YeEd got to Durant a little after 6 and the place was almost totally set up – risers and chairs and tables and such. Mirrors were going up still.
Chuck McKeever’s class was well attended again – the stage was full. Good for you guys who are taking advantage of his enthusiastic training and help in learning moves and focals for the new uptune for Philly.
Funny thing – as warmer weather has come on, the tables around the hall are only half full since guys don’t have all the coats and winter gear. But still a lot of computer bags and briefcases.
Good to see Edris back from college tonite.
YeEd saw Ike Evans adding mug shots of 12 new guys on the photo board we put up in the hall each Tuesday nite. Thanks Ike. It is always good for new guys to be able to see pix of the other men in the chorus and learn the names. And this new feature by Ike helps the oldtimers get to know the name and bio of new guys.
Will Cox took on the vocal warm ups and worked the chorus hard. Then Director Joe continued some learning exercises (such as singing “Mary Had A Little Lamb” while going up and down the scale). Kudos for pitchman Dan O’Brien for holding the key during the whole exercise in one breath.
YeEd also noted that the FRIENDS OF HARMONY had their meeting tonite.
Early singing by the chorus was to review repertoire songs. Joe warned that if a song is listed in the Looking Ahead column Steve White sends out several days prior to each meeting, then everyone is expected to be able to sing it in an octet. New guys are allowed to use music, so be prepared and get the music for the songs you don’t know yet.
There was a buzz around the hall about the new hats for the front row!! Just a sneak preview for us. And a secret for the contest. Front row is getting practice hats soon.
Joe took a minute early to remind all that the uptune has five parts – an intro, three choruses and a tag. He expects guys to be able to start on any one of those five parts at any time. For some new singers, this was a great help and learning experience.
For the chunk of time designated to work on the uptune, Tony Colosimo directed and Joe coached, drilled, counted, pushed, helped, corrected, and cheered. It was a Harmonizer meeting nite at its best!
Also the chorus was tickled to see how the front row has continued to refine and own their routine for the uptune. Congrats.
Just before break time, Mark Klostermeyer suggested guys who wanted to get their tickets for the Westminster show should see Steve Murane. Steve stressed that he had some in hand tonite for those guys who were not comfortable in ordering online.
Vocal and visual evaluators were asked to meet during the break.
Secretary Buechler invited guys who wanted Harmo logo items such as shirts and jackets to see him.
Membership VP Dan O’Brien welcome two first time guests and welcomed back some others.
Break time was busy as guys got some coffee, took care of chapter business, make purchases, and visited a little. K12 also asked guys to consider bringing in some goodies to share as the cupboard is bare.
After break, quartet promotion chair, Eric Wallen, announced the chapter reps in quartets that are competing in Mid Atlantic District Prelims this weekend in Harrisburg, PA. Mike Kelly’s new quartet, ENTOURAGE, will sing. His lead is Chad St. John from the Cincinnati area. His bari is Ron Rogers, who lives in TX and is a former Harmonizer. His tenor is Justin Oxley, also from TX. Mike Wallen’s seniors quartet YOUTH RECLAMATION PROJECT will compete. And Eric himself will compete with CRUNCH TIME at the Johnny Appleseed District prelims.
Eric also offered to help any guys who are interested in finding a quartet – even if you are just one guy and wanna find three parts. Or if your new quartet wants some coaching. The chapter has tons of ways to help, so ask.
Next Ken Fess who is heading up the work for the Westminster show announced late breaking news that we have signed and added MASTERPIECE quartet to the show. They were in the top ten at Anaheim last year. He warmed again, “You better get your tickets for family and friends. Sales are on! Already sold about 500.
Past President Brad presented remaining awards that were reported in YeEd’s previous column that were not made at the recent award banquet.
Terry Reynolds stressed that guys dig in and use the new evaluation system online. He also reminded all: Geri comes next week to work on the ballad, and Cindy comes in three weeks to work on the uptune. Terry also thanked Jeremy Knobel and Brian Ammerman for their technical work on the eval system.
President Newton reported on the recent cuts by our state to cut the financial support for the Virginia Commission for the Arts. The state budget for 2011 will not include funding for the arts!!! Members are welcome to speak up for changing this decision.
Dick also reported some huge shows coming for the chapter in the months ahead including the June show with Westminster. Then a show in Bowie at a new art center there. And a 9th time show in St. Mary’s County, MD, for us. Then the big news – the Harmonizers go back to Carnegie Hall in NYC (for our second appearance there) in spring of 2011. Also word is out that we will be getting Lisner Auditorium for our show in fall 2010.
Finally Dick shared with us that the chapter had turned down two offers to come sing outside the USA. Both gigs did not include payment. But interesting to be asked. Thanks to Bruce Lauther for his work on getting some of these gig lined up and for those members who have signed on to be producer!
Singing for the second half of the meeting/rehearsal was all on the ballad. Like old times, Terry Reynolds was using the projector to show the ballad emotion words while the guys sang. Joe was coaching the chorus to emote musically and vocally. Great learning technique.
The rehearsal was vibrant and excitement high, but we had to quit and put things away at 10. A good crowd came to the 815 for an afterglow 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.)
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Looking Back on Feb. 28th, 2010 Presidents’ Ball
The 37th annual Presidents’ Ball was held Sunday nite, Feb. 28th at the Durant Center for the Arts on Cameron Street. A large crowd, nearly 130, attended this event hosted by Immediate Past President Brad Jones, and all previous past chapter presidents.
This was a good crowd considering that the early February snows caused us to have
to change the date.This event is a long standing tradition.
The first ball was held in a bank with fried chicken, potato salad and baked beans catered, and highlighted the swearing in of the new board. Over the years the Presidents’ Ball has been held in a church, a temple, a sailing club, and various military clubs; and has covered the gamut from pot luck dinners to buffet style, to formal plated dinners.The event evolved to include some dancing and we added the presentation of the chapter’s major awards, making the overall theme the recognition of the successes of the past year and the launch of the new board into its upcoming endeavors. It became traditional for a period of time to have a well-known barbershopper to present a keynote address and swear in the board. The formality of the event ebbed and flowed (at least once tuxes were worn), and there have been periods of having some barbershop entertainment.This year’s Ball was a return to some of those traditional beginnings and the feelings of growth and pride for an exciting new year for a great chapter.
Thanks for sure to Brad Jones for all of his detailed work to make it all happen. And to Bob Rhome who checked with city officials (after Jim Lucey learned we could indeed have a bar and reception at the Center), picked up the license not once, but twice coordinating the snow date change, and did his usual great job of making arrangements with the city Rec Dept.
So the night began with a reception in the lobby at Durant, with a cash bar (with special “pre-mixed” Martini’s and Cosmos by Lew Klinge), and hors d’oeuvres brought by some of the members. Bob Eckman staffed the table to help all guests find their tables – like you might have done at a wedding reception.At 6:30, guests were welcomed into the main hall at Durant to be seated for dinner.
A yearly photo summary created by Scipio Garling was shown in the front of the hall while folks got settled.
The tables were decorated in black table cloths with mirrored floating candles, and star centerpieces and confetti to carry on the You Make The Difference star theme from Immediate Past President Brad’s year. After a brief welcome, Lew Klinge invited each table to the buffet line (the main course was catered and the sides and salads and desserts brought by the members).
Keynote speaker for this year’s Ball was Mark Hale, director of the gold-medal Masters of Harmony in California. After everyone had obtained their meal, Brad welcomed everyone and introduced Mark Hale. Mark spoke about the successes of the chapter and the challenges a chapter and chorus must face in order to continue to succeed in competition, in chapter growth, in maintaining its traditions and in being a leader for the whole barbershop world.
Current president Dick Newton was then called up and he introduced the 2010 board. Mark Hale issued the oath and officially declared them installed to serve the chapter. President, Dick Newton; Immediate Past President, Brad Jones; Vice President for Chapter Development, Dan O’Brien; VP for Marketing and Public Relations, Scipio Garling; VP for Music and Performance, Terry Reynolds; VP for Operations, Mark Klostermeyer; VP for Shows, Ken Rub; Secretary, Chris Buechler; Treasurer, Howard Nestlerode; Members at Large, Bob Blair, Scott Kahler, Phil Ferguson, Noah Van Gilder.
Incoming president Dick recognized outgoing president Brad Jones with his past president’s pin and a thank you plaque with gavel.
MC for the evening, Brad, introduced the VIP guests Royall and Geri Geis; and Jerry Eiler, who tho not a member of the chapter, is a leading White House Ornament salesman. Brad next called Sandy Stamps up who introduced the officers of the Friends In Harmony and Brad presented them with a silver star You Make The Difference pin as he has done to many members during the past year. This years officers are: Sandy Stamps, president; Jean Stewart, past president; Carol Dangel, secretary; Ina Berkey, assistant secretary; Sandy Stamps, treasurer; Linda Odell, art director; Carolyn Hall, Sunshine chair; and Kitty Curtis, communications and usher chair.
First awards given out were to the Riser Rats as we call them (started a few years ago by then-president Gary Plaag). They each received a coupon for Blockbusters, and a box of candy as just a small token of thanks for helping every Tuesday nite with the set up of risers and sound equipment. The riser rat awards this year go to: Tom Berky, Bob Blair, Bill Depuy Len Dornberger, Scott Kahler, Howard Nestlerode, Jack Pitzer, Bob Rhome, Dennis Ritchey, Dean Rust. Those not present will be getting their riser rat awards at chapter meetings.
In a slight change to tradition, instead of Meritorious Service Plaques, Brad presented Special Star Shaped Presidential You Make The Difference awards. His presentation for those that were at the Ball were as follows:
Bob Rhome – Bob is that steadfast person that takes care of so many details that can be missed or often have to be done at the last minute. Always offering to help, he arranges for rehearsal and meeting space, helps on the Youth festival, makes sure such things such as props and projectors are remembered for rehearsals and shows. And as mentioned
earlier, obtained liquor licenses for planned and snow dates for the Balls.
Mark Klostermeyer – If Joe Cerutti is our general, Mark is our drill sergeant. He gets us where we need to be for every show and contest. He monitors time for rehearsals and keeps us where we need to be to accomplish what we have to each week. He regularly provides help to us in framing items for coaches and guest quartets, and he supports all our raffle and auction activities.
Steve White – Steve is one of the steadfast members of the chapter who quietly helps us continually move in the right direction. We all know that he has performance skills we aspire to achieve. His stepping in to provide our electronic rehearsal plans available early in the week so we can prepare for rehearsals and so we know key dates is another piece of what allows us to continue on the path of improvement. It is an immense help to the music vp or chapter president to know you don’t have to specifically remember to remind someone to send out reminders to the chapter about new dates and assignments…because Steve routinely takes care of the electronic notice of those items.
Terry Jordan – (Presented at the following Tuesday rehearsal, March 2nd ) When I became president one of the challenges for me was to try to find the things that worked in the past that we had forgotten and either bring them back or update them to keep feeding the energy in the chapter. Terry Jordan steadfastly comes to rehearsals and provides reminders to me of courtesies, practices and traditions of the chapter that have their root in the family feeling and successes of this chapter. He is aware of the demonstrated benefits of these traditions…but also is aware of why certain ideas should not be pursued because they have been tried and found wanting by the chapter over the years. I receive written material and reminders from Terry that include good information that could be lost in our electronically focused world. For helping me avoid errors and in helping make me be more effective he deserves to be recognized as someone who Makes The Difference.
Jerry Eiler – We have for some years now had a very successful fundraiser for the Harmonizers. Our White House ornament sales have been important to the financial health of this chapter. We have some top sellers from this fundraiser that are recognized in your program. One person on that list has continually been there over the years, but frequently has missed hearing our accolades to the top salesmen because he helps this chapter on this fundraiser although he is not a Harmonizer. We should thank Jerry for representing the spirit of our entire barbershop world with his unselfish support of this chapter. For his long-term support of this chapter and its efforts, I am very pleased to present the You Make The Difference award to Jerry Eiler.
Lew Klinge – Some members contribute by their organizational skills, others by their musical skills. Lew Klinge contributes with his spirit. A humorous MC for our put together contest, a host not only for our coaches (who all want to return to his wit and charm), taking care of the harmo suite at district, preparing the Martini’s and Cosmos you’ve been enjoying tonight because he knows so many of you enjoy them…the many things that help make this a Harmonizer family. Lew makes a very big difference to our chapter.
Josh Roots – (To be presented at a future chapter meeting.) Josh was a relatively new member of the chapter when, early in my year as president and without any experience in running such a program, he stepped forward to run the singing Valentine program in 2009. Never letting the challenges discourage him, he was able to work through to a successful program and he volunteered to carry forward to use his experience to head the Valentines program in 2010 when snow would provide other challenges. Josh made the difference for our chapter
Jack Pitzer – (Also to be presented at a future chapter meeting.) Jack could not attend the banquet. I want to recognize Jack for many things we see around the chapter each week – Harmonizer moments in History, coffee each week, assistance on Singing Valentines, a weekly report called Looking Back; and as a former presentation judge, he offers critique and help each week to Joe and our presentation team, I’ve mentioned earlier his valuable assistance in preparing for this Presidents’ ball. Jack Pitzer truly makes a difference!
Then Brad presented the standing chapter awards:
Harmonizer Memorial Award – The Harmonizer Memorial Award is given in memory of the men who have died while members of the chapter. It is the highest honor the chapter can bestow, recognizing Harmonizers who, during the entire period of chapter membership, have unselfishly devoted themselves to outstanding service to the chapter. While it is traditional to wait until the individual is present to reveal the award winner, our rescheduling means it may be a while till that can happen. I also think that it is appropriate that the many of you here have the opportunity to recognize this individual. I am very proud to announce that the Harmonizer Memorial Award goes to John Hohl.
John’s contributions and roles in the world of barbershop and this chapter are as varied as you can imagine. What role has John not taken both within this chapter and in the society generally? He’s achieved acclaimed success as a director (of at least seven choruses that I know of, including the Harmonizers), an arranger whose arrangements of songs (numbering more than 200) have graced performances for show audiences and on the international competitive stage. The Harmonizers will be forever grateful for his giving us a single tune “There Will Always be a Place On the Risers for You” that in a short musical poem says so much about what makes this chapter great. He’s been an international level quartet member representing the chapter and making us proud with seven international quartet medals, including a silver medal second place finish, with the legendary NOVA CHORDS and VAUDEVILLE. He achieved a bronze medal in the international senior’s quartet contest with the quartet AULD LANG SYNE. He’s been a judge, a coach to quartets and choruses too numerous to count, a teacher promoting the development of new directors within our district and society, a consultant helping our music team evaluate and improve contest vehicles, a willing source of thoughts and ideas to me over the last few years giving me the benefit of his experiences. I’m sure I’ve missed some of the many roles and contributions he has made to the chapter and society. It gives me great pleasure personally and on behalf of the Alexandria Harmonizer to award the Harmonizers highest honor, the Harmonizer Memorial Award, to John Hohl.
Oz Newgard Memorial Award – The Oz Newgard Memorial Award is presented in memory of Oz Newgard, the chapter musical director from 1962 – 1970. It is given to the Harmonizer who has made a significant contribution to the chapter’s music program during the year. This year’s recipient came to the chapter several years ago and began immediately to work to help each of us grow in our knowledge and skills concerning our singing passion. He had some definitive views at what had made us unique over our history, even though he hadn’t been with us at the time. He set out to understand what we needed not just as a chorus, but as a chapter. He thoughtfully listened, applied sound judgment in sifting the ideas of both chapter members and coaches to push what we could do and move us always to a higher level of performance. He not only supported our goals of entertaining audiences and competition at an international level, he did whatever was asked of him that might help us achieve our goals. He coached individuals and worked countless hours behind the scenes to make sure every impediment to our success was removed if it was within his power. He showed us that taking a difficult eight part arrangement and challenging ourselves in a joint performance with the Pride of Baltimore Chorus can lead and improvement in our skills and to another of the Harmonizer Breathless Moments. He is well on his way to becoming a legend in the barbershop world despite his tender years…The Oz Newgard award is presented this year to our Musical Director, Joe Cerutti.
Ibbianne & Wilbur Sparks Award – The Ibbiane and Wilbur Sparks Award recognizes the contributions of our extended Harmonizer “Family” to the success and well-being of the chapter. Given to a Harmonizer family in the broad sense of the word for outstanding service over a period of time. This year’s recipients have worked tirelessly and consistently over a very extended period to time to support almost every facet of our chapter activities. He assures we take care of the required processes to get new members in place, recognize renewals, have met requirements for contest registration, have the paperwork that backs up our activities, and have up-to-date rosters and email contacts so that the incredible flow of information required to run the chapter reaches each of you. This just touches the surface of the many things he has done for the chapter and the Society this year and over the years.She keeps attendance each week and assures we know who participates in each performance. She provides experienced advice on colors and fabric impacts under stage lighting. She handles the lighting for our shows and adds one more measure of what makes this chapter look a little more professional in every performance.They both together were key in helping the New York show be a success, lending their knowledge and talent to the Manhattan Chapter. This year’s recipients of the Ibbianne and Wilber Sparks Award are Dixie Kennett and Chris Buechler.
New Note of the Year Award – The New Note of the Year Award is given to the member of the chapter who has contributed outstanding service to the chapter during his first year of membership. This years recipient was barely in the door when his smile and clear sense of humor quickly led to a request that he help with the scripting of the holiday show at the end of 2008…resulting in an audience pleasing story of Terry in the Box. Continuing the contributions into 2009 during his first year, he helped conceptualize updates to the chapter web page, participated in quarteting promotions, joined and competed with a college quartet, and assisted our marketing vp with marketing efforts. A very full first year as a barbershop makes the 2009 New Note of the Year Award recipient Noah Van Gilder.
Spirit of Harmony Award – The Spirit of Harmony Award is presented to the Harmonizer who during the year best exemplified the fundamental Society qualities of congeniality and good character and who worked hardest to encourage participation in vocal harmony by the chapter visitors and members. This year’s recipient has worked tirelessly to see that visitors and both new and veteran members of the chapter are considered in every decision made by the board or music team. He always makes our guests feel welcomed. He assures we follow up with our guests. He searches the practices of the entire society for ideas and techniques that can help us achieve growth and retention of members. He has planned and run a series of extremely successful guest nights. He is a key component of the efforts that have the chapter performing chorus solidly back into triple figures and he continues to work to push us past the 120 performing members before Philadelphia. The recipient of this years Spirit of Harmony award is Dan O’Brien.
Harmonizer Honor Award – (Presented at Chapter Meeting on Tuesday, March 2nd) – The Harmonizer Honor Award is presented to a Harmonizer who has contributed during the year above and beyond the usual expected of members. This year’s recipient, after only a short time as a barbershopper, stepped willingly into a major role in producing one of our major shows. He helped organize three performing groups plus the Harmonizers. He worked with never a complaint to add new twists and ideas that were suggested to him to the Holiday show. He kept informed and involved in everything from food service developments to script writing, decorations, props, and setup of auction and speed painting raffles. With his significant help we had a crowd pleasing success that was the most financially successful holiday show so far! The recipient of the 2009 Harmonizer Honor Award is Jeremy Knobel.
After the award ceremonies and formal program, DJ Pete Frank, who had come down from Erie, PA, provided great music for dancing.
Other thank yous go to Scott Kahler and Dennis Ritchey for help with sound set up; and the others who helped set up crew on Sunday afternoon - Bob Rhome, Bob Eckman, Chris Buechler, Lew Klinge, Stephan Germer (Lew’s guest), Dean Rust, Sam McFarland, Drew Fuller...and Adele Jones.
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 that are held during the year by the Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter. —Ye Ed.)
This was a good crowd considering that the early February snows caused us to have
to change the date.This event is a long standing tradition.
The first ball was held in a bank with fried chicken, potato salad and baked beans catered, and highlighted the swearing in of the new board. Over the years the Presidents’ Ball has been held in a church, a temple, a sailing club, and various military clubs; and has covered the gamut from pot luck dinners to buffet style, to formal plated dinners.The event evolved to include some dancing and we added the presentation of the chapter’s major awards, making the overall theme the recognition of the successes of the past year and the launch of the new board into its upcoming endeavors. It became traditional for a period of time to have a well-known barbershopper to present a keynote address and swear in the board. The formality of the event ebbed and flowed (at least once tuxes were worn), and there have been periods of having some barbershop entertainment.This year’s Ball was a return to some of those traditional beginnings and the feelings of growth and pride for an exciting new year for a great chapter.
Thanks for sure to Brad Jones for all of his detailed work to make it all happen. And to Bob Rhome who checked with city officials (after Jim Lucey learned we could indeed have a bar and reception at the Center), picked up the license not once, but twice coordinating the snow date change, and did his usual great job of making arrangements with the city Rec Dept.
So the night began with a reception in the lobby at Durant, with a cash bar (with special “pre-mixed” Martini’s and Cosmos by Lew Klinge), and hors d’oeuvres brought by some of the members. Bob Eckman staffed the table to help all guests find their tables – like you might have done at a wedding reception.At 6:30, guests were welcomed into the main hall at Durant to be seated for dinner.
A yearly photo summary created by Scipio Garling was shown in the front of the hall while folks got settled.
The tables were decorated in black table cloths with mirrored floating candles, and star centerpieces and confetti to carry on the You Make The Difference star theme from Immediate Past President Brad’s year. After a brief welcome, Lew Klinge invited each table to the buffet line (the main course was catered and the sides and salads and desserts brought by the members).
Keynote speaker for this year’s Ball was Mark Hale, director of the gold-medal Masters of Harmony in California. After everyone had obtained their meal, Brad welcomed everyone and introduced Mark Hale. Mark spoke about the successes of the chapter and the challenges a chapter and chorus must face in order to continue to succeed in competition, in chapter growth, in maintaining its traditions and in being a leader for the whole barbershop world.
Current president Dick Newton was then called up and he introduced the 2010 board. Mark Hale issued the oath and officially declared them installed to serve the chapter. President, Dick Newton; Immediate Past President, Brad Jones; Vice President for Chapter Development, Dan O’Brien; VP for Marketing and Public Relations, Scipio Garling; VP for Music and Performance, Terry Reynolds; VP for Operations, Mark Klostermeyer; VP for Shows, Ken Rub; Secretary, Chris Buechler; Treasurer, Howard Nestlerode; Members at Large, Bob Blair, Scott Kahler, Phil Ferguson, Noah Van Gilder.
Incoming president Dick recognized outgoing president Brad Jones with his past president’s pin and a thank you plaque with gavel.
MC for the evening, Brad, introduced the VIP guests Royall and Geri Geis; and Jerry Eiler, who tho not a member of the chapter, is a leading White House Ornament salesman. Brad next called Sandy Stamps up who introduced the officers of the Friends In Harmony and Brad presented them with a silver star You Make The Difference pin as he has done to many members during the past year. This years officers are: Sandy Stamps, president; Jean Stewart, past president; Carol Dangel, secretary; Ina Berkey, assistant secretary; Sandy Stamps, treasurer; Linda Odell, art director; Carolyn Hall, Sunshine chair; and Kitty Curtis, communications and usher chair.
First awards given out were to the Riser Rats as we call them (started a few years ago by then-president Gary Plaag). They each received a coupon for Blockbusters, and a box of candy as just a small token of thanks for helping every Tuesday nite with the set up of risers and sound equipment. The riser rat awards this year go to: Tom Berky, Bob Blair, Bill Depuy Len Dornberger, Scott Kahler, Howard Nestlerode, Jack Pitzer, Bob Rhome, Dennis Ritchey, Dean Rust. Those not present will be getting their riser rat awards at chapter meetings.
In a slight change to tradition, instead of Meritorious Service Plaques, Brad presented Special Star Shaped Presidential You Make The Difference awards. His presentation for those that were at the Ball were as follows:
Bob Rhome – Bob is that steadfast person that takes care of so many details that can be missed or often have to be done at the last minute. Always offering to help, he arranges for rehearsal and meeting space, helps on the Youth festival, makes sure such things such as props and projectors are remembered for rehearsals and shows. And as mentioned
earlier, obtained liquor licenses for planned and snow dates for the Balls.
Mark Klostermeyer – If Joe Cerutti is our general, Mark is our drill sergeant. He gets us where we need to be for every show and contest. He monitors time for rehearsals and keeps us where we need to be to accomplish what we have to each week. He regularly provides help to us in framing items for coaches and guest quartets, and he supports all our raffle and auction activities.
Steve White – Steve is one of the steadfast members of the chapter who quietly helps us continually move in the right direction. We all know that he has performance skills we aspire to achieve. His stepping in to provide our electronic rehearsal plans available early in the week so we can prepare for rehearsals and so we know key dates is another piece of what allows us to continue on the path of improvement. It is an immense help to the music vp or chapter president to know you don’t have to specifically remember to remind someone to send out reminders to the chapter about new dates and assignments…because Steve routinely takes care of the electronic notice of those items.
Terry Jordan – (Presented at the following Tuesday rehearsal, March 2nd ) When I became president one of the challenges for me was to try to find the things that worked in the past that we had forgotten and either bring them back or update them to keep feeding the energy in the chapter. Terry Jordan steadfastly comes to rehearsals and provides reminders to me of courtesies, practices and traditions of the chapter that have their root in the family feeling and successes of this chapter. He is aware of the demonstrated benefits of these traditions…but also is aware of why certain ideas should not be pursued because they have been tried and found wanting by the chapter over the years. I receive written material and reminders from Terry that include good information that could be lost in our electronically focused world. For helping me avoid errors and in helping make me be more effective he deserves to be recognized as someone who Makes The Difference.
Jerry Eiler – We have for some years now had a very successful fundraiser for the Harmonizers. Our White House ornament sales have been important to the financial health of this chapter. We have some top sellers from this fundraiser that are recognized in your program. One person on that list has continually been there over the years, but frequently has missed hearing our accolades to the top salesmen because he helps this chapter on this fundraiser although he is not a Harmonizer. We should thank Jerry for representing the spirit of our entire barbershop world with his unselfish support of this chapter. For his long-term support of this chapter and its efforts, I am very pleased to present the You Make The Difference award to Jerry Eiler.
Lew Klinge – Some members contribute by their organizational skills, others by their musical skills. Lew Klinge contributes with his spirit. A humorous MC for our put together contest, a host not only for our coaches (who all want to return to his wit and charm), taking care of the harmo suite at district, preparing the Martini’s and Cosmos you’ve been enjoying tonight because he knows so many of you enjoy them…the many things that help make this a Harmonizer family. Lew makes a very big difference to our chapter.
Josh Roots – (To be presented at a future chapter meeting.) Josh was a relatively new member of the chapter when, early in my year as president and without any experience in running such a program, he stepped forward to run the singing Valentine program in 2009. Never letting the challenges discourage him, he was able to work through to a successful program and he volunteered to carry forward to use his experience to head the Valentines program in 2010 when snow would provide other challenges. Josh made the difference for our chapter
Jack Pitzer – (Also to be presented at a future chapter meeting.) Jack could not attend the banquet. I want to recognize Jack for many things we see around the chapter each week – Harmonizer moments in History, coffee each week, assistance on Singing Valentines, a weekly report called Looking Back; and as a former presentation judge, he offers critique and help each week to Joe and our presentation team, I’ve mentioned earlier his valuable assistance in preparing for this Presidents’ ball. Jack Pitzer truly makes a difference!
Then Brad presented the standing chapter awards:
Harmonizer Memorial Award – The Harmonizer Memorial Award is given in memory of the men who have died while members of the chapter. It is the highest honor the chapter can bestow, recognizing Harmonizers who, during the entire period of chapter membership, have unselfishly devoted themselves to outstanding service to the chapter. While it is traditional to wait until the individual is present to reveal the award winner, our rescheduling means it may be a while till that can happen. I also think that it is appropriate that the many of you here have the opportunity to recognize this individual. I am very proud to announce that the Harmonizer Memorial Award goes to John Hohl.
John’s contributions and roles in the world of barbershop and this chapter are as varied as you can imagine. What role has John not taken both within this chapter and in the society generally? He’s achieved acclaimed success as a director (of at least seven choruses that I know of, including the Harmonizers), an arranger whose arrangements of songs (numbering more than 200) have graced performances for show audiences and on the international competitive stage. The Harmonizers will be forever grateful for his giving us a single tune “There Will Always be a Place On the Risers for You” that in a short musical poem says so much about what makes this chapter great. He’s been an international level quartet member representing the chapter and making us proud with seven international quartet medals, including a silver medal second place finish, with the legendary NOVA CHORDS and VAUDEVILLE. He achieved a bronze medal in the international senior’s quartet contest with the quartet AULD LANG SYNE. He’s been a judge, a coach to quartets and choruses too numerous to count, a teacher promoting the development of new directors within our district and society, a consultant helping our music team evaluate and improve contest vehicles, a willing source of thoughts and ideas to me over the last few years giving me the benefit of his experiences. I’m sure I’ve missed some of the many roles and contributions he has made to the chapter and society. It gives me great pleasure personally and on behalf of the Alexandria Harmonizer to award the Harmonizers highest honor, the Harmonizer Memorial Award, to John Hohl.
Oz Newgard Memorial Award – The Oz Newgard Memorial Award is presented in memory of Oz Newgard, the chapter musical director from 1962 – 1970. It is given to the Harmonizer who has made a significant contribution to the chapter’s music program during the year. This year’s recipient came to the chapter several years ago and began immediately to work to help each of us grow in our knowledge and skills concerning our singing passion. He had some definitive views at what had made us unique over our history, even though he hadn’t been with us at the time. He set out to understand what we needed not just as a chorus, but as a chapter. He thoughtfully listened, applied sound judgment in sifting the ideas of both chapter members and coaches to push what we could do and move us always to a higher level of performance. He not only supported our goals of entertaining audiences and competition at an international level, he did whatever was asked of him that might help us achieve our goals. He coached individuals and worked countless hours behind the scenes to make sure every impediment to our success was removed if it was within his power. He showed us that taking a difficult eight part arrangement and challenging ourselves in a joint performance with the Pride of Baltimore Chorus can lead and improvement in our skills and to another of the Harmonizer Breathless Moments. He is well on his way to becoming a legend in the barbershop world despite his tender years…The Oz Newgard award is presented this year to our Musical Director, Joe Cerutti.
Ibbianne & Wilbur Sparks Award – The Ibbiane and Wilbur Sparks Award recognizes the contributions of our extended Harmonizer “Family” to the success and well-being of the chapter. Given to a Harmonizer family in the broad sense of the word for outstanding service over a period of time. This year’s recipients have worked tirelessly and consistently over a very extended period to time to support almost every facet of our chapter activities. He assures we take care of the required processes to get new members in place, recognize renewals, have met requirements for contest registration, have the paperwork that backs up our activities, and have up-to-date rosters and email contacts so that the incredible flow of information required to run the chapter reaches each of you. This just touches the surface of the many things he has done for the chapter and the Society this year and over the years.She keeps attendance each week and assures we know who participates in each performance. She provides experienced advice on colors and fabric impacts under stage lighting. She handles the lighting for our shows and adds one more measure of what makes this chapter look a little more professional in every performance.They both together were key in helping the New York show be a success, lending their knowledge and talent to the Manhattan Chapter. This year’s recipients of the Ibbianne and Wilber Sparks Award are Dixie Kennett and Chris Buechler.
New Note of the Year Award – The New Note of the Year Award is given to the member of the chapter who has contributed outstanding service to the chapter during his first year of membership. This years recipient was barely in the door when his smile and clear sense of humor quickly led to a request that he help with the scripting of the holiday show at the end of 2008…resulting in an audience pleasing story of Terry in the Box. Continuing the contributions into 2009 during his first year, he helped conceptualize updates to the chapter web page, participated in quarteting promotions, joined and competed with a college quartet, and assisted our marketing vp with marketing efforts. A very full first year as a barbershop makes the 2009 New Note of the Year Award recipient Noah Van Gilder.
Spirit of Harmony Award – The Spirit of Harmony Award is presented to the Harmonizer who during the year best exemplified the fundamental Society qualities of congeniality and good character and who worked hardest to encourage participation in vocal harmony by the chapter visitors and members. This year’s recipient has worked tirelessly to see that visitors and both new and veteran members of the chapter are considered in every decision made by the board or music team. He always makes our guests feel welcomed. He assures we follow up with our guests. He searches the practices of the entire society for ideas and techniques that can help us achieve growth and retention of members. He has planned and run a series of extremely successful guest nights. He is a key component of the efforts that have the chapter performing chorus solidly back into triple figures and he continues to work to push us past the 120 performing members before Philadelphia. The recipient of this years Spirit of Harmony award is Dan O’Brien.
Harmonizer Honor Award – (Presented at Chapter Meeting on Tuesday, March 2nd) – The Harmonizer Honor Award is presented to a Harmonizer who has contributed during the year above and beyond the usual expected of members. This year’s recipient, after only a short time as a barbershopper, stepped willingly into a major role in producing one of our major shows. He helped organize three performing groups plus the Harmonizers. He worked with never a complaint to add new twists and ideas that were suggested to him to the Holiday show. He kept informed and involved in everything from food service developments to script writing, decorations, props, and setup of auction and speed painting raffles. With his significant help we had a crowd pleasing success that was the most financially successful holiday show so far! The recipient of the 2009 Harmonizer Honor Award is Jeremy Knobel.
After the award ceremonies and formal program, DJ Pete Frank, who had come down from Erie, PA, provided great music for dancing.
Other thank yous go to Scott Kahler and Dennis Ritchey for help with sound set up; and the others who helped set up crew on Sunday afternoon - Bob Rhome, Bob Eckman, Chris Buechler, Lew Klinge, Stephan Germer (Lew’s guest), Dean Rust, Sam McFarland, Drew Fuller...and Adele Jones.
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 that are held during the year by the Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter. —Ye Ed.)
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Looking Back on the March 2nd Chapter Meeting
Hate to miss chapter meeting. But when my flight from IL to DC was canceled Tuesday morning, I checked as to when and where the Bloomington, IL, chapter meeting was held. Lucky for me it was Tuesday nite, so I went out to their chapter. They are also working on music for Philly. While there I had someone ask me about the Westminster show in June, and another guy told me how much he enjoys the PodCasts done by Dean Martin. This chorus also has Geri Geis as their visual coach. As usual I was warmly welcomed as a Harmonizer!
So thanks again to Alan Wile for writing the following report of this week’s rehearsal and meeting. – YeEd.
Chuck McKeever held his usual choreo training session on the Durant stage shortly after 6 pm with 20 or so Harmonizers. Most of the drills were on the contest uptune but he also refreshed the men on “There’s A Meetin’ Here Tonight.” The front row worked first in the Durant lobby and then practiced their moves in front of the risers. Meanwhile the room was readied for the chapter meeting by a number of guys, including Tom Berkey, Bob Eckman, John Pence, Mark Klostermeyer (K-12), Bob Rhome, Bob Blair, Carl Kauffmann, Ken Fess, Dan O’Brien, Don Thompson, Gerry Levine, Mick Stamps, and Ian Poulin. And coffee was prepared and sweets set out by Dick Hall and Terry Jordan.
At 6:59 p.m. Ops-VP K-12 called everyone to the risers with the vocal warm-up conducted by Assistant Director Will Cox. Master Director Joe Cerutti and Assistant Director Tony Colosimo huddled around the riser chart together with K-12, while Dixie Kennett busied herself taking attendance … which she does religiously every week.
Joe worked sections of three repertoire songs (“Meeting Here Tonight,” “You Tell Me Your Dream,” and “Great Day”) before concentrating on our contest ballad, “I Get Along Without You.” In the process, he singled out Steve White, Chuck Powell, Tom Kraus, and Don Thompson as those who are always in the emotional/visual game. After working specific passages with each voice part and in various combinations, a recording run-through of the contest set preceded the break.
Chapter Secretary Chris Buechler passed out several membership cards to those who recently renewed. Years in the Society ranged from 9 years for Cerutti and Rhome to 32 years for Cox. Others recognized were Gerry Levine, Tom Kern and Kevin Roth. Thanks for renewing, guys!
VP-Membership Dan O’Brien first noted that the number on the risers has effectively doubled in the last three years … but repeated his challenge that we continue to recruit, keeping the number 120 as our immediate goal. Next he introduced our one guest – Chris Harrison – before we welcomed him in song (directed by Will Cox, of course).
Back on the risers after a short break, Alan Wile passed on an invitation from the president of the Mount Vernon Chapter (former Harmonizer Mike Everard) to join his chapter for “Dee Paris Day” on Friday, March 5th, which will feature two outstanding presentations by Dee (a long time barbershopper and member of the DC Chapter).
VP-Ops K-12 reminded all who have not done so to get their uniform measurements to Tom Kern for new uniforms planned to be worn at the international contest in Philly. Also mentioned was the opportunity offered by Chris Buechler to order Harmonizer logo shirts. Bob Rhome stated, in essence, that any member planning on going to Philly needs to have a room – either obtained by/with the Harmonizers or on one’s own.
Jeremy Knobel reminded the membership that the first vocal and visual self-evaluations are due NOW. Those who anticipate not meeting this requirement need to make their circumstances known No Later Than Thursday! Each of the contest songs requires a vocal recording and self-evaluation forms covering the individual’s vocal and visual performance.
Immediate Past President Brad Jones presented awards to two Harmonizers who were not at Sunday’s President’s Award Banquet: a “You Made The Difference” acrylic star (in keeping with the theme adopted during his presidential year) to Terry Jordan and the Harmonizer Honor Award to Jeremy Knobel. He also announced the Harmonizers’ highest award (Memorial Award) would be given to the 2009 winner, John Hohl, at some future occasion (as John is now a permanent resident of Florida). His prepared introduction to each award winner will be sent to all.
Standing back up on the risers, Chuck McKeever identified those who make the “hand chuck” during the hat passing in the uptune. Then he and Director Joe directed a number of repetitions of various moves. The rest of the evening was devoted to drilling the uptune with emphasis on flow and connectivity, volume changes, emotion, etc., etc., etc.
The 50-50 was won by Phil Ashford, who then “took us out” with “Keep The Whole World Singing!”
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.)
So thanks again to Alan Wile for writing the following report of this week’s rehearsal and meeting. – YeEd.
Chuck McKeever held his usual choreo training session on the Durant stage shortly after 6 pm with 20 or so Harmonizers. Most of the drills were on the contest uptune but he also refreshed the men on “There’s A Meetin’ Here Tonight.” The front row worked first in the Durant lobby and then practiced their moves in front of the risers. Meanwhile the room was readied for the chapter meeting by a number of guys, including Tom Berkey, Bob Eckman, John Pence, Mark Klostermeyer (K-12), Bob Rhome, Bob Blair, Carl Kauffmann, Ken Fess, Dan O’Brien, Don Thompson, Gerry Levine, Mick Stamps, and Ian Poulin. And coffee was prepared and sweets set out by Dick Hall and Terry Jordan.
At 6:59 p.m. Ops-VP K-12 called everyone to the risers with the vocal warm-up conducted by Assistant Director Will Cox. Master Director Joe Cerutti and Assistant Director Tony Colosimo huddled around the riser chart together with K-12, while Dixie Kennett busied herself taking attendance … which she does religiously every week.
Joe worked sections of three repertoire songs (“Meeting Here Tonight,” “You Tell Me Your Dream,” and “Great Day”) before concentrating on our contest ballad, “I Get Along Without You.” In the process, he singled out Steve White, Chuck Powell, Tom Kraus, and Don Thompson as those who are always in the emotional/visual game. After working specific passages with each voice part and in various combinations, a recording run-through of the contest set preceded the break.
Chapter Secretary Chris Buechler passed out several membership cards to those who recently renewed. Years in the Society ranged from 9 years for Cerutti and Rhome to 32 years for Cox. Others recognized were Gerry Levine, Tom Kern and Kevin Roth. Thanks for renewing, guys!
VP-Membership Dan O’Brien first noted that the number on the risers has effectively doubled in the last three years … but repeated his challenge that we continue to recruit, keeping the number 120 as our immediate goal. Next he introduced our one guest – Chris Harrison – before we welcomed him in song (directed by Will Cox, of course).
Back on the risers after a short break, Alan Wile passed on an invitation from the president of the Mount Vernon Chapter (former Harmonizer Mike Everard) to join his chapter for “Dee Paris Day” on Friday, March 5th, which will feature two outstanding presentations by Dee (a long time barbershopper and member of the DC Chapter).
VP-Ops K-12 reminded all who have not done so to get their uniform measurements to Tom Kern for new uniforms planned to be worn at the international contest in Philly. Also mentioned was the opportunity offered by Chris Buechler to order Harmonizer logo shirts. Bob Rhome stated, in essence, that any member planning on going to Philly needs to have a room – either obtained by/with the Harmonizers or on one’s own.
Jeremy Knobel reminded the membership that the first vocal and visual self-evaluations are due NOW. Those who anticipate not meeting this requirement need to make their circumstances known No Later Than Thursday! Each of the contest songs requires a vocal recording and self-evaluation forms covering the individual’s vocal and visual performance.
Immediate Past President Brad Jones presented awards to two Harmonizers who were not at Sunday’s President’s Award Banquet: a “You Made The Difference” acrylic star (in keeping with the theme adopted during his presidential year) to Terry Jordan and the Harmonizer Honor Award to Jeremy Knobel. He also announced the Harmonizers’ highest award (Memorial Award) would be given to the 2009 winner, John Hohl, at some future occasion (as John is now a permanent resident of Florida). His prepared introduction to each award winner will be sent to all.
Standing back up on the risers, Chuck McKeever identified those who make the “hand chuck” during the hat passing in the uptune. Then he and Director Joe directed a number of repetitions of various moves. The rest of the evening was devoted to drilling the uptune with emphasis on flow and connectivity, volume changes, emotion, etc., etc., etc.
The 50-50 was won by Phil Ashford, who then “took us out” with “Keep The Whole World Singing!”
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.)
Thursday, February 25, 2010
Looking Back on the February 23rd Chapter Meeting
The high energy level seemed to continue tonite. Everyone has been busy with getting back into the groove at work and at home. Same with chapter tonite. Guys worked hard to get the room set, chairs for guests, and tables for all the coats since it is still cold outside.
Sure great to see (and hear) the large crowd of men reviewing stage moves with Chuck McKeever tonite on the stage. He has developed a great way of coaching by calling out the cues.
Steve White was sub for Mark Klostermeyer and Steve was right there lending a hand to get the room set as needed by musical and admin leaders. He announced the recent death of a Society leader and former trainer at a Harmonizer all day event – Paul Tamblyn, from Ontario District.
There were 76 of us on the risers at 7:05!! Let’s work to get that number up to 95 or 100 at 7. Then the few late arrivals can slip in.
Tony Colosimo directed vocal warm ups. And then Director Joe and McKeever worked on a review session of stage moves for a couple songs.
Joe also thanked Dean Martin again for his recent PodCast – this one with Justin Miller, director of the Westminster Chorus, talking about the joint show with Alexandria in June.
Next Joe welcomed back to Alexandria, our coach, Kirk Young. They got the chorus right work on the contest package. Kirk used several new techniques to help the guys learn points he was making such as using Spanish word sounds, tapping rhythm.
Before break, Steve called a meeting period to order to include guest introductions and membership. Since Dan O’Brien was involved with work, he asked Phil Ferguson and Jack Pitzer to cover for him. There were 10 guests tonite. And two of them actually auditioned before they left Durant.
Secretary Buechler presented registration cards to one of the chapter’s longest registered quartets. The HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES has been a Society quartet for over 23 years. It is actually our section leaders and has always been registered by the chapter as a tradition. Current members (our section leaders) are Rick Savage, Tony Colosimo, Ken Ives and Mike Kelly.
Also Chris invited several members up front that were wearing various versions of Harmo apparel. Stay tuned for a chance to place an order with Chris. Great chance for new guys to stock up and others of us to get new, replacement or better fitting!!
During break the guys got a snack and took care of chapter business and got measured for the new chorus uniforms.
After break, President Dick Newton thanked Josh Roots and Scott Kahler for taking the Singing Valentine project thru the roughest of days -- record snow storm for days! He thanked Eric Wallen for organizing quartets and that led to recognizing all the men who sang in a Valentine quartet. They did yeomen service going out in that weather. Bruce Lauther and his quartet FOUR FROM THE HEART were especially thanked for the extra efforts to get songs sung for special customers and for spreading musical cheer all over our area during the Valentine season.
Ken Fess updated everyone one the big show with Westminster, June 27th - Monumental Barbershop Show. He suggested that if you want seats, you should place an order right away. He also alerted Harmonizers that we will be hosting those chorus members in our homes for the weekend. AND that each of the top ranked quartets will need a host. (That reminded YeEd of the good old days when we would have famous quartets on our shows, and if you were lucky and got your name in first, you would get to host the guest quartet in your home and take them around the city and get them to the show. It was a great way to meet top notch barbershop singers from around the nation.) So sign up soon to help.
Ken also thanked Alan Wile for helping contact RINGMASTERS during the recent convention in Tampa.
Brian Ammerman announced some minor changes or updates regarding the self-evaluation process.
Then it was back to work with Kirk. And there was good progress in making changes or corrections. And lots of drill.
The end of the evening included an important reminder that the Presidents’ Ball is SUNDAY, Feb. 28th, 6 pm start with reception period before buffet dinner. Past President Brad announced that Mark Hale from the Masters of Harmony in California will be here to give us all a message of cheer, motivation and inspiration. He will also install our 2010 officers and board.
If you have not ordered a ticket or plans have changed so you can attend, be sure to come and settled up later. Dress is not formal. Sport coat and slacks without tie is fine.
The main course will be catered. Other food items will be brought by members –
Last Name A-C bring hors d’oeuvers to go with the reception;
Last Name D-J bring salads/veggies;
Last Name K-P bring sides like vegetables or starches;
Last Name Q- Z bring desserts.
There will be a cash bar during a reception period from 6 – 6:30 pm in the lobby of Durant. Then at 6:30 we will go into the banquet room (it won’t look anything like the usual meeting hall!). Member Pete Frank is coming down from PA to do the DJ honors for the last part of the evening. This traditional event also will be our nite to honor men from our ranks and set the goals for next year’s team of chapter leaders.
Many guys need to consider attending the spring Mid-Atlantic District International Preliminary Quartet contest in Harrisburg, PA, March 12 and 13. It is a long tradition for many of us to attend to cheer any of our guys who are trying to earn the right to get their quartet into this summer’s International contest. You can get tickets at www.mad-registratins.org. If you need a room, call the Harrisburg Hilton at 717-233-6000, ask for the group rate for Mid Atlantic District Barbershop Harmony Society.
First round of quartets compete Friday nite from 6-9:30 pm at the Hilton. Saturday there is a small chorus contest and a Youth Quartet Adjudication (contest or event) that is good to see. Saturday nite is the quartet finals and a show.
YeEd is sure Eric Wallen will be announcing soon the quartets what will be in the contest with Harmonizers in them. Many of our chapter members are also M-AD board members, some will be there as judges and coaches.
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.)
Sure great to see (and hear) the large crowd of men reviewing stage moves with Chuck McKeever tonite on the stage. He has developed a great way of coaching by calling out the cues.
Steve White was sub for Mark Klostermeyer and Steve was right there lending a hand to get the room set as needed by musical and admin leaders. He announced the recent death of a Society leader and former trainer at a Harmonizer all day event – Paul Tamblyn, from Ontario District.
There were 76 of us on the risers at 7:05!! Let’s work to get that number up to 95 or 100 at 7. Then the few late arrivals can slip in.
Tony Colosimo directed vocal warm ups. And then Director Joe and McKeever worked on a review session of stage moves for a couple songs.
Joe also thanked Dean Martin again for his recent PodCast – this one with Justin Miller, director of the Westminster Chorus, talking about the joint show with Alexandria in June.
Next Joe welcomed back to Alexandria, our coach, Kirk Young. They got the chorus right work on the contest package. Kirk used several new techniques to help the guys learn points he was making such as using Spanish word sounds, tapping rhythm.
Before break, Steve called a meeting period to order to include guest introductions and membership. Since Dan O’Brien was involved with work, he asked Phil Ferguson and Jack Pitzer to cover for him. There were 10 guests tonite. And two of them actually auditioned before they left Durant.
Secretary Buechler presented registration cards to one of the chapter’s longest registered quartets. The HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES has been a Society quartet for over 23 years. It is actually our section leaders and has always been registered by the chapter as a tradition. Current members (our section leaders) are Rick Savage, Tony Colosimo, Ken Ives and Mike Kelly.
Also Chris invited several members up front that were wearing various versions of Harmo apparel. Stay tuned for a chance to place an order with Chris. Great chance for new guys to stock up and others of us to get new, replacement or better fitting!!
During break the guys got a snack and took care of chapter business and got measured for the new chorus uniforms.
After break, President Dick Newton thanked Josh Roots and Scott Kahler for taking the Singing Valentine project thru the roughest of days -- record snow storm for days! He thanked Eric Wallen for organizing quartets and that led to recognizing all the men who sang in a Valentine quartet. They did yeomen service going out in that weather. Bruce Lauther and his quartet FOUR FROM THE HEART were especially thanked for the extra efforts to get songs sung for special customers and for spreading musical cheer all over our area during the Valentine season.
Ken Fess updated everyone one the big show with Westminster, June 27th - Monumental Barbershop Show. He suggested that if you want seats, you should place an order right away. He also alerted Harmonizers that we will be hosting those chorus members in our homes for the weekend. AND that each of the top ranked quartets will need a host. (That reminded YeEd of the good old days when we would have famous quartets on our shows, and if you were lucky and got your name in first, you would get to host the guest quartet in your home and take them around the city and get them to the show. It was a great way to meet top notch barbershop singers from around the nation.) So sign up soon to help.
Ken also thanked Alan Wile for helping contact RINGMASTERS during the recent convention in Tampa.
Brian Ammerman announced some minor changes or updates regarding the self-evaluation process.
Then it was back to work with Kirk. And there was good progress in making changes or corrections. And lots of drill.
The end of the evening included an important reminder that the Presidents’ Ball is SUNDAY, Feb. 28th, 6 pm start with reception period before buffet dinner. Past President Brad announced that Mark Hale from the Masters of Harmony in California will be here to give us all a message of cheer, motivation and inspiration. He will also install our 2010 officers and board.
If you have not ordered a ticket or plans have changed so you can attend, be sure to come and settled up later. Dress is not formal. Sport coat and slacks without tie is fine.
The main course will be catered. Other food items will be brought by members –
Last Name A-C bring hors d’oeuvers to go with the reception;
Last Name D-J bring salads/veggies;
Last Name K-P bring sides like vegetables or starches;
Last Name Q- Z bring desserts.
There will be a cash bar during a reception period from 6 – 6:30 pm in the lobby of Durant. Then at 6:30 we will go into the banquet room (it won’t look anything like the usual meeting hall!). Member Pete Frank is coming down from PA to do the DJ honors for the last part of the evening. This traditional event also will be our nite to honor men from our ranks and set the goals for next year’s team of chapter leaders.
Many guys need to consider attending the spring Mid-Atlantic District International Preliminary Quartet contest in Harrisburg, PA, March 12 and 13. It is a long tradition for many of us to attend to cheer any of our guys who are trying to earn the right to get their quartet into this summer’s International contest. You can get tickets at www.mad-registratins.org. If you need a room, call the Harrisburg Hilton at 717-233-6000, ask for the group rate for Mid Atlantic District Barbershop Harmony Society.
First round of quartets compete Friday nite from 6-9:30 pm at the Hilton. Saturday there is a small chorus contest and a Youth Quartet Adjudication (contest or event) that is good to see. Saturday nite is the quartet finals and a show.
YeEd is sure Eric Wallen will be announcing soon the quartets what will be in the contest with Harmonizers in them. Many of our chapter members are also M-AD board members, some will be there as judges and coaches.
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.)
Thursday, February 18, 2010
Looking Back on the Feb. 16th Chapter Meeting – First One Since Feb. 2
It seemed like everyone was really needing a “fix” of barbershop harmony and being with our fellow chapter members tonite. Since we had to cancel the Feb. 9th meeting, there was also a lot of catch up work to do.
And many guys realized that and came early for Chuck McKeever’s training session on the stage that starts every Tues. at 6 pm. He had a stage full and so some guys were watching from the main floor to absorb as much as possible.
The set up crew went right to work at 6 too and the coffee pot was perking away too.
There were some weather stories relayed to YeEd. Ian Poulin got hit by the snow in Richmond before it came to NoVa. So he has had snow to contend with for at least a whole other week. And Steve Guy and Len Dornberger made it down from DE and there-abouts. Of course the shoveling stories and sore backs were common.
Director Joe had stories too – but his were from his week of coaching in Hawaii. The chapter there says they are the “farm club” for the Harmonizers. There has been a long list of men who came to Alexandria from the Aloha Chapter. And a couple men have gone there from here.
Joe also reported visiting with David Wright, our terrific coach lined up for the retreat in June. David was here helping Joe at a weekend retreat for the Pride of Baltimore chorus that Joe also directs.
When the singing and chorus work out began, Will Cox did the musical warm ups. Then Joe started the work on the contest songs. After a little bit, he invited McKeever to take a few minutes of drill and review. That time was used for “ripple drills” as Chuck called them. The guys got so they could do the stepping down and stepping back up pretty well!
Then it was time to concentrate on the ballad. Geri and Royall Geis were back and Geri was welcomed to begin the process as our coach for the ballad. What a great plan and approach and rekindling of the great Harmonizer approach to delivering a heavy message song. She read a scenario and talked to the guys about their commitment in convincing first themselves and then their audience the true emotions of this great song.
The scenario and other materials about the ballad were sent to all members then as an email on Wednesday.
Geri used a new technique some of us had not seen to help the chorus understand the many layers of emotion needed for the ballad. She had a quartet sing the song and each time she raised her finger they stopped and she added another layer of emotion or description of what the singer needed to convey to his audience. (The quartet had worked on this to be able to do it so well. Thanks to Dan O’Brien, Tony Colosimo, Joe Sawyer, and Terry Reynolds.)
One drill Geri used, which we have seen her use with us before, was stating a word such as tender, bewildered, forsaken or flippant, then have the men demonstrate that word visually. When she finished her list it was clear that those 30 words were the essence of the ballad message.
She also talked about the passion of the singer and his message. It was clear we will approach a time when it won’t be funny to do some things, or that it will be ok to have such emotion in your throat you can’t sing! Those were the days!!!!
When Geri had finished and the cheers subsided, Joe took the chorus thru a “hot” run of the ballad. Wow!
It was time for meetings and break. Mark Klostermeyer welcomed all and plugged the need for guys to buy the left over Valentine candy from the chapter. Secretary Buechler gave new member materials to Victor Hills and Bert Phillips. He also asked those two guys to help him present renewal membership cards to Jim Lake for 16 years; Dean Martin for 7 years; Chuck Powell for 16 years; Frank Fedarko for 8 years; Brian Ammerman for 16 years; and Drew Fuller for 20 years.
Terry Reynolds, music vp, reminded guys to have their recording equipment ready after the break.
Dan O’Brien welcomed Jim Shoenhard and Jon Abel. Then he introduced four guests who were visiting and are possible new singers for the chapter.
During the break the guys nearly drained the coffee pot and ate every last cookie that was out!! It was cold in the hall.
We sold all the candy!
We sold a bunch more tickets for the rescheduled Presidents’ Ball – now set for Sunday, Feb. 28th. Past President Brad announced that Mark Hale was able to change his flight and can come to Alexandria for our event!
This year’s Ball, tho being held at the Rec Center, will feature several touches to make it special and still affordable. Guest speaker will be Mark Hale from the often-gold-medal Masters of Harmony in California. He is thrilled about coming to give us all a message of cheer, motivation and inspiration.
The main course will be catered. Other food items will be brought by members –
Last Name A-C bring hors d’oeuvers to go with the reception;
Last Name D-J bring salads/veggies;
Last Name K-P bring sides like vegetables or starches;
Last Name Q- Z bring desserts.
There will be a cash bar during a reception period from 6 – 6:30 pm in the lobby of Durant.
Then at 6:30 we will go into the banquet room (it won’t look anything like the usual meeting hall!). Member Pete Frank is coming down from PA to do the DJ honors for the last part of the evening. Mike Kelly’s new quartet, ENTOURAGE, will not be able to reschedule and sing for us (tho they will be competing in the M-AD prelims in Harrisburg in March).
This traditional event also will be our nite to honor men from our ranks and set the goals for next year’s team of chapter leaders. (Former members and chapter friends are also welcome to buy tickets, as well as our many brand new members.)
There are tickets left, so email Jack Pitzer editorjack@aol.com to get a space for yourself, and a guest if you wish. Just $15 each. You can settle up that nite.
Craig Kujawa sent word from his post overseas that the 10 for 10 program weigh-in will be conducted by Joe Sawyer!
Jack Cameron reminded guys to pay for their fall contest photos.
Bob Blair and Bill DePuy were thanked by chapter leaders for cleaning out one of the chapter’s rental storage units and thus saving us a chunk of cash each month.
Joe thanked Dean Martin for his professional work on the podcasts.
Then we got back to singing. Tony directed the uptune again and Joe coached. The front row is continuing to develop their part of the show.
Before we left for the nite, Terry Reynolds explained the detailed new system of self evaluation for singing and visual performance. The eval forms are electronic and the evaluator response forms are also electronic. It is a massive effort to streamline the work and process.
We had a great wrap up with lots more activity such as a long line of guys getting measured by our own haberdasher, Rick Savage, so we can order new uniforms. There was a quartet singing tags with a first-time guest. Risers were stashed and another good crowd came to 815 Southside for the afterglow.
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.)
And many guys realized that and came early for Chuck McKeever’s training session on the stage that starts every Tues. at 6 pm. He had a stage full and so some guys were watching from the main floor to absorb as much as possible.
The set up crew went right to work at 6 too and the coffee pot was perking away too.
There were some weather stories relayed to YeEd. Ian Poulin got hit by the snow in Richmond before it came to NoVa. So he has had snow to contend with for at least a whole other week. And Steve Guy and Len Dornberger made it down from DE and there-abouts. Of course the shoveling stories and sore backs were common.
Director Joe had stories too – but his were from his week of coaching in Hawaii. The chapter there says they are the “farm club” for the Harmonizers. There has been a long list of men who came to Alexandria from the Aloha Chapter. And a couple men have gone there from here.
Joe also reported visiting with David Wright, our terrific coach lined up for the retreat in June. David was here helping Joe at a weekend retreat for the Pride of Baltimore chorus that Joe also directs.
When the singing and chorus work out began, Will Cox did the musical warm ups. Then Joe started the work on the contest songs. After a little bit, he invited McKeever to take a few minutes of drill and review. That time was used for “ripple drills” as Chuck called them. The guys got so they could do the stepping down and stepping back up pretty well!
Then it was time to concentrate on the ballad. Geri and Royall Geis were back and Geri was welcomed to begin the process as our coach for the ballad. What a great plan and approach and rekindling of the great Harmonizer approach to delivering a heavy message song. She read a scenario and talked to the guys about their commitment in convincing first themselves and then their audience the true emotions of this great song.
The scenario and other materials about the ballad were sent to all members then as an email on Wednesday.
Geri used a new technique some of us had not seen to help the chorus understand the many layers of emotion needed for the ballad. She had a quartet sing the song and each time she raised her finger they stopped and she added another layer of emotion or description of what the singer needed to convey to his audience. (The quartet had worked on this to be able to do it so well. Thanks to Dan O’Brien, Tony Colosimo, Joe Sawyer, and Terry Reynolds.)
One drill Geri used, which we have seen her use with us before, was stating a word such as tender, bewildered, forsaken or flippant, then have the men demonstrate that word visually. When she finished her list it was clear that those 30 words were the essence of the ballad message.
She also talked about the passion of the singer and his message. It was clear we will approach a time when it won’t be funny to do some things, or that it will be ok to have such emotion in your throat you can’t sing! Those were the days!!!!
When Geri had finished and the cheers subsided, Joe took the chorus thru a “hot” run of the ballad. Wow!
It was time for meetings and break. Mark Klostermeyer welcomed all and plugged the need for guys to buy the left over Valentine candy from the chapter. Secretary Buechler gave new member materials to Victor Hills and Bert Phillips. He also asked those two guys to help him present renewal membership cards to Jim Lake for 16 years; Dean Martin for 7 years; Chuck Powell for 16 years; Frank Fedarko for 8 years; Brian Ammerman for 16 years; and Drew Fuller for 20 years.
Terry Reynolds, music vp, reminded guys to have their recording equipment ready after the break.
Dan O’Brien welcomed Jim Shoenhard and Jon Abel. Then he introduced four guests who were visiting and are possible new singers for the chapter.
During the break the guys nearly drained the coffee pot and ate every last cookie that was out!! It was cold in the hall.
We sold all the candy!
We sold a bunch more tickets for the rescheduled Presidents’ Ball – now set for Sunday, Feb. 28th. Past President Brad announced that Mark Hale was able to change his flight and can come to Alexandria for our event!
This year’s Ball, tho being held at the Rec Center, will feature several touches to make it special and still affordable. Guest speaker will be Mark Hale from the often-gold-medal Masters of Harmony in California. He is thrilled about coming to give us all a message of cheer, motivation and inspiration.
The main course will be catered. Other food items will be brought by members –
Last Name A-C bring hors d’oeuvers to go with the reception;
Last Name D-J bring salads/veggies;
Last Name K-P bring sides like vegetables or starches;
Last Name Q- Z bring desserts.
There will be a cash bar during a reception period from 6 – 6:30 pm in the lobby of Durant.
Then at 6:30 we will go into the banquet room (it won’t look anything like the usual meeting hall!). Member Pete Frank is coming down from PA to do the DJ honors for the last part of the evening. Mike Kelly’s new quartet, ENTOURAGE, will not be able to reschedule and sing for us (tho they will be competing in the M-AD prelims in Harrisburg in March).
This traditional event also will be our nite to honor men from our ranks and set the goals for next year’s team of chapter leaders. (Former members and chapter friends are also welcome to buy tickets, as well as our many brand new members.)
There are tickets left, so email Jack Pitzer editorjack@aol.com to get a space for yourself, and a guest if you wish. Just $15 each. You can settle up that nite.
Craig Kujawa sent word from his post overseas that the 10 for 10 program weigh-in will be conducted by Joe Sawyer!
Jack Cameron reminded guys to pay for their fall contest photos.
Bob Blair and Bill DePuy were thanked by chapter leaders for cleaning out one of the chapter’s rental storage units and thus saving us a chunk of cash each month.
Joe thanked Dean Martin for his professional work on the podcasts.
Then we got back to singing. Tony directed the uptune again and Joe coached. The front row is continuing to develop their part of the show.
Before we left for the nite, Terry Reynolds explained the detailed new system of self evaluation for singing and visual performance. The eval forms are electronic and the evaluator response forms are also electronic. It is a massive effort to streamline the work and process.
We had a great wrap up with lots more activity such as a long line of guys getting measured by our own haberdasher, Rick Savage, so we can order new uniforms. There was a quartet singing tags with a first-time guest. Risers were stashed and another good crowd came to 815 Southside for the afterglow.
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.)
Thursday, February 4, 2010
Looking Back on the February 2nd Chapter Meeting
The weather took a hit on us tonite, but even that didn’t discourage everyone. We had a good crowd of singers. In fact, the stage was full again of guys working on their stage presence with Chuck McKeever.
Will Cox did the vocal warm ups which included some practice on Singing Valentine songs. Dean Rust gave a testimonial about his experiences singing in quartets and making Valentine deliveries.
Tony Colosimo had up front duties tonite as Director Joe was not back from Hawaii. Tony gave McKeever a chunk of time to drill and rehearse the moves for “Hello My Baby” while the front row worked on their own to drill their part.
After that, the chorus was dismissed into sectionals to work on their music. Then they reconvened and worked on putting it all together.
As the snow continued to fall, the plan emerged to end early. Dan O’Brien reported we have 111 men signed up to sing in Philly, but that our goal is still 120!! There were no guests tonite, but YeEd noticed the new guys were all there!!
Past President Brad Jones reported that his team is considering the weather this weekend and how it will effect the Presidents’ Ball, currently scheduled for Sat. nite at Durant. BUT stay tuned – it might be moved to Sunday at 1 pm if the Rec Center gets closed by the city officials.
There are tickets left, so email Jack Pitzer editorjack@aol.com to get a space for yourself, and a guest if you wish. Just $15 each. You can settle up that nite.
This year’s Ball, tho being held at the Rec Center, will feature several touches to make it special and still affordable. Guest speaker will be Mark Hale from the often-gold-medal Masters of Harmony in California. He is thrilled about coming to give us all a message of cheer, motivation and inspiration.
The main course will be catered. Other food items will be brought by members –
Last Name A-C bring hors d’oeuvers to go with the reception;
Last Name D-J bring salads/veggies;
Last Name K-P bring sides like vegetables or starches;
Last Name Q- Z bring desserts.
There will be a cash bar during a reception period from 6 – 6:30 pm in the lobby of Durant.
Then at 6:30 we will go into the banquet room (it won’t look anything like the usual meeting hall!). Member Pete Frank is coming down from PA to do the DJ honors for the last part of the evening. Mike Kelly’s new quartet, ENTOURAGE, sing for us as well.
This traditional event also will be our nite to honor men from our ranks and set the goals for next year’s team of chapter leaders. (Former members and chapter friends are also welcome to buy tickets, as well as our many brand new members.)
This Thursday nite is the first stage presence review session at Lee Center, at 7 pm, for stage right. Stage left in next Thurs, Feb. 11th, same time and place.
Tom Kern offered to help anyone who needs white tails for Valentine gigs. And he pleaded for more guys to get him their sizes for the new uniforms for Philly. Members should give Tom their current suit size, dress shirt neck and sleeve length, waist size. He would prefer to get the info via email (tkern@caci.com).
Bob Rhome insisted that those men he asked for credit card info for Philly reservations must take action to contact him.
Eric Wallen stressed that we need a crop of singers to fill the many requests we are getting for Singing Valentine gigs. This is a major fundraiser for the chapter and is as important as a big singout. We need about the same number of singers to contact Eric and help.
Terry Reynolds yielded to early closing and will get out more details about evaluation standards. He alerted us that there will be new self-evaluation forms for both singing and visual uses.
VP Klostermeyer closed the meeting about 8:45 or so. Since the roads were bad, we called 815 Southside and alerted them that we would not be there this week.
We sang “Keep The Whole World Singing” and packed things away. But the early closing did not stop some quarteting in the hall nor a group of guys from singing the new ballad.
Guest reporters Kennett and Buechler gave YeEd some info about the recent Mid Winter BHS convention in Tampa. This International event is “more fun and less hectic” they report. It features a Senior’s quartet contest and one of our members, Mike Wallen and his buddies in YOUTH RECLAMATION PROJECT, came in 9th; and Darryl Flinn was in the fifth place quartet, LIGHTLY SEASONED.
Alan Durick, John Adams and Scott Werner were there as past seniors quartet champs. Alan Wile and Chris Buechler were there for the Society Board meeting. Other Harmonizers noted among the attendees include Tom Gannon, Chuck Harner, Bob Hirsh, John Hohl, Ross Johnson, Keith Jones, Sam McFarland, Phil Stern and Bob Thames.
Some former members there were Dwain Chambers, Larry Deters, Joe Kane, Bill Ward, Paul Wietlisbach and Jim Gammon.
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.)
Will Cox did the vocal warm ups which included some practice on Singing Valentine songs. Dean Rust gave a testimonial about his experiences singing in quartets and making Valentine deliveries.
Tony Colosimo had up front duties tonite as Director Joe was not back from Hawaii. Tony gave McKeever a chunk of time to drill and rehearse the moves for “Hello My Baby” while the front row worked on their own to drill their part.
After that, the chorus was dismissed into sectionals to work on their music. Then they reconvened and worked on putting it all together.
As the snow continued to fall, the plan emerged to end early. Dan O’Brien reported we have 111 men signed up to sing in Philly, but that our goal is still 120!! There were no guests tonite, but YeEd noticed the new guys were all there!!
Past President Brad Jones reported that his team is considering the weather this weekend and how it will effect the Presidents’ Ball, currently scheduled for Sat. nite at Durant. BUT stay tuned – it might be moved to Sunday at 1 pm if the Rec Center gets closed by the city officials.
There are tickets left, so email Jack Pitzer editorjack@aol.com to get a space for yourself, and a guest if you wish. Just $15 each. You can settle up that nite.
This year’s Ball, tho being held at the Rec Center, will feature several touches to make it special and still affordable. Guest speaker will be Mark Hale from the often-gold-medal Masters of Harmony in California. He is thrilled about coming to give us all a message of cheer, motivation and inspiration.
The main course will be catered. Other food items will be brought by members –
Last Name A-C bring hors d’oeuvers to go with the reception;
Last Name D-J bring salads/veggies;
Last Name K-P bring sides like vegetables or starches;
Last Name Q- Z bring desserts.
There will be a cash bar during a reception period from 6 – 6:30 pm in the lobby of Durant.
Then at 6:30 we will go into the banquet room (it won’t look anything like the usual meeting hall!). Member Pete Frank is coming down from PA to do the DJ honors for the last part of the evening. Mike Kelly’s new quartet, ENTOURAGE, sing for us as well.
This traditional event also will be our nite to honor men from our ranks and set the goals for next year’s team of chapter leaders. (Former members and chapter friends are also welcome to buy tickets, as well as our many brand new members.)
This Thursday nite is the first stage presence review session at Lee Center, at 7 pm, for stage right. Stage left in next Thurs, Feb. 11th, same time and place.
Tom Kern offered to help anyone who needs white tails for Valentine gigs. And he pleaded for more guys to get him their sizes for the new uniforms for Philly. Members should give Tom their current suit size, dress shirt neck and sleeve length, waist size. He would prefer to get the info via email (tkern@caci.com).
Bob Rhome insisted that those men he asked for credit card info for Philly reservations must take action to contact him.
Eric Wallen stressed that we need a crop of singers to fill the many requests we are getting for Singing Valentine gigs. This is a major fundraiser for the chapter and is as important as a big singout. We need about the same number of singers to contact Eric and help.
Terry Reynolds yielded to early closing and will get out more details about evaluation standards. He alerted us that there will be new self-evaluation forms for both singing and visual uses.
VP Klostermeyer closed the meeting about 8:45 or so. Since the roads were bad, we called 815 Southside and alerted them that we would not be there this week.
We sang “Keep The Whole World Singing” and packed things away. But the early closing did not stop some quarteting in the hall nor a group of guys from singing the new ballad.
Guest reporters Kennett and Buechler gave YeEd some info about the recent Mid Winter BHS convention in Tampa. This International event is “more fun and less hectic” they report. It features a Senior’s quartet contest and one of our members, Mike Wallen and his buddies in YOUTH RECLAMATION PROJECT, came in 9th; and Darryl Flinn was in the fifth place quartet, LIGHTLY SEASONED.
Alan Durick, John Adams and Scott Werner were there as past seniors quartet champs. Alan Wile and Chris Buechler were there for the Society Board meeting. Other Harmonizers noted among the attendees include Tom Gannon, Chuck Harner, Bob Hirsh, John Hohl, Ross Johnson, Keith Jones, Sam McFarland, Phil Stern and Bob Thames.
Some former members there were Dwain Chambers, Larry Deters, Joe Kane, Bill Ward, Paul Wietlisbach and Jim Gammon.
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.)
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Looking Back on the January 26th Chapter Meeting
Tonite was another Harmonzer first – there was no heat in the Durant Center. So Bob Rhome, who makes arrangements with the city for the meeting space, sent out a late-afternoon email alerting the guys. Some didn’t get the word, but with all the excitement and fast-paced stage presence for the uptune, no one froze.
Also there was a lot of excitement about the getting tickets for the Presidents’ Ball – 120 signed up so far. And there are tickets left, so email editorjack@aol.com to get a space for yourself, and a guest if you wish. Just $15 each. You can settle up next Tuesday or that nite.
This year’s Ball, tho being held at the Rec Center, will feature several touches to make it special and still affordable. Guest speaker will be Mark Hale from the often-gold-medal Masters of Harmony in California. He is thrilled about coming to give us all a message of cheer, motivation and inspiration.
The main course will be catered. Other food items will be brought by members –
Last Name A-C bring hors d’oeuvers to go with the reception;
Last Name D-J bring salads/veggies;
Last Name K-P bring sides like vegetables or starches;
Last Name Q- Z bring desserts.
There will be a cash bar during a reception period from 6 – 6:30 pm in the lobby of Durant.
Then at 6:30 we will go into the banquet room (it won’t look anything like the usual meeting hall!). Member Pete Frank is coming down from PA to do the DJ honors for the last part of the evening. Mike Kelly’s new quartet, ENTOURAGE, sing for us as well.
This traditional event also will be our nite to honor men from our ranks and set the goals for next year’s team of chapter leaders. (Former members and chapter friends are also welcome to buy tickets, as well as our many brand new members.)
Tuesday nite’s meeting and rehearsal were packed. After a solid musical warm up led by Tony Colosimo, Terry Reynolds, music and performance vp, organized a Name The Singer Contest. Section leaders (Ives, Kelly, Colosimo, Savage) were seated facing a wall, then the chorus members lined up behind their section leader and like in a quartet push out event, four guys sang a line or two of the Valenine songs. The section leaders tried to identify the guys who sang. It was fun. Some did pretty well, others not so good. But it helped get guys to sing the Valentine songs in a quartet.
When Director Joe took the reigns, he had the singers review some of the songs in the repertoire like “Music of the Night’ and “Drunken Sailor” and such.
Terry Reynolds was back up to the mic to review the standards for attendance, taping, visual and vocal quality reviews and a new area – improvement from first tape or review to the second one.
Then back to some wonderful singing! The ballad is so special and Joe was able to get it out of the guys with every repetition. Joe Sawyer had the duties of running the computer to project the new music onto the screen. Next week the singers are supposed to be off the music. Many were last nite, YeEd noted. And those that were stumbling a little on notes, now know what to work on for themselves next week.
Before the mid-evening break, Dan O’Brien did guest introductions – all three this week have submitted applications!! There were 21 guests last week at our special guest nite event and Dan thanked all for their efforts. He asked the men not to let up and to take a supply of chorus business cards for their wallets so they can be used any time we meet prospects.
The coffee pot was drained last nite since it was cold. And there were a lot of goodies to put out.
The business meeting period after break included some important matters for all. Josh Roots and Eric Wallen gave many details about selling Singing Valentines. The chapter has organized the weekend into blocks when quartets are made available to customers - the time slots are Thursday - Sunday, 8:00am - 12:00pm (morning), 12:00pm - 4:00pm (afternoon) & 4:00pm - 8:00pm (evening). We need a lot more singers to step forward and contact Eric to volunteer to sing. Also it was mentioned that new guys who don’t have white tails and other uniform parts should contact Tom Kern to get what they need.
Noah Van Gilder plugged the Rahway Valley, NJ, Novice quartet contest. And promised an email with details.
Eric Wallen, chapter quartet chairman, also offered to help any guys who are looking to be in quartets for the Southern Division in Roanoke, VA, May 28-29. Great place for a new quartet to start their climb to success.
Chuck McKeever announced again the dates for two special stage presence review sessions for the new uptune that all members should plan to attend. They will be at the Lee Center in their dance studio there. Stage Right on Thurs., Feb. 4. Stage Left on Thurs. Feb. 11. The front row will have a separate session.
Committee chair Rick Savage, presented a preview of the new black 4-button suit for contest this summer. Everyone must get their sizes to Tom Kern – he is starting a new list as he reports there are “floating” waist sizes in the chapter!! Members should give Tom their current suit size, dress shirt neck and sleeve length, waist size. He would prefer to get the info via email (tkern@caci.com).
Ken Fess, chairman of the spectacular Westminster/Harmonizer Show, Sun. June 27th at 2 pm., announced that tickets are on sale. Go to alexandriaharmonizerspresent.com. Besides the two past gold medal choruses, Westminster, CA, and the Harmonizers, there are top ranked quartets signed on to sing such as OC TIMES, OLD SCHOOL, THE MUSICAL ISLAND BOYS, RINGMATERS, MAXX FACTOR, THE EDGE, and THE CRUSH. Tell your barbershop friends, your local DC area customers. Show will be at the George Mason University’s Center for the Arts.
President Dick Newton supported a couple of previous matters such as the need for singers to sign up and do the Singing Valentines. We need the income that is raised from the weekend! Especially with new uniforms coming!!
Then back to singing. The rest of the evening was spent on the contest uptune with some time on gestures and movement. A block of the singing work had Tony out front directing and Joe coaching – a great team!!! The high energy music session pushed right up to the 10 pm mark.
Everyone jumped in to help put things away. There was some singing and quartets around. YeEd noticed some of the applicants heading off to audition – rumor has it we will hear of some new members next week.
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.)
Also there was a lot of excitement about the getting tickets for the Presidents’ Ball – 120 signed up so far. And there are tickets left, so email editorjack@aol.com to get a space for yourself, and a guest if you wish. Just $15 each. You can settle up next Tuesday or that nite.
This year’s Ball, tho being held at the Rec Center, will feature several touches to make it special and still affordable. Guest speaker will be Mark Hale from the often-gold-medal Masters of Harmony in California. He is thrilled about coming to give us all a message of cheer, motivation and inspiration.
The main course will be catered. Other food items will be brought by members –
Last Name A-C bring hors d’oeuvers to go with the reception;
Last Name D-J bring salads/veggies;
Last Name K-P bring sides like vegetables or starches;
Last Name Q- Z bring desserts.
There will be a cash bar during a reception period from 6 – 6:30 pm in the lobby of Durant.
Then at 6:30 we will go into the banquet room (it won’t look anything like the usual meeting hall!). Member Pete Frank is coming down from PA to do the DJ honors for the last part of the evening. Mike Kelly’s new quartet, ENTOURAGE, sing for us as well.
This traditional event also will be our nite to honor men from our ranks and set the goals for next year’s team of chapter leaders. (Former members and chapter friends are also welcome to buy tickets, as well as our many brand new members.)
Tuesday nite’s meeting and rehearsal were packed. After a solid musical warm up led by Tony Colosimo, Terry Reynolds, music and performance vp, organized a Name The Singer Contest. Section leaders (Ives, Kelly, Colosimo, Savage) were seated facing a wall, then the chorus members lined up behind their section leader and like in a quartet push out event, four guys sang a line or two of the Valenine songs. The section leaders tried to identify the guys who sang. It was fun. Some did pretty well, others not so good. But it helped get guys to sing the Valentine songs in a quartet.
When Director Joe took the reigns, he had the singers review some of the songs in the repertoire like “Music of the Night’ and “Drunken Sailor” and such.
Terry Reynolds was back up to the mic to review the standards for attendance, taping, visual and vocal quality reviews and a new area – improvement from first tape or review to the second one.
Then back to some wonderful singing! The ballad is so special and Joe was able to get it out of the guys with every repetition. Joe Sawyer had the duties of running the computer to project the new music onto the screen. Next week the singers are supposed to be off the music. Many were last nite, YeEd noted. And those that were stumbling a little on notes, now know what to work on for themselves next week.
Before the mid-evening break, Dan O’Brien did guest introductions – all three this week have submitted applications!! There were 21 guests last week at our special guest nite event and Dan thanked all for their efforts. He asked the men not to let up and to take a supply of chorus business cards for their wallets so they can be used any time we meet prospects.
The coffee pot was drained last nite since it was cold. And there were a lot of goodies to put out.
The business meeting period after break included some important matters for all. Josh Roots and Eric Wallen gave many details about selling Singing Valentines. The chapter has organized the weekend into blocks when quartets are made available to customers - the time slots are Thursday - Sunday, 8:00am - 12:00pm (morning), 12:00pm - 4:00pm (afternoon) & 4:00pm - 8:00pm (evening). We need a lot more singers to step forward and contact Eric to volunteer to sing. Also it was mentioned that new guys who don’t have white tails and other uniform parts should contact Tom Kern to get what they need.
Noah Van Gilder plugged the Rahway Valley, NJ, Novice quartet contest. And promised an email with details.
Eric Wallen, chapter quartet chairman, also offered to help any guys who are looking to be in quartets for the Southern Division in Roanoke, VA, May 28-29. Great place for a new quartet to start their climb to success.
Chuck McKeever announced again the dates for two special stage presence review sessions for the new uptune that all members should plan to attend. They will be at the Lee Center in their dance studio there. Stage Right on Thurs., Feb. 4. Stage Left on Thurs. Feb. 11. The front row will have a separate session.
Committee chair Rick Savage, presented a preview of the new black 4-button suit for contest this summer. Everyone must get their sizes to Tom Kern – he is starting a new list as he reports there are “floating” waist sizes in the chapter!! Members should give Tom their current suit size, dress shirt neck and sleeve length, waist size. He would prefer to get the info via email (tkern@caci.com).
Ken Fess, chairman of the spectacular Westminster/Harmonizer Show, Sun. June 27th at 2 pm., announced that tickets are on sale. Go to alexandriaharmonizerspresent.com. Besides the two past gold medal choruses, Westminster, CA, and the Harmonizers, there are top ranked quartets signed on to sing such as OC TIMES, OLD SCHOOL, THE MUSICAL ISLAND BOYS, RINGMATERS, MAXX FACTOR, THE EDGE, and THE CRUSH. Tell your barbershop friends, your local DC area customers. Show will be at the George Mason University’s Center for the Arts.
President Dick Newton supported a couple of previous matters such as the need for singers to sign up and do the Singing Valentines. We need the income that is raised from the weekend! Especially with new uniforms coming!!
Then back to singing. The rest of the evening was spent on the contest uptune with some time on gestures and movement. A block of the singing work had Tony out front directing and Joe coaching – a great team!!! The high energy music session pushed right up to the 10 pm mark.
Everyone jumped in to help put things away. There was some singing and quartets around. YeEd noticed some of the applicants heading off to audition – rumor has it we will hear of some new members next week.
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.)
Friday, January 22, 2010
Looking Back on the January 19th Chapter Meeting
There was excitement AND anticipation in the air tonite!!
Everyone was curious as to how many guests we would have and how the evening would go as we worked more on the contest package.
The stage presence review conducted by Chuck McKeever drew another large crowd.
The 9 sections of risers were backed up to the stage and a guest gallery of chairs was set out for the many non-singing guests who attend a Harmonizer guest nite. They were full tonite too.
Will Cox did vocal exercises for warm up as well as some fast moves and hand clapping to get members and guests into the action. Tony Colosimo continued musical warm up and had guys sing the Valentine songs (as practice to get into shape for the Singing Valentine weekend and many quartet gigs).
When Director Joe took over, he got the guests and chorus right to work singing the new contest up tune and had them review and do the moves. All nite Joe was great about adding connecting language between segments of the meeting to explain why we do things, what we prepare for like contest and shows, venues the chorus has appeared in, what kinda commitment you need to be a Harmonizer. All good info for the 20-plus guests. YeEd thinks you could tell Joe was loosing his voice tonite, which he says was a result of his long weekend as guest conductor for a high school music festival in Maryland. Congrats for gaining the recognition for our art form in a non barbershop music arena. And thanks to Bob Mattes’ wife for making the contact.
The guests tonite were taken to a meeting room for briefing and introduction to our chapter and the Barbershop Harmony Society.
While they were out, the chapter conducted some of its business matters. Alan Wile thanked the chapter for support of the 50/50 each week. The chapter has turned in $657 for the last half of 2009 from just the chapter’s part to the Mid Atlantic District Endowment Fund.
Josh Roots asked for workers to help with the admin support of the huge Singing Valentine project. Eric Wallen asked for every man to consider doing some quartet gigs to help us fill the orders – which are already coming in via phone, and online.
Brad Jones invited all members to purchase their $15 ticket for the Presidents’ Ball, Feb. 6th right at Durant. Jack Pitzer is taking table reservations and selling the tickets. Talk to your buddies and get a table together. Each table has ten places. This year’s Ball, tho being held at the Rec Center, will feature several touches to make it special and still affordable. Guest speaker will be Mark Hale from the often-gold-medal Masters of Harmony in California. He is thrilled about coming to give us all a message of cheer, motivation and inspiration.
The main course will be catered. Other food items will be brought by members –
Last Name A-C bring hors d’oeuvers;
Last Name D-J bring salads/veggies;
Last Name K-P bring sides like vegetables or starches;
Last Name Q- Z bring desserts.
There will be a cash bar during a reception period from 6 – 6:30 pm in the lobby of Durant.
Then at 6:30 we will go into the banquet room (it won’t look anything like the usual meeting hall!). Member Pete Frank is coming down from PA to the DJ honors for the last part of the evening.
This traditional event also will be our nite to honor men from our ranks and set the goals for next year’s team of chapter leaders. (Former members and chapter friends are also welcome to buy tickets.)
Secretary Buechler gave Eric Hughes his 3-year membership renewal card and gave Keith Jones his 32-year card.
President Dick Newton read a thank you note from the Poulin family expressing appreciation for the guys who came and sang with Ian at his brother’s service. The family made a contribution to our chapter as well. There was also a letter alerting the chapter that widow of Rick Loveland, Terri, had passed away last year.
Dick also received a check and thank you note from a chorus fan that had seen Will Cox do his familiar “Night Before Christmas” routine and asked Will to come do it for their party.
After the meeting, the guests sang a tag for us. Membership VP Dan introduced all the guests by name and gave First Timer pins to many. It was also good to see several former members back on the risers and here to sing again.
The chorus sang three songs for the guests – each song directed by one of our assistant directors. Joe was mc and asked Will, Tony and Mike Kelly to direct.
Thanks to all the guys who brought goodies to share for break time. Lots of guys helped guests sing tags, helped them meet other members and talked about the chapter.
Joe used another large block of time on the contest songs and involved the guests right on the risers with the men. This was our first time to sing and hear the ballad all the way thru. WOW.
At 10, Joe did a wrap up. Eric Hughes won almost all the prizes in the 50/50 and directed the final song. All were invited to the afterglow.
It was another great Harmonizer nite. If you are not a regular on Tuesday, come out and sing in the peanut gallery, or get up on the risers. We miss you.
YeEd forgot to tell you he heard about four of guys who went out last week before chapter meeting and sang a couple songs for our Rec Center manager’s birthday. There is always something happening special among our chapter and its members.
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.)
Everyone was curious as to how many guests we would have and how the evening would go as we worked more on the contest package.
The stage presence review conducted by Chuck McKeever drew another large crowd.
The 9 sections of risers were backed up to the stage and a guest gallery of chairs was set out for the many non-singing guests who attend a Harmonizer guest nite. They were full tonite too.
Will Cox did vocal exercises for warm up as well as some fast moves and hand clapping to get members and guests into the action. Tony Colosimo continued musical warm up and had guys sing the Valentine songs (as practice to get into shape for the Singing Valentine weekend and many quartet gigs).
When Director Joe took over, he got the guests and chorus right to work singing the new contest up tune and had them review and do the moves. All nite Joe was great about adding connecting language between segments of the meeting to explain why we do things, what we prepare for like contest and shows, venues the chorus has appeared in, what kinda commitment you need to be a Harmonizer. All good info for the 20-plus guests. YeEd thinks you could tell Joe was loosing his voice tonite, which he says was a result of his long weekend as guest conductor for a high school music festival in Maryland. Congrats for gaining the recognition for our art form in a non barbershop music arena. And thanks to Bob Mattes’ wife for making the contact.
The guests tonite were taken to a meeting room for briefing and introduction to our chapter and the Barbershop Harmony Society.
While they were out, the chapter conducted some of its business matters. Alan Wile thanked the chapter for support of the 50/50 each week. The chapter has turned in $657 for the last half of 2009 from just the chapter’s part to the Mid Atlantic District Endowment Fund.
Josh Roots asked for workers to help with the admin support of the huge Singing Valentine project. Eric Wallen asked for every man to consider doing some quartet gigs to help us fill the orders – which are already coming in via phone, and online.
Brad Jones invited all members to purchase their $15 ticket for the Presidents’ Ball, Feb. 6th right at Durant. Jack Pitzer is taking table reservations and selling the tickets. Talk to your buddies and get a table together. Each table has ten places. This year’s Ball, tho being held at the Rec Center, will feature several touches to make it special and still affordable. Guest speaker will be Mark Hale from the often-gold-medal Masters of Harmony in California. He is thrilled about coming to give us all a message of cheer, motivation and inspiration.
The main course will be catered. Other food items will be brought by members –
Last Name A-C bring hors d’oeuvers;
Last Name D-J bring salads/veggies;
Last Name K-P bring sides like vegetables or starches;
Last Name Q- Z bring desserts.
There will be a cash bar during a reception period from 6 – 6:30 pm in the lobby of Durant.
Then at 6:30 we will go into the banquet room (it won’t look anything like the usual meeting hall!). Member Pete Frank is coming down from PA to the DJ honors for the last part of the evening.
This traditional event also will be our nite to honor men from our ranks and set the goals for next year’s team of chapter leaders. (Former members and chapter friends are also welcome to buy tickets.)
Secretary Buechler gave Eric Hughes his 3-year membership renewal card and gave Keith Jones his 32-year card.
President Dick Newton read a thank you note from the Poulin family expressing appreciation for the guys who came and sang with Ian at his brother’s service. The family made a contribution to our chapter as well. There was also a letter alerting the chapter that widow of Rick Loveland, Terri, had passed away last year.
Dick also received a check and thank you note from a chorus fan that had seen Will Cox do his familiar “Night Before Christmas” routine and asked Will to come do it for their party.
After the meeting, the guests sang a tag for us. Membership VP Dan introduced all the guests by name and gave First Timer pins to many. It was also good to see several former members back on the risers and here to sing again.
The chorus sang three songs for the guests – each song directed by one of our assistant directors. Joe was mc and asked Will, Tony and Mike Kelly to direct.
Thanks to all the guys who brought goodies to share for break time. Lots of guys helped guests sing tags, helped them meet other members and talked about the chapter.
Joe used another large block of time on the contest songs and involved the guests right on the risers with the men. This was our first time to sing and hear the ballad all the way thru. WOW.
At 10, Joe did a wrap up. Eric Hughes won almost all the prizes in the 50/50 and directed the final song. All were invited to the afterglow.
It was another great Harmonizer nite. If you are not a regular on Tuesday, come out and sing in the peanut gallery, or get up on the risers. We miss you.
YeEd forgot to tell you he heard about four of guys who went out last week before chapter meeting and sang a couple songs for our Rec Center manager’s birthday. There is always something happening special among our chapter and its members.
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.)
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
Looking Back on the January 12th Chapter Meeting
That excitement was still in the air tonite!!
Fun thing YeEd noted was that black hats were appearing everywhere – guys wearing them, piled on tables, being tossed to each other. Found out they were gonna be used as training hats for the front row’s work on the new uptune. Ken White had put out a call for guys to bring in a supply of the “Happy Feet” hats for the guys to use.
Treasurer Howard Nestlerode arrived with a handful of paperwork and checks or receipts to deliver. Another important Harmonizer job that is done outside chapter meeting.
Mark Klostermeyer alerted early arrivals to check for the new riser line up (on the nifty magnet chart he has made) so everyone could be set in place for the 7 pm kick off.
Tony Colosimo did the warm ups and worked the singers hard to be prepared for good singing. Right away at 7, the front row went to the lobby of Durant to work with Cindy Hansen who was in town to teach the chorus the uptune staging plan. (YeEd heard that she also worked with the Pride of Baltimore chorus on Monday.)
During the warm up period, Tony used “Heart of My Heart” so that guys would get some review in preparing quartets for the Singing Valentine program. Before the 7 pm start, Chuck McKeever had another large class of guys on hand for stage presence review up on the stage at Durant.
Director Joe stepped up to direct and used his time for a review of “Great Day” and “New York New York” that will be sung at the Guest Nite on Jan. 19th. Joe made a heartfelt plea for every guy to bring someone and spread the word -- not just to depend on the membership team to do the work. We are all on the team including those members who have joined in recent months, or those who have been members for a long time. Members who are not active are certainly welcome to visit and/or bring a friend or neighbor who likes to sing.
Then Joe welcomed Cindy to great cheers from the chapter. She set the stage about the dual team of her and Geri working on a first class contest package. She and the chorus worked hard until 10 pm!!! It was awesome. What a plan. And the guys were able to dig in and learn it and perform it pretty darn well. Cindy had met with chapter visual team leaders over the weekend to brief them, so they could help with the training. Director Joe also was in on the visual planning and so he made sure it all worked well with the music. He particularly made certain that the rehearsal of moves was done at a tempo close to his plan for performance.
At 10, we had our chapter meeting period. Secretary Buechler gave new member materials to Andrew Plocher and renewal member materials to Myles Glancy. He gave a 13-year renewal card to Brian Miller and a 36-year card to Rick Savage.
Steve White, assisted by other Harmonizers who are members of the DELA honor club, welcome newest DELA member from our chapter, Joe Cerutti. Congrats to Joe. BTW, Steve is 2010 president of DELA.
Terry Reynolds reminded front row that they would be having practice at 6 pm next week. He also reminded vocal evaluators of their duties. This group has worked to be certain of consistency in their work.
Membership guy, Dan O’Brien, reminded all of the Jan. 19th guest nite and the useful promotional tools for guys to use. Then he welcomed several guests and new applicants Jeremy Richardson and Bruce Roehm.
Josh Roots is chair of the Singing Valentine program this year. He announced his needs for staffing help, and especially pushed all to consider forming a quartet. The chapter can handle the marketing and paperwork well, but we need a lot of quartets!
Before closing for the nite, Cindy thanked all the men for their hard work, dedication and support. She also reminded us of the Cruise she and Director Joe are organizing for July 18-25, 2010. It will be on Holland America. Sam McFarland will be a contact person for t his event.
So—after a long nite of hard, fun, work, we sang our closing song and packed things up and headed to the after glow at 815 South Washington.
Many guys stopped by to buy their tickets for the Presidents Ball event, Feb. 6, 2010, at Durant this year. Happy hour starts at 6 pm, dinner at 6:30 pm. Tickets are only $15 per person. Tables of 10 are available to arrange, so ask your pals about sitting together and see YeEd next week.
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.)
Fun thing YeEd noted was that black hats were appearing everywhere – guys wearing them, piled on tables, being tossed to each other. Found out they were gonna be used as training hats for the front row’s work on the new uptune. Ken White had put out a call for guys to bring in a supply of the “Happy Feet” hats for the guys to use.
Treasurer Howard Nestlerode arrived with a handful of paperwork and checks or receipts to deliver. Another important Harmonizer job that is done outside chapter meeting.
Mark Klostermeyer alerted early arrivals to check for the new riser line up (on the nifty magnet chart he has made) so everyone could be set in place for the 7 pm kick off.
Tony Colosimo did the warm ups and worked the singers hard to be prepared for good singing. Right away at 7, the front row went to the lobby of Durant to work with Cindy Hansen who was in town to teach the chorus the uptune staging plan. (YeEd heard that she also worked with the Pride of Baltimore chorus on Monday.)
During the warm up period, Tony used “Heart of My Heart” so that guys would get some review in preparing quartets for the Singing Valentine program. Before the 7 pm start, Chuck McKeever had another large class of guys on hand for stage presence review up on the stage at Durant.
Director Joe stepped up to direct and used his time for a review of “Great Day” and “New York New York” that will be sung at the Guest Nite on Jan. 19th. Joe made a heartfelt plea for every guy to bring someone and spread the word -- not just to depend on the membership team to do the work. We are all on the team including those members who have joined in recent months, or those who have been members for a long time. Members who are not active are certainly welcome to visit and/or bring a friend or neighbor who likes to sing.
Then Joe welcomed Cindy to great cheers from the chapter. She set the stage about the dual team of her and Geri working on a first class contest package. She and the chorus worked hard until 10 pm!!! It was awesome. What a plan. And the guys were able to dig in and learn it and perform it pretty darn well. Cindy had met with chapter visual team leaders over the weekend to brief them, so they could help with the training. Director Joe also was in on the visual planning and so he made sure it all worked well with the music. He particularly made certain that the rehearsal of moves was done at a tempo close to his plan for performance.
At 10, we had our chapter meeting period. Secretary Buechler gave new member materials to Andrew Plocher and renewal member materials to Myles Glancy. He gave a 13-year renewal card to Brian Miller and a 36-year card to Rick Savage.
Steve White, assisted by other Harmonizers who are members of the DELA honor club, welcome newest DELA member from our chapter, Joe Cerutti. Congrats to Joe. BTW, Steve is 2010 president of DELA.
Terry Reynolds reminded front row that they would be having practice at 6 pm next week. He also reminded vocal evaluators of their duties. This group has worked to be certain of consistency in their work.
Membership guy, Dan O’Brien, reminded all of the Jan. 19th guest nite and the useful promotional tools for guys to use. Then he welcomed several guests and new applicants Jeremy Richardson and Bruce Roehm.
Josh Roots is chair of the Singing Valentine program this year. He announced his needs for staffing help, and especially pushed all to consider forming a quartet. The chapter can handle the marketing and paperwork well, but we need a lot of quartets!
Before closing for the nite, Cindy thanked all the men for their hard work, dedication and support. She also reminded us of the Cruise she and Director Joe are organizing for July 18-25, 2010. It will be on Holland America. Sam McFarland will be a contact person for t his event.
So—after a long nite of hard, fun, work, we sang our closing song and packed things up and headed to the after glow at 815 South Washington.
Many guys stopped by to buy their tickets for the Presidents Ball event, Feb. 6, 2010, at Durant this year. Happy hour starts at 6 pm, dinner at 6:30 pm. Tickets are only $15 per person. Tables of 10 are available to arrange, so ask your pals about sitting together and see YeEd next week.
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.)
Friday, January 8, 2010
Looking Back on the January 5th Chapter Meeting
There was excitement in the air tonite!!
The stage was packed with guys trying to learn the stage moves for “Meeting Tonight” and YeEd hears that Chuck McKeever has a new Bose sound system for providing music to practice with during his stage presence review classes.
And before I forget about it, YeEd got an email from George Azzam in response to the Looking Back column we wrote after the recent Put Together contest. George wrote. “What a hoot! So glad to know I’m remembered and I am honored that an award has been created in my name. One of these years, I’ll come visit on the nite of the contest. Not sure I’ll be able to throw together enough quartets to win my own award, but it would be fun to try.”
YeEd also reports that he heard from John Hohl in FL that former director Scott Werner was in the hospital for six days during the holidays. Some sort of heart issue but he is out now and adjusting blood thinner meds and is at home.
Tuesday nite’s huge crowd was crammed on 9 risers cause the risers were set up facing the stage (so video cameras could be used to capture the who performance – there is work going on to make SP training tapes for new guys to learn sp for the songs). The usual 11 sections won’t fit across the hall, so only 9 were set.
And there were coats everywhere – it was freezing cold outside tonite.
YeEd also noticed new chapter music librarian, Bob Mattes, at work before the meeting getting more guests books ready as well as updating others.
First singing of the chorus was to rekindle interest in the Singing Valentine operation for the chapter. Director Joe plugged it hard and asked guys in all the recent put-together quartets to sign up to help. Chorus sang thru “Heart of My Heart” and did a quartet-push-out thing on “Let Me Call You Sweetheart.”
Joe then launched a few remarks about the goals and kick off for 2010 and welcomed so many members, guests and former members. He was particularly proud of the big crowd of our guys who went to the Beer Blast in Dundalk.
Then he introduced and sincerely welcomed Geri and Royal Geis. Royal is a past chapter president and major chorus sales agent. Geri was artistic director. She will be our coach for the new ballad and used her first visit to rekindle attitude and skills of chorus members in delivering artistry on stage and in performances. She demonstrated and spoke and helped the newer generation of chorus members discover how things can work in the presentation arena.
When she had finished, the guys gave Geri a Harmonize cheer and thanked her for helping us. Joe used the moment to ask for the same rapt attention guys gave Geri at all of our meetings in 2010.
Mark Klostermeyer plugged the Heat Glo that is Sat. Jan. 9th at Jack and Pat Pitzer’s. 7:30 pm. Bring snacks to share. Bring significant other. Casual dress. (This is a continuation of a 40-plus year chapter tradition.)
Secretary Buechler gave a 21-year renewal card to Matt Kahn and announced that Skip Coburn had also earned a 21-year card.
Membership VP Dan O’Brien explained plans for the Jan. 19th guest nite that is coming up fast. He asked us all to use the flyers and invite cards he provided . (YeEd noticed that the supply was pretty much gone when we ended the nite!! Hurray.)
Another group of guests were on hand as well as several former members who were back to rejoin and get back involved with the chapter. Hurray again.
The break was busy as many guys wanted some warm coffee. And there were a lot of goodies that came in from guys who wanted to share leftovers from the Holidays.
After-break-announcements included details about the Presidents’ Ball on Feb. 6th. It will be a banquet with the chapter catering the main course and members bring sides, dessert or hors d’oeuvers. The event with start with a cash bar cocktail hour. DJ Pete Frank will be back to join us, and guest speaker, Mark Hale, director of the Masters of Harmony in CA, will install our officer team!!! This is the nite we give out the major chapter awards. Price is only $15 each and we are hoping for ALL members and their significant other to come. Stay tuned for sign up details and table reservations (table of 10). Big thanks to immediate past president Brad Jones who had done all the work on making this great event take on a new look.
Jack Cameron has fall contest pixs for those guys who ordered them.
Craig Kujawa reported on the chapter’s weight loss program. Team B headed by Mark Klostermeyer is in third place. Team A headed by Joe Cerutti and Team D headed by Phil Ferguson are tied for second. Team C headed by Ken Fess is in first place.
Music VP Terry Reynolds reviewed the qualification process and asked all to watch for copy in the mail. A new aspect of the plan this year is for all to show improvement. Terry also suggested that the music team is hoping everyone can get rid of tapes and move over to newer methods.
Chapter President Dick Newton, in office at his first chapter meeting, supported the goals shared by Joe earlier. He reported that Jed Casey had a hip replacement today and is reportedly doing well. Dick also read a thank you note from Marjorie Beatley, wife of former Alexandria mayor, thanking us for the great holiday performance. Her husband was an avid fan and supporter of the chapter (YeEd thinks that would have been in the 70s).
Then it was back to work on the risers with a solid work session on the “Meeting Here Tonight” visual plan.
And finally we got to sing the new up tune!! Wow – what a great start and successful first-time thru. The chorus worked then for 15 minutes or so in sectionals to extend the learning curve. Then when everyone was back, Joe was able to drill and coach and instruct. It was fast and high energy and fun.
As he has done a few times before, Joe had the men sing though the melody of the ballad. But first he invited a member to read the lyrics and recite them as the member would feel the story. Scott Kahler was first to volunteer.
We sang right up until 10, plugged the Heat Glo one more time, and had the 50/50 drawings (a couple pounds of coffee were given first and then the cash). The other half of the cash goes to the Mid Atlantic District Endowment Fund.
Craig Kujawa is taking a temporary duty assignment out of the country for 8-12 weeks, so he was invited to take us out and direct “Whole World.”
The excitement and fun continued at the afterglow at 815 South Washington.
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 was packed with guys trying to learn the stage moves for “Meeting Tonight” and YeEd hears that Chuck McKeever has a new Bose sound system for providing music to practice with during his stage presence review classes.
And before I forget about it, YeEd got an email from George Azzam in response to the Looking Back column we wrote after the recent Put Together contest. George wrote. “What a hoot! So glad to know I’m remembered and I am honored that an award has been created in my name. One of these years, I’ll come visit on the nite of the contest. Not sure I’ll be able to throw together enough quartets to win my own award, but it would be fun to try.”
YeEd also reports that he heard from John Hohl in FL that former director Scott Werner was in the hospital for six days during the holidays. Some sort of heart issue but he is out now and adjusting blood thinner meds and is at home.
Tuesday nite’s huge crowd was crammed on 9 risers cause the risers were set up facing the stage (so video cameras could be used to capture the who performance – there is work going on to make SP training tapes for new guys to learn sp for the songs). The usual 11 sections won’t fit across the hall, so only 9 were set.
And there were coats everywhere – it was freezing cold outside tonite.
YeEd also noticed new chapter music librarian, Bob Mattes, at work before the meeting getting more guests books ready as well as updating others.
First singing of the chorus was to rekindle interest in the Singing Valentine operation for the chapter. Director Joe plugged it hard and asked guys in all the recent put-together quartets to sign up to help. Chorus sang thru “Heart of My Heart” and did a quartet-push-out thing on “Let Me Call You Sweetheart.”
Joe then launched a few remarks about the goals and kick off for 2010 and welcomed so many members, guests and former members. He was particularly proud of the big crowd of our guys who went to the Beer Blast in Dundalk.
Then he introduced and sincerely welcomed Geri and Royal Geis. Royal is a past chapter president and major chorus sales agent. Geri was artistic director. She will be our coach for the new ballad and used her first visit to rekindle attitude and skills of chorus members in delivering artistry on stage and in performances. She demonstrated and spoke and helped the newer generation of chorus members discover how things can work in the presentation arena.
When she had finished, the guys gave Geri a Harmonize cheer and thanked her for helping us. Joe used the moment to ask for the same rapt attention guys gave Geri at all of our meetings in 2010.
Mark Klostermeyer plugged the Heat Glo that is Sat. Jan. 9th at Jack and Pat Pitzer’s. 7:30 pm. Bring snacks to share. Bring significant other. Casual dress. (This is a continuation of a 40-plus year chapter tradition.)
Secretary Buechler gave a 21-year renewal card to Matt Kahn and announced that Skip Coburn had also earned a 21-year card.
Membership VP Dan O’Brien explained plans for the Jan. 19th guest nite that is coming up fast. He asked us all to use the flyers and invite cards he provided . (YeEd noticed that the supply was pretty much gone when we ended the nite!! Hurray.)
Another group of guests were on hand as well as several former members who were back to rejoin and get back involved with the chapter. Hurray again.
The break was busy as many guys wanted some warm coffee. And there were a lot of goodies that came in from guys who wanted to share leftovers from the Holidays.
After-break-announcements included details about the Presidents’ Ball on Feb. 6th. It will be a banquet with the chapter catering the main course and members bring sides, dessert or hors d’oeuvers. The event with start with a cash bar cocktail hour. DJ Pete Frank will be back to join us, and guest speaker, Mark Hale, director of the Masters of Harmony in CA, will install our officer team!!! This is the nite we give out the major chapter awards. Price is only $15 each and we are hoping for ALL members and their significant other to come. Stay tuned for sign up details and table reservations (table of 10). Big thanks to immediate past president Brad Jones who had done all the work on making this great event take on a new look.
Jack Cameron has fall contest pixs for those guys who ordered them.
Craig Kujawa reported on the chapter’s weight loss program. Team B headed by Mark Klostermeyer is in third place. Team A headed by Joe Cerutti and Team D headed by Phil Ferguson are tied for second. Team C headed by Ken Fess is in first place.
Music VP Terry Reynolds reviewed the qualification process and asked all to watch for copy in the mail. A new aspect of the plan this year is for all to show improvement. Terry also suggested that the music team is hoping everyone can get rid of tapes and move over to newer methods.
Chapter President Dick Newton, in office at his first chapter meeting, supported the goals shared by Joe earlier. He reported that Jed Casey had a hip replacement today and is reportedly doing well. Dick also read a thank you note from Marjorie Beatley, wife of former Alexandria mayor, thanking us for the great holiday performance. Her husband was an avid fan and supporter of the chapter (YeEd thinks that would have been in the 70s).
Then it was back to work on the risers with a solid work session on the “Meeting Here Tonight” visual plan.
And finally we got to sing the new up tune!! Wow – what a great start and successful first-time thru. The chorus worked then for 15 minutes or so in sectionals to extend the learning curve. Then when everyone was back, Joe was able to drill and coach and instruct. It was fast and high energy and fun.
As he has done a few times before, Joe had the men sing though the melody of the ballad. But first he invited a member to read the lyrics and recite them as the member would feel the story. Scott Kahler was first to volunteer.
We sang right up until 10, plugged the Heat Glo one more time, and had the 50/50 drawings (a couple pounds of coffee were given first and then the cash). The other half of the cash goes to the Mid Atlantic District Endowment Fund.
Craig Kujawa is taking a temporary duty assignment out of the country for 8-12 weeks, so he was invited to take us out and direct “Whole World.”
The excitement and fun continued at the afterglow at 815 South Washington.
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.)
Monday, January 4, 2010
Looking Back on the Dec. 22nd Hospital Sing; Dec. 29th BLAST at Dundalk
The chorus did the annual sing at Alexandria Hospital on Dec. 22nd. We have done this for many, many years. In the old days the chorus was so small that the Alexandria Rec Dept. provided a bus and we went to several hospitals in the area to sing.
This year we had a decent crowd despite the awful weather conditions, street conditions and traffic. This was just a couple days after the 15-20 inch snow that hit the DC area. Director Joe helped us do our part to cheer up those who had to be in the hospital this time of year. After the sing, the troops adjourned to 815 Southside for an afterglow.
On Dec. 29th, a huge number of Alexandria guys went to the BLAST hosted by the Dundalk Chapter in Glen Bernie. We had 28 members present. And ten of them sang in the quartet contest that was for pick up groups as well as registered quartets. Tony Colosimo sang five times beating out Dean Martin, Joe Sawyer and Ryan Griffith who were in four groups. One of Tony’s quartets, SHOULD BE LEGAL, included Wayne Adams, Joe Sawyer plus Erin Odell singing tenor. She got a prize for being brave!!
After the 25 or so quartets were all done, some of our guys got prizes. Director Joe was in the second place quartet with guys from around the district. And the winning quartet was called LEADLESS with four of our guys – Ryan Griffith, Dean Martin, Joe Sawyer and Mike Kelly.
Other Harmonizers not mentioned above who got up and sang with three other guys included Sam McFarland, Chris Yates, and Bob Mattes. Several former members were on stage during the evening too. (YeEd is afraid to start that list in case we forgot someone!) It was fun to create the list of guys who were arriving from our chapter – some had driven a long way to be there.
Judges for the contest were the ladies from CAPRI who have been so helpful at our Youth Harmony events each spring. Rick Taylor, who is a Harmonizer, was MC. Ryan Griffith who is active in both Dundalk and Alexandria was credited for heading up the BLAST event which was well attended. They had to bring in extra tables. There were guys from NY, PA, NJ as well as VA, MD, DC.
The evening included lots of beer and soda and hot dogs and chips – all included in the small entry fee. The evening concluded with a performance by MAXX FACTOR, fresh back from their gig in Hollywood. Wow they are great.
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.)
This year we had a decent crowd despite the awful weather conditions, street conditions and traffic. This was just a couple days after the 15-20 inch snow that hit the DC area. Director Joe helped us do our part to cheer up those who had to be in the hospital this time of year. After the sing, the troops adjourned to 815 Southside for an afterglow.
On Dec. 29th, a huge number of Alexandria guys went to the BLAST hosted by the Dundalk Chapter in Glen Bernie. We had 28 members present. And ten of them sang in the quartet contest that was for pick up groups as well as registered quartets. Tony Colosimo sang five times beating out Dean Martin, Joe Sawyer and Ryan Griffith who were in four groups. One of Tony’s quartets, SHOULD BE LEGAL, included Wayne Adams, Joe Sawyer plus Erin Odell singing tenor. She got a prize for being brave!!
After the 25 or so quartets were all done, some of our guys got prizes. Director Joe was in the second place quartet with guys from around the district. And the winning quartet was called LEADLESS with four of our guys – Ryan Griffith, Dean Martin, Joe Sawyer and Mike Kelly.
Other Harmonizers not mentioned above who got up and sang with three other guys included Sam McFarland, Chris Yates, and Bob Mattes. Several former members were on stage during the evening too. (YeEd is afraid to start that list in case we forgot someone!) It was fun to create the list of guys who were arriving from our chapter – some had driven a long way to be there.
Judges for the contest were the ladies from CAPRI who have been so helpful at our Youth Harmony events each spring. Rick Taylor, who is a Harmonizer, was MC. Ryan Griffith who is active in both Dundalk and Alexandria was credited for heading up the BLAST event which was well attended. They had to bring in extra tables. There were guys from NY, PA, NJ as well as VA, MD, DC.
The evening included lots of beer and soda and hot dogs and chips – all included in the small entry fee. The evening concluded with a performance by MAXX FACTOR, fresh back from their gig in Hollywood. Wow they are great.
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.)
Friday, December 18, 2009
Looking Back on the Dec.15th Chapter Meeting & Put Together Contest
Another nite without risers! The set up crew was at work early to set up a theater setting facing the stage for the quartet contest.
Last minute sales of ornaments and scrip cards were conducted. Special orders of scrip cards will be delivered at the Hospital Sing next Tuesday nite.
Many guys were trying to find the guys they were gonna sing with in the competition and checking the Order of Singing posted on the wall by the coffee table.
Will Cox did warm ups and got every one singing. Director Joe made some announcements to recap last week’s word about the busy January schedule with the contest package. He confirmed that guys had gotten the learning materials made available by the music team. He reminded all that Geri Geis will be in to work on the ballad and Cindy Hansen to work on the up tune early in January.
The Abe Lincoln painting made for the chorus during the holiday show dress rehearsal was put out as a silent auction item. It went for a heft sum and included a gift card to sue for framing. The artist made it for the chapter.
Membership VP Dan announced the next guest nite to be January 19th. Start lining up your guests who will want to join this exciting chapter.
Dan also welcomed several guests, several former members in for the contest, as well as some members we don’t see too often who were also singing in the contest. He also welcomed our judges – YOUTH RECLAMATOIN PROJECT, Hardman Jones, Mike Wallen, Roger Tarpey, Vic Owen. They are current district senior’s quartet champs and will represent us at the mid winter convention in FL.
Everyone was glad to hear that Maxx Factor did well the first nite on the TV special. (Word came in at the afterglow that they had made the second cut.)
Secretary Buechler presented a Man of Note award to Dan O’Brien for sponsoring Andrew Plocher. Chris also gave out membership renewal cards to Scipio Garling for 14 years, Vince Cazenas for 23 years, Mark Klostermeyer for 29 years, Steve White for 33 years, and Chuck Harner for 42 years.
Then the gang took a half hour break. The coffee was ready, and thanks to Bob Blair who saved the nite by driving all the way over to the Harmonizer truck parking lot and getting the supply of goodies from the truck to go with the coffee.
At 8 pm, the bell rang and the guys all took seats. This year there was quartet on deck while a quartet sang. So there was always a nice crowd to cheer (and laugh). Lew Klinge kept us all laughing as mc and also kept things rolling. He also presented a lot of great history about the contest and its founder, Wilbur Sparks.
Dr. Put, or event chairman, Eric Wallen, did a great job in promoting to get the 20 entries, and all the behind the scene planning. Thanks also to the sound guys, photo guys listed in the report or score sheet printed here.
Congrats to all. There was some great singing, many great laughs and some good parodies. There were surprises like when a quartet set off a flash or spark and had not told the tenor! Also there were a couple quartets who got to laughing so hard that they almost had to toss in the towel. It was a great nite.
Results of winners are below. Eric instituted a new award to recognize a guy who sang all four parts in the contest. Since no one managed to copy that trend set in the past by George Azzam, we recognized the guys who sang in the most quartets. Joel Golden and Bob Mattes each sang in five! Bob will get his trophy next time.
December 29th there is no a Harmonizer meeting at Durant. BUT all of our chapter, and especially the quartets from our contest, are invited to go over to the annual BLAST hosted by Dundalk. 7 – 11 pm. At Michael’s 8th Avenue, 7220 Grayburn Drive, Glen Burnie, MD. More info from blast.dundalk.org. Let’s send at least our winning quartets there to compete. Food and brews included in the small entry fee. Joe gave it a plug last nite too.
To confirm, the chorus will sing carols next Tuesday, Dec. 22, at Alexandria Hospital on Seminary Road. Meet in the lobby at 7 pm. Wear a Santa hat or scarf. New members and guests are welcome, as well as old timers who have not been singing a lot lately. After we sing we will all go to 815 Southside for an afterglow.
Here is the report from last nite’s contest.
Contest Competitors and Scores (names listed tenor, lead, bari, bass):
1. Chopped Liver -- 274
(Colosimo, Grant, Mattes, Yates)
2. Audacity -- 258 Comedy
(Kousen, Dangel, Golden, Wachter)
3. Patapsco 4 -- 213 Comedy
(Cameron, Depuy, Ashford, Kelly)
4. PBQ (Paper Bag Quartet) – 223 Comedy
(Cerutti, Ferguson, Fess, Stamps)
5. Classic Crooners -- 264
(Kousen, Martin, Mattes, Yates)
6. Down Two Wholes -- 284
(Kelly, Caldwell, Cerutti, Ives)
7. Just In Time -- 293
(Savage, Colosimo, Ives, Dillingham)
8. Golden Oldies -- 269
(Kousen, Fedarko, Barnes, Golden)
9. Alien Autopsy Review Board -- 289
(Garling, Martin, Cerutti, Kelly)
10. La-La Land -- 255
(O’Brien, Ferguson, Mattes, McFarland)
11. Four Queens -- 310
(Garling, Van Gilder, Rub, Reynolds)
12. Prince (Formerly 50% Off Quartet) – 279 Comedy
(Berman, Smith, Stamps, Guy)
13. Last Note Singers -- 249
(Kieba, Kahler, Golden, Huber)
14. Atom Smashers -- 30
(O’Brien, Martin, Colosimo, Yates)
15. The Droids – 217 Comedy
(Ritchey, Ammerman, Golden, Wallen)
16. AWOL -- 244
(Fuller, Dangel, Mattes, McFarland)
17. Present Company – 277 Comedy
(Van Gilder, Knobel, Blomgren, Wallen)
18. Classic Connection – 256
(O’Brien, Fedarko, Mattes, Martin)
19. Mixed Nuts -- 232
(Miller, Dangel, Blomgren, Golden)
20. Superbad -- 267
(Sawyer, Ferguson, Cerutti, Wallen)
SPECIAL AWARD: The George Azzam Award -- there was a tie with Joel Golden and Bob Mattes both singing in 5 quartets!
WINNERS:
Comedy:
3rd -- Audacity
2nd -- Present Company
1st -- Prince
Traditional Category:
3rd -- Just In Time
2nd -- Atom Smashers
1st -- Four Queens
Judges: Youth Reclamation Project from Richmond (Hardman Jones, Mike Wallen, Roger Tarpey, Vic Owen)
Master of Ceremonies: Lew Klinge
Sound: Dennis Richey, Scott Kahler
Photography: Ike Evans, TJ Jones
Contest Administrator: Jack Pitzer
Dr. Put: Eric Wallen
Refreshments: Bob Blair, Terry Jordan
We all headed over to the afterglow and there was another big crowd to continue the fun we had had at the chapter meeting.
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.)
Last minute sales of ornaments and scrip cards were conducted. Special orders of scrip cards will be delivered at the Hospital Sing next Tuesday nite.
Many guys were trying to find the guys they were gonna sing with in the competition and checking the Order of Singing posted on the wall by the coffee table.
Will Cox did warm ups and got every one singing. Director Joe made some announcements to recap last week’s word about the busy January schedule with the contest package. He confirmed that guys had gotten the learning materials made available by the music team. He reminded all that Geri Geis will be in to work on the ballad and Cindy Hansen to work on the up tune early in January.
The Abe Lincoln painting made for the chorus during the holiday show dress rehearsal was put out as a silent auction item. It went for a heft sum and included a gift card to sue for framing. The artist made it for the chapter.
Membership VP Dan announced the next guest nite to be January 19th. Start lining up your guests who will want to join this exciting chapter.
Dan also welcomed several guests, several former members in for the contest, as well as some members we don’t see too often who were also singing in the contest. He also welcomed our judges – YOUTH RECLAMATOIN PROJECT, Hardman Jones, Mike Wallen, Roger Tarpey, Vic Owen. They are current district senior’s quartet champs and will represent us at the mid winter convention in FL.
Everyone was glad to hear that Maxx Factor did well the first nite on the TV special. (Word came in at the afterglow that they had made the second cut.)
Secretary Buechler presented a Man of Note award to Dan O’Brien for sponsoring Andrew Plocher. Chris also gave out membership renewal cards to Scipio Garling for 14 years, Vince Cazenas for 23 years, Mark Klostermeyer for 29 years, Steve White for 33 years, and Chuck Harner for 42 years.
Then the gang took a half hour break. The coffee was ready, and thanks to Bob Blair who saved the nite by driving all the way over to the Harmonizer truck parking lot and getting the supply of goodies from the truck to go with the coffee.
At 8 pm, the bell rang and the guys all took seats. This year there was quartet on deck while a quartet sang. So there was always a nice crowd to cheer (and laugh). Lew Klinge kept us all laughing as mc and also kept things rolling. He also presented a lot of great history about the contest and its founder, Wilbur Sparks.
Dr. Put, or event chairman, Eric Wallen, did a great job in promoting to get the 20 entries, and all the behind the scene planning. Thanks also to the sound guys, photo guys listed in the report or score sheet printed here.
Congrats to all. There was some great singing, many great laughs and some good parodies. There were surprises like when a quartet set off a flash or spark and had not told the tenor! Also there were a couple quartets who got to laughing so hard that they almost had to toss in the towel. It was a great nite.
Results of winners are below. Eric instituted a new award to recognize a guy who sang all four parts in the contest. Since no one managed to copy that trend set in the past by George Azzam, we recognized the guys who sang in the most quartets. Joel Golden and Bob Mattes each sang in five! Bob will get his trophy next time.
December 29th there is no a Harmonizer meeting at Durant. BUT all of our chapter, and especially the quartets from our contest, are invited to go over to the annual BLAST hosted by Dundalk. 7 – 11 pm. At Michael’s 8th Avenue, 7220 Grayburn Drive, Glen Burnie, MD. More info from blast.dundalk.org. Let’s send at least our winning quartets there to compete. Food and brews included in the small entry fee. Joe gave it a plug last nite too.
To confirm, the chorus will sing carols next Tuesday, Dec. 22, at Alexandria Hospital on Seminary Road. Meet in the lobby at 7 pm. Wear a Santa hat or scarf. New members and guests are welcome, as well as old timers who have not been singing a lot lately. After we sing we will all go to 815 Southside for an afterglow.
Here is the report from last nite’s contest.
Contest Competitors and Scores (names listed tenor, lead, bari, bass):
1. Chopped Liver -- 274
(Colosimo, Grant, Mattes, Yates)
2. Audacity -- 258 Comedy
(Kousen, Dangel, Golden, Wachter)
3. Patapsco 4 -- 213 Comedy
(Cameron, Depuy, Ashford, Kelly)
4. PBQ (Paper Bag Quartet) – 223 Comedy
(Cerutti, Ferguson, Fess, Stamps)
5. Classic Crooners -- 264
(Kousen, Martin, Mattes, Yates)
6. Down Two Wholes -- 284
(Kelly, Caldwell, Cerutti, Ives)
7. Just In Time -- 293
(Savage, Colosimo, Ives, Dillingham)
8. Golden Oldies -- 269
(Kousen, Fedarko, Barnes, Golden)
9. Alien Autopsy Review Board -- 289
(Garling, Martin, Cerutti, Kelly)
10. La-La Land -- 255
(O’Brien, Ferguson, Mattes, McFarland)
11. Four Queens -- 310
(Garling, Van Gilder, Rub, Reynolds)
12. Prince (Formerly 50% Off Quartet) – 279 Comedy
(Berman, Smith, Stamps, Guy)
13. Last Note Singers -- 249
(Kieba, Kahler, Golden, Huber)
14. Atom Smashers -- 30
(O’Brien, Martin, Colosimo, Yates)
15. The Droids – 217 Comedy
(Ritchey, Ammerman, Golden, Wallen)
16. AWOL -- 244
(Fuller, Dangel, Mattes, McFarland)
17. Present Company – 277 Comedy
(Van Gilder, Knobel, Blomgren, Wallen)
18. Classic Connection – 256
(O’Brien, Fedarko, Mattes, Martin)
19. Mixed Nuts -- 232
(Miller, Dangel, Blomgren, Golden)
20. Superbad -- 267
(Sawyer, Ferguson, Cerutti, Wallen)
SPECIAL AWARD: The George Azzam Award -- there was a tie with Joel Golden and Bob Mattes both singing in 5 quartets!
WINNERS:
Comedy:
3rd -- Audacity
2nd -- Present Company
1st -- Prince
Traditional Category:
3rd -- Just In Time
2nd -- Atom Smashers
1st -- Four Queens
Judges: Youth Reclamation Project from Richmond (Hardman Jones, Mike Wallen, Roger Tarpey, Vic Owen)
Master of Ceremonies: Lew Klinge
Sound: Dennis Richey, Scott Kahler
Photography: Ike Evans, TJ Jones
Contest Administrator: Jack Pitzer
Dr. Put: Eric Wallen
Refreshments: Bob Blair, Terry Jordan
We all headed over to the afterglow and there was another big crowd to continue the fun we had had at the chapter meeting.
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.)
Friday, December 11, 2009
Looking Back on the December 8th Chapter Meeting
The lousy weather hit again on Tuesday but a good crowd of guys made it to Durant and at 7 pm Mark Kostermeyer called for guys to “take their seats” as chairs were set up for us. It was planned to be a short meeting to warm up, make announcements and take care of business including sales of ornaments and scrip, then head into Old Town to do some Christmas songs.
Tony Colosimo did the musical warm up. He noted that we will be working on new habits for the big goal in Philly. This plan is important since there are so many new singers in the chorus now.
Director Joe took the podium and first off thanked Jeremy Knobel for his hard work, dedication and success in producing and managing a great Holiday Show. Jeremy was organized right to the end including this list of people that he thanked publicly. The guys gave the traditional one-clap salute to each.
VP of shows – Ken
Food - Brad, Mick
Dessert - Jack
Kitchen - Bill S. and sons, Scott , Yaritza, Sofia (and staff)
Script - Scipio, Noah, JP
Actors/MCs - Terry, Tom, Joe, JP, Dennis
Sound - Scott, Dennis, Yaritza
Lights - Dixie, Chris Cunningham (assistant)
Truck - Bill D, Bob B
Props - Dennis, Bill S
Silent Auction - Phil, Mick
Decorations - Roger and Friday volunteers
Raffle and table sales - Sandy, FiH, Joe’s Mom
Video Cameras - Dan O, Mike, Joe Sr.
Photographer - Handan
Tickets - Steve Murane, Keith Jones
Marketing - Scipio, Nick Auito
Photos w/Santa- Ike, Tim Buell, Ken, Bill DePuy, Handan, Emily (Tom's wife)
Guest greeters - Ken, Scipio
Singing Vals - Joel, Ike, Bill Curtis, Randy, Gary
Guest performer - Will Cox
Waiter sign-ups - Ian
Santa and Mrs. Clause – Bruce and Ginny
Chorus management - K12
Maintenance - Archie and church staff
Auction item donors - K-12 for certificates and mats
Volunteers on Thurs, Fri for set-up
Waiters and captains
All the Harmonizers!
The word is that we will do well financially on this show too!!
Joe announced that learning tapes for the contest songs are out. And that on Jan. 12th, Cindy Hansen will be here to help us with the up tune.
Next Joe introduced a special guest for the evening, former Harmonizer and now staffer with the BHS Foundation, Ryan Killeen. Ryan thanked our chapter for being the leading chapter in the Society in gift giving to the Foundation. (There are many members and friends of our chapter who support the President’s Council.) He was also eager to have others of us know the need to support the Foundation and its work in providing support for youth activities in the nation.
Ryan was also eager to sing some tags and went with us to sing later.
Terry Reynolds conducted a contest as to how many songs guys thought were still in our repertoire. It was fun – many of us were wrong on some old songs. In short the list is ever-changing since as soon as some songs are ready to perform, other songs will be taken off the list. See the list on the web or see Terry.
The mic was back to Joe for more important announcements about our contest planning for Philly. He relayed again the plan to have Cindy work on the contest up tune. And he announced that he had met with Geri Geis and invited her to work on the ballad. She will be coming in early January to start the plan in helping us deliver the message of the song. His goal is to be “worthy of a medal” in the contest this summer.
Final announcements included the usual word of lost and found stuff from a show, and then instructions for meeting at 8 pm at Market Square. We sang at four restaurants, as we have the last three years, to cheers and smiling faces. Some places the crowd joined in our singing. The rain was not fun, but the comradeship was! It is a great tradition.
We all headed over to the afterglow and there was big crowd since we had finished singing early.
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.)
Tony Colosimo did the musical warm up. He noted that we will be working on new habits for the big goal in Philly. This plan is important since there are so many new singers in the chorus now.
Director Joe took the podium and first off thanked Jeremy Knobel for his hard work, dedication and success in producing and managing a great Holiday Show. Jeremy was organized right to the end including this list of people that he thanked publicly. The guys gave the traditional one-clap salute to each.
VP of shows – Ken
Food - Brad, Mick
Dessert - Jack
Kitchen - Bill S. and sons, Scott , Yaritza, Sofia (and staff)
Script - Scipio, Noah, JP
Actors/MCs - Terry, Tom, Joe, JP, Dennis
Sound - Scott, Dennis, Yaritza
Lights - Dixie, Chris Cunningham (assistant)
Truck - Bill D, Bob B
Props - Dennis, Bill S
Silent Auction - Phil, Mick
Decorations - Roger and Friday volunteers
Raffle and table sales - Sandy, FiH, Joe’s Mom
Video Cameras - Dan O, Mike, Joe Sr.
Photographer - Handan
Tickets - Steve Murane, Keith Jones
Marketing - Scipio, Nick Auito
Photos w/Santa- Ike, Tim Buell, Ken, Bill DePuy, Handan, Emily (Tom's wife)
Guest greeters - Ken, Scipio
Singing Vals - Joel, Ike, Bill Curtis, Randy, Gary
Guest performer - Will Cox
Waiter sign-ups - Ian
Santa and Mrs. Clause – Bruce and Ginny
Chorus management - K12
Maintenance - Archie and church staff
Auction item donors - K-12 for certificates and mats
Volunteers on Thurs, Fri for set-up
Waiters and captains
All the Harmonizers!
The word is that we will do well financially on this show too!!
Joe announced that learning tapes for the contest songs are out. And that on Jan. 12th, Cindy Hansen will be here to help us with the up tune.
Next Joe introduced a special guest for the evening, former Harmonizer and now staffer with the BHS Foundation, Ryan Killeen. Ryan thanked our chapter for being the leading chapter in the Society in gift giving to the Foundation. (There are many members and friends of our chapter who support the President’s Council.) He was also eager to have others of us know the need to support the Foundation and its work in providing support for youth activities in the nation.
Ryan was also eager to sing some tags and went with us to sing later.
Terry Reynolds conducted a contest as to how many songs guys thought were still in our repertoire. It was fun – many of us were wrong on some old songs. In short the list is ever-changing since as soon as some songs are ready to perform, other songs will be taken off the list. See the list on the web or see Terry.
The mic was back to Joe for more important announcements about our contest planning for Philly. He relayed again the plan to have Cindy work on the contest up tune. And he announced that he had met with Geri Geis and invited her to work on the ballad. She will be coming in early January to start the plan in helping us deliver the message of the song. His goal is to be “worthy of a medal” in the contest this summer.
Final announcements included the usual word of lost and found stuff from a show, and then instructions for meeting at 8 pm at Market Square. We sang at four restaurants, as we have the last three years, to cheers and smiling faces. Some places the crowd joined in our singing. The rain was not fun, but the comradeship was! It is a great tradition.
We all headed over to the afterglow and there was big crowd since we had finished singing early.
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.)
Friday, December 4, 2009
Looking Back on the December 1st Chapter Meeting
When YeEd arrived at 5 til 7, the action was well underway at Durant. Everyone was fired up about last minute ticket sales for the show and getting a good supply of ornaments to sell.
Will Cox did warm ups and got the men ready to work hard on the show music.
Props were arriving right and left from those who had responded to Scipio’s email request. Funniest was seeing Dean Martin come in caring a box with women’s legs sticking out of the box! You will have to come to the show if you don’t know why!!
Characters were working their lines and helping the chorus with their timing too. Terry Reynolds in Jack-In-The-Box again. Director Joe is “Junior” and Tom Kraus is Jack’s nephew, “Charlie.”
Producer Jeremy Knobel was busy all evening helping the chorus know when to react and where to be during the package. And he was more than gentle in his nudge to SELL MORE TICKETS. There are some empty tables to fill.
In the midst of the fun, Chuck Hunter arrived to loud cheers from all!! He is back in the US for meetings at State and will head back to Damascus on Saturday. He will get to come to the Friday nite show.
Another part of the evening was coaching and instructions for table servers. And an effort to get a full set of waiters signed up. Before YeEd left the hall, it looked like a bunch of guys had stopped at the sign up table to help. Yeah.
Both of our chapter ensembles sang their show songs – TBD and CAMERON STATION.
There was a strong plug for guys to make certain they have elf or toy costumes for the first part of the show and then caroling outfits (sweater, scarf, etc.) for the last part.
Bob Rhome covered for K12 and ran the meeting. Secretary Buechler gave a 22-year renewal card to Tom Griffith who was back.
Dan O’Brien restated the earlier joyful announcement by Joe that we have 100 singers signed up for Philly!! Then Dan introduced 9 guests – a couple who have filled out applications.
He also welcomed member Roger Day who stopped by to check out things in prep for his annual Deck The Hall gig to turn the fellowship hall of First Baptist into Santa’s workshop.
Bob Rhome reminded all to pay for their Philly tickets right away. And to stay tuned for final details about housing at that convention.
President Brad thanked Mrs. Wilbur Sparks for her recent donation to the chapter and for her purchase of scrip cards for holiday giving. He also welcomed Dixie back after her recent operation.
Brad gave You Make A Difference pins to Tom Kraus for his leadership in forming TBD and for helping with the show. And to Phil Ferguson for his work in managing the silent auction at the show.
Jeremy Knobel ran down a list of important reminders about this weekend’s show. There is a rehearsal Thursday eve at the First Baptist Church on King Street. Singers should wear their elf or toy outfits to get used to them. They don’t need to bring their caroling outfits.
Every member needs to bring two boxes wrapped in shinny paper and four dozen good cookies. Bring them Thursday nite.
Chorus calls are 6 on Thursday; 6 on Friday eve; 10 am on Saturday.
Still some slots open for guys to fill as waiters. Sign up Thursday. Decorating crews are working on Friday – every member can help with this task including non singers and new guests and such. There was also need for a riser crew on Thursday at pm.
Then Director Joe took over again to drill and work on the show songs. But first he called up John Hohl to take the farewell chair and after Joe’s thanks to John for his service and help over the years; we sang “A Place on the Risers for You” as John is relocating to FL.
Then back to work including some visual drill on package show songs. Also the MC guys did their bits for practice, as did the many soloists.
It was hard work right up til time to go to the afterglow. But first the guys had to load the truck for this weekend and put everything away.
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.)
Will Cox did warm ups and got the men ready to work hard on the show music.
Props were arriving right and left from those who had responded to Scipio’s email request. Funniest was seeing Dean Martin come in caring a box with women’s legs sticking out of the box! You will have to come to the show if you don’t know why!!
Characters were working their lines and helping the chorus with their timing too. Terry Reynolds in Jack-In-The-Box again. Director Joe is “Junior” and Tom Kraus is Jack’s nephew, “Charlie.”
Producer Jeremy Knobel was busy all evening helping the chorus know when to react and where to be during the package. And he was more than gentle in his nudge to SELL MORE TICKETS. There are some empty tables to fill.
In the midst of the fun, Chuck Hunter arrived to loud cheers from all!! He is back in the US for meetings at State and will head back to Damascus on Saturday. He will get to come to the Friday nite show.
Another part of the evening was coaching and instructions for table servers. And an effort to get a full set of waiters signed up. Before YeEd left the hall, it looked like a bunch of guys had stopped at the sign up table to help. Yeah.
Both of our chapter ensembles sang their show songs – TBD and CAMERON STATION.
There was a strong plug for guys to make certain they have elf or toy costumes for the first part of the show and then caroling outfits (sweater, scarf, etc.) for the last part.
Bob Rhome covered for K12 and ran the meeting. Secretary Buechler gave a 22-year renewal card to Tom Griffith who was back.
Dan O’Brien restated the earlier joyful announcement by Joe that we have 100 singers signed up for Philly!! Then Dan introduced 9 guests – a couple who have filled out applications.
He also welcomed member Roger Day who stopped by to check out things in prep for his annual Deck The Hall gig to turn the fellowship hall of First Baptist into Santa’s workshop.
Bob Rhome reminded all to pay for their Philly tickets right away. And to stay tuned for final details about housing at that convention.
President Brad thanked Mrs. Wilbur Sparks for her recent donation to the chapter and for her purchase of scrip cards for holiday giving. He also welcomed Dixie back after her recent operation.
Brad gave You Make A Difference pins to Tom Kraus for his leadership in forming TBD and for helping with the show. And to Phil Ferguson for his work in managing the silent auction at the show.
Jeremy Knobel ran down a list of important reminders about this weekend’s show. There is a rehearsal Thursday eve at the First Baptist Church on King Street. Singers should wear their elf or toy outfits to get used to them. They don’t need to bring their caroling outfits.
Every member needs to bring two boxes wrapped in shinny paper and four dozen good cookies. Bring them Thursday nite.
Chorus calls are 6 on Thursday; 6 on Friday eve; 10 am on Saturday.
Still some slots open for guys to fill as waiters. Sign up Thursday. Decorating crews are working on Friday – every member can help with this task including non singers and new guests and such. There was also need for a riser crew on Thursday at pm.
Then Director Joe took over again to drill and work on the show songs. But first he called up John Hohl to take the farewell chair and after Joe’s thanks to John for his service and help over the years; we sang “A Place on the Risers for You” as John is relocating to FL.
Then back to work including some visual drill on package show songs. Also the MC guys did their bits for practice, as did the many soloists.
It was hard work right up til time to go to the afterglow. But first the guys had to load the truck for this weekend and put everything away.
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.)
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