands; make all breaths inaudible; no blank faces; connect with your sweetheart through Joe.
- Baris, "Coming home": Show your pride.
- "Coming home to you.": same vowel on "to" and "you".
- Bass, "sweetheart" (m 14): press through the sound on the slide on "sweet".
- "I love you truly" (ms 17-18: need absolute precision on the entrance, start with an "h" and turn the dipthong together, sustain the energy into the "l" of love.
- Bass, "feel you are near" (ms 27-28): higher on half-step up on "near."
- "...by your side to stand" (ms 38-40): watch Joe for growth in intensity on "stand" in preparation for "Gone."
- "Gone" (m 41): The "G" needs to be on the pitch and from the heart, not hard; target is "aw"; make it a big chord, but not with loud singing, keep it bright and forward.
-"...is the sorrow." (ms 41-42): sustain the intensity through the phrase.
- "For you love me truly" (ms 45-46): quick turn from "tru" to "ly"; Bass, higher on the jump up on "tru."
Kiss the Girl
- "Sha la la la don't be scared you got the mood prepared..." (ms 56-58): with anticipation, sustain energy on "scared" and "prepared", don't hit them and then back off, ditto on subsequent phrases.
- "You got to kiss the" (ms 77-78, near the end):sing out on these barbershop chords.
Music of the Night
- pull pitch off the last note of the recorded intro which is "ti".
- Beginning: the different vowels being sung need to be distinct.
- "Grasp it, sense it, tremulous and tender' (ms 21-22): no break and Bass bring some emotion to "tremulous"
Monday, April 14, 2008
New Learning Tracks available
Gentlemen,Tony has provided the Last Kids Picked recording of Mona Lisa that has the interp/breathing that he wants in that song. Get it in the Mona Lisa learning track folder. It is labeled "Mona Lisa for the harmonizers". Also now posted are complete learning tracks for Side-by-Side and Climbin Up the Mountain. Brad
Thursday, April 10, 2008
Chorus Notes # 15 - Chapter Meeting April 8, 2008
Thanks to Dean Rust for this week's rehearsal notes
General
- two weeks to Spring Tonic; be very attentive and ready to sing; lots to cover.
- Please learn the songs for the reunion chorus (Place on Risers, Side-by-Side, Climbin' Up the Mountain); Former Musical Directors Bud Arberg and John Hohl will be conducting.
Craft
- "I Love You Truly" gives judges many opportunities to determine how well we sing in tune.
- Must remain faithful to the tonal center; know where "doe" is as you sing your part.
- Don't "short-change" yourself on the "cents" between 1/2 steps.
- Recall the drill on the verse; sing-lip sync-sing-lip-sync; practice at home with a pitch-pipe.
Place on the Risers
Side-by-Side
Climbin' Up the Mountain
- recall the rhythmic traps: (i) non-leads, "climbin" (m 9) is off the beat; (ii) non-basses, "ha-le-lu" is on the beat, then off the beat; (iii) "never more" is off (m 5), on (m 13), off (m 45); and (iv) "for to" is on the beat (m 43, after key change).
- last three measures: learn the notes; basses, some of you were not going high enough on "judge."
Lift Up My Head
Almost Like Being in Love
-Watch Joe; he's giving lots of interpretive direction.
- "Maybe the sun...": smooth and connected, a little more on "sun".
- "for I could swim Loch Lomond...": sing lighter.
- "What a" (pick up to the chorus): back off a little on "a" and don't change your mouth posture (don't go wide).
Drunken Sailor
- Leads to be tested individually next week on ms 122-128; baris are next as a group.
Great Day
- Lots of interpretion in the verse is not being performed; instead of squaring off at the beginning, go to center audience and keep your peripheral on Joe.
- Focal goes to Joe for the refrain "When you're down and out..."
- Focal goes back to center audience at the Tag.
Clap Yore Hands
- Performance with choreo has led some to oversing; be careful.
- Intro - duration (again), start with a purpose, good oh vowel
- "Clap-a-yore-hands, Slap-a-your-thigh": crescendo on "hands" and "thigh"
- "Hallelujah, hallelujah, everybody...": Sing through it, don't let the choreo move on "jah" cause you to break the flow of sound.
- "On the sands of time...(first time)": eyes on Joe for choreo direction; smooth singing
- "Join the Jubilee Oh me Oh my Oh me Oh" (ms 58-62): turn out (along the risers) on "lee", keep facial focal to CA, break after "lee", no break through the rest of the phrase with a little extra push on "my" as you make the key change, sustain support after the key change to help set up the bass solo.
- "Everybody come along" (ms 83-84, near the end after the 4th Clap-a-yore hands): the turn to the left starts on "everybody"
- ripples near the end: make the turns quick, flash your hand with spread fingers.
- Movement on last chord: 12 (4 + 8) count starts from a crouch; 1-4 arms up slowly, bring hands together, still in crouch; and then on a new count from 1-7 slowly stand up and slowly spread arms, 8 recover.
- Last chord "Hands": emphasize "nds" on cutoff.
I Love You Truly
- Feel the song, show it in your vocal and visual presentations.
- You need to be in a solid singing position to start the song; get a good breath; take responsibility for being on top of the pitch when you start the song.
- Bari: too thin at the start, need all your resonances.
- Lead, "Coming home to you" (ms 1-3): make sure you're on top of the pitch on "you".
- "Coming home to you is...": feel and show the musical tension on "is" (m 3); ditto for the first chord on "life" (m 7).
- "I love you truly, truly dear" (ms 17-20): no sliding from note to note.
Happy Feet
- Keep moves small, even smaller, all the time
- "Charle-ston, Charle-ston, and even the rhumba": crescendo on "ston" both times, and have a good face on "rhumba".
- "Weary blues don't get into my shoes" (reprise, ms 77-79): faces, there are no choreographed moves for a few measures and the faces tend to drop out.
Mona Lisa
- Interpretation to be used on the Tonic will be sent to you. Please study it.
- Watch Director. It goes much better when you do this; otherwise there is a tendency to go too slow.
Jezebel
- Watch Joe at the end, "Night and day, every way etc."
General
- two weeks to Spring Tonic; be very attentive and ready to sing; lots to cover.
- Please learn the songs for the reunion chorus (Place on Risers, Side-by-Side, Climbin' Up the Mountain); Former Musical Directors Bud Arberg and John Hohl will be conducting.
Craft
- "I Love You Truly" gives judges many opportunities to determine how well we sing in tune.
- Must remain faithful to the tonal center; know where "doe" is as you sing your part.
- Don't "short-change" yourself on the "cents" between 1/2 steps.
- Recall the drill on the verse; sing-lip sync-sing-lip-sync; practice at home with a pitch-pipe.
Place on the Risers
Side-by-Side
Climbin' Up the Mountain
- recall the rhythmic traps: (i) non-leads, "climbin" (m 9) is off the beat; (ii) non-basses, "ha-le-lu" is on the beat, then off the beat; (iii) "never more" is off (m 5), on (m 13), off (m 45); and (iv) "for to" is on the beat (m 43, after key change).
- last three measures: learn the notes; basses, some of you were not going high enough on "judge."
Lift Up My Head
Almost Like Being in Love
-Watch Joe; he's giving lots of interpretive direction.
- "Maybe the sun...": smooth and connected, a little more on "sun".
- "for I could swim Loch Lomond...": sing lighter.
- "What a" (pick up to the chorus): back off a little on "a" and don't change your mouth posture (don't go wide).
Drunken Sailor
- Leads to be tested individually next week on ms 122-128; baris are next as a group.
Great Day
- Lots of interpretion in the verse is not being performed; instead of squaring off at the beginning, go to center audience and keep your peripheral on Joe.
- Focal goes to Joe for the refrain "When you're down and out..."
- Focal goes back to center audience at the Tag.
Clap Yore Hands
- Performance with choreo has led some to oversing; be careful.
- Intro - duration (again), start with a purpose, good oh vowel
- "Clap-a-yore-hands, Slap-a-your-thigh": crescendo on "hands" and "thigh"
- "Hallelujah, hallelujah, everybody...": Sing through it, don't let the choreo move on "jah" cause you to break the flow of sound.
- "On the sands of time...(first time)": eyes on Joe for choreo direction; smooth singing
- "Join the Jubilee Oh me Oh my Oh me Oh" (ms 58-62): turn out (along the risers) on "lee", keep facial focal to CA, break after "lee", no break through the rest of the phrase with a little extra push on "my" as you make the key change, sustain support after the key change to help set up the bass solo.
- "Everybody come along" (ms 83-84, near the end after the 4th Clap-a-yore hands): the turn to the left starts on "everybody"
- ripples near the end: make the turns quick, flash your hand with spread fingers.
- Movement on last chord: 12 (4 + 8) count starts from a crouch; 1-4 arms up slowly, bring hands together, still in crouch; and then on a new count from 1-7 slowly stand up and slowly spread arms, 8 recover.
- Last chord "Hands": emphasize "nds" on cutoff.
I Love You Truly
- Feel the song, show it in your vocal and visual presentations.
- You need to be in a solid singing position to start the song; get a good breath; take responsibility for being on top of the pitch when you start the song.
- Bari: too thin at the start, need all your resonances.
- Lead, "Coming home to you" (ms 1-3): make sure you're on top of the pitch on "you".
- "Coming home to you is...": feel and show the musical tension on "is" (m 3); ditto for the first chord on "life" (m 7).
- "I love you truly, truly dear" (ms 17-20): no sliding from note to note.
Happy Feet
- Keep moves small, even smaller, all the time
- "Charle-ston, Charle-ston, and even the rhumba": crescendo on "ston" both times, and have a good face on "rhumba".
- "Weary blues don't get into my shoes" (reprise, ms 77-79): faces, there are no choreographed moves for a few measures and the faces tend to drop out.
Mona Lisa
- Interpretation to be used on the Tonic will be sent to you. Please study it.
- Watch Director. It goes much better when you do this; otherwise there is a tendency to go too slow.
Jezebel
- Watch Joe at the end, "Night and day, every way etc."
Friday, April 4, 2008
Looking Back on April 1st Chapter Meeting
(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record of the great things going on each week at an Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter meeting. —Ye Ed.)
First off, great to see Carolyn Hall back at her post on Tuesday with the 50/50 tickets and Script cards to sell.
First thing after the 7 pm start was the terrific first-time appearance of another new chapter quartet. PRIME TIME with Sutton, Plaag, Ken White and TJ Barranger who directs Ann Arundel chapter.
They were also testing a new chapter idea – to use a mic when a quartet sings in front of the chapter since that huge room in Durant just eats up the sound. Was good.
Director Joe thanked folks for attending the recent round of Studios – nearly 100%. He did remind everyone that they need to attend at least one of the visual studios that are coming up at the dance studio (that is where we got the name for these workouts in the first place).
Then the chorus worked hard on “Clap” with the front row out in the lobby working with their new benches Bill Stewart made. We are all eager to see the routine. Some new guys are in front row these days – Scipio Garling, Patrick Kim and brand new member Kyle Blomgren.
Next was a revival of “Kiss de Girl” with Ken White doing the solo part up front and Roger Day continuing in the duet roll. Rhythm was done by Blair, Plaag and Cameron.
During the chapter meeting period, President Stamps thanked Brad Jones for all the work that made this past weekend’s Harmony Youth Festival such a success. About 60 students and 4 or 5 music educators, including former Harmonizer Alan Weberg, participated. Brad thanked lots of chapter members and their partners who helped with the work of the day starting with set up Friday nite, food prep and serving and clean up, teaching and registering, preparing packets including the special t-shirt Roger had made, putting on the show Sat nite for a crowd of over 100, and bringing in lots of goodies to share. Friends in Harmony were a big help too.
President Stamps also gave an early warning that we are hosting the Southern Division Contest in Reston on Memorial Day weekend – Friday and Saturday, May 23 and 24. It makes us some needed cash and is a way for guys to get in on the action of barbershop outside the chapter. Section chiefs have been lined up and so be ready to offer to help when they call you to assist. Certainly a good way for non-singers to get in on the fun too.
The usual reminders were made to see Nick or Steve Murane regarding selling tickets; Tom Kraus about selling program ads; Ike Evans for new photos.
There was word announced of a paying job lined up by Bruce Lauther for the chorus on April 23rd – so mark your calendar.
Secretary Buechler presented the following membership cards: Bob Rhome for 7 years; Brad Jones , 16 years; Dennis Ritchey, 16 years; TJ Jones, 17 years; Gerry Levine, 21 years; Terry Jordan, 44 years and 8 Men of Note; Bob Wachter, 56 years and 12 Men of Note.
The usual guest announcement routine and welcome song preceded the break. There were lots of goodies left from the weekend, including pie which got gobbled up first!
After break, there was a review of “Lady of Spain” including all the front row antics; and then a few minutes on realigning the chorus. Evening ended with more solid work on contest songs. And the admonition to work on music at home; AND to take note of what is being planned for next Tuesday nite when you get the schedule via email mid week.
It was Ken White’s nite – he also won the raffle and directed the send off song.
Until next time – editorjack!
(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record of the great things going on each week at an Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter meeting. —Ye Ed.)
First off, great to see Carolyn Hall back at her post on Tuesday with the 50/50 tickets and Script cards to sell.
First thing after the 7 pm start was the terrific first-time appearance of another new chapter quartet. PRIME TIME with Sutton, Plaag, Ken White and TJ Barranger who directs Ann Arundel chapter.
They were also testing a new chapter idea – to use a mic when a quartet sings in front of the chapter since that huge room in Durant just eats up the sound. Was good.
Director Joe thanked folks for attending the recent round of Studios – nearly 100%. He did remind everyone that they need to attend at least one of the visual studios that are coming up at the dance studio (that is where we got the name for these workouts in the first place).
Then the chorus worked hard on “Clap” with the front row out in the lobby working with their new benches Bill Stewart made. We are all eager to see the routine. Some new guys are in front row these days – Scipio Garling, Patrick Kim and brand new member Kyle Blomgren.
Next was a revival of “Kiss de Girl” with Ken White doing the solo part up front and Roger Day continuing in the duet roll. Rhythm was done by Blair, Plaag and Cameron.
During the chapter meeting period, President Stamps thanked Brad Jones for all the work that made this past weekend’s Harmony Youth Festival such a success. About 60 students and 4 or 5 music educators, including former Harmonizer Alan Weberg, participated. Brad thanked lots of chapter members and their partners who helped with the work of the day starting with set up Friday nite, food prep and serving and clean up, teaching and registering, preparing packets including the special t-shirt Roger had made, putting on the show Sat nite for a crowd of over 100, and bringing in lots of goodies to share. Friends in Harmony were a big help too.
President Stamps also gave an early warning that we are hosting the Southern Division Contest in Reston on Memorial Day weekend – Friday and Saturday, May 23 and 24. It makes us some needed cash and is a way for guys to get in on the action of barbershop outside the chapter. Section chiefs have been lined up and so be ready to offer to help when they call you to assist. Certainly a good way for non-singers to get in on the fun too.
The usual reminders were made to see Nick or Steve Murane regarding selling tickets; Tom Kraus about selling program ads; Ike Evans for new photos.
There was word announced of a paying job lined up by Bruce Lauther for the chorus on April 23rd – so mark your calendar.
Secretary Buechler presented the following membership cards: Bob Rhome for 7 years; Brad Jones , 16 years; Dennis Ritchey, 16 years; TJ Jones, 17 years; Gerry Levine, 21 years; Terry Jordan, 44 years and 8 Men of Note; Bob Wachter, 56 years and 12 Men of Note.
The usual guest announcement routine and welcome song preceded the break. There were lots of goodies left from the weekend, including pie which got gobbled up first!
After break, there was a review of “Lady of Spain” including all the front row antics; and then a few minutes on realigning the chorus. Evening ended with more solid work on contest songs. And the admonition to work on music at home; AND to take note of what is being planned for next Tuesday nite when you get the schedule via email mid week.
It was Ken White’s nite – he also won the raffle and directed the send off song.
Until next time – editorjack!
Friday, March 28, 2008
Chorus Notes #13 - Chapter Meeting March 25, 2008
Special Thanks to Dean Rust for this week's rehearsal notes.
General
- Focus; on top of your game every second of rehearsal; no talking on the risers.
- Have the instrument ready when the Director raises his hands.
- Good singing posture.
- Off the music by April 8 on "From This Moment On"
Climbin' Up the Mountain
- Word change, Lead (m 9): "Climbin' up the mountain" NOT "Climbin' in the judgment"
- Word change, Bass, (m 17): "Jonah" NOT "Hannah"
- non-basses: "Hal-le-lu" is on the beat in ms 18, 26,34, and on the off-beat in ms 20, 28, 36.
Side By Side
Bass, "Sing-in' a song" (ms 51-52): easy on the upper octave on "in", let Bari handle it.
Music of the Night
- learn the words
- follow the Director
- Intro: Lead - More of the lyric line, need to understand the words; non-leads - back off a little.
- "Night time sharpens, heightens each sensation" (m 11), first Bass solo: Bass, more emotion (here and in other solo passages), breathless quality; non-basses, more support.
- "darkness of the Music of the Night" (ms 45-46): more on "Night"
- last measure: only section leaders put "t" on "night"
From This Moment On
- Off the music by April 8
- "Hang on baby" (m 89): return to tempo.
Great Day
- Remember dynamic plan at the beginning.
- Bass, "...there's a Great Day." (ms 23-24): review the entire line (after the dms), there are 2 beats on "Day" before the octave jump.
- " Ta, ta, ta, ta, It's not far ..." (ms 36-37): Carry over to "It's", no break.
Happy Feet
- Keep the choreo moves small and crisp.
- Choreo move on the last chord: knees bent, move slowly out to audience first with knees still bent, and then straighten up.
- "Wha-da-dance, do we do" (ms 1-2): Keep "Wha-da-dance" smooth and connected; crescendo on "dance" and carry that volume over to the first "do".
- "Lordy" (m 3): the swipe is fast, as is the move with the hat.
- "Happy Feet..." (ms 13-14): remember to increase energy through "Feet-2-3" and also on "beat", "those", "toes", "blues", "shoes", "refuse".
- Don't speed up the quarter notes during Happy Feet, i.e. on "I got those", "give them a", "ten li-ttle", "and when they", "I can't con-trol my", "to save my soul", "can't get in", "be-cause my".
Clap A Yore Hands
- Intro: duration
- Lead, "Come on you children": tell the story.
- "Clap a yore hands" (m 29): lighter, but with energy, let the rhythm tell the story.
- Lead, "slap a yore thigh" (m 30, etc.): don't change your vocal instrument as the notes go up.
- Non-leads, "Come join the jubilee" (ms 35-36): emphasis on "join" and "ju" of "jubilee".
- Tenor-Bass, "Don't lose time" (ms 39-40)": with drama, make each note go somewhere.
- "Come on you children gather around", bass melody (m 63): Bass, make it swing, not heavy, tell the story, don't make it stale, put a vocal inflection on "gather"; Non-bass, nice clean "oh", lots of resonance; Tenor, a little punch as you move to the next "oh"; Lead/Bari, spin the sound as the tenors move.
- "Clap a yore hands", 4th time (m 80): Bass melody, let's hear it; non-Bass, lighter.
- "Come a-long and", new tag, (ms 88-90): smooth and connected.
- Bass, "C'mon you children" (m 92): cool it, yield to Bari on high notes on "C'mon".
- Bass, "gather a-round" #2 of 4 (m 94): upper octave
C-flat tends be under the pitch. Fix it.
I Love You Truly
- Follow the Director (for the umpteenth time)
General
- Focus; on top of your game every second of rehearsal; no talking on the risers.
- Have the instrument ready when the Director raises his hands.
- Good singing posture.
- Off the music by April 8 on "From This Moment On"
Climbin' Up the Mountain
- Word change, Lead (m 9): "Climbin' up the mountain" NOT "Climbin' in the judgment"
- Word change, Bass, (m 17): "Jonah" NOT "Hannah"
- non-basses: "Hal-le-lu" is on the beat in ms 18, 26,34, and on the off-beat in ms 20, 28, 36.
Side By Side
Bass, "Sing-in' a song" (ms 51-52): easy on the upper octave on "in", let Bari handle it.
Music of the Night
- learn the words
- follow the Director
- Intro: Lead - More of the lyric line, need to understand the words; non-leads - back off a little.
- "Night time sharpens, heightens each sensation" (m 11), first Bass solo: Bass, more emotion (here and in other solo passages), breathless quality; non-basses, more support.
- "darkness of the Music of the Night" (ms 45-46): more on "Night"
- last measure: only section leaders put "t" on "night"
From This Moment On
- Off the music by April 8
- "Hang on baby" (m 89): return to tempo.
Great Day
- Remember dynamic plan at the beginning.
- Bass, "...there's a Great Day." (ms 23-24): review the entire line (after the dms), there are 2 beats on "Day" before the octave jump.
- " Ta, ta, ta, ta, It's not far ..." (ms 36-37): Carry over to "It's", no break.
Happy Feet
- Keep the choreo moves small and crisp.
- Choreo move on the last chord: knees bent, move slowly out to audience first with knees still bent, and then straighten up.
- "Wha-da-dance, do we do" (ms 1-2): Keep "Wha-da-dance" smooth and connected; crescendo on "dance" and carry that volume over to the first "do".
- "Lordy" (m 3): the swipe is fast, as is the move with the hat.
- "Happy Feet..." (ms 13-14): remember to increase energy through "Feet-2-3" and also on "beat", "those", "toes", "blues", "shoes", "refuse".
- Don't speed up the quarter notes during Happy Feet, i.e. on "I got those", "give them a", "ten li-ttle", "and when they", "I can't con-trol my", "to save my soul", "can't get in", "be-cause my".
Clap A Yore Hands
- Intro: duration
- Lead, "Come on you children": tell the story.
- "Clap a yore hands" (m 29): lighter, but with energy, let the rhythm tell the story.
- Lead, "slap a yore thigh" (m 30, etc.): don't change your vocal instrument as the notes go up.
- Non-leads, "Come join the jubilee" (ms 35-36): emphasis on "join" and "ju" of "jubilee".
- Tenor-Bass, "Don't lose time" (ms 39-40)": with drama, make each note go somewhere.
- "Come on you children gather around", bass melody (m 63): Bass, make it swing, not heavy, tell the story, don't make it stale, put a vocal inflection on "gather"; Non-bass, nice clean "oh", lots of resonance; Tenor, a little punch as you move to the next "oh"; Lead/Bari, spin the sound as the tenors move.
- "Clap a yore hands", 4th time (m 80): Bass melody, let's hear it; non-Bass, lighter.
- "Come a-long and", new tag, (ms 88-90): smooth and connected.
- Bass, "C'mon you children" (m 92): cool it, yield to Bari on high notes on "C'mon".
- Bass, "gather a-round" #2 of 4 (m 94): upper octave
C-flat tends be under the pitch. Fix it.
I Love You Truly
- Follow the Director (for the umpteenth time)
Looking Back On March 25th Chapter Meeting
Looking Back on March 25th Chapter Meeting
(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record of the great things going on each week at an Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter meeting. —Ye Ed.)
Director Joe called the chorus to the risers at 7 pm with the familiar “Harmonizers on the Risers” and the usual hustle to all get papers put away and get into your spot on the risers. That was the kick off for the usual physical and musical warm ups.
Joe took us all through “Side By Side” and “Climbin Up The Mountain” in prep for the 60th anniversary reunion chorus spot on the show this spring. Already anniversary chair, Terry Jordan, has gotten about 25 former member signed up to learn the three songs and sing.
I also heard Jordan talking about the anniversary potluck later in the year and a “talent show” with Harmonizers and their families or friends. We did it years ago and it was lots of fun (Wonder if Savage still plays guitar? Or do you think Wilt would come up from Richmond?) So start thinking of it for yourself or encourage another member to start working on his act. No quartets in this one, tho. Maybe a famous MC will be hired.
Joe thanked Brad Jones for the tons of work he has done in preparing and planning the Youth Festival this weekend. The chorus did a work session on “Music of the Night” which the chorus will sing on the Saturday nite show with and for the students. It starts at 7 and the chorus needs to be there about 6. Wear the new blue shirt with some kind of kaki pants or as close as possible to that if you don’t have the shirt. We need more singers to attend. I do know that a set up crew is slated for Friday nite to get risers in place and chairs up and all of that.
And I know that another cake or two, or a few more big plates of cookies, would help feed the 60 plus students and the 8 or 10 music educators during lunch and dinner. You can drop them off Friday nite or before 11 am on Saturday. All events are at Durant.
The chorus tackled the new arrangement by John Hohl of “From This Moment On” for the first time. Lots of chatter around about it being a great new tune. But it is not an easy one, so there is work to do – in a hurry. Joe did invite any guys who had prepared to sing it today without music to come forward and so an octet of guys did so and it was darn good.
The troops regrouped back into their new risers positions and worked on hats for “Happy Feet” and did a solid review on SP for “Great Day.”
During the chapter meeting, Rhome thanked the four guys who put up risers tonite and solicited help for take down.
President Stamps reported that Carolyn Hall was in the hospital for tests and that Larry Silva is home and recovering with help from Cathy.
Joe thanked Steve White for taking on the Tuesday nite scheduling job needed to plan in advance the music to be sung or practiced, who would do what and how much time would be spent. Also for getting it done each week in advance to go in the HarmoGram published by Riffer. Everyone gets that and can (or should) prepare themselves for Tuesday nite rehearsal.
Ike Evans continues his photo project of updating the Harmo picture board in the meeting room. So if your picture is out-of-date, see Ike for a reshoot.
Spring Tonic business manager, Tom Kraus, pleaded for more men to sell show program ads. (I decided to just buy one myself.)
Secretary Buechler and Membership VP Day welcomed two newest members – Kyle Blomgren, a new bass, and Max Kieba, a new tenor. Chris also presented membership renewals to Dan O’Brien for 3 years, Arthur Lewis for 13 years, and Ken Ives for 23 years.
Roger Day welcomed guests present and encouraged all of us to use the supply of voucher cards he can give you that entitles you to a free show ticket if you bring a guest. See him to explain it better.
Someone also announced that show flyers went out last week, so now is the time to alert your customer list to get their orders in. See Nick or Steve Murane regarding tickets.
After eating lots of goodies and drinking the 40 cups of coffee, the singers went to work on “Clap” both musical and visual details.
Busy and hard working evening in the old Harmo Hall. And did you notice that Steve Murane wore his Pitzer College sweatshirt too!
Until next time – editorjack!
(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record of the great things going on each week at an Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter meeting. —Ye Ed.)
Director Joe called the chorus to the risers at 7 pm with the familiar “Harmonizers on the Risers” and the usual hustle to all get papers put away and get into your spot on the risers. That was the kick off for the usual physical and musical warm ups.
Joe took us all through “Side By Side” and “Climbin Up The Mountain” in prep for the 60th anniversary reunion chorus spot on the show this spring. Already anniversary chair, Terry Jordan, has gotten about 25 former member signed up to learn the three songs and sing.
I also heard Jordan talking about the anniversary potluck later in the year and a “talent show” with Harmonizers and their families or friends. We did it years ago and it was lots of fun (Wonder if Savage still plays guitar? Or do you think Wilt would come up from Richmond?) So start thinking of it for yourself or encourage another member to start working on his act. No quartets in this one, tho. Maybe a famous MC will be hired.
Joe thanked Brad Jones for the tons of work he has done in preparing and planning the Youth Festival this weekend. The chorus did a work session on “Music of the Night” which the chorus will sing on the Saturday nite show with and for the students. It starts at 7 and the chorus needs to be there about 6. Wear the new blue shirt with some kind of kaki pants or as close as possible to that if you don’t have the shirt. We need more singers to attend. I do know that a set up crew is slated for Friday nite to get risers in place and chairs up and all of that.
And I know that another cake or two, or a few more big plates of cookies, would help feed the 60 plus students and the 8 or 10 music educators during lunch and dinner. You can drop them off Friday nite or before 11 am on Saturday. All events are at Durant.
The chorus tackled the new arrangement by John Hohl of “From This Moment On” for the first time. Lots of chatter around about it being a great new tune. But it is not an easy one, so there is work to do – in a hurry. Joe did invite any guys who had prepared to sing it today without music to come forward and so an octet of guys did so and it was darn good.
The troops regrouped back into their new risers positions and worked on hats for “Happy Feet” and did a solid review on SP for “Great Day.”
During the chapter meeting, Rhome thanked the four guys who put up risers tonite and solicited help for take down.
President Stamps reported that Carolyn Hall was in the hospital for tests and that Larry Silva is home and recovering with help from Cathy.
Joe thanked Steve White for taking on the Tuesday nite scheduling job needed to plan in advance the music to be sung or practiced, who would do what and how much time would be spent. Also for getting it done each week in advance to go in the HarmoGram published by Riffer. Everyone gets that and can (or should) prepare themselves for Tuesday nite rehearsal.
Ike Evans continues his photo project of updating the Harmo picture board in the meeting room. So if your picture is out-of-date, see Ike for a reshoot.
Spring Tonic business manager, Tom Kraus, pleaded for more men to sell show program ads. (I decided to just buy one myself.)
Secretary Buechler and Membership VP Day welcomed two newest members – Kyle Blomgren, a new bass, and Max Kieba, a new tenor. Chris also presented membership renewals to Dan O’Brien for 3 years, Arthur Lewis for 13 years, and Ken Ives for 23 years.
Roger Day welcomed guests present and encouraged all of us to use the supply of voucher cards he can give you that entitles you to a free show ticket if you bring a guest. See him to explain it better.
Someone also announced that show flyers went out last week, so now is the time to alert your customer list to get their orders in. See Nick or Steve Murane regarding tickets.
After eating lots of goodies and drinking the 40 cups of coffee, the singers went to work on “Clap” both musical and visual details.
Busy and hard working evening in the old Harmo Hall. And did you notice that Steve Murane wore his Pitzer College sweatshirt too!
Until next time – editorjack!
Monday, March 24, 2008
Chorus Notes # 12 - Chapter Meeting March 18, 2008
Special Thanks to Dean Rust for this week's rehearsal notes!
General
- Follow the Director (oft repeated).
- Be on top of your game during chorus rehearsal; think, anticipate, be ready to sing, use good vocal technique. "Vocal technique is paramount" (J. Cerruti, 1-3-08)
- (See a few reminders at the end of this E-mail from previous notes.)
Clap Yore Hands (aka Nashville Uptune)
(from Stephanie and Joe)
- General: Watch Joe for texture changes, exploit them, need more dynamic variation; feel the pulse (subdivide); sing a connected vocal line; sustain vocal quality through phrases, maintain quality vocal production even as the notes jump around.
- Intro: Lead, be on the money on that minor third; All, don't short-change the last "oh" in each sequence, give full duration.
- "Clap-a-yore-hands" (m 29): begins a new part of the song, should see and feel a difference.
- "jubilee, oh, me, oh, my" (ms 58-60): break after "lee".
- Lead, reminder to cool it on "slap a yore thigh, don't ya lose time" (ms 81-82) near the end when you jump up high.
I Love You Truly
(from Stephanie and Joe)
- Learn the music.
- Get involved in the passion of this Roger Payne arrangement.
- Watch's Joe's direction to make sure all are striking the target vowels at the same time.
- Sustain energy through the breaths. Breathe on Joe's direction.
- "Ah yes tis something" (ms 33-34): marks the takeoff point, build toward the "Gone" phrase; break after "yes" the first time, carry over the second time (opposite from the sheet music); the breath after "yes" should be alive, full of emotion; Bari - there is no move the first time on "some" of "something.
- "doubt and fear" (ms 43-44): Lead, do not move on "fear", get it right or you'll be having sectionals at Joe's. Tenor (1st) and Bari (2nd) move, Lead and Bass do not.
- "For you love me truly" (ms 45-46): watch Joe for tempo, don't drag it; Bari - get up there on "love me"
- "So come be my wife" (ms 48-50): Lead - "be" is whole step lower than "come"; non-leads - be ready to join the phrase on "come" after lead pickup.
- "The joy of my life" (ms 50-52): lock the chord on "life" and then press into the swipe with more volume. Keep chin level, maintain correct singing posture. Bring a little more brightness and brilliance to your tone to enhance intensity.
Mona Lisa
- Follow the Director.
- Three major points: don't go slow, watch Director for breaks at the end, sing well in the middle.
- Have lots of air, connected singing. Think of lyric line. Paint the picture before starting to tell the story
- "In a villa" (m 1): stress first syllable of "villa" just as if you were speaking it. Target vowel for second syllable is "uh" not "ah".
- "What does she want?" (ms 13-14): more emotion.
- "Or just a cold and lonely, lovely work of art." (ms 52-56): Lead - keep the pitch up on "or just a"; All - break after "lovely" but keep the energy flowing throughout the line; think of the emotional contrast between this line and the previous one ("Are you warm, are you real").
- Bari - "Mona Lisa" (ms 56-57, right after "lovely work of art"): open up on the higher note on "sa" of"Lisa".
Almost Like Being in Love
- "Maybe the sun" (m 1): Lead - more lyrical; Bass - lighten it up, don't plod; Tenor/Bari - don't be late.
- "All the music of life seems to be" (2nd time): stay in tempo, this is a change from previous interp.
From Previous Notes
- "Be ready to sing" includes proper stance, facial involvement and energy in body, instrument ready when D's hands go up, breathe through first vowel shape, start with an "h", release warm air before making sound.
- "Good vocal technique" includes use of all resonances, openness and raised soft palate such as the feeling when you smell your favorite childhood dish. Chin level. Proper breathing. Stomach taut.
- "Good singing" includes connectivity of word sounds, proper target vowels and duration, maintain support to ends of phrases, give full metrical value to each note.
General
- Follow the Director (oft repeated).
- Be on top of your game during chorus rehearsal; think, anticipate, be ready to sing, use good vocal technique. "Vocal technique is paramount" (J. Cerruti, 1-3-08)
- (See a few reminders at the end of this E-mail from previous notes.)
Clap Yore Hands (aka Nashville Uptune)
(from Stephanie and Joe)
- General: Watch Joe for texture changes, exploit them, need more dynamic variation; feel the pulse (subdivide); sing a connected vocal line; sustain vocal quality through phrases, maintain quality vocal production even as the notes jump around.
- Intro: Lead, be on the money on that minor third; All, don't short-change the last "oh" in each sequence, give full duration.
- "Clap-a-yore-hands" (m 29): begins a new part of the song, should see and feel a difference.
- "jubilee, oh, me, oh, my" (ms 58-60): break after "lee".
- Lead, reminder to cool it on "slap a yore thigh, don't ya lose time" (ms 81-82) near the end when you jump up high.
I Love You Truly
(from Stephanie and Joe)
- Learn the music.
- Get involved in the passion of this Roger Payne arrangement.
- Watch's Joe's direction to make sure all are striking the target vowels at the same time.
- Sustain energy through the breaths. Breathe on Joe's direction.
- "Ah yes tis something" (ms 33-34): marks the takeoff point, build toward the "Gone" phrase; break after "yes" the first time, carry over the second time (opposite from the sheet music); the breath after "yes" should be alive, full of emotion; Bari - there is no move the first time on "some" of "something.
- "doubt and fear" (ms 43-44): Lead, do not move on "fear", get it right or you'll be having sectionals at Joe's. Tenor (1st) and Bari (2nd) move, Lead and Bass do not.
- "For you love me truly" (ms 45-46): watch Joe for tempo, don't drag it; Bari - get up there on "love me"
- "So come be my wife" (ms 48-50): Lead - "be" is whole step lower than "come"; non-leads - be ready to join the phrase on "come" after lead pickup.
- "The joy of my life" (ms 50-52): lock the chord on "life" and then press into the swipe with more volume. Keep chin level, maintain correct singing posture. Bring a little more brightness and brilliance to your tone to enhance intensity.
Mona Lisa
- Follow the Director.
- Three major points: don't go slow, watch Director for breaks at the end, sing well in the middle.
- Have lots of air, connected singing. Think of lyric line. Paint the picture before starting to tell the story
- "In a villa" (m 1): stress first syllable of "villa" just as if you were speaking it. Target vowel for second syllable is "uh" not "ah".
- "What does she want?" (ms 13-14): more emotion.
- "Or just a cold and lonely, lovely work of art." (ms 52-56): Lead - keep the pitch up on "or just a"; All - break after "lovely" but keep the energy flowing throughout the line; think of the emotional contrast between this line and the previous one ("Are you warm, are you real").
- Bari - "Mona Lisa" (ms 56-57, right after "lovely work of art"): open up on the higher note on "sa" of"Lisa".
Almost Like Being in Love
- "Maybe the sun" (m 1): Lead - more lyrical; Bass - lighten it up, don't plod; Tenor/Bari - don't be late.
- "All the music of life seems to be" (2nd time): stay in tempo, this is a change from previous interp.
From Previous Notes
- "Be ready to sing" includes proper stance, facial involvement and energy in body, instrument ready when D's hands go up, breathe through first vowel shape, start with an "h", release warm air before making sound.
- "Good vocal technique" includes use of all resonances, openness and raised soft palate such as the feeling when you smell your favorite childhood dish. Chin level. Proper breathing. Stomach taut.
- "Good singing" includes connectivity of word sounds, proper target vowels and duration, maintain support to ends of phrases, give full metrical value to each note.
Thursday, March 20, 2008
Looking Back on March 18th Chapter Meeting
Looking Back on March 18th Chapter Meeting
(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record of the great things going on each week at an Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter meeting. —Ye Ed.)
Usual gatherings around the hall before meeting time – raffle, many sign up sheets to check, equipment set up, SP workout on stage, guests arriving and guest books being updated by Librarian Dick Dangel, people gathering around all the goodies Ginger Jordan put out to go with the coffee, new members working on getting qualified, and Tom Kern working in back storage area on uniforms.
The first order of business was a new song to do warm up movements with – sounded like Ella Fitzgerald - singing “A Tisket A Tasket.” Designed to help us practice the Swing rhythms.
Will Cox did vocal warm up and used more bubble-lip drills.
A fancy new colorful riser chart was unveiled to help show men where they stand now on the risers. It appears to be magnetic. Work of Mark Klostermeyer.
Plaag and McKeever drilled more of the moves for “Clap” and tried some alternative ideas with Director Joe and Coach Stephanie viewing and deciding which ones they liked best.
Joe reminded everyone about the Spring Tonic theme celebrating our 60th year. He introduced three songs that will be sung by the chorus and any former members who sign up to get the leaning tape and music – “Side by Side” arranged for this event by Bud Arberg (one of our earliest directors), “Climbin’ Up The Mountain” arranged for this event by John Hohl (also a former director of the chorus), and “A Place on The Risers for You” done by Hohl and Bates and used by the chorus over the years. More history on that later.
President Stamps announced that Patrick Kim and Eric Wallen have been named winners of the chapter’s annual scholarship to Harmony University in St. Joseph, MO, July 27th-August 3rd, 2008. If you are new to the hobby, go to the Society website and learn more about Harmony U.
More Tonic announcements included a plug to make sales by co-chairs Steve and Nick Murane and to note the list of your patrons in your folder so you can make contact; Gary Bibens with word that the flyers have gone out to our patrons; and Tom Kraus to get with it on selling ads for the show program.
Secretary Buechler presented Stamps a plaque the chapter received for it collective contributions to the Harmony Foundation. Average of $60.54 per members – Chris says that totals $11,500! Good job gang.
He also presented new member materials to Ian Poulin and Noah Van Gilder; a 30-year service pin to Keith Jones. Other members were given their membership renewals too – Tom Kern for 10 years, Chuck Powell for 14 years and Michael Calhoun for 39 years.
There were several repeat guests this week and some members were back that we have not seen for a while. I heard that one of our guests passed his audition too. Hurray.
The second half of the nite was hard musical workout on contest songs with Stephanie and Joe up front.
Eric Hughes won the raffle again!
And most of the goodies were gone from the coffee table!
Until next time – editorjack!
(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record of the great things going on each week at an Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter meeting. —Ye Ed.)
Usual gatherings around the hall before meeting time – raffle, many sign up sheets to check, equipment set up, SP workout on stage, guests arriving and guest books being updated by Librarian Dick Dangel, people gathering around all the goodies Ginger Jordan put out to go with the coffee, new members working on getting qualified, and Tom Kern working in back storage area on uniforms.
The first order of business was a new song to do warm up movements with – sounded like Ella Fitzgerald - singing “A Tisket A Tasket.” Designed to help us practice the Swing rhythms.
Will Cox did vocal warm up and used more bubble-lip drills.
A fancy new colorful riser chart was unveiled to help show men where they stand now on the risers. It appears to be magnetic. Work of Mark Klostermeyer.
Plaag and McKeever drilled more of the moves for “Clap” and tried some alternative ideas with Director Joe and Coach Stephanie viewing and deciding which ones they liked best.
Joe reminded everyone about the Spring Tonic theme celebrating our 60th year. He introduced three songs that will be sung by the chorus and any former members who sign up to get the leaning tape and music – “Side by Side” arranged for this event by Bud Arberg (one of our earliest directors), “Climbin’ Up The Mountain” arranged for this event by John Hohl (also a former director of the chorus), and “A Place on The Risers for You” done by Hohl and Bates and used by the chorus over the years. More history on that later.
President Stamps announced that Patrick Kim and Eric Wallen have been named winners of the chapter’s annual scholarship to Harmony University in St. Joseph, MO, July 27th-August 3rd, 2008. If you are new to the hobby, go to the Society website and learn more about Harmony U.
More Tonic announcements included a plug to make sales by co-chairs Steve and Nick Murane and to note the list of your patrons in your folder so you can make contact; Gary Bibens with word that the flyers have gone out to our patrons; and Tom Kraus to get with it on selling ads for the show program.
Secretary Buechler presented Stamps a plaque the chapter received for it collective contributions to the Harmony Foundation. Average of $60.54 per members – Chris says that totals $11,500! Good job gang.
He also presented new member materials to Ian Poulin and Noah Van Gilder; a 30-year service pin to Keith Jones. Other members were given their membership renewals too – Tom Kern for 10 years, Chuck Powell for 14 years and Michael Calhoun for 39 years.
There were several repeat guests this week and some members were back that we have not seen for a while. I heard that one of our guests passed his audition too. Hurray.
The second half of the nite was hard musical workout on contest songs with Stephanie and Joe up front.
Eric Hughes won the raffle again!
And most of the goodies were gone from the coffee table!
Until next time – editorjack!
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
Looking Back on March 11th Chapter Meeting
Looking Back on March 11th Chapter Meeting
(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record of the great things going on each week at an Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter meeting. —Ye Ed.)
A big crowd made it out Indian Head Highway into Maryland for this week’s meeting, rehearsal and a recording session. Nice place. When we arrived you could hear CAMERON STATION working on one of their new songs.
At 7, the familiar “Harmonizers on the Riser” call went out, but there were no risers. LOL. And then after good singing warm up with Tony and a craft education session with Chuck H., Director Joe took the helm.
In order to see everyone, he grabbed a chair and put it up on the box there and stood on the chair. We all got over being nervous for him til he tried to help Chuck McKeever to demonstrate some of the moves for “Clap.”
During the SP review, the front row guys worked separately. During a review of “O Holy Night” the basses worked separately.
The meeting ended with usual announcements about signing up for shows, contest, and helping at the Youth Education weekend, March 28-29, at Durant. I know they need helpers and for some more folks to bring desserts for the weekend. It was pointed out that if you did not order a ticket/registration thru Bob Rhome for the contest in Nashville in July, you need to contact BHS on your own. The Harmonizer block is in Section 119.
Membership VP Roger introduced guests and former members present.
Tom Kraus is working to get more ads sold for the Spring Show program – so give him a hand. Buy one yourself – make up something funny. Or get your spouse to sell one for you.
The chorus had a good workout on “Clap” and then after the break did the recordings for possible CD in the future.
Until next time – editorjack!
(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record of the great things going on each week at an Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter meeting. —Ye Ed.)
A big crowd made it out Indian Head Highway into Maryland for this week’s meeting, rehearsal and a recording session. Nice place. When we arrived you could hear CAMERON STATION working on one of their new songs.
At 7, the familiar “Harmonizers on the Riser” call went out, but there were no risers. LOL. And then after good singing warm up with Tony and a craft education session with Chuck H., Director Joe took the helm.
In order to see everyone, he grabbed a chair and put it up on the box there and stood on the chair. We all got over being nervous for him til he tried to help Chuck McKeever to demonstrate some of the moves for “Clap.”
During the SP review, the front row guys worked separately. During a review of “O Holy Night” the basses worked separately.
The meeting ended with usual announcements about signing up for shows, contest, and helping at the Youth Education weekend, March 28-29, at Durant. I know they need helpers and for some more folks to bring desserts for the weekend. It was pointed out that if you did not order a ticket/registration thru Bob Rhome for the contest in Nashville in July, you need to contact BHS on your own. The Harmonizer block is in Section 119.
Membership VP Roger introduced guests and former members present.
Tom Kraus is working to get more ads sold for the Spring Show program – so give him a hand. Buy one yourself – make up something funny. Or get your spouse to sell one for you.
The chorus had a good workout on “Clap” and then after the break did the recordings for possible CD in the future.
Until next time – editorjack!
Friday, March 14, 2008
Chorus Notes #11 - Chapter Meeting March 11, 2008
Special Thanks to Dean Rust for this week's Chorus Notes!
------------------------------------------------------
Craft
-Did tuning drills on chromatic passages in "Happy Feet" in preparation for the recording session.
- There are chromatic passages in Clap Yore Hands that we also need to be mindful of. From Chuck:
"They're after the (2nd) key change and right before the tag. After the high-voiced chord on "thigh," the whole "Don't ya lose time, don't ya lose time, everybody" passage descends by half-steps. Very difficult to keep perfectly tuned, the more so because it's high in the range. Then after that the three repetitions of "come along" separated by the measure of silence move up a half and then back down relative to the starting chord. As always, the descending ones call for small half-steps. Ideally the chord on the third "come" should feel slightly higher than the starting point.
I Love You Truly
- "Coming home" (ms 1-2): 3 points on the ground, body engaged, keep the chin level, "coming" should be as resonant and open as "home"; Lead - blown pitch is your starting note, be on top of it, don't cover the tone on "home", keep it open; Bari - don't be timid.
- "is all I need to know." (ms 3-5): think of "know" like "home" in terms of destination and the vowel.
- "is my life" (ms 6-7): Bass/bari - watch Director for move on 2nd half of "life", it comes sooner than you expect.
- "sweetheart" (m 13): non-Bass - wait for bass swipe on "sweet."
- "life (my life)" (ms 15-16): Bass/bari - get the tone all the way back up on the repeat of "life", there's a tendency to be under the pitch.
Clap Yore Hands
- "Oh whoa, Oh whoa" (ms 1-4): give full metrical value to each phrase, there's a tendency to short-change the last "oh"; make something out of the "oo" between the "oh's" in each phrase, it's getting lost; Lead - keep good vocal technique when jumping up to "whoa".
- Non-basses, "just remember" (ms 28 and 74): more emphasis on the "just" downbeat (remember the designated breath before "just."
- "Send-him-to-the-de-vil" (m 52, first time): there should be a space between each word/syllable, put "h" on "him", give a strong emphasis to each but don't splat and keep good vowels.
------------------------------------------------------
Craft
-Did tuning drills on chromatic passages in "Happy Feet" in preparation for the recording session.
- There are chromatic passages in Clap Yore Hands that we also need to be mindful of. From Chuck:
"They're after the (2nd) key change and right before the tag. After the high-voiced chord on "thigh," the whole "Don't ya lose time, don't ya lose time, everybody" passage descends by half-steps. Very difficult to keep perfectly tuned, the more so because it's high in the range. Then after that the three repetitions of "come along" separated by the measure of silence move up a half and then back down relative to the starting chord. As always, the descending ones call for small half-steps. Ideally the chord on the third "come" should feel slightly higher than the starting point.
I Love You Truly
- "Coming home" (ms 1-2): 3 points on the ground, body engaged, keep the chin level, "coming" should be as resonant and open as "home"; Lead - blown pitch is your starting note, be on top of it, don't cover the tone on "home", keep it open; Bari - don't be timid.
- "is all I need to know." (ms 3-5): think of "know" like "home" in terms of destination and the vowel.
- "is my life" (ms 6-7): Bass/bari - watch Director for move on 2nd half of "life", it comes sooner than you expect.
- "sweetheart" (m 13): non-Bass - wait for bass swipe on "sweet."
- "life (my life)" (ms 15-16): Bass/bari - get the tone all the way back up on the repeat of "life", there's a tendency to be under the pitch.
Clap Yore Hands
- "Oh whoa, Oh whoa" (ms 1-4): give full metrical value to each phrase, there's a tendency to short-change the last "oh"; make something out of the "oo" between the "oh's" in each phrase, it's getting lost; Lead - keep good vocal technique when jumping up to "whoa".
- Non-basses, "just remember" (ms 28 and 74): more emphasis on the "just" downbeat (remember the designated breath before "just."
- "Send-him-to-the-de-vil" (m 52, first time): there should be a space between each word/syllable, put "h" on "him", give a strong emphasis to each but don't splat and keep good vowels.
Thursday, March 13, 2008
Looking Back on M-AD 2008 Prelims
Looking Back on M-AD 2008 Prelims
(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record of the great things going on in the Alexandria Harmonizer family. —Ye Ed.)
Well when the dust settled after the contest, Alexandria has reps in all four of the quartets chosen this weekend to go to the International quartet contest in Nashville in July.
OLD SCHOOL with Rick Taylor
RINGERS with Mike Pinto
FOUR ACES with Ed Cazenas, Nick Aiuto, Richard Lewellen
LAST KIDS PICKED with Mike Wallen, Tony Colosimo and Eric Wallen
In addition to those singers on stage, there were a lot of Harmonizers working and running the event: Joe Cerutti was MC for Saturday nite contest and show; Dennis Ritchey was MC for Saturday morning portion of the contest and helped with running the back stage and all the set up for the stage ; Gary Plaag was MC on Friday nite for the contest and a judge for the Youth Adjudication event Saturday afternoon; Dixie Kennett was lighting director; Chuck Harner is VP for Contests and Judging events in District, so he had plenty to do; Chris Buechler was on the judging panel for the Youth Adjudication too; and Phil Stern (up from FL and about to have a knee operation) was on the judging panel for the regular quartet contest all weekend.
Add to those guys all the Harmonizers in the district leadership jobs – Eckman, Keith Jones and Terry Jordan.
Tony Colosimo also appeared several times during the weekend with his gold medal quartet ROAD TRIP
And then there was the crowd out cheering – Pitzer, Ken White, Reynolds, Hohl, McFarland, Calhoun, Wile, Sutton, Maddes.
We were everywhere including some tag singers til 5:30 am I hear.
Until next time – editorjack!
(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record of the great things going on in the Alexandria Harmonizer family. —Ye Ed.)
Well when the dust settled after the contest, Alexandria has reps in all four of the quartets chosen this weekend to go to the International quartet contest in Nashville in July.
OLD SCHOOL with Rick Taylor
RINGERS with Mike Pinto
FOUR ACES with Ed Cazenas, Nick Aiuto, Richard Lewellen
LAST KIDS PICKED with Mike Wallen, Tony Colosimo and Eric Wallen
In addition to those singers on stage, there were a lot of Harmonizers working and running the event: Joe Cerutti was MC for Saturday nite contest and show; Dennis Ritchey was MC for Saturday morning portion of the contest and helped with running the back stage and all the set up for the stage ; Gary Plaag was MC on Friday nite for the contest and a judge for the Youth Adjudication event Saturday afternoon; Dixie Kennett was lighting director; Chuck Harner is VP for Contests and Judging events in District, so he had plenty to do; Chris Buechler was on the judging panel for the Youth Adjudication too; and Phil Stern (up from FL and about to have a knee operation) was on the judging panel for the regular quartet contest all weekend.
Add to those guys all the Harmonizers in the district leadership jobs – Eckman, Keith Jones and Terry Jordan.
Tony Colosimo also appeared several times during the weekend with his gold medal quartet ROAD TRIP
And then there was the crowd out cheering – Pitzer, Ken White, Reynolds, Hohl, McFarland, Calhoun, Wile, Sutton, Maddes.
We were everywhere including some tag singers til 5:30 am I hear.
Until next time – editorjack!
Monday, March 10, 2008
Chorus Notes # 10 - March 4, 2008 Chapter Meeting
Special thanks to Dean Rust for this week's chorus notes!
General
- Be ready to sing at all times; must do better as "first note singers".
O Holy Night (to be recorded March 11)
- Starts soft, but still resonate through "all four speakers", keep sound connected and don't let it get wimpy.
- Bass: wrong notes evident, fix them before next Tuesday, 1st and 2nd endings are different.
- "Fall (oh fall) on your knees":
-- bass, take breath after first "Fall" but make sure it's full duration, don't get too heavy on "on your knees"
-- non-basses, support the bass octave jump.
-- all, need movement on "knees" and watch for cutoff on "knees."
- "the angel voices": watch for cutoff on "voices".
- "night" in both endings: Stay on the vowel, watch for placement of "t".
- 1st ending: take a breath before the last "O night divine" and carry that phrase over into repeat of "Fall on your knees."
- Sing "D(ih)vine" not "D(ee)vine"
- If you are reading this please send me an email to let me know that you have read this.
Happy Feet (to be recorded March 11)
- "Wha da dance, do we do": crescendo on dance carries over into "do" before slight softening and another crescendo on the 2nd "do"
- Bass/bari,"Lordy": fast swipe, don't change voice production when moving to different register.
- "Happy Feet, I got those Happy Feet...": crescendo on 1st "feet" carries over into "I got those" before slight softening and another crescendo on 2nd "feet"
- "give them a low down beat": affect on "low"
- "I can't control": don't rush quarter notes (think subdivide)
- bass pickups: must be rock solid.
- "Hey! Hey! Say!": sets up 42nd St, not a throwaway, sing it with anticipation.
- 42nd Street:
-- "Come and meet (come meet)": soft and smoky, but not wimpy. While volume is lower, you're still producing fully resonant sound through all "four speakers."
-- "dancin' feet": Placement of "t", 1-2-3-"t"
-- Bass: sing through the low notes with authority, must hear them.
- Downtown Strutters Ball:
--Bass: make it less wordy, quiet jaw, don't change vocal production as register changes, connect all the sounds, no holes.
-- non-bass: eliminate affect, sing pure vowel sounds.
- Charles-ton:
-- disconnect between "Charles" and "ton" but don't take a breath; crescendo on "ton"
-- "Rhumba": hard roll of the "R" and pronounce "roomba"
- Reprise and Tag:
-- "cause I've GOT hab, hab, habby feet when I'm dancin": "got" not "have" in m 89
-- "Wha-daaaaaaa-dance", Last phrase of song: tall vowels, quick slide, and leave room to grow on "dance."
I Love You Truly (review last week's notes)
- off the sheet music please.
- Bring a high degree of compassion and love to this song; show it in your face and body. Need to develop emotional plan, including climax.
- Word changes in verse (underlined below):
"Coming home to you is all I need to know, coming home to you is my life. All alone with you ever sets my heart aglow, all alone with my sweetheart, my life (my life). Bass - swipe on "sweet" of "sweetheart."
- "Coming home": big rich chord on "home".
- "life" (at end of phrase): execute a quick, clean crisp "f" at the cutoff.
- "Gone": quickly through the "G" to the target.
- Leads, look at "so come be..." (ms 48-49, going into the Tag): it's 1/2 step up from "so" to "come" and a full step down from "come" to "be".
- Word changes in Tag for Lead, Bari, Bass. Rather than sing the whole note "please" in m 57, sing "please be all" with each word on the same chord written for the whole note, then move to the first chord in m 58 and change the word to "mine", and then finish as written with "all mine."
Clap Yore Hands (recording mic malfunctioned; limited notes on Mike Kelley's coaching)
- Chorus performance sounds like a good learning tape; now need dynamics and emphasis on alliteration (repetition of similar word sounds).
- "Come on you children......" Nothin' but trouble..." dynamics: follow Joe's direction, Mike suggested building the dynamic through each of these first two lines of the verse.
- "Let me lead the way, Jubilee today.": Remember avoidance of downbeat and full metric value. Smooth but keep underlying subdivision in mind.
- "He'll never hound you...": Getting ready to have a party, don't let it drag going into the chorus.
- "Come on": invitation to the party.
- Bass, "rebel, you just" (m 51): bring out this arpeggio (right before 1st "send him to the devil").
- "Send him to the devil (1st time). Clap-a yore hands" (ms 52-53): Think ahead. Big change in register. Prepare to move quicky to target sound on "Clap". You do get a breath before "Clap."
- No more big, fat, stupid mistakes: Lead, "...slap a yore thigh, don't ya lose time etc." (ms 81-82): keep it high and light on "thigh etc."
- Bass, new tag, "C'mon you children gather around": take it easy on "C'mon", it's high and you double with Baris. But let's hear it as you peel off on "you children gather around."
General
- Be ready to sing at all times; must do better as "first note singers".
O Holy Night (to be recorded March 11)
- Starts soft, but still resonate through "all four speakers", keep sound connected and don't let it get wimpy.
- Bass: wrong notes evident, fix them before next Tuesday, 1st and 2nd endings are different.
- "Fall (oh fall) on your knees":
-- bass, take breath after first "Fall" but make sure it's full duration, don't get too heavy on "on your knees"
-- non-basses, support the bass octave jump.
-- all, need movement on "knees" and watch for cutoff on "knees."
- "the angel voices": watch for cutoff on "voices".
- "night" in both endings: Stay on the vowel, watch for placement of "t".
- 1st ending: take a breath before the last "O night divine" and carry that phrase over into repeat of "Fall on your knees."
- Sing "D(ih)vine" not "D(ee)vine"
- If you are reading this please send me an email to let me know that you have read this.
Happy Feet (to be recorded March 11)
- "Wha da dance, do we do": crescendo on dance carries over into "do" before slight softening and another crescendo on the 2nd "do"
- Bass/bari,"Lordy": fast swipe, don't change voice production when moving to different register.
- "Happy Feet, I got those Happy Feet...": crescendo on 1st "feet" carries over into "I got those" before slight softening and another crescendo on 2nd "feet"
- "give them a low down beat": affect on "low"
- "I can't control": don't rush quarter notes (think subdivide)
- bass pickups: must be rock solid.
- "Hey! Hey! Say!": sets up 42nd St, not a throwaway, sing it with anticipation.
- 42nd Street:
-- "Come and meet (come meet)": soft and smoky, but not wimpy. While volume is lower, you're still producing fully resonant sound through all "four speakers."
-- "dancin' feet": Placement of "t", 1-2-3-"t"
-- Bass: sing through the low notes with authority, must hear them.
- Downtown Strutters Ball:
--Bass: make it less wordy, quiet jaw, don't change vocal production as register changes, connect all the sounds, no holes.
-- non-bass: eliminate affect, sing pure vowel sounds.
- Charles-ton:
-- disconnect between "Charles" and "ton" but don't take a breath; crescendo on "ton"
-- "Rhumba": hard roll of the "R" and pronounce "roomba"
- Reprise and Tag:
-- "cause I've GOT hab, hab, habby feet when I'm dancin": "got" not "have" in m 89
-- "Wha-daaaaaaa-dance", Last phrase of song: tall vowels, quick slide, and leave room to grow on "dance."
I Love You Truly (review last week's notes)
- off the sheet music please.
- Bring a high degree of compassion and love to this song; show it in your face and body. Need to develop emotional plan, including climax.
- Word changes in verse (underlined below):
"Coming home to you is all I need to know, coming home to you is my life. All alone with you ever sets my heart aglow, all alone with my sweetheart, my life (my life). Bass - swipe on "sweet" of "sweetheart."
- "Coming home": big rich chord on "home".
- "life" (at end of phrase): execute a quick, clean crisp "f" at the cutoff.
- "Gone": quickly through the "G" to the target.
- Leads, look at "so come be..." (ms 48-49, going into the Tag): it's 1/2 step up from "so" to "come" and a full step down from "come" to "be".
- Word changes in Tag for Lead, Bari, Bass. Rather than sing the whole note "please" in m 57, sing "please be all" with each word on the same chord written for the whole note, then move to the first chord in m 58 and change the word to "mine", and then finish as written with "all mine."
Clap Yore Hands (recording mic malfunctioned; limited notes on Mike Kelley's coaching)
- Chorus performance sounds like a good learning tape; now need dynamics and emphasis on alliteration (repetition of similar word sounds).
- "Come on you children......" Nothin' but trouble..." dynamics: follow Joe's direction, Mike suggested building the dynamic through each of these first two lines of the verse.
- "Let me lead the way, Jubilee today.": Remember avoidance of downbeat and full metric value. Smooth but keep underlying subdivision in mind.
- "He'll never hound you...": Getting ready to have a party, don't let it drag going into the chorus.
- "Come on": invitation to the party.
- Bass, "rebel, you just" (m 51): bring out this arpeggio (right before 1st "send him to the devil").
- "Send him to the devil (1st time). Clap-a yore hands" (ms 52-53): Think ahead. Big change in register. Prepare to move quicky to target sound on "Clap". You do get a breath before "Clap."
- No more big, fat, stupid mistakes: Lead, "...slap a yore thigh, don't ya lose time etc." (ms 81-82): keep it high and light on "thigh etc."
- Bass, new tag, "C'mon you children gather around": take it easy on "C'mon", it's high and you double with Baris. But let's hear it as you peel off on "you children gather around."
Thursday, March 6, 2008
Looking Back on March 4th Chapter Meeting
Looking Back on March 4th Chapter Meeting
(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record of the great things going on each week at an Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter meeting. —Ye Ed.)
Lot of talking and instructing and coaching started the evening with warm ups, SP for the new contest piece, and reconfirmed riser placement (I sense the ever increasing number of singers means Chorus Manager Klostermeyer (K12) will have to keep making changes. That is a good problem to work on!!
Next week’s meeting will NOT be at Durant. Instead at Harmony Hall Regional Center, 10701 Livingston Rd., Ft. Washington, MD. Usual 7 pm start tho. Location will allow chorus to rehearse as usual and then, toward end of evening, make recordings of “Happy Feet” and “O Holy Night” as the start of new Harmonizer CDs for next year.
I hear that Joel Golden and his wife suggested the spot, and Scott Kahler checked it out.
The vocal coach was on site this week again and Director Joe asked each section leader to take his turn with the coach.
At the chapter meeting before break, President Stamps updated everyone that Larry Silva is making progress after his back operation, and welcomed Bruce Minnick again this week, and reported that Sam McFarland’s operation was a success and did not effect his singing.
Mick also presented financial support checks to representatives of the quartets that will be at prelims this coming weekend that have Harmonizers in them: FOUR ACES, LAST KIDS PICKED, RINGERS and OLD SCHOOL.
(For new guys – this prelims contest in Newark, NJ, is actually the International Preliminary Quartet contest. The place where a quartet must compete in order to qualify for the contest in Nashville this summer and the right to try to capture the gold medal as International quartet champ.) Quite a few folks from the chapter are going up – some as officers of the district, some to cheer on our guys and just have fun, and some to compete.
Will try to get a wrap up report when we get back.
New guy, Tom Kraus, make a fun pitch to all to help him with selling ads for the spring show this year. He begged for support as he was sort of arm twisted on this job. Let’s all do a little this year. This could be another way for us to get out of the old habits and make the show program a success. Wonder why we have never been too good at this??
Roger introduced a good crowd of guests again including more father and son combos. And he welcomed some folks back we have not seen for a while like Nick Aiuto, Pete Frank and Ed Cazenas who sing with Steve White in a quartet called FULL TILT. Steve says the FT also could stand for FOUR ACES Farm Team, since they got together to help ACES fill jobs in this area and to help Nick and Ed with rehearsals. So after singing a while, decided to form a local quartet. They sang for us last nite too and it was fun to hear a quartet up front. They sang “That Old Feeling” arranged by John Hohl and a fun piece from the Flintstones.
Past President Wile used the occasion to present a service award plaque to Nick for all his work on the chapter website. Thanks from all of us.
Everyone gathered around the old coffee pot last nite since it was cold and damp outside. I note that the Girl Scout cookies some of you all bring in to share really disappear in a hurry. Thanks to all for sharing. And to those who bring a can of decaf now and then and for those to drop a buck or five in the kitty on the table.
After the break, John Hohl and Joe made some word changes on “I Love You Truly” to make them an even stronger ballad message.
Mike Kelly was with us all evening and working with Joe on “Clap Your Hands” to add some dynamics and encourage the singers to keep the fun and energy going in places. He will be back to help more since he is located nearby in MD.
I heard that the board elected another new member at their meeting during the break, and I saw another guy hand Roger his application last nite. We GROW each week. I bet there is someone you could bring on Tuesday nite that would get into the Harmonizer spirit.
Until next time – editorjack!
(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record of the great things going on each week at an Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter meeting. —Ye Ed.)
Lot of talking and instructing and coaching started the evening with warm ups, SP for the new contest piece, and reconfirmed riser placement (I sense the ever increasing number of singers means Chorus Manager Klostermeyer (K12) will have to keep making changes. That is a good problem to work on!!
Next week’s meeting will NOT be at Durant. Instead at Harmony Hall Regional Center, 10701 Livingston Rd., Ft. Washington, MD. Usual 7 pm start tho. Location will allow chorus to rehearse as usual and then, toward end of evening, make recordings of “Happy Feet” and “O Holy Night” as the start of new Harmonizer CDs for next year.
I hear that Joel Golden and his wife suggested the spot, and Scott Kahler checked it out.
The vocal coach was on site this week again and Director Joe asked each section leader to take his turn with the coach.
At the chapter meeting before break, President Stamps updated everyone that Larry Silva is making progress after his back operation, and welcomed Bruce Minnick again this week, and reported that Sam McFarland’s operation was a success and did not effect his singing.
Mick also presented financial support checks to representatives of the quartets that will be at prelims this coming weekend that have Harmonizers in them: FOUR ACES, LAST KIDS PICKED, RINGERS and OLD SCHOOL.
(For new guys – this prelims contest in Newark, NJ, is actually the International Preliminary Quartet contest. The place where a quartet must compete in order to qualify for the contest in Nashville this summer and the right to try to capture the gold medal as International quartet champ.) Quite a few folks from the chapter are going up – some as officers of the district, some to cheer on our guys and just have fun, and some to compete.
Will try to get a wrap up report when we get back.
New guy, Tom Kraus, make a fun pitch to all to help him with selling ads for the spring show this year. He begged for support as he was sort of arm twisted on this job. Let’s all do a little this year. This could be another way for us to get out of the old habits and make the show program a success. Wonder why we have never been too good at this??
Roger introduced a good crowd of guests again including more father and son combos. And he welcomed some folks back we have not seen for a while like Nick Aiuto, Pete Frank and Ed Cazenas who sing with Steve White in a quartet called FULL TILT. Steve says the FT also could stand for FOUR ACES Farm Team, since they got together to help ACES fill jobs in this area and to help Nick and Ed with rehearsals. So after singing a while, decided to form a local quartet. They sang for us last nite too and it was fun to hear a quartet up front. They sang “That Old Feeling” arranged by John Hohl and a fun piece from the Flintstones.
Past President Wile used the occasion to present a service award plaque to Nick for all his work on the chapter website. Thanks from all of us.
Everyone gathered around the old coffee pot last nite since it was cold and damp outside. I note that the Girl Scout cookies some of you all bring in to share really disappear in a hurry. Thanks to all for sharing. And to those who bring a can of decaf now and then and for those to drop a buck or five in the kitty on the table.
After the break, John Hohl and Joe made some word changes on “I Love You Truly” to make them an even stronger ballad message.
Mike Kelly was with us all evening and working with Joe on “Clap Your Hands” to add some dynamics and encourage the singers to keep the fun and energy going in places. He will be back to help more since he is located nearby in MD.
I heard that the board elected another new member at their meeting during the break, and I saw another guy hand Roger his application last nite. We GROW each week. I bet there is someone you could bring on Tuesday nite that would get into the Harmonizer spirit.
Until next time – editorjack!
Friday, February 29, 2008
Chorus Notes #9 - Chapter Meeting February 26, 2008
Special Thanks to Dean Rust for this week's Rehearsal Notes!
General
- Always be ready to perform, lot to do in coming months, stay with Joe, be focused while on the risers.
- You should have only 3 points on the ground when performing.
Craft
- Review: sing with the whole instrument (all resonances), most effectively done with openness and raised soft palate such as the feeling when you smell your favorite childhood dish. Keep the sound connected and stomach taut.
- I Love You Truly: Be ready when you're switching registers within your part. Practiced by humming to get the feel for the connected sound as you change registers. Bass has big challenge on "tears" swipe in m 24.
- Kirk Young concepts of subdivision, and full metrical value also apply to ballad. Subdivision is the pulse of the music, try to think of underlying eighth or sixteenth note pulses as you sing quarter, half and whole notes in the ballad. Full value means singing all the way out to the very end of these pulses for each note.
- Chorus needs to be in receive mode and anticipating even before the Director steps up to begin song.
Clap Yore Hands
- "Oh, whoa" (Intro): remember subdivision, and full value.
- Bass, "I mean the" (m 11, pickup): swing it.
- "But you can chase the hoodoo" (ms 16-17): Lead, no "ch" in "but you can" pickup; All: word fart #1 - "chase the hoodoo", not "chase that hoodoo."
- "Let me lead the way" (ms 21-22): smooth and mysterious, quarter notes don't swing.
- "Come along and shake yore shoe time" (ms 40-41): word fart #2
- it's "shake yore shoe time" not "#^&@*". [Recall Kirk Young admonition that it's beneath the Harmonizers to be fumbling with memorization weeks after we were asked to be off the music.]
- "Send him to the devil": first time is eighth notes, second time quarter notes; notes are also different.
- Bass solo (ms 63-70): All parts, make it spooky; Bass, break before pickup "and we will" (m 66) and make sure it's swung; Non-basses, You get a big breath after singing "oh" (ms 63-66) and before coming back in on "lose that evil..." (m 67); non-bassesalso get stronger during "Voo" whole note (m 69) while basses are coming up on the quarter notes.
- "Send him to the devil" (ms 78-79): bass, too much weight on "send", take off some pressure.
- "Come a-long, rest, come a-long, rest" (ms 84-87, just before tag): make sure the 2nd" come a-long" gets up that half-step. New Tag
- All: Good strong "K" on "Come"; confident but not loud.
- "Come a-long and": full duration on "and".
- Lead, "C'mon": stick it right before the other parts come in on the downbeat
- Bass, "C'-mon you children" (first time): easy on high note, baris are doubling, but then be strong as you peal off.
- Baris: sing out with confidence, big and full.
- Bass, "gather around" (3rd time of 5, C-flat octave jump): not getting high enough on upper octave. Don't get heavy on higher notes.
- All but leads: "clap your hands" (last three notes of tag): this one is "your" not "yore." - "Hands": good "nds" on the last chord.
I Love You Truly
- Watch Joe's hands: don't go off any note unless he does. Learning track is slow.
- "Coming home..." (ms 1-2): let's hear the "k" but in the style of the song, target is "oh" of "home", warm and expressive, connect all the word sounds (e.g. m and ing in "coming), a little louder on "home", don't decay on "oh" of "home".
- Lead, "Coming home to you" (ms 1-3): be ready for change of register on "to", lighten up on that note, don't raise your chin.
- "is my life" (ms 7-8): short "f" on cutoff.
- "I love you truly" (ms 15-16): bite the apple on "ah" of "I."
- "Ah yes tis something" (ms 33-34, first time): break after "yes" (it's not written as a break).
- "Gone" (m 41): Bari and bass hit all the notes in the slides, both start at the same time but baris go slower. Leads and tenors, back off as other parts begin to slide and then come back (go from a 7 to 6 to 8).
- "Gone is the sorrow" (ms 41-42): break after "Gone", come back in at the same level on "is".
- "sorrow" (m 42): lead - don't slide around, sing accurate notes; bass - let's hear it.
- "gone" (m 43): another break after bass slide on "gone."
Ed Sullivan
- "da, da, da, da, da, da, da" (beginning): make it clean, stays in tempo, don't speed up.
- Next chorus entrance "bum" (m 43): Quartet bass sings "bum" (m 41) on the tonic (F) , chorus entrance is on "So" in octaves (C). Sit out if you're not sure of the note.
- "Yah, da, da...and yah, yah, yah..." (ms 57, 65, 73): these are novelties and need to stick out. Sections between them should be "elegant" to further emphasize the contrast.
- "Dum duh dah..."(3 times, slight break in Lady of Spain solo, ms 80-82): each "dum, duh dah" crescendoes into the next one.
- Bass: don't move your chin on the "bum, bum's"
If I Ruled the World
- Provide full expression from the gitgo (see last note under craft above).
- "And we'd sing of the joy every morning..." (ms 14-15): big holy-moly "oh" vowels on "joy" and "morning"
- "If I ruled the world" (ms 17-18, 2nd chorus): Don't sit on "If; lead and bari have to energize their sustained "world" to support tenor and bass repeat of "the world" - "Every voice..." (m 20): Don't milk the "v", get right to the vowel.
- "My world...(m 25, 1st time): slight "m" with pitch before downbeat, solid "ah" on downbeat.
- Lead: "dreams. My world" (ms 28-29): crescendo through the whole note on "dreams" (as other parts cut off and sing "sudge dreams") and into "My".
- "My World" (m 29, 2nd time): Joe loves this spot; make a statement. Crescendo on "world from a 5 to an 8.
- "would wear a smile on its face" (ms 29-30): don't turn vowel on "smile" as we get softer.
General
- Always be ready to perform, lot to do in coming months, stay with Joe, be focused while on the risers.
- You should have only 3 points on the ground when performing.
Craft
- Review: sing with the whole instrument (all resonances), most effectively done with openness and raised soft palate such as the feeling when you smell your favorite childhood dish. Keep the sound connected and stomach taut.
- I Love You Truly: Be ready when you're switching registers within your part. Practiced by humming to get the feel for the connected sound as you change registers. Bass has big challenge on "tears" swipe in m 24.
- Kirk Young concepts of subdivision, and full metrical value also apply to ballad. Subdivision is the pulse of the music, try to think of underlying eighth or sixteenth note pulses as you sing quarter, half and whole notes in the ballad. Full value means singing all the way out to the very end of these pulses for each note.
- Chorus needs to be in receive mode and anticipating even before the Director steps up to begin song.
Clap Yore Hands
- "Oh, whoa" (Intro): remember subdivision, and full value.
- Bass, "I mean the" (m 11, pickup): swing it.
- "But you can chase the hoodoo" (ms 16-17): Lead, no "ch" in "but you can" pickup; All: word fart #1 - "chase the hoodoo", not "chase that hoodoo."
- "Let me lead the way" (ms 21-22): smooth and mysterious, quarter notes don't swing.
- "Come along and shake yore shoe time" (ms 40-41): word fart #2
- it's "shake yore shoe time" not "#^&@*". [Recall Kirk Young admonition that it's beneath the Harmonizers to be fumbling with memorization weeks after we were asked to be off the music.]
- "Send him to the devil": first time is eighth notes, second time quarter notes; notes are also different.
- Bass solo (ms 63-70): All parts, make it spooky; Bass, break before pickup "and we will" (m 66) and make sure it's swung; Non-basses, You get a big breath after singing "oh" (ms 63-66) and before coming back in on "lose that evil..." (m 67); non-bassesalso get stronger during "Voo" whole note (m 69) while basses are coming up on the quarter notes.
- "Send him to the devil" (ms 78-79): bass, too much weight on "send", take off some pressure.
- "Come a-long, rest, come a-long, rest" (ms 84-87, just before tag): make sure the 2nd" come a-long" gets up that half-step. New Tag
- All: Good strong "K" on "Come"; confident but not loud.
- "Come a-long and": full duration on "and".
- Lead, "C'mon": stick it right before the other parts come in on the downbeat
- Bass, "C'-mon you children" (first time): easy on high note, baris are doubling, but then be strong as you peal off.
- Baris: sing out with confidence, big and full.
- Bass, "gather around" (3rd time of 5, C-flat octave jump): not getting high enough on upper octave. Don't get heavy on higher notes.
- All but leads: "clap your hands" (last three notes of tag): this one is "your" not "yore." - "Hands": good "nds" on the last chord.
I Love You Truly
- Watch Joe's hands: don't go off any note unless he does. Learning track is slow.
- "Coming home..." (ms 1-2): let's hear the "k" but in the style of the song, target is "oh" of "home", warm and expressive, connect all the word sounds (e.g. m and ing in "coming), a little louder on "home", don't decay on "oh" of "home".
- Lead, "Coming home to you" (ms 1-3): be ready for change of register on "to", lighten up on that note, don't raise your chin.
- "is my life" (ms 7-8): short "f" on cutoff.
- "I love you truly" (ms 15-16): bite the apple on "ah" of "I."
- "Ah yes tis something" (ms 33-34, first time): break after "yes" (it's not written as a break).
- "Gone" (m 41): Bari and bass hit all the notes in the slides, both start at the same time but baris go slower. Leads and tenors, back off as other parts begin to slide and then come back (go from a 7 to 6 to 8).
- "Gone is the sorrow" (ms 41-42): break after "Gone", come back in at the same level on "is".
- "sorrow" (m 42): lead - don't slide around, sing accurate notes; bass - let's hear it.
- "gone" (m 43): another break after bass slide on "gone."
Ed Sullivan
- "da, da, da, da, da, da, da" (beginning): make it clean, stays in tempo, don't speed up.
- Next chorus entrance "bum" (m 43): Quartet bass sings "bum" (m 41) on the tonic (F) , chorus entrance is on "So" in octaves (C). Sit out if you're not sure of the note.
- "Yah, da, da...and yah, yah, yah..." (ms 57, 65, 73): these are novelties and need to stick out. Sections between them should be "elegant" to further emphasize the contrast.
- "Dum duh dah..."(3 times, slight break in Lady of Spain solo, ms 80-82): each "dum, duh dah" crescendoes into the next one.
- Bass: don't move your chin on the "bum, bum's"
If I Ruled the World
- Provide full expression from the gitgo (see last note under craft above).
- "And we'd sing of the joy every morning..." (ms 14-15): big holy-moly "oh" vowels on "joy" and "morning"
- "If I ruled the world" (ms 17-18, 2nd chorus): Don't sit on "If; lead and bari have to energize their sustained "world" to support tenor and bass repeat of "the world" - "Every voice..." (m 20): Don't milk the "v", get right to the vowel.
- "My world...(m 25, 1st time): slight "m" with pitch before downbeat, solid "ah" on downbeat.
- Lead: "dreams. My world" (ms 28-29): crescendo through the whole note on "dreams" (as other parts cut off and sing "sudge dreams") and into "My".
- "My World" (m 29, 2nd time): Joe loves this spot; make a statement. Crescendo on "world from a 5 to an 8.
- "would wear a smile on its face" (ms 29-30): don't turn vowel on "smile" as we get softer.
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
Looking Back On Feb. 26th Chapter Meeting
Looking Back on Feb. 26th Chapter Meeting
(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record of the great things going on each week at an Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter meeting. —Ye Ed.)
The stage at Durant was packed with guys at 6 pm for Chuck McKeever’s stage presence class and review of material taught at the weekend retreat. The VLQ was meeting in a back room and working on a new song.
For warm ups there was the usual physical drill led by Craig and then Tony worked hard on better breathing and other vocal exercises. He was really fired up by the good singing and work effort displayed by the troops on the risers.
First song of the nite was a review of the “Ed Sullivan Medley.” The big laugh of the nite was when Director Joe volunteered to sing the bass part in the radio quartet. The whole place broke up on that one.
Chuck Hunter taught another of his terrific barbershop craft classes – use of the whole vocal instrument.
Director Joe used the “mirrors” on the wall and had the men check their facial expressions for “If I Ruled The World.” Then he worked on “Clap Yo Hands” reviewing the new tag taught by coach Kirk Young during the weekend retreat.
For the business session: President Stamps reported on Larry Silva’s back operation and that Larry is home now to recover from this serious medical procedure; McKeever told chorus members to pick up copies of stage right or stage left CDs with visual plan and moves demonstrated for “Clap”; Brad Jones launched the taping program for this season; Secretary Buechler presented Steve White his 31-year membership card. Roger Day brought out the large line of guests – several returnees from last week’s guest nite.
After a great break around the goodies table, singing resumed with Joe working on “I Love You Truly” – with an acknowledgment of John Hohl, back from FL, who helped with the arrangement for this beautiful contest ballad.
Then the chorus was taken thru a review of the stage presence for “Clap” while the front row worked on their routine for this exciting contest uptune.
We ended with the 50/50 drawing and KTWWS and another great effort by all to dismantle and put away and clear the meeting place in record time.
Until next time – editorjack!
(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record of the great things going on each week at an Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter meeting. —Ye Ed.)
The stage at Durant was packed with guys at 6 pm for Chuck McKeever’s stage presence class and review of material taught at the weekend retreat. The VLQ was meeting in a back room and working on a new song.
For warm ups there was the usual physical drill led by Craig and then Tony worked hard on better breathing and other vocal exercises. He was really fired up by the good singing and work effort displayed by the troops on the risers.
First song of the nite was a review of the “Ed Sullivan Medley.” The big laugh of the nite was when Director Joe volunteered to sing the bass part in the radio quartet. The whole place broke up on that one.
Chuck Hunter taught another of his terrific barbershop craft classes – use of the whole vocal instrument.
Director Joe used the “mirrors” on the wall and had the men check their facial expressions for “If I Ruled The World.” Then he worked on “Clap Yo Hands” reviewing the new tag taught by coach Kirk Young during the weekend retreat.
For the business session: President Stamps reported on Larry Silva’s back operation and that Larry is home now to recover from this serious medical procedure; McKeever told chorus members to pick up copies of stage right or stage left CDs with visual plan and moves demonstrated for “Clap”; Brad Jones launched the taping program for this season; Secretary Buechler presented Steve White his 31-year membership card. Roger Day brought out the large line of guests – several returnees from last week’s guest nite.
After a great break around the goodies table, singing resumed with Joe working on “I Love You Truly” – with an acknowledgment of John Hohl, back from FL, who helped with the arrangement for this beautiful contest ballad.
Then the chorus was taken thru a review of the stage presence for “Clap” while the front row worked on their routine for this exciting contest uptune.
We ended with the 50/50 drawing and KTWWS and another great effort by all to dismantle and put away and clear the meeting place in record time.
Until next time – editorjack!
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
Chorus Notes #8 - Kirk Young Coaching - Feb. 22-23, 2008
Special Thanks to Dean Rust for these great notes from the retreat weekend!
Clap a Yore Hands
A. General
- You are forbidden to listen to the learning track.
- Swing is relaxed, gentle, meant to be late, pull don't push (you pull on the reins of a horse to control it, push and you'll fall off)
- Critical that you think of subdividing the beat into triplets; feel it before you start singing and retain it throughout the song. Focus as the director prepares to begin song.
- Don't lose the sense of subdivision when singing quarter and half notes, which form the rhythm sections.
- Recall snapping and fist exercises as a way to unify the backbeat, which fits together with swing.
- Give full metrical value to all the notes.
- Precise execution of the breathing plan will help you sing full note values and avoid synchronization errors. Need to sing into the preplanned breath spots, don't let the note decay.
- Minimize downbeats.
- Need quiet jaw given fast tempo; let your lips, teeth and tongue do the work on the lyrics.
- You can't swing flat-footed.
- You must be thinking "subdivision" when doing choreography.
- We comprehend, now we must be consistent. There must be no green rocks among the string of pearls.
B. Specific
- Intro: Recall subdivision work that swung the "Whoa" and ensure duration up to beat 4.
- Lead: work on the three note pickups in ms 8 and 16.
- Tenor/Bari/Bass: full value on "children" in ms 8 and 16.
- "Let me lead the way", "Jubilee today", etc. (other quarter note passages): full metrical value with underlying triplet subdivision.
- Four eighth notes in a row proved to be a problem in application. "everybody" in ms 32, 56, 83; "come a long and" in ms 40; "you are only a" in ms 46, 72.
- "Send him to the devil" (1st time, ms 52): straight, don't swing; but don't make it sound like a mistake; accent each word but don't splat.
- Last "Clap a yore hands.." (right before new tag, ms 80-86): need commitment, swing it, full duration, take out downbeats.
- New Tag: Baris stick it to the top note on "C'mon"; Bass lay off on "C'mon" as you are doubling with Bari, but then let's hear it as you peel off; Tenor/Bari/Bass: recall different rhythm on third "gather (a)round."
Clap a Yore Hands
A. General
- You are forbidden to listen to the learning track.
- Swing is relaxed, gentle, meant to be late, pull don't push (you pull on the reins of a horse to control it, push and you'll fall off)
- Critical that you think of subdividing the beat into triplets; feel it before you start singing and retain it throughout the song. Focus as the director prepares to begin song.
- Don't lose the sense of subdivision when singing quarter and half notes, which form the rhythm sections.
- Recall snapping and fist exercises as a way to unify the backbeat, which fits together with swing.
- Give full metrical value to all the notes.
- Precise execution of the breathing plan will help you sing full note values and avoid synchronization errors. Need to sing into the preplanned breath spots, don't let the note decay.
- Minimize downbeats.
- Need quiet jaw given fast tempo; let your lips, teeth and tongue do the work on the lyrics.
- You can't swing flat-footed.
- You must be thinking "subdivision" when doing choreography.
- We comprehend, now we must be consistent. There must be no green rocks among the string of pearls.
B. Specific
- Intro: Recall subdivision work that swung the "Whoa" and ensure duration up to beat 4.
- Lead: work on the three note pickups in ms 8 and 16.
- Tenor/Bari/Bass: full value on "children" in ms 8 and 16.
- "Let me lead the way", "Jubilee today", etc. (other quarter note passages): full metrical value with underlying triplet subdivision.
- Four eighth notes in a row proved to be a problem in application. "everybody" in ms 32, 56, 83; "come a long and" in ms 40; "you are only a" in ms 46, 72.
- "Send him to the devil" (1st time, ms 52): straight, don't swing; but don't make it sound like a mistake; accent each word but don't splat.
- Last "Clap a yore hands.." (right before new tag, ms 80-86): need commitment, swing it, full duration, take out downbeats.
- New Tag: Baris stick it to the top note on "C'mon"; Bass lay off on "C'mon" as you are doubling with Bari, but then let's hear it as you peel off; Tenor/Bari/Bass: recall different rhythm on third "gather (a)round."
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