It has been great to read the wonderful testimonials from Harmonizers about their Philly experience, especially from the new guys who have joined us. They indeed represent what it means to be a Harmonizer.
Tuesday nite was a fun nite in the life of the chapter. The hall was full of friends, former members, or inactive guys who came out to show their pride, and a lot of first time guests.
Will Cox did a great warm up for the singers right at 7. When Director Joe took over, he apologized for not being here at 6 – he forgot his medal that he had under his pillow at home!
But his remarks about “the joys on stage of hearing that first line of the ballad, witnessing the huge audience response, and his worry that the guys on the risers had not heard his count off to start the uptune” were from the heart. He says he still is getting bombarded with emails, text messages, and Facebook messages.
But so as to not rest on our laurels, he and the music team got the guys singing right away and to brush up the songs for Thursday nite’s annual free concert we give at Ft. Ward Park in Alexandria. It is one of the ways we say thank you to the City of Alexandria in appreciation for their support. The show starts at 7:30 for those who read this that might want to come join YeEd in the audience. Based on the past summers, leaders are prepared to get out word via email if there is a rain cancellation.
Joe also encouraged all the singers to come prepared to sing any songs they know. There will be a chance to get off the risers between songs. The teal casual shirt and khaki pants are the uniform.
Chuck McKeever and TJ Jones helped guys review and remember the stage moves for some of the songs. The gang spent a lot of work on the “Ed Sullivan” song and all the antics to pull it off.
The guys were quick to notice the brand new set of risers, with less squeak, and soft steps. Chapter leaders admonish all that they need to be cared for during set-up and take down. AND not climbing up to the back step via the back rails. There will be fines for those who do. The new Perry Risers were the photo risers in Philly. We used monies from our capital reserves to pay for them. Carl Kauffmann and Bob Blair helped guys learn how to set up and take the new risers down.
Chapter leaders are also provided a plan to get the wonderful bronze 5th place medals engraved. There are forms for turning in your medal for the engraving on the admin table. Of course, the medals will be proudly worn on Thursday nite.
Mark Klostermeyer (K12) conducted the chapter meeting portion of the evening starting with guest introductions by new membership vp Ken White. He thanked Dan O’Brien for setting the bar so high as previous membership promoter. As mentioned, there were several first time guests and potential singers. Other faces we will glad to see included Geoff Berman, Bob Wilson, Paul Laurenz and his son Noah, Paul Greiner, Arthur Louis, Gary Mankin, Bob Sutton, Brian Miller.
Ken announced that Mike Everard is reinstating his membership – so it is official, the Harmonizers are back!!!
Secretary Buechler presented an award to Bob Sutton for bringing in 10 members to the Society. Tony Colosimo earned his second Man of Note for adding Jack Stonesifer to the chapter. Jack received his official materials from the BHS.
K12 gave us a few extra minutes for break to share the Philly themed nite – Philly cheesecake and Philly cheese steaks!! Mike Everard brought the cheesecake and Steve Lingo got the cheese steaks. The FRIENDS group is still selling cold drinks during the summer months. Thanks to the members of the FRIENDS for also staffing CD sales tables for our big show in June.
After break, Carl Kauffmann thanked his team for their dedication to detail and extra hours in making the convention week in Philly go so smoothly for all of us. Jack Cameron will be following up regarding the pixs that were taken of the chorus, that guys ordered.
YeEd hears that Bruce Minnick had kidney stone operation this week. Our president Dick Newton is on business travel this week.
Ken Fess thanked his crew for their hard work in making the June 27th show a smashing success – in every way. It was a musical success, fun for all, great venue and party place, showed off the chapter as hosts and singers and administrators, and set the bar high for future events. (Word is that Ken is already hard at work in the negotiations for a show next year with the Ambassadors of Harmony and their quartets. Stay tuned for the date.)
Brad Jones asked the guys about their interest in going to a Nationals game on Sunday, Aug. 1, with seating in the shade. There were lots of hands up – so Brad will follow up with details. Everyone can join us for this – riser singers and any one else in the Harmonizer family.
Sandy Stamps, FRIENDS president, launched the sale of the 2010 White House ornaments. Our goal is to sell 4,000 this year and exceed last year’s numbers. The price will be $20 this year. You can get them on consignment to sell now. Maybe take with you on vacation when you visit relatives. We will hear from the super salesmen who sell 500 or more. We appreciate the inactive members who help the chapter with this effort. It is an important fundraiser for the chapter.
Music vp Terry Reynolds announced that we would be doing the same contest package at the fall District contest as we did in Philly. There is plenty of time for new members and those many guys who are coming back into active status to learn it and be medal worthy. The fall contest is Friday and Saturday, Oct. 1 and 2 in Lancaster, PA. There are two extra rehearsals on the books already – Thurs nites Sept. 23 and Sept. 30th.
Terry also announced the plans to change things a little for the next three Tuesday nites, Some time will be spent singing Polecat songs and other tunes our guys can sing with other barbershoppers at conventions (Polecat was a label for familiar and popular barbershop songs – the covers for those printed songs had a barberpole with a cat perched on the globe at the top – thus the name, Polecat!)
We will watch a cornerstone Society video by legendary Dave Stevens.
There will be a Put Together Quartet tag contest (stay tuned for word on it from Eric Wallen). Something was said that quartets will sing two tags. Form your own quartet or volunteer to be in a quartet that Eric “puts together.”
We will launch a couple new songs – “No More Sorrow” as done by the GAS HOUSE GANG, and “That’s Amore.”
There will be an “Ask The Director” period, some history fun facts, a brief and informative “How Are We Doing Financially?,” and likely some special eats!!
To wrap up announcements, Joe talked more about the International week experience and in summary, thanked the guys for dedication and hard work to help our chapter and its chorus continue to be a shining light for the BHS!
He did tease us a little about the contest package for 2011. The ballad is still being finalized by arrangers, but he was able to play the uptune, “What Do I Need With Love,”
which was arranged by our coach Kirk Young.
Then Joe yielded the floor to Terry Reynolds again who was eagerly waiting in the wings with this usual post-contest statistics review. Very well done, of course, and helped us see (1) we are in the big leagues, (2) we should be proud that our chapter still is one of the few with multiple gold medals, (3) we got some terrific scores, (4) there are plenty of choruses on our heals, and (5) we need to score big at MidAtlantic District contest in Oct. as that is how the summer Intl. contest rankings are determined (and the buzz begins!!).
In the post Philly blitz, YeEd has learned of a few more Harmo family guys who were there such as Jerry Kindred, Will Daniel Mudd-Simmons, Al Hanenbaum and Bob Wells.
Someone reported that the Harmonizers earned their 16th medal in Philly.
Director Joe is chairman of a BHS committee, Chorus Director Development. As chair he had to present two major recognitions during breaks in the chorus contest in Philly. One was presented posthumously for Paul Tamblyn to his widow Doreen. (She was also at our chapter togetherness breakfast.) The other was presented to Greg Lyne, director of Voice In Harmony and also a former Harmonizer coach and retreat master.
Other breakfast guests not reported earlier in these columns were Society executive vice president Alan Lamson and his wife. He was elected president for next year. Plus Joe and Janet Cerutti, Sr. and Greg Pappas, our terrific artist friend.
One of our members, Darryl Flinn who was a judge in Philly, has announced his plans to retire from the judging program Several of our guys are going to this summer’s Category School (which is where judges and candidates to be judges get specific training) including Chuck Harner, Chris Buechler and Gary Plaag who will be recertified, and Joe Cerutti who will be certified for the first time.
Chris Yates did a fast change act in Philly as he sang with the Harmonizers and then with Dundalk, who sang right after us.
On contest day in Philly, the chapter carried out its traditional filling of the risers! K12 asked all the singers to stand off the risers and then invites them back to the risers by the “class year” starting with the four men who are still singing and were singing in 1978 - Chuck Harner, Randy Lazear, Rick Savage and Steve White. Class by class, the guys took their place on the risers until only the 17 men of the Class of 2010 were left standing down. Mark declared they had all proven worthy and authorized them to discard their bandanas and take their rightful place on the risers. With a cheer from all, more men joined the ranks as brother Alexandria Harmonizers!
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, July 15, 2010
Free outdoor concert!
The Alexandria Harmonizers will give a free concert tonight, starting at 7:30PM, at the Fort Ward Park Amphitheater (4301 W. Braddock Road), featuring the debut of one of the chapter's new Standing Quartets, The Blanks!
Monday, July 12, 2010
Harmonizers win 5th Place!
The Alexandria Harmonizers thank the many people who helped us with the Fifth Place Medal at the 2010 BHS International Chorus Competition.
Directors, performers, members, families, crew, coaches, choreographers, arrangers, friends, and fans -- there's a lot more to "the Harmonizers" than just the men you see on stage! This victory belongs to us all.
Saturday, July 10, 2010
Looking Back on International Convention, Philadelphia, July 2010
For weeks, our Director Joe Cerutti emphasized his goal of being “medal worthy” and challenged the 99-man chorus headed to Philly to work hard. The musical team provided lots of technology for learning. There were coaches and training tools and new learning methods. There were stage presence classes each Tuesday nite taught by Chuck McKeever. There were learning tracks and videos of visuals. There was a new system for submitting review tapes. Section leaders Rick Savage, Dan O’Brien, Tony Colosimo, Ken Ives, Will Cox and Mike Kelly [who work with the men on musical matters] and quad leaders Chuck Powell, Alan Wile, TJ Jones, Bob Blair [who work with the men on the visual plan] provided great support to Joe and to the singers. Music VP Terry Reynolds kept the musical ship running. The new uniform team (Tom Kern), visual team (Scipio Garling) and the chorus manager (Mark Klostermeyer) all helped.
And so they were worthy!!
The Harmonizers climbed back into the medal ranks and earned a fifth-place bronze medal at the 72nd annual International Contest and Convention. We earned 2,608 points (3,000 is perfect score). It seems this is the first time the chapter has earned fifth. We have some fourth and third places, a couple seconds and the four first place gold medals.
Our guest chorus for the June 27th show in Fairfax won first with 2,932 points. They had 67 singers. Dallas Vocal Majority was second with 2,913 points and 137 singers. Third place was Toronto who earned 2,822 points with 54 men dressed as robots. It was a very funny set. Denver came in fourth with 2,769 points, 130 men.
Greendale, WI, was eighth doing a wild and funny synchronized swimming set. Results of other choruses from our Mid-Atlantic District: Hamilton Square, NJ, was ninth, Dundalk was 18th, and Manhattan was 22nd. The mic tester for the chorus contest was Voices of Gotham, also from M-AD.
Before we go on too far into the week, we gotta proudly report on our quartet rep in the contest. Eric Wallen is bass in CRUNCH TIME and they placed 25th. This was their second year for a 25th ranking. Others in his quartet are Brett Thomas, Shawn Thomas and Matt Fellows who live in other states.
There was a surprise ending to the quartet finals, when STORM FRONT from Denver pulled ahead of OLD SCHOOL who was second. RINGMASTERS from Sweden were third and MUSICAL ISLAND BOYS from New Zealand was fourth.
You gotta admit – those folks who bought tickets to our June show had quite a convention preview!
The chorus first gathered Tuesday nite, June 29th. President Newton met early with the Class of 2010 to help them know more about what to expect for the week. They all had their purple bandanas!! And they bought one for new chorus fan, Ellen Dellert. She has attended most rehearsals of recent months, brought goodies for the guys to enjoy with their coffee and cheered all week in Philly.
There were many family members and FRIENDS present at all the rehearsals. Also there were often guys stopping in from other chapters, such as Richmond, DC, Harrisonburg.
Early Wednesday morning the gang was at it again. Director Joe thanked associate director Will Cox for doing the warm up. Joe asked Will how long he had been doing that for the chapter – for 30 years or so, was Will’s reply. (Our coaches tell Joe that Will is one of the best.)
For a while, associate director Tony Colosimo directed so Joe could coach. Then mid-morning Joe had to scoot off to prepare to serve as mc for the first half of the quarter-final round of the quartet contest (the quarter-final round boils the 50 entries down to 20, the semifinal round cuts 20 down to 10 for the finals on Sat. nite.)
Another Harmonizer, Rick Taylor, who directs Dundalk Chorus, was mc for the second half of the quarter finals round of the quartet contest.
All week our terrific 16-man Harmonizer front row had extra rehearsals before or just after a chorus session.
Wednesday evening the chorus regrouped to work, sing, drill and dig deeper into the messages of the songs.
Last year’s chorus champs, Ambassadors of Harmony from St. Louis, MO, sent reps to our rehearsal to bring greetings of support and encouragement. They gave our president a supply of medallions for each singer. Our AOH rep was Bob Hall, brother of our own Dick Hall. He shared that during their rehearsal earlier in the day, our Director Joe and our painter friend, Greg Pappas, had stopped in and Greg created one of his famous paintings of the GAS HOUSE GANG. Bob said there was not a dry eye in the house, as the GHG was a revered quartet in their chapter.
Our on-site coach, Cindy Hansen, was with us in Virginia for the big show. So we all knew that she came east from Denver and was now in a scooter-chair. But it didn’t slow her down one bit in Philly. She was frequently beside Joe pushing and “pulling it out” of the guys. He husband David was often on hand too.
Thursday we got up early again! We had a surprise when we saw the convention daily bulletin and saw Harmonizers Paul Greiner and Barbara in the cover photo.
The Harmonizers were in their teal blue casual shirt outfits and sat as a group at the “master class” in the headquarters hotel. (This class is always conducted by the outgoing chorus champs.) Our friend and retreat coach, David Wright, seemed happy to see us all and stopped the program to introduce us to his fellow Ambassadors of Harmony. Neat exchange.
After the class we adjourned to a nearby rehearsal room. We had left the Doubletree where we had been meeting all week, as we were sharing the ballroom there with Voices in Harmony chorus, from CA, directed by Greg Lyne. They came in seventh.
During this morning gathering, our own Martin Banks, who is VP of the PR organization within the Society, surprised Scipio Garling with news that Scipio had been named recipient of an Outstanding Achievement Award from the Public Relations Officers/Bulletin Editors (PROBE) organization. News of his award appeared in the Friday convention bulletin.
After we finished rehearsal, everyone hurried to the semifinals quartet contest. One of our former members, Mike Louque, was in SKYLINE in the top 20.
When the contest ended, we reassembled at 3 pm for more rehearsal. Somewhere in this session, the guys pulled off the annual surprise prank for our director. This year he almost out-foxed the scheme, as he never started at the edge of the song so the guys could do their vest pull away at the wrong place in the song. Finally they got him!
After our rehearsal, the Voice in Harmony guys came in and we did a three-song show for them – “Meeting Here Tonight,” “Summertime,” and “Stars and Stripes Forever.” Dennis Ritchey did the song introductions.
Then we swapped places and the VIH sang for us. After the singing, we had refreshments and a time to meet and greet.
Those who didn’t go to the past champs (AIC) show on Thursday nite had a chance for a nice dinner. And speaking of meals, we all had fun eating at the Reading Terminal Market place all week between contest sessions.
Friday the guys awoke to find a flyer slipped under their hotel room door with a cheerful message from the FRIENDS in HARMONY organization.
And we all needed to be up early for the annual Togetherness Breakfast at 7 am in the hotel ballroom. Keith Jones was organizer and ticket coordinator. President Dick Newton was host and he invited Fr. Joe Witmer to do an invocation, and then Dick introduced Society administrative leaders who had joined us from the Society and District levels.
Jeremy Knobel, president of the Class of 2010, was our first major speaker. (Each year all the guys singing in their first International chorus contest as a Harmonizer become a class of new guys. They are given a colorful bandana to wear at all Harmo functions. They get free of their bandana just before going on stage. This year’s class of 17 was the third largest new-guy group for the chapter.)
Other members of the class were Myles Glancy, Jack Stonesifer, Tim Buell, Don Farrell, Kevin Roth, Dean Martin, Bert Phillips, Matt Barnes, Don Thompson, Don Dillingham, Andrew Havens, Jim Lake, Steve Lingo, Andrew Plocher, Victor Hills, and Ken Henderson.
The FRIENDS group had decorated each table with a different old fashioned telephone. And they gave each singer a tiny rubber eraser in the shape of a cell phone to carry on stage for good luck. Their president, Sandy Stamps, spoke on the group’s behalf.
Rick Savage gave a great testimony about his 36-year Harmonizer membership. He shared how his singing and the chapter had become part of his life. It was a heartwarming and prideful sharing.
Cindy Hansen spoke with important thoughts about the chapter WOW moments – first-class work ethics, sharing an opportunity to excel and the wonder of the magic that this chapter has.
She also thanked Joe on behalf of all of the coaches this year, Geri, David, Kirk, Brandon and herself, for allowing them to come in and offer ideas and changes and suggestions. Then to see the chorus accept and implement the ideas!!
Then it was Joe’s turn to speak to the Harmonizer family. He recognized that all three of the associate directors we have had in the chapter were present– John Hohl, MikeWallen, Terry Reynolds.
He also thanked Greg Pappas for even more paintings this week – one of the late Fred King during the Dundalk rehearsal and one of retiring Jim Clancy during the Dallas rehearsal.
Joe honored quartet singers as represented by Eric. He honored two other men who had supported him in his growth as our director – Brad Jones and Ken Fess.
After breakfast the singers got make up on and their new contest uniform on. The rest of us went to the PA Convention Center for the chorus contest start at 10 am. When it was time for Alexandria to be announced we started to clap and cheer. We were joined by many others in the hall. And we clapped, and clapped, and clapped, and clapped waiting for the mc to say those magic words. (We of course did not know about the back stage delay, but we never let up!!)
But it happened! The Harmonizers took the stage, grabbed the audience, and never let go until they left stage. Lew Klinge was designated to work with the camera crew backstage to give them cues. We got great coverage of our guys on stage.
The audience did not need a nudge from us to cheer. They were standing at the end of the ballad, and several times during the uptune there was applause. And then the whole place jumped to their feet at the cut off of the uptune – from the front row to the back of the hall!!
It was a long afternoon of waiting to get the great news. Some guys napped or did lunch. We were proud to see Dean Martin’s podcast advertisements on the Jumbotron.
After the results of the chorus contest had settled, the word spread to come to the Doubletree for a Harmo gathering and to get the medals. President Newton issued one to each singer. When Director Joe arrived, it was a wild cheer. And when Cindy arrived, she took a Victory Lap around the deck in her scooter.
Saturday there was a crew to load the endcaps onto our truck. Just one of the aspects of “the Harmonizers are back” image. Howard Nestlerode gets a gold star for driving the Harmo truck to Philly.
During the week it was neat to see many of our Harmo family volunteering to help the host chapter, Bryn Mawr, at various stations like registration, ushers, chorus guides. YeEd saw our district president Gary Plaag volunteering at a registration counter.
Looking thru the convention printed program, you saw a lot of Harmonizer references. Chris Buechler was on this year’s judging panel as contest administrator. Congrats Chris. Another member, Darryl Flinn, was a singing judge for the week. He also was inducted into the BHS Hall of Fame. He was our coach in the past and coined the term “Breathless Moments.” He is the fifth Harmonizer to be so honored joining: Bud Arberg, Dean Snyder, Wilbur Sparks, Walter Latzko.
Chuck Harner was listed as judges services chairman and he enlisted help from Keith Jones and Dixie Kennett since he was singing with the chorus.
Alan Wile is about to wrap up his term on the BHS board. And Chuck Harner was recognized in the program for his major gift to the Harmony Foundation.
Several times during the week Joe Cerutti made presentations to award recipients in his capacity as Society committee chair.
As was the custom by former “Echo” editor, Wilbur Sparks, YeEd lists the names of current and former Harmonizers spotted during the week and not mentioned above. (Thanks to fellow members who reported names all week.)
Dwain Chambers
Larry Deters
Al Herman
Chuck Botts
Berry Parsons
Scott Kahler
Ray Kahler
Jerry Kindred
Ross Johnson
Dave Reyno
Tom Gannon
Pete Frank
Gary Smith
Michael Calhoun
Joe Kane
Mike Everard
Dave Barton
Dennis Malone
Bob Caldwell
George Azzam
Greg Tepe
Steve Guy
John Flynn
Bill Ward
J T Price
Ron Rich
Mark Rodda
Josh Matisoff
Bob Hirsh
John Knight
Phil Stern
Paul Buckley
Gary Mankin
Bill Sowers
Ron Dionne
Larry Shelton
Jim Gammon
A week like this takes some organization and, as always, we had a people step up to the plate. Carl Kauffman was overall chair and gathered a good crew of workers. Bob Rhome gets a big thank you for handling convention registrations, and all the housing for the Harmo family in Philly. Dixie Kennett created the Harmo Handbook for each singer. Chuck McKeever headed up the pre-contest retreat.
As if all of this was not enough, the chapter accepted an invite to appear on a local Philly TV station and sing for their July 4th show. About 30 guys got up really early to film a 10 am show and sang “Stars and Stripes” and “God Bless the USA.” They wore the new black suit with electric blue shirt.
So – a milestone year again for the Alexandria Chapter. And the start along the path for even more. YeEd hears there is already a new applicant waiting to join us when we get home.
Until next time – editorjack!
(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record of the great things going on in the life of the Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter. —Ye Ed.)
And so they were worthy!!
The Harmonizers climbed back into the medal ranks and earned a fifth-place bronze medal at the 72nd annual International Contest and Convention. We earned 2,608 points (3,000 is perfect score). It seems this is the first time the chapter has earned fifth. We have some fourth and third places, a couple seconds and the four first place gold medals.
Our guest chorus for the June 27th show in Fairfax won first with 2,932 points. They had 67 singers. Dallas Vocal Majority was second with 2,913 points and 137 singers. Third place was Toronto who earned 2,822 points with 54 men dressed as robots. It was a very funny set. Denver came in fourth with 2,769 points, 130 men.
Greendale, WI, was eighth doing a wild and funny synchronized swimming set. Results of other choruses from our Mid-Atlantic District: Hamilton Square, NJ, was ninth, Dundalk was 18th, and Manhattan was 22nd. The mic tester for the chorus contest was Voices of Gotham, also from M-AD.
Before we go on too far into the week, we gotta proudly report on our quartet rep in the contest. Eric Wallen is bass in CRUNCH TIME and they placed 25th. This was their second year for a 25th ranking. Others in his quartet are Brett Thomas, Shawn Thomas and Matt Fellows who live in other states.
There was a surprise ending to the quartet finals, when STORM FRONT from Denver pulled ahead of OLD SCHOOL who was second. RINGMASTERS from Sweden were third and MUSICAL ISLAND BOYS from New Zealand was fourth.
You gotta admit – those folks who bought tickets to our June show had quite a convention preview!
The chorus first gathered Tuesday nite, June 29th. President Newton met early with the Class of 2010 to help them know more about what to expect for the week. They all had their purple bandanas!! And they bought one for new chorus fan, Ellen Dellert. She has attended most rehearsals of recent months, brought goodies for the guys to enjoy with their coffee and cheered all week in Philly.
There were many family members and FRIENDS present at all the rehearsals. Also there were often guys stopping in from other chapters, such as Richmond, DC, Harrisonburg.
Early Wednesday morning the gang was at it again. Director Joe thanked associate director Will Cox for doing the warm up. Joe asked Will how long he had been doing that for the chapter – for 30 years or so, was Will’s reply. (Our coaches tell Joe that Will is one of the best.)
For a while, associate director Tony Colosimo directed so Joe could coach. Then mid-morning Joe had to scoot off to prepare to serve as mc for the first half of the quarter-final round of the quartet contest (the quarter-final round boils the 50 entries down to 20, the semifinal round cuts 20 down to 10 for the finals on Sat. nite.)
Another Harmonizer, Rick Taylor, who directs Dundalk Chorus, was mc for the second half of the quarter finals round of the quartet contest.
All week our terrific 16-man Harmonizer front row had extra rehearsals before or just after a chorus session.
Wednesday evening the chorus regrouped to work, sing, drill and dig deeper into the messages of the songs.
Last year’s chorus champs, Ambassadors of Harmony from St. Louis, MO, sent reps to our rehearsal to bring greetings of support and encouragement. They gave our president a supply of medallions for each singer. Our AOH rep was Bob Hall, brother of our own Dick Hall. He shared that during their rehearsal earlier in the day, our Director Joe and our painter friend, Greg Pappas, had stopped in and Greg created one of his famous paintings of the GAS HOUSE GANG. Bob said there was not a dry eye in the house, as the GHG was a revered quartet in their chapter.
Our on-site coach, Cindy Hansen, was with us in Virginia for the big show. So we all knew that she came east from Denver and was now in a scooter-chair. But it didn’t slow her down one bit in Philly. She was frequently beside Joe pushing and “pulling it out” of the guys. He husband David was often on hand too.
Thursday we got up early again! We had a surprise when we saw the convention daily bulletin and saw Harmonizers Paul Greiner and Barbara in the cover photo.
The Harmonizers were in their teal blue casual shirt outfits and sat as a group at the “master class” in the headquarters hotel. (This class is always conducted by the outgoing chorus champs.) Our friend and retreat coach, David Wright, seemed happy to see us all and stopped the program to introduce us to his fellow Ambassadors of Harmony. Neat exchange.
After the class we adjourned to a nearby rehearsal room. We had left the Doubletree where we had been meeting all week, as we were sharing the ballroom there with Voices in Harmony chorus, from CA, directed by Greg Lyne. They came in seventh.
During this morning gathering, our own Martin Banks, who is VP of the PR organization within the Society, surprised Scipio Garling with news that Scipio had been named recipient of an Outstanding Achievement Award from the Public Relations Officers/Bulletin Editors (PROBE) organization. News of his award appeared in the Friday convention bulletin.
After we finished rehearsal, everyone hurried to the semifinals quartet contest. One of our former members, Mike Louque, was in SKYLINE in the top 20.
When the contest ended, we reassembled at 3 pm for more rehearsal. Somewhere in this session, the guys pulled off the annual surprise prank for our director. This year he almost out-foxed the scheme, as he never started at the edge of the song so the guys could do their vest pull away at the wrong place in the song. Finally they got him!
After our rehearsal, the Voice in Harmony guys came in and we did a three-song show for them – “Meeting Here Tonight,” “Summertime,” and “Stars and Stripes Forever.” Dennis Ritchey did the song introductions.
Then we swapped places and the VIH sang for us. After the singing, we had refreshments and a time to meet and greet.
Those who didn’t go to the past champs (AIC) show on Thursday nite had a chance for a nice dinner. And speaking of meals, we all had fun eating at the Reading Terminal Market place all week between contest sessions.
Friday the guys awoke to find a flyer slipped under their hotel room door with a cheerful message from the FRIENDS in HARMONY organization.
And we all needed to be up early for the annual Togetherness Breakfast at 7 am in the hotel ballroom. Keith Jones was organizer and ticket coordinator. President Dick Newton was host and he invited Fr. Joe Witmer to do an invocation, and then Dick introduced Society administrative leaders who had joined us from the Society and District levels.
Jeremy Knobel, president of the Class of 2010, was our first major speaker. (Each year all the guys singing in their first International chorus contest as a Harmonizer become a class of new guys. They are given a colorful bandana to wear at all Harmo functions. They get free of their bandana just before going on stage. This year’s class of 17 was the third largest new-guy group for the chapter.)
Other members of the class were Myles Glancy, Jack Stonesifer, Tim Buell, Don Farrell, Kevin Roth, Dean Martin, Bert Phillips, Matt Barnes, Don Thompson, Don Dillingham, Andrew Havens, Jim Lake, Steve Lingo, Andrew Plocher, Victor Hills, and Ken Henderson.
The FRIENDS group had decorated each table with a different old fashioned telephone. And they gave each singer a tiny rubber eraser in the shape of a cell phone to carry on stage for good luck. Their president, Sandy Stamps, spoke on the group’s behalf.
Rick Savage gave a great testimony about his 36-year Harmonizer membership. He shared how his singing and the chapter had become part of his life. It was a heartwarming and prideful sharing.
Cindy Hansen spoke with important thoughts about the chapter WOW moments – first-class work ethics, sharing an opportunity to excel and the wonder of the magic that this chapter has.
She also thanked Joe on behalf of all of the coaches this year, Geri, David, Kirk, Brandon and herself, for allowing them to come in and offer ideas and changes and suggestions. Then to see the chorus accept and implement the ideas!!
Then it was Joe’s turn to speak to the Harmonizer family. He recognized that all three of the associate directors we have had in the chapter were present– John Hohl, MikeWallen, Terry Reynolds.
He also thanked Greg Pappas for even more paintings this week – one of the late Fred King during the Dundalk rehearsal and one of retiring Jim Clancy during the Dallas rehearsal.
Joe honored quartet singers as represented by Eric. He honored two other men who had supported him in his growth as our director – Brad Jones and Ken Fess.
After breakfast the singers got make up on and their new contest uniform on. The rest of us went to the PA Convention Center for the chorus contest start at 10 am. When it was time for Alexandria to be announced we started to clap and cheer. We were joined by many others in the hall. And we clapped, and clapped, and clapped, and clapped waiting for the mc to say those magic words. (We of course did not know about the back stage delay, but we never let up!!)
But it happened! The Harmonizers took the stage, grabbed the audience, and never let go until they left stage. Lew Klinge was designated to work with the camera crew backstage to give them cues. We got great coverage of our guys on stage.
The audience did not need a nudge from us to cheer. They were standing at the end of the ballad, and several times during the uptune there was applause. And then the whole place jumped to their feet at the cut off of the uptune – from the front row to the back of the hall!!
It was a long afternoon of waiting to get the great news. Some guys napped or did lunch. We were proud to see Dean Martin’s podcast advertisements on the Jumbotron.
After the results of the chorus contest had settled, the word spread to come to the Doubletree for a Harmo gathering and to get the medals. President Newton issued one to each singer. When Director Joe arrived, it was a wild cheer. And when Cindy arrived, she took a Victory Lap around the deck in her scooter.
Saturday there was a crew to load the endcaps onto our truck. Just one of the aspects of “the Harmonizers are back” image. Howard Nestlerode gets a gold star for driving the Harmo truck to Philly.
During the week it was neat to see many of our Harmo family volunteering to help the host chapter, Bryn Mawr, at various stations like registration, ushers, chorus guides. YeEd saw our district president Gary Plaag volunteering at a registration counter.
Looking thru the convention printed program, you saw a lot of Harmonizer references. Chris Buechler was on this year’s judging panel as contest administrator. Congrats Chris. Another member, Darryl Flinn, was a singing judge for the week. He also was inducted into the BHS Hall of Fame. He was our coach in the past and coined the term “Breathless Moments.” He is the fifth Harmonizer to be so honored joining: Bud Arberg, Dean Snyder, Wilbur Sparks, Walter Latzko.
Chuck Harner was listed as judges services chairman and he enlisted help from Keith Jones and Dixie Kennett since he was singing with the chorus.
Alan Wile is about to wrap up his term on the BHS board. And Chuck Harner was recognized in the program for his major gift to the Harmony Foundation.
Several times during the week Joe Cerutti made presentations to award recipients in his capacity as Society committee chair.
As was the custom by former “Echo” editor, Wilbur Sparks, YeEd lists the names of current and former Harmonizers spotted during the week and not mentioned above. (Thanks to fellow members who reported names all week.)
Dwain Chambers
Larry Deters
Al Herman
Chuck Botts
Berry Parsons
Scott Kahler
Ray Kahler
Jerry Kindred
Ross Johnson
Dave Reyno
Tom Gannon
Pete Frank
Gary Smith
Michael Calhoun
Joe Kane
Mike Everard
Dave Barton
Dennis Malone
Bob Caldwell
George Azzam
Greg Tepe
Steve Guy
John Flynn
Bill Ward
J T Price
Ron Rich
Mark Rodda
Josh Matisoff
Bob Hirsh
John Knight
Phil Stern
Paul Buckley
Gary Mankin
Bill Sowers
Ron Dionne
Larry Shelton
Jim Gammon
A week like this takes some organization and, as always, we had a people step up to the plate. Carl Kauffman was overall chair and gathered a good crew of workers. Bob Rhome gets a big thank you for handling convention registrations, and all the housing for the Harmo family in Philly. Dixie Kennett created the Harmo Handbook for each singer. Chuck McKeever headed up the pre-contest retreat.
As if all of this was not enough, the chapter accepted an invite to appear on a local Philly TV station and sing for their July 4th show. About 30 guys got up really early to film a 10 am show and sang “Stars and Stripes” and “God Bless the USA.” They wore the new black suit with electric blue shirt.
So – a milestone year again for the Alexandria Chapter. And the start along the path for even more. YeEd hears there is already a new applicant waiting to join us when we get home.
Until next time – editorjack!
(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record of the great things going on in the life of the Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter. —Ye Ed.)
Looking Back on the June 27th Big Show with Westminster and 8 Quartets
More than a year ago, Harmonizer and Westminster leaders worked out a plan to do a show just prior to the International contests. And as soon as the word leaked out, top quartets contacted us to be on the show too. Ken Fess, who was overall director of the event, did a masterful job of coordinating all the details and the people to create one of the most successful shows ever for the chapter. He started well in advance and assembled a solid task force or workers.
The venue, George Mason University Performing Arts Center in Fairfax, VA, was a great spot for the show. Ticket sales, thanks to a hard working promotion team headed by Scipio Garling, were a huge success. Barbershoppers from all around stepped up and bought a lot of tickets. The crowd started cheering before the curtain went up and every good chord or nifty move or almost-funny joke got loud roars! Steve Murane was the ticket guru for show ticket sales as well as the afterSHOW tickets. A big job which he seems to handle with calm and ease.
Guest MC for this show was Ev Nau, staffer with the BHS Foundation in Nashville.
Westminster Chorus won gold in the BHS contest in 2007, and won the title 2009 Choir of the World in Europe. The Harmonizers have won the BHS contest four times.
Quartets on the show included OC TIMES, OLD SCHOOL, MAXX FACTOR, RINGMASTERS, MUSICAL ISLAND BOYS, THE CRUSH, THE EDGE, QTONES. All of those quartets did really well in Philly too!!!
There were barbershoppers from all over the world in the audience including the quartets from Sweden and New Zealand. Several BHS staffers were spotted. For sure our fellow M-AD family attended. Our own show customers were there in large numbers, too. Many young people from the east coast attended. (Joe suggested that if a guy didn’t sell tickets, maybe he could buy some and give them to Joe, who pledged to give them to youth singers and their teachers. Many tickets were given out.)
YeEd has gotta say, it was so neat to see how the Harmonizers stepped up to the plate and took on jobs that needed to be done. Some at the last minute to cover something, or to fill in when a family situation took a guy away. I saw guys volunteer to help with the food set up for the two choruses and quartets. (The snacks, orange slices, apple slices, chips, cookies, water and all were plentiful for all the singers. Thanks to Kim Fess who cut all of those oranges and apples!!) FRIENDS IN HARMONY helped quartets sell CDs.
Housing the chorus and quartets in our homes was a big job but everyone enjoyed meeting fellow singers. Rick Wagner and Brain Ammerman coordinated the hosting work. Noah Van Gilder helped coordinate tour guide service on Monday after the show down on the Mall in DC. Bruce Lauther coordinated bus service to get the big crowd of guys from BWI to VA where we met them to take them to our homes. (We need to thank those who opened their homes and then did the laundry and cooking to make the visit so good.)
Mick Stamps and others from the chapter, including Dixie, were on the technical side of show production.
Chorus call was 10:30 am on Sunday. Many of us had to hunt a bit on campus, but in the end we all got into the right places. Each chorus did warm-ups. You could feel the excitement in the dressing rooms. (YeEd got a first look at those sharp new shirts for the Harmonizers too!!!)
And each quartet had their own dressing room. (Nifty room ID signs were done by Mark Klostermeyer.)
Then the two choruses assembled on the stage to get used to the other director and figure how to fit all those singers onto the 11 sections of risers. When Ken Fess did his welcome, all the barbershoppers cheered and thanked him with gusto.
Justin Miller, from Westminster, helped the guys with his interp of “Great Day” for the intro. Stage time was also used to review how the show would present “God Bless the USA” with OLD SCHOOL and OCTIMES doing the quartet intros. The huge American flag lowered in the middle of the song was a thrill to see.
The singers were given a break and before you knew it, it was 2 pm and the curtain lifted to see the almost 200 singers on stage. The audience was fired up and that set a great mood for the whole show. Producer Fess did a good job of mixing quartets and the two choruses – each did a set with their contest songs they would use in Philly, and a set with show songs.
During the afternoon, Greg Pappas did several of his almost-magic-paintings during intermission. Harmonizer guys sold opportunity tickets for folks to win the paintings. He was a hit.
Right after the show, we hosted the afterSHOW in the newly opened Mason Hall. Catering was great. You could just walk across the parking lot. Tony Colosimo and Cheryl Wallen coordinated that event and several SIA members did nifty table decorations. Ken White was MC for the afterglow.
All of us got to hear all the quartets that had sung on the show – a special treat for the two choruses who were in dressing rooms and not able to see or hear the live show. They did get a glance of the show on TV equipment Jeremy Richardson coordinated to have our guys set up in each chorus dressing room.
In addition to the live show, the chapter marketed a webcast of the show and afterSHOW. Mike Kelly was on the camera for that part of the day.
Tuesday morning came up plenty early, as all of us who hosted Westminster singers had to get them to a bus out on Rt. 50, The head to Philly ourselves.
It was another Harmonizer milestone!
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 with the Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter. —Ye Ed.)
The venue, George Mason University Performing Arts Center in Fairfax, VA, was a great spot for the show. Ticket sales, thanks to a hard working promotion team headed by Scipio Garling, were a huge success. Barbershoppers from all around stepped up and bought a lot of tickets. The crowd started cheering before the curtain went up and every good chord or nifty move or almost-funny joke got loud roars! Steve Murane was the ticket guru for show ticket sales as well as the afterSHOW tickets. A big job which he seems to handle with calm and ease.
Guest MC for this show was Ev Nau, staffer with the BHS Foundation in Nashville.
Westminster Chorus won gold in the BHS contest in 2007, and won the title 2009 Choir of the World in Europe. The Harmonizers have won the BHS contest four times.
Quartets on the show included OC TIMES, OLD SCHOOL, MAXX FACTOR, RINGMASTERS, MUSICAL ISLAND BOYS, THE CRUSH, THE EDGE, QTONES. All of those quartets did really well in Philly too!!!
There were barbershoppers from all over the world in the audience including the quartets from Sweden and New Zealand. Several BHS staffers were spotted. For sure our fellow M-AD family attended. Our own show customers were there in large numbers, too. Many young people from the east coast attended. (Joe suggested that if a guy didn’t sell tickets, maybe he could buy some and give them to Joe, who pledged to give them to youth singers and their teachers. Many tickets were given out.)
YeEd has gotta say, it was so neat to see how the Harmonizers stepped up to the plate and took on jobs that needed to be done. Some at the last minute to cover something, or to fill in when a family situation took a guy away. I saw guys volunteer to help with the food set up for the two choruses and quartets. (The snacks, orange slices, apple slices, chips, cookies, water and all were plentiful for all the singers. Thanks to Kim Fess who cut all of those oranges and apples!!) FRIENDS IN HARMONY helped quartets sell CDs.
Housing the chorus and quartets in our homes was a big job but everyone enjoyed meeting fellow singers. Rick Wagner and Brain Ammerman coordinated the hosting work. Noah Van Gilder helped coordinate tour guide service on Monday after the show down on the Mall in DC. Bruce Lauther coordinated bus service to get the big crowd of guys from BWI to VA where we met them to take them to our homes. (We need to thank those who opened their homes and then did the laundry and cooking to make the visit so good.)
Mick Stamps and others from the chapter, including Dixie, were on the technical side of show production.
Chorus call was 10:30 am on Sunday. Many of us had to hunt a bit on campus, but in the end we all got into the right places. Each chorus did warm-ups. You could feel the excitement in the dressing rooms. (YeEd got a first look at those sharp new shirts for the Harmonizers too!!!)
And each quartet had their own dressing room. (Nifty room ID signs were done by Mark Klostermeyer.)
Then the two choruses assembled on the stage to get used to the other director and figure how to fit all those singers onto the 11 sections of risers. When Ken Fess did his welcome, all the barbershoppers cheered and thanked him with gusto.
Justin Miller, from Westminster, helped the guys with his interp of “Great Day” for the intro. Stage time was also used to review how the show would present “God Bless the USA” with OLD SCHOOL and OCTIMES doing the quartet intros. The huge American flag lowered in the middle of the song was a thrill to see.
The singers were given a break and before you knew it, it was 2 pm and the curtain lifted to see the almost 200 singers on stage. The audience was fired up and that set a great mood for the whole show. Producer Fess did a good job of mixing quartets and the two choruses – each did a set with their contest songs they would use in Philly, and a set with show songs.
During the afternoon, Greg Pappas did several of his almost-magic-paintings during intermission. Harmonizer guys sold opportunity tickets for folks to win the paintings. He was a hit.
Right after the show, we hosted the afterSHOW in the newly opened Mason Hall. Catering was great. You could just walk across the parking lot. Tony Colosimo and Cheryl Wallen coordinated that event and several SIA members did nifty table decorations. Ken White was MC for the afterglow.
All of us got to hear all the quartets that had sung on the show – a special treat for the two choruses who were in dressing rooms and not able to see or hear the live show. They did get a glance of the show on TV equipment Jeremy Richardson coordinated to have our guys set up in each chorus dressing room.
In addition to the live show, the chapter marketed a webcast of the show and afterSHOW. Mike Kelly was on the camera for that part of the day.
Tuesday morning came up plenty early, as all of us who hosted Westminster singers had to get them to a bus out on Rt. 50, The head to Philly ourselves.
It was another Harmonizer milestone!
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 with the Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter. —Ye Ed.)
Facebook Fan Drive!
The Harmonizers have begun a new campaign to boost their number of fans on Facebook. We have added 350 fans in a week!
Please visit the Facebook fanpage for the Alexandria Harmonizers, and "LIKE" us. It will help us spread the word about your favorite chorus!
Thursday, July 8, 2010
Looking Back on the July 6th Hospital Sing
The long standing tradition of singing at a local hospital on the Tuesday nite after the International convention continued last nite. And we had a great crowd of over 40 singers.
It all started years ago when the hospital folks told us they wished we could come sing for patients and staff other than for the annual Christmas sing. So we started the idea on the Tuesday after the convention, because often guys are not back home or are on a cruise or extended vacation and would be missing the meeting.
Director Joe did the warm ups and this year there were plenty of baris and tenors. Terry Reynolds and Joe chose a variety of chorus repertoire songs to sing. That included the new “Stars and Stripes Forever.”
President Newton issued the last two 5th place bronze medals to guys who had not gotten one before they left Philly.
For sure everyone wants to be at Durant July 13th for a wrap up and celebration of our great week in Philly.
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.)
It all started years ago when the hospital folks told us they wished we could come sing for patients and staff other than for the annual Christmas sing. So we started the idea on the Tuesday after the convention, because often guys are not back home or are on a cruise or extended vacation and would be missing the meeting.
Director Joe did the warm ups and this year there were plenty of baris and tenors. Terry Reynolds and Joe chose a variety of chorus repertoire songs to sing. That included the new “Stars and Stripes Forever.”
President Newton issued the last two 5th place bronze medals to guys who had not gotten one before they left Philly.
For sure everyone wants to be at Durant July 13th for a wrap up and celebration of our great week in Philly.
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, June 28, 2010
Looking Back on the June 24th Extra Rehearsal
It was REALLY HOT in Jeff-Houston tonite but the troops worked hard and did rep after rep after rep to be ready for Philly – and the big show on Sunday with Westminster. Director Joe was encouraging despite the heat and the men reacted with great cooperation and made fantastic music.
There was a successful Class of Ten bandana check.
Immediate Past President, Brad Jones, alerted the members to look for an email about the Society policy on hosting and working with youth. Everyone was encouraged to read it carefully before this weekend’s show and before International.
Announcements included many details for the show such as a need for riser crews, parking and chorus schedules, uniform review and instruction, bus details for Westminster. President Newton announced that we have a signed contract for our show at Carnegie Hall.
He also reported that FOUR FROM THE HEART has contributed $300 to the chapter which was a fee they were given for a gig of singing for a couple’s anniversary. FOUR FROM THE HEART is a quartet of Harmonizers coordinated by Bruce Lauther, who is the lead singer. You never know for sure who the other four parts might be – for this one it was Vince Cazenas, Ken Fess and Austin Cotton. About 20 guys have helped fill gigs for this quartet. Way to go guys. And thanks for representing us all over the area.
Until next time – editorjack!
(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record of the great things going on each week at an Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter meeting. —Ye Ed.)
There was a successful Class of Ten bandana check.
Immediate Past President, Brad Jones, alerted the members to look for an email about the Society policy on hosting and working with youth. Everyone was encouraged to read it carefully before this weekend’s show and before International.
Announcements included many details for the show such as a need for riser crews, parking and chorus schedules, uniform review and instruction, bus details for Westminster. President Newton announced that we have a signed contract for our show at Carnegie Hall.
He also reported that FOUR FROM THE HEART has contributed $300 to the chapter which was a fee they were given for a gig of singing for a couple’s anniversary. FOUR FROM THE HEART is a quartet of Harmonizers coordinated by Bruce Lauther, who is the lead singer. You never know for sure who the other four parts might be – for this one it was Vince Cazenas, Ken Fess and Austin Cotton. About 20 guys have helped fill gigs for this quartet. Way to go guys. And thanks for representing us all over the area.
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.)
Looking Back on the June 22nd Chapter Meeting
(Thanks again to Alan Wile for preparing this copy while YeEd was out of town.)
Prior to the meeting Chuck McKeever was on the stage reviewing contest uptune choreo; risers were set up; truck was positioned to take the risers at the end of the evening (for Thursday at Jeff-Houston and beyond); tables were set up in the usual places and on the back of the stage; Bob Rhome had convention packets at the ready; etc.
K-12 called the Harmonizers to the risers just before 7:00 p.m. Will conducted the warm-up before turning the chorus over to director Joe Cerutti. Initially Joe continued to work warm-up elements and then introduced coach Geri Geis. All three emphasized the Harmonizer press. Geri reminded us of the effect when the chorus repeatedly presses. She asked that each man be prepared to do each and every run-through by internalizing his "story" before we sing; that there be contrast in every lyric line; what needs to be done to capture the judges' attention ... to get them to look up from the papers in front of them; to lighten up on each "except" phrase (when we're talking to ourselves and being honest ...unlike the rest of the song when we're trying to convince ourselves that we're OK); and to contrast those portions with the "But I get along without you" lines when we're trying to convince ourselves "I don't need you"; and that, after all, no one (NO one) ever says "no" to us!
Joe drilled parts of both songs. Geri helped with reminders and additional artistry. Joe noted that every chorus will sing loud -- "The audience expects it and it's what we do." But it's the softs with "white fire" presence that make the Harmonizers great.
Throughout the rehearsal a professional photographer ("Joe") was at work. Evidently he will be taking pictures during the Sunday show and was getting acquainted with us and our contest package.
K-12 announced this week's birthday boys -- Mick Stamps and Max Keiba. Joe jumped in and called them up together with Craig Kujawa's niece Michelle Bash whose 15th birthday was tonight ... and then directed as the chorus serenaded all three appropriately.
Chapter Secretary Chris Buechler presented membership cards to Matt Barnes (6 years), Dave Welter (34 years), and Craig Odell (41 years). He also presented Dean Martin with his first Man of Note award for bringing Steve Matuszewski back into the chapter (after a prolonged absence from the Society).
Membership VP Dan O'Brien announced this would be his "swan song appearance" in this position. This announcement resulted in rousing applause in appreciation for his wonderful work over the last year and one-half. He then introduced the guests: Chris Clark -- a new applicant; Michelle Bash; Stephen Haynes from the Ambassadors of Harmony; Trevor Doney -- a friend of Steve Lingo and Lise Lingo (Steve's wife).
After a brief break, K-12 announced that all the missing uniform parts have arrived and would be distributed at the end of the night. Rick Wagner addressed housing for our guests this weekend and provided tips for hosts and greeters. Those guests desiring to do group sight-seeing are to meet Monday at 10:00 a.m. at the Smithsonian Metro station (mall exit). The Westminster chorus will be here until Tuesday and need to be dropped off at the Kena Temple by 9:30 a.m. to catch the bus to Philly. Questions should be addressed to Rick.
Ken Fess announced that 1,624 tickets have been sold for the Choir of the World show on Sunday! He is in need of a riser crew at 1:00 p.m. on Friday; someone to help replenish food/drink back stage; sightseeing questions should be addressed to Noah Van Gilder; handouts were available with show details; parking is free in Lot K and for $5 in the parking garage; the show and the aftershow will both be webcast and be available until July 27th; bus tickets to Philly are still available; two invited guests are John Glenn and Harry Reid (but we've not heard yet whether either will attend); AND upon arrival at the performance venue, chorus members should go to room 327C to drop their uniforms (but we'll dress and make up later, after rehearsing).
M&P VP Terry Reynolds announced that we'll be singing at the Inova Alexandria Hospital on Tuesday, July 6. There will be a regular chapter meeting on Tuesday, July 13th ... to prepare for our show at Fort Ward on Thursday, July 15th. But the next three Tuesdays will be chapter meetings with a number of innovative events and activities.
Director Joe announced sadly that Phil Ferguson's 19 year old brother in law was killed in Afghanistan and asked that Phil and the family be held close. Then he asked for volunteers to provide laptops and TVs (and cabling) to provide show coverage backstage. Then he worked some of the show tunes: “The Stars and Stripes Forever,” “Summertime,” and “There's a Meetin' Here Tonight.” Joe said he is "psyched" over our mastery of TS&SF and congratulated the chorus on what it has accomplished with this song. Thirty-seven men volunteered to sing TS&SF on Sunday morning. Joe had them come off the risers and sing while he wandered through a maze of singers to hear them. At the end he took a picture of the group (with the tenors in back and pretty much out of sight) and hoped he can secure permission for all to participate. If not, he'll randomly pick 25 guys.
As risers were put on the truck, uniform parts were distributed on the stage. Hopefully, everyone has all the necessary parts for Sunday and for our time in Philly.
For the record, Alan also reported on the Harmonizers who attended the recent Mid Atlantic District Harmony College East weekend. As usual the chapter supported the event in many ways: judges, coaches, administrators, tag singers, joke tellers and guys who went to learn and expand their knowledge about our hobby. Here are the guys who attended:
Keith Jones
Gary Plaag
Joe Cerutti
Wayne Adams
Ryan Griffith
Bob Wachter
Mike Kelly
Dean Martin
Scipio Garling
Tony Colosimo
Mike Geipel
Bob Mattes
Alan Kousen
Frank Fedarko
Eric Wallen
Bob Eckman
Jack Stonesifer
Rick Taylor
Joe Sawyer
Craig Odell
Martin Banks
David Welter
Alan Wile.
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.)
Prior to the meeting Chuck McKeever was on the stage reviewing contest uptune choreo; risers were set up; truck was positioned to take the risers at the end of the evening (for Thursday at Jeff-Houston and beyond); tables were set up in the usual places and on the back of the stage; Bob Rhome had convention packets at the ready; etc.
K-12 called the Harmonizers to the risers just before 7:00 p.m. Will conducted the warm-up before turning the chorus over to director Joe Cerutti. Initially Joe continued to work warm-up elements and then introduced coach Geri Geis. All three emphasized the Harmonizer press. Geri reminded us of the effect when the chorus repeatedly presses. She asked that each man be prepared to do each and every run-through by internalizing his "story" before we sing; that there be contrast in every lyric line; what needs to be done to capture the judges' attention ... to get them to look up from the papers in front of them; to lighten up on each "except" phrase (when we're talking to ourselves and being honest ...unlike the rest of the song when we're trying to convince ourselves that we're OK); and to contrast those portions with the "But I get along without you" lines when we're trying to convince ourselves "I don't need you"; and that, after all, no one (NO one) ever says "no" to us!
Joe drilled parts of both songs. Geri helped with reminders and additional artistry. Joe noted that every chorus will sing loud -- "The audience expects it and it's what we do." But it's the softs with "white fire" presence that make the Harmonizers great.
Throughout the rehearsal a professional photographer ("Joe") was at work. Evidently he will be taking pictures during the Sunday show and was getting acquainted with us and our contest package.
K-12 announced this week's birthday boys -- Mick Stamps and Max Keiba. Joe jumped in and called them up together with Craig Kujawa's niece Michelle Bash whose 15th birthday was tonight ... and then directed as the chorus serenaded all three appropriately.
Chapter Secretary Chris Buechler presented membership cards to Matt Barnes (6 years), Dave Welter (34 years), and Craig Odell (41 years). He also presented Dean Martin with his first Man of Note award for bringing Steve Matuszewski back into the chapter (after a prolonged absence from the Society).
Membership VP Dan O'Brien announced this would be his "swan song appearance" in this position. This announcement resulted in rousing applause in appreciation for his wonderful work over the last year and one-half. He then introduced the guests: Chris Clark -- a new applicant; Michelle Bash; Stephen Haynes from the Ambassadors of Harmony; Trevor Doney -- a friend of Steve Lingo and Lise Lingo (Steve's wife).
After a brief break, K-12 announced that all the missing uniform parts have arrived and would be distributed at the end of the night. Rick Wagner addressed housing for our guests this weekend and provided tips for hosts and greeters. Those guests desiring to do group sight-seeing are to meet Monday at 10:00 a.m. at the Smithsonian Metro station (mall exit). The Westminster chorus will be here until Tuesday and need to be dropped off at the Kena Temple by 9:30 a.m. to catch the bus to Philly. Questions should be addressed to Rick.
Ken Fess announced that 1,624 tickets have been sold for the Choir of the World show on Sunday! He is in need of a riser crew at 1:00 p.m. on Friday; someone to help replenish food/drink back stage; sightseeing questions should be addressed to Noah Van Gilder; handouts were available with show details; parking is free in Lot K and for $5 in the parking garage; the show and the aftershow will both be webcast and be available until July 27th; bus tickets to Philly are still available; two invited guests are John Glenn and Harry Reid (but we've not heard yet whether either will attend); AND upon arrival at the performance venue, chorus members should go to room 327C to drop their uniforms (but we'll dress and make up later, after rehearsing).
M&P VP Terry Reynolds announced that we'll be singing at the Inova Alexandria Hospital on Tuesday, July 6. There will be a regular chapter meeting on Tuesday, July 13th ... to prepare for our show at Fort Ward on Thursday, July 15th. But the next three Tuesdays will be chapter meetings with a number of innovative events and activities.
Director Joe announced sadly that Phil Ferguson's 19 year old brother in law was killed in Afghanistan and asked that Phil and the family be held close. Then he asked for volunteers to provide laptops and TVs (and cabling) to provide show coverage backstage. Then he worked some of the show tunes: “The Stars and Stripes Forever,” “Summertime,” and “There's a Meetin' Here Tonight.” Joe said he is "psyched" over our mastery of TS&SF and congratulated the chorus on what it has accomplished with this song. Thirty-seven men volunteered to sing TS&SF on Sunday morning. Joe had them come off the risers and sing while he wandered through a maze of singers to hear them. At the end he took a picture of the group (with the tenors in back and pretty much out of sight) and hoped he can secure permission for all to participate. If not, he'll randomly pick 25 guys.
As risers were put on the truck, uniform parts were distributed on the stage. Hopefully, everyone has all the necessary parts for Sunday and for our time in Philly.
For the record, Alan also reported on the Harmonizers who attended the recent Mid Atlantic District Harmony College East weekend. As usual the chapter supported the event in many ways: judges, coaches, administrators, tag singers, joke tellers and guys who went to learn and expand their knowledge about our hobby. Here are the guys who attended:
Keith Jones
Gary Plaag
Joe Cerutti
Wayne Adams
Ryan Griffith
Bob Wachter
Mike Kelly
Dean Martin
Scipio Garling
Tony Colosimo
Mike Geipel
Bob Mattes
Alan Kousen
Frank Fedarko
Eric Wallen
Bob Eckman
Jack Stonesifer
Rick Taylor
Joe Sawyer
Craig Odell
Martin Banks
David Welter
Alan Wile.
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, June 24, 2010
Looking Back on the June 23rd Chapter Meeting
Looking Back on the June 23rd Chapter Meeting
(Thanks again to Alan Wile for preparing this copy while YeEd was out of town.)
Prior to the meeting Chuck McKeever was on the stage reviewing contest uptune choreo; risers were set up; truck was positioned to take the risers at the end of the evening (for Thursday at Jeff-Houston and beyond); tables were set up in the usual places and on the back of the stage; Bob Rhome had convention packets at the ready; etc.
K-12 called the Harmonizers to the risers just before 7:00 p.m. Will conducted the warm-up before turning the chorus over to director Joe Cerutti. Initially Joe continued to work warm-up elements and then introduced coach Geri Geis. All three emphasized the Harmonizer press. Geri reminded us of the effect when the chorus repeatedly presses. She asked that each man be prepared to do each and every run-through by internalizing his "story" before we sing; that there be contrast in every lyric line; what needs to be done to capture the judges' attention ... to get them to look up from the papers in front of them; to lighten up on each "except" phrase (when we're talking to ourselves and being honest ...unlike the rest of the song when we're trying to convince ourselves that we're OK); and to contrast those portions with the "But I get along without you" lines when we're trying to convince ourselves "I don't need you"; and that, after all, no one (NO one) ever says "no" to us!
Joe drilled parts of both songs. Geri helped with reminders and additional artistry. Joe noted that every chorus will sing loud -- "The audience expects it and it's what we do." But it's the softs with "white fire" presence that make the Harmonizers great.
Throughout the rehearsal a professional photographer ("Joe") was at work. Evidently he will be taking pictures during the Sunday show and was getting acquainted with us and our contest package.
K-12 announced this week's birthday boys -- Mick Stamps and Max Keiba. Our Joe jumped in and called them up together with Craig Kujawa's niece Michelle Bash whose 15th birthday was tonight ... and then directed as the chorus serenaded all three appropriately.
Chapter Secretary Chris Buechler presented membership cards to Matt Barnes (6 years), Dave Welter (34 years), and Craig Odell (41 years). He also presented Dean Martin with his first Man of Note award for bringing Steve Matuszewski back into the chapter (after a prolonged absence from the Society).
Membership VP Dan O'Brien announced this would be his "swan song appearance" in this position. This announcement resulted in rousing applause in appreciation for his wonderful work over the last year and one-half. He then introduced the guests: Chris Clark -- a new applicant; Michelle Bash; Stephen Haynes from the Ambassadors of Harmony; Trevor Doney -- a friend of Steve Lingo and Lise Lingo (Steve's wife).
After a brief break, K-12 announced that all the missing uniform parts have arrived and would be distributed at the end of the night. Rick Wagner addressed housing for our guests this weekend and provided tips for hosts and greeters. Those guests desiring to do group sight-seeing are to meet Monday at 10:00 a.m. at the Smithsonian Metro station (mall exit). The Westminster chorus will be here until Tuesday and need to be dropped off at the Kena Temple by 9:30 a.m. to catch the bus to Philly. Questions should be addressed to Rick.
Ken Fess announced that 1,624 tickets have been sold for the Choir of the World show on Sunday! He is in need of a riser crew at 1:00 p.m. on Friday; someone to help replenish food/drink back stage; sightseeing questions should be addressed to Noah Van Gilder; handouts were available with show details; parking is free in Lot K and for $5 in the parking garage; the show and the aftershow will both be webcast and be available until July 27th; bus tickets to Philly are still available; two invited guests are John Glenn and Harry Reid (but we've not heard yet whether either will attend); AND upon arrival at the performance venue, chorus members should go to room 327C to drop their uniforms (but we'll dress and make up later, after rehearsing).
M&P VP Terry Reynolds announced that we'll be singing at the Inova Alexandria Hospital on Tuesday, July 6. There will be a regular chapter meeting on Tuesday, July 13th ... to prepare for our show at Fort Ward on Thursday, July 15th. But the next three Tuesdays will be chapter meetings with a number of innovative events and activities.
Director Joe announced sadly that Phil Ferguson's 19 year old brother in law was killed in Afghanistan and asked that Phil and the family be held close. Then he asked for volunteers to provide laptops and TVs (and cabling) to provide show coverage backstage. Then he worked some of the show tunes: “The Stars and Stripes Forever,” “Summertime,” and “There's a Meetin' Here Tonight.” Joe said he is "psyched" over our mastery of TS&SF and congratulated the chorus on what it has accomplished with this song. Thirty-seven men volunteered to sing TS&SF on Sunday morning. Joe had them come off the risers and sing while he wandered through a maze of singers to hear them. At the end he took a picture of the group (with the tenors in back and pretty much out of sight) and hoped he can secure permission for all to participate. If not, he'll randomly pick 25 guys.
As risers were put on the truck, uniform parts were distributed on the stage. Hopefully, everyone has all the necessary parts for Sunday and for our time in Philly.
For the record, Alan also reported on the Harmonizers who attended the recent Mid Atlantic District Harmony College East weekend. As usual the chapter supported the event in many ways: judges, coaches, administrators, tag singers, joke tellers and guys who went to learn and expand their knowledge about our hobby. Here are the guys who attended:
Keith Jones
Gary Plaag
Joe Cerutti
Wayne Adams
Ryan Griffith
Bob Wachter
Mike Kelly
Dean Martin
Scipio Garling
Tony Colosimo
Mike Geipel
Bob Mattes
Alan Kousen
Frank Fedarko
Eric Wallen
Bob Eckman
Jack Stonesifer
Rick Taylor
Joe Sawyer
Craig Odell
Martin Banks
Alan Wile.
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.)
(Thanks again to Alan Wile for preparing this copy while YeEd was out of town.)
Prior to the meeting Chuck McKeever was on the stage reviewing contest uptune choreo; risers were set up; truck was positioned to take the risers at the end of the evening (for Thursday at Jeff-Houston and beyond); tables were set up in the usual places and on the back of the stage; Bob Rhome had convention packets at the ready; etc.
K-12 called the Harmonizers to the risers just before 7:00 p.m. Will conducted the warm-up before turning the chorus over to director Joe Cerutti. Initially Joe continued to work warm-up elements and then introduced coach Geri Geis. All three emphasized the Harmonizer press. Geri reminded us of the effect when the chorus repeatedly presses. She asked that each man be prepared to do each and every run-through by internalizing his "story" before we sing; that there be contrast in every lyric line; what needs to be done to capture the judges' attention ... to get them to look up from the papers in front of them; to lighten up on each "except" phrase (when we're talking to ourselves and being honest ...unlike the rest of the song when we're trying to convince ourselves that we're OK); and to contrast those portions with the "But I get along without you" lines when we're trying to convince ourselves "I don't need you"; and that, after all, no one (NO one) ever says "no" to us!
Joe drilled parts of both songs. Geri helped with reminders and additional artistry. Joe noted that every chorus will sing loud -- "The audience expects it and it's what we do." But it's the softs with "white fire" presence that make the Harmonizers great.
Throughout the rehearsal a professional photographer ("Joe") was at work. Evidently he will be taking pictures during the Sunday show and was getting acquainted with us and our contest package.
K-12 announced this week's birthday boys -- Mick Stamps and Max Keiba. Our Joe jumped in and called them up together with Craig Kujawa's niece Michelle Bash whose 15th birthday was tonight ... and then directed as the chorus serenaded all three appropriately.
Chapter Secretary Chris Buechler presented membership cards to Matt Barnes (6 years), Dave Welter (34 years), and Craig Odell (41 years). He also presented Dean Martin with his first Man of Note award for bringing Steve Matuszewski back into the chapter (after a prolonged absence from the Society).
Membership VP Dan O'Brien announced this would be his "swan song appearance" in this position. This announcement resulted in rousing applause in appreciation for his wonderful work over the last year and one-half. He then introduced the guests: Chris Clark -- a new applicant; Michelle Bash; Stephen Haynes from the Ambassadors of Harmony; Trevor Doney -- a friend of Steve Lingo and Lise Lingo (Steve's wife).
After a brief break, K-12 announced that all the missing uniform parts have arrived and would be distributed at the end of the night. Rick Wagner addressed housing for our guests this weekend and provided tips for hosts and greeters. Those guests desiring to do group sight-seeing are to meet Monday at 10:00 a.m. at the Smithsonian Metro station (mall exit). The Westminster chorus will be here until Tuesday and need to be dropped off at the Kena Temple by 9:30 a.m. to catch the bus to Philly. Questions should be addressed to Rick.
Ken Fess announced that 1,624 tickets have been sold for the Choir of the World show on Sunday! He is in need of a riser crew at 1:00 p.m. on Friday; someone to help replenish food/drink back stage; sightseeing questions should be addressed to Noah Van Gilder; handouts were available with show details; parking is free in Lot K and for $5 in the parking garage; the show and the aftershow will both be webcast and be available until July 27th; bus tickets to Philly are still available; two invited guests are John Glenn and Harry Reid (but we've not heard yet whether either will attend); AND upon arrival at the performance venue, chorus members should go to room 327C to drop their uniforms (but we'll dress and make up later, after rehearsing).
M&P VP Terry Reynolds announced that we'll be singing at the Inova Alexandria Hospital on Tuesday, July 6. There will be a regular chapter meeting on Tuesday, July 13th ... to prepare for our show at Fort Ward on Thursday, July 15th. But the next three Tuesdays will be chapter meetings with a number of innovative events and activities.
Director Joe announced sadly that Phil Ferguson's 19 year old brother in law was killed in Afghanistan and asked that Phil and the family be held close. Then he asked for volunteers to provide laptops and TVs (and cabling) to provide show coverage backstage. Then he worked some of the show tunes: “The Stars and Stripes Forever,” “Summertime,” and “There's a Meetin' Here Tonight.” Joe said he is "psyched" over our mastery of TS&SF and congratulated the chorus on what it has accomplished with this song. Thirty-seven men volunteered to sing TS&SF on Sunday morning. Joe had them come off the risers and sing while he wandered through a maze of singers to hear them. At the end he took a picture of the group (with the tenors in back and pretty much out of sight) and hoped he can secure permission for all to participate. If not, he'll randomly pick 25 guys.
As risers were put on the truck, uniform parts were distributed on the stage. Hopefully, everyone has all the necessary parts for Sunday and for our time in Philly.
For the record, Alan also reported on the Harmonizers who attended the recent Mid Atlantic District Harmony College East weekend. As usual the chapter supported the event in many ways: judges, coaches, administrators, tag singers, joke tellers and guys who went to learn and expand their knowledge about our hobby. Here are the guys who attended:
Keith Jones
Gary Plaag
Joe Cerutti
Wayne Adams
Ryan Griffith
Bob Wachter
Mike Kelly
Dean Martin
Scipio Garling
Tony Colosimo
Mike Geipel
Bob Mattes
Alan Kousen
Frank Fedarko
Eric Wallen
Bob Eckman
Jack Stonesifer
Rick Taylor
Joe Sawyer
Craig Odell
Martin Banks
Alan Wile.
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, June 10, 2010
Looking Back on the June 8th Chapter Meeting
We met at Jeff-Houston school, adjacent to Durant, this week. So there were a few adjustments in using a different space. No coffee, but goodies thanks to those who brought things to share!
Even the Harmo truck needed a “jump” to get it to start. But drivers Howard Nestlerode and Bob Blair got it going and over to the hall. Chapter members jumped in and got things set up and ready for a riser call at 7!
There was a FRIENDS meeting tonite also.
Tony did the vocal warm ups and included drills on quality soft singing and worked on a revised hand move to go with the music.
The Men Of 10 have new purple shirts to go with their class bandanas! Looking sharp men.
When Director Joe got to the front, he started with accolades about ticket sales and thanked all those who took him serious and bought tickets (if they didn’t sell any) for Joe to give to students and music educators. He also announced that an anonymous Harmonizer has bought 20 tickets and given them to the district Harmony Youth camp program.
In a continuation of giving, Joe thanked a donor of gift cards for him to use as he thought appropriate to recognize guys in the chapter. This time he chose a leader who went beyond the call – Chuck McKeever. Chuck is a visual trainer and coordinator of pre-rehearsal sessions and quad work. AND he took on the annual chorus retreat again. Thanks Chuck. (And thanks Ellen for the support.)
To start off the singing portion of the nite, Joe had the guys get into voice part sections on the risers and launched into “Stars and Stripes” in preparation for the June 27th show. He encouraged those guys who had prepared word cheat sheets to help themselves. And he asked all to have the words down soon. YeEd has just gotta add – wow it is fast, geez there are a lot of words, and man, does it sound good!
Joe confirmed that the gig is "on” for the morning of July 4th in Philly to do a TV spot with “Stars and Stripes” too. He will narrow down the 25 singers that can do it next week.
When they finish “S & S” Joe had the guys walk back to their regular risers spots doing the intro to “Summertime” which will also be on the June 27 show. It was fun to see all the new guys absorb the moves and emotional plan from those guys who knew it from the past.
Joe also had the men sing other songs for the show – “God Bless The USA,” “Great Day” and “Meeting Here Tonight.”
Then it was time for serious work on the uptune with moves (including some adjustments to the plan and review of the adjustments from retreat).
Before break, Mark Klostermeyer listed all this week’s birthdays. And reminded all about the extra rehearsal this Thursday at 7 pm at Jeff-Houston. He also did a bandana check for the class of 2010! One guy went running to his briefcase to get his, but all had them to show!
Secretary Buechler welcomed newest member Jack Stonesifer. And then presented membership renewal cards to the following: Don Dillingham, 2 years; Patrick Kim, 3 years; Nick Murane, 5 years; Tim Buell, 6 years; and Jim Lake, 17 years.
Dan O’Brien, our hard working membership guy, welcome Daniel Secco, from Brazil, who is a student staying at Lew Klinge’s.
After break, the chapter meeting period continued. Sandy Stamps, FRIENDS president presented a cash gift to CRUNCH TIME (Eric Wallen) for their trip to Philly. Also the FRIENDS group gave President Newton a cash gift for the chorus. Many thanks to those who help raise the monies and cheer for us at contests and shows.
Rick Wagner alerted all of us who are hosting Westminster chorus members in our homes that he has details for us as to arrivals and such.
Ken Fess spoke briefly about the show too. If you need tickets, contact him. He may need some help blanketing GMU to get students to the show. And if you wish to ride the one-way bus to Philly, see Bruce Lauther.
Terry Reynolds, music and performance vp, reminded all of this week’s extra rehearsal and the extra rehearsal on Thursday, June 24th.
The second half of the evening was mostly work on the ballad with Geri Geis who had come in to help us. Thanks to Royall for coming too!
The excitement level and quality was so high, Joe didn’t want to stop. We sang right up til 10:10 or so, then hurried to put things back on the truck and escape the school to go to the afterglow at 815 S. 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.)
Even the Harmo truck needed a “jump” to get it to start. But drivers Howard Nestlerode and Bob Blair got it going and over to the hall. Chapter members jumped in and got things set up and ready for a riser call at 7!
There was a FRIENDS meeting tonite also.
Tony did the vocal warm ups and included drills on quality soft singing and worked on a revised hand move to go with the music.
The Men Of 10 have new purple shirts to go with their class bandanas! Looking sharp men.
When Director Joe got to the front, he started with accolades about ticket sales and thanked all those who took him serious and bought tickets (if they didn’t sell any) for Joe to give to students and music educators. He also announced that an anonymous Harmonizer has bought 20 tickets and given them to the district Harmony Youth camp program.
In a continuation of giving, Joe thanked a donor of gift cards for him to use as he thought appropriate to recognize guys in the chapter. This time he chose a leader who went beyond the call – Chuck McKeever. Chuck is a visual trainer and coordinator of pre-rehearsal sessions and quad work. AND he took on the annual chorus retreat again. Thanks Chuck. (And thanks Ellen for the support.)
To start off the singing portion of the nite, Joe had the guys get into voice part sections on the risers and launched into “Stars and Stripes” in preparation for the June 27th show. He encouraged those guys who had prepared word cheat sheets to help themselves. And he asked all to have the words down soon. YeEd has just gotta add – wow it is fast, geez there are a lot of words, and man, does it sound good!
Joe confirmed that the gig is "on” for the morning of July 4th in Philly to do a TV spot with “Stars and Stripes” too. He will narrow down the 25 singers that can do it next week.
When they finish “S & S” Joe had the guys walk back to their regular risers spots doing the intro to “Summertime” which will also be on the June 27 show. It was fun to see all the new guys absorb the moves and emotional plan from those guys who knew it from the past.
Joe also had the men sing other songs for the show – “God Bless The USA,” “Great Day” and “Meeting Here Tonight.”
Then it was time for serious work on the uptune with moves (including some adjustments to the plan and review of the adjustments from retreat).
Before break, Mark Klostermeyer listed all this week’s birthdays. And reminded all about the extra rehearsal this Thursday at 7 pm at Jeff-Houston. He also did a bandana check for the class of 2010! One guy went running to his briefcase to get his, but all had them to show!
Secretary Buechler welcomed newest member Jack Stonesifer. And then presented membership renewal cards to the following: Don Dillingham, 2 years; Patrick Kim, 3 years; Nick Murane, 5 years; Tim Buell, 6 years; and Jim Lake, 17 years.
Dan O’Brien, our hard working membership guy, welcome Daniel Secco, from Brazil, who is a student staying at Lew Klinge’s.
After break, the chapter meeting period continued. Sandy Stamps, FRIENDS president presented a cash gift to CRUNCH TIME (Eric Wallen) for their trip to Philly. Also the FRIENDS group gave President Newton a cash gift for the chorus. Many thanks to those who help raise the monies and cheer for us at contests and shows.
Rick Wagner alerted all of us who are hosting Westminster chorus members in our homes that he has details for us as to arrivals and such.
Ken Fess spoke briefly about the show too. If you need tickets, contact him. He may need some help blanketing GMU to get students to the show. And if you wish to ride the one-way bus to Philly, see Bruce Lauther.
Terry Reynolds, music and performance vp, reminded all of this week’s extra rehearsal and the extra rehearsal on Thursday, June 24th.
The second half of the evening was mostly work on the ballad with Geri Geis who had come in to help us. Thanks to Royall for coming too!
The excitement level and quality was so high, Joe didn’t want to stop. We sang right up til 10:10 or so, then hurried to put things back on the truck and escape the school to go to the afterglow at 815 S. 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.)
Thursday, June 3, 2010
Looking Back on the June 1st Chapter Meeting and So. Div. Contest Report
This week’s column starts off with a report from the Southern Division contest where quartets and choruses via for the chance to compete at the district convention in the fall. It was in Roanoke, VA, in the newly refurbished Hotel Roanoke and convention center.
Tho the Harmonizers did not sing at our division this year, we were all over the place all weekend. Many guys wore Harmo shirts and logos – it gave us a chance to talk about the chapter and especially our hugely popular June 27th show with Westminster.
There were Alexandria guys in 8 of the 13 quartet contestants. YOUTH RECLAMATION PROJECT (with Mike Wallen) won with a solid hit. (They were also competing for senior quartet recognition.)
Second place was our own DOWNTOWN who came out with a solid package and new bass, Arthur Louis along with Drew Fuller, Frank Fedarko.
The other Harmonizer quartets included BELTWAY BLUES in 4th (with Kevin Roth); FRiDAYS! in 5th (with Bob Caldwell, Ken Ives, Steve Murane); FOUR MAN VOCAL BAND in 6th (with Randy Lazear, Bob Bates, Larry Walker, Dave Cureton); RING OF GOLD in 8th (with Don Thompson); SURPRISE! in 9th (with John Grant, Bob Hirsh, Bruce Minnick) and FOUR IN THE MORNING in 10th (with Mike Geipel). FOUR MAN VOCAL BAND and FRiDAYS! were also competing as seniors quartets.
Besides the guys on stage, Director Joe was a judge, Chuck Harner was in charge of the contests, Joe Sawyer and Dennis Ritchey served as MCs during the weekend, and as usual several of our guys are board members for the district or serve on the operations team that makes sure the contest runs smoothly. Several of our guys also volunteered as mic testers for the quartet contest Fri. eve and the chorus contest Sat. morning.
There were a number of Harmonizers and former Harmonizers on stage with other choruses Saturday: Bob Wilson and Paul Laurenz in first place chorus, James River; Mike Calhoun, Alan Durick and Dewey Feuerhelm in the new Harrisonburg chorus that was named Most Improved Chorus.
Mike Wallen directed the Richmond chorus which included Mike Geipel and Paul Lensch. They came in second.
Singing in the DC chorus were Bob Hirsh, Bob Wells, Don Dillingham and Torsten Wezel. They came in third. Tony’s Dad, Bill, was excited about their success.
Southern Division will send 6 choruses to the fall contest in Lancaster in Oct. – James River, Richmond, DC, Germantown, Fairfax, and Roanoke.
Others YeEd saw in the audience: Frank Beahm, who belongs to Smith Mountain Lake; Ian Poulin, Alan Wile, Keith Jones, Sam McFarland, Mike Kelly who operated the video filming operation; Ben Smith, and Gary Plaag who is district president.
Tuesday nite, June 1st was another hard working nite for the Harmonizers. But for sure a very productive one. (Some guys were joking as to what kinda surprises Joe would pull off this week – and he had a few!!)
The big one was to announce that since we have almost reached our goal of 80% sales, we are gonna webcast the big June show. Subscribers can check it out and pay online.
Joe was especially proud to report the success of consignment ticket sales and the number of guys who had sold 10 or more. He announced the names of all of those guys and then he gave a gift card (thanks to the Harmonizer supporter for providing the cards) to the top salesman, Rick Wagner at 20 tickets. (Well actually, Director Joe has sold 45 and Ken Fess has sold 54 – but they work together so we didn’t make them top!!!) (Then again, who ever heard of a chorus director selling a lot of tickets and the show producer? Thanks guys.)
The musical warm up included some physical stretching and moves also tonite with Tony Colosimo doing the honors. He also stressed proper breathing!
Joe welcomed back Mark Klostermeyer who keeps the chapter meeting and chorus rehearsal flowing. Then he thought of another ticket matter – who is covering and selling to all the local barbershop chapters both male and female in the DC area? We found out a bunch of guys have them covered, and other guys volunteered to go after the rest.
After all that, Joe decided it was important to go into sectionals for “Stars and Stripes” to finish the hard work started in previous weeks. When the chorus reassembled, he had them stand in sections on the risers. Wow – what a sound when he had them sing as if in a choral or church choir singing Bach.
Then another surprise: Joe received a request for the chorus to sing on July 4th at the Philadelphia Liberty Bell Independence Hall ceremony. They need 25 to be on mic for the TV special at 7:30 am. Guys are to think it over and Joe will follow up. What a great way to use “Stars and Stripes” after all this work.
The music team also worked on “Meeting Here Tonight” and “ObLiDi/ObLiDa” for shows coming up. If you weren’t at rehearsal this week, ask one of the singers about the “non-scooping xylophone” example.
Joe then explained the plan for using “Great Day” as the opener with Westminster and also for the closing on that show. MC for the show will be Ev Nau, with the Harmony Foundation in Nashville.
When Joe asked how many on the risers had been to a vocal studio, YeEd noted about 99% of the hands went up. That is great. And we all thank Joe, Tony, Terry Reynolds and others for the extra effort in arranging for them.
Michael Gellert was in the house again this week and Terry orchestrated those taking vocal coaching sessions with him during the evening.
Before starting on the ballad, Director Joe remarked that he will never forget as long as he lives last week’s surprise visit by former director, Scott Werner.
A huge chunk of time was used to work, coach and repeat the ballad.
Then over to the uptune, the presentation team announced some major, but not difficult, changes to the visual plan. Coach Hansen had worked long distance with our guys to plan it and help them prepare to teach the chorus. Good work all. The chorus members were good sports in trying, listening to instructions and making it work.
The pre-break events included the usual birthday reminders. The chorus manager K12 called out the 17 men in the Class of 2010:
Matt Barnes
Tim Buell
Don Dillingham
Don Farrell
Myles Glancy
Andrew Havens
Ken Henderson
Victor Hills
Jeremy Knobel
Jim Lake
Dean Martin
Bert Phillips
Andrew Plocher
Kevin Roth
Steve Lingo
Jack Stonesifer
Don Thompson
This is the third largest freshman class in chapter history, according to Mark K. He presented them purple bandanas this year and gave them the usual admonishment to wear them at ALL TIMES and be ready to present them whenever asked. (Hope they won’t forget them for the retreat this weekend!)
Secretary Buechler presented Big Ten Awards to Jack Pitzer and Chuck Harner for bringing 10 men into the BHS and our chapter. He and president Dick Newton presented 35 year pins to Austin Cotton and Howard Nestlerode. Dick then presented Chris his 25 year pin. Other recipients of renewal cards were Craig Kujawa, 7 years; Tony Colosimo, 17 years; Ken Rub, 19 years; Ike Evans, 23 years; Bob Eckman, 26 years; Martin Banks, 27 years; and Dick Hall, 46 years.
Glad to have pitch man and membership vp back tonite. Dan O’Brien welcomed guest and applicant Jack Stonesifer.
Then a fast break time since there was much musical work to do. (Even tho it was short, the guys ate the cupboard bare – so some of you chow hounds bring in some goodies like cookies or chips or pretzels to share. Thanks.)
After guys grabbed a bite or soda from the FRIENDS or a coffee, bought tickets or grabbed uniform parts, it was back to some chapter meeting matters.
Jack Cameron started his plugging about ordering chorus pixs from Philly.
Chuck McKeever, dean of our retreat weekend, asked everyone to help Bob Blair load things on the truck to take to Westminster, MD, this weekend. Guys were reminded to be there by 7:30 or 8 to check in and be ready to sing. Coffee will be served. Anyone who wants to go up Friday nite should contact Chuck McKeever. It is $24.50 in addition to the $50 guys need to pay, if they have not already done so. Sounds like there will be some fun on Saturday nite too.
For the retreat, don’t forget to bring towels, pillow, sheets, your tearaways (and bandanas if you are in the freshman class).
Two quartets with Harmonizers (Steve White in TOUCHSTONE, and John Reece ON THE ROAD) will compete at the Western Division contest in PA Friday nite and those guys will drive over to check in for retreat.
Steve White announced results of the Southern Division contest as reported above.
Someone announced a reminder that there will be special rehearsals on Thurs. June 10 and June 24. Mark your calendars. These are mandatory.
President Newton welcomed Chris Buechler back after some heart health work since our last meeting. And asked the chapter to keep Chuck Powell in their thoughts as he is having some kidney stone issues again.
Dick received a Harmony Foundation Award for our chapter contributions at the Gold level of $188.27 per member.
The rest of the nite was work, work, work on the uptune. Then for a while, Phil Ferguson recorded the ballad and Joe and Scipio coached while Tony directed. All thought it was a great learning tool for the chorus (and reminded us of when Hohl and Werner did this sort of thing in prep for previous contest successes).
We worked til after 10 and then hustled to get things loaded on the truck and put away. Some auditions were held. Some chapter ensembles practiced. And still we all got to 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.)
Tho the Harmonizers did not sing at our division this year, we were all over the place all weekend. Many guys wore Harmo shirts and logos – it gave us a chance to talk about the chapter and especially our hugely popular June 27th show with Westminster.
There were Alexandria guys in 8 of the 13 quartet contestants. YOUTH RECLAMATION PROJECT (with Mike Wallen) won with a solid hit. (They were also competing for senior quartet recognition.)
Second place was our own DOWNTOWN who came out with a solid package and new bass, Arthur Louis along with Drew Fuller, Frank Fedarko.
The other Harmonizer quartets included BELTWAY BLUES in 4th (with Kevin Roth); FRiDAYS! in 5th (with Bob Caldwell, Ken Ives, Steve Murane); FOUR MAN VOCAL BAND in 6th (with Randy Lazear, Bob Bates, Larry Walker, Dave Cureton); RING OF GOLD in 8th (with Don Thompson); SURPRISE! in 9th (with John Grant, Bob Hirsh, Bruce Minnick) and FOUR IN THE MORNING in 10th (with Mike Geipel). FOUR MAN VOCAL BAND and FRiDAYS! were also competing as seniors quartets.
Besides the guys on stage, Director Joe was a judge, Chuck Harner was in charge of the contests, Joe Sawyer and Dennis Ritchey served as MCs during the weekend, and as usual several of our guys are board members for the district or serve on the operations team that makes sure the contest runs smoothly. Several of our guys also volunteered as mic testers for the quartet contest Fri. eve and the chorus contest Sat. morning.
There were a number of Harmonizers and former Harmonizers on stage with other choruses Saturday: Bob Wilson and Paul Laurenz in first place chorus, James River; Mike Calhoun, Alan Durick and Dewey Feuerhelm in the new Harrisonburg chorus that was named Most Improved Chorus.
Mike Wallen directed the Richmond chorus which included Mike Geipel and Paul Lensch. They came in second.
Singing in the DC chorus were Bob Hirsh, Bob Wells, Don Dillingham and Torsten Wezel. They came in third. Tony’s Dad, Bill, was excited about their success.
Southern Division will send 6 choruses to the fall contest in Lancaster in Oct. – James River, Richmond, DC, Germantown, Fairfax, and Roanoke.
Others YeEd saw in the audience: Frank Beahm, who belongs to Smith Mountain Lake; Ian Poulin, Alan Wile, Keith Jones, Sam McFarland, Mike Kelly who operated the video filming operation; Ben Smith, and Gary Plaag who is district president.
Tuesday nite, June 1st was another hard working nite for the Harmonizers. But for sure a very productive one. (Some guys were joking as to what kinda surprises Joe would pull off this week – and he had a few!!)
The big one was to announce that since we have almost reached our goal of 80% sales, we are gonna webcast the big June show. Subscribers can check it out and pay online.
Joe was especially proud to report the success of consignment ticket sales and the number of guys who had sold 10 or more. He announced the names of all of those guys and then he gave a gift card (thanks to the Harmonizer supporter for providing the cards) to the top salesman, Rick Wagner at 20 tickets. (Well actually, Director Joe has sold 45 and Ken Fess has sold 54 – but they work together so we didn’t make them top!!!) (Then again, who ever heard of a chorus director selling a lot of tickets and the show producer? Thanks guys.)
The musical warm up included some physical stretching and moves also tonite with Tony Colosimo doing the honors. He also stressed proper breathing!
Joe welcomed back Mark Klostermeyer who keeps the chapter meeting and chorus rehearsal flowing. Then he thought of another ticket matter – who is covering and selling to all the local barbershop chapters both male and female in the DC area? We found out a bunch of guys have them covered, and other guys volunteered to go after the rest.
After all that, Joe decided it was important to go into sectionals for “Stars and Stripes” to finish the hard work started in previous weeks. When the chorus reassembled, he had them stand in sections on the risers. Wow – what a sound when he had them sing as if in a choral or church choir singing Bach.
Then another surprise: Joe received a request for the chorus to sing on July 4th at the Philadelphia Liberty Bell Independence Hall ceremony. They need 25 to be on mic for the TV special at 7:30 am. Guys are to think it over and Joe will follow up. What a great way to use “Stars and Stripes” after all this work.
The music team also worked on “Meeting Here Tonight” and “ObLiDi/ObLiDa” for shows coming up. If you weren’t at rehearsal this week, ask one of the singers about the “non-scooping xylophone” example.
Joe then explained the plan for using “Great Day” as the opener with Westminster and also for the closing on that show. MC for the show will be Ev Nau, with the Harmony Foundation in Nashville.
When Joe asked how many on the risers had been to a vocal studio, YeEd noted about 99% of the hands went up. That is great. And we all thank Joe, Tony, Terry Reynolds and others for the extra effort in arranging for them.
Michael Gellert was in the house again this week and Terry orchestrated those taking vocal coaching sessions with him during the evening.
Before starting on the ballad, Director Joe remarked that he will never forget as long as he lives last week’s surprise visit by former director, Scott Werner.
A huge chunk of time was used to work, coach and repeat the ballad.
Then over to the uptune, the presentation team announced some major, but not difficult, changes to the visual plan. Coach Hansen had worked long distance with our guys to plan it and help them prepare to teach the chorus. Good work all. The chorus members were good sports in trying, listening to instructions and making it work.
The pre-break events included the usual birthday reminders. The chorus manager K12 called out the 17 men in the Class of 2010:
Matt Barnes
Tim Buell
Don Dillingham
Don Farrell
Myles Glancy
Andrew Havens
Ken Henderson
Victor Hills
Jeremy Knobel
Jim Lake
Dean Martin
Bert Phillips
Andrew Plocher
Kevin Roth
Steve Lingo
Jack Stonesifer
Don Thompson
This is the third largest freshman class in chapter history, according to Mark K. He presented them purple bandanas this year and gave them the usual admonishment to wear them at ALL TIMES and be ready to present them whenever asked. (Hope they won’t forget them for the retreat this weekend!)
Secretary Buechler presented Big Ten Awards to Jack Pitzer and Chuck Harner for bringing 10 men into the BHS and our chapter. He and president Dick Newton presented 35 year pins to Austin Cotton and Howard Nestlerode. Dick then presented Chris his 25 year pin. Other recipients of renewal cards were Craig Kujawa, 7 years; Tony Colosimo, 17 years; Ken Rub, 19 years; Ike Evans, 23 years; Bob Eckman, 26 years; Martin Banks, 27 years; and Dick Hall, 46 years.
Glad to have pitch man and membership vp back tonite. Dan O’Brien welcomed guest and applicant Jack Stonesifer.
Then a fast break time since there was much musical work to do. (Even tho it was short, the guys ate the cupboard bare – so some of you chow hounds bring in some goodies like cookies or chips or pretzels to share. Thanks.)
After guys grabbed a bite or soda from the FRIENDS or a coffee, bought tickets or grabbed uniform parts, it was back to some chapter meeting matters.
Jack Cameron started his plugging about ordering chorus pixs from Philly.
Chuck McKeever, dean of our retreat weekend, asked everyone to help Bob Blair load things on the truck to take to Westminster, MD, this weekend. Guys were reminded to be there by 7:30 or 8 to check in and be ready to sing. Coffee will be served. Anyone who wants to go up Friday nite should contact Chuck McKeever. It is $24.50 in addition to the $50 guys need to pay, if they have not already done so. Sounds like there will be some fun on Saturday nite too.
For the retreat, don’t forget to bring towels, pillow, sheets, your tearaways (and bandanas if you are in the freshman class).
Two quartets with Harmonizers (Steve White in TOUCHSTONE, and John Reece ON THE ROAD) will compete at the Western Division contest in PA Friday nite and those guys will drive over to check in for retreat.
Steve White announced results of the Southern Division contest as reported above.
Someone announced a reminder that there will be special rehearsals on Thurs. June 10 and June 24. Mark your calendars. These are mandatory.
President Newton welcomed Chris Buechler back after some heart health work since our last meeting. And asked the chapter to keep Chuck Powell in their thoughts as he is having some kidney stone issues again.
Dick received a Harmony Foundation Award for our chapter contributions at the Gold level of $188.27 per member.
The rest of the nite was work, work, work on the uptune. Then for a while, Phil Ferguson recorded the ballad and Joe and Scipio coached while Tony directed. All thought it was a great learning tool for the chorus (and reminded us of when Hohl and Werner did this sort of thing in prep for previous contest successes).
We worked til after 10 and then hustled to get things loaded on the truck and put away. Some auditions were held. Some chapter ensembles practiced. And still we all got to 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, May 27, 2010
Looking Back on the May 25th Chapter Meeting
Director Joe said there was gonna be a BIG surprise at chapter meeting. And indeed it was!!
Scott Werner came up from Florida to coach a little, see all his friends, meet all the new guys he did not know and encourage our director.
To pull off the surprise, Joe started the guys working on the contest ballad first thing after warm up. And he invited Geri Geis, who was on hand for the evening, to make suggestions. After about 1 run thru, she said she wanted to do something different and have a closed eye drill. She cautioned several times that guys should not open their eyes during the song, because it would destroy the mood and effect.
Soooo – near the end of the song, Joe signaled a ‘shooosh’ sign with his finger to his lips for all of those watching. And then escorted Scott into the room to stand in front of the chorus.
When Geri released the guys from the closed eye drill, there he was. You should have seen the faces. All the men who knew Scott were beaming and ready to come charging off the risers. And of course their applause and cheering was huge. The looks on the 30 or 35 new guys was also fun – who in the world is this guy and why does he have on the red and black Harmo travel shirt. Joe made the introduction, “Gentlemen, meet the Harmonizer musical director for all four of the gold medals the chapter has earned!” More outbursts and cheers.
Some of you may know that Joe has often mentioned, in a joking way, that he wished Scott Werner could come over and help him with the famous Harmonizer soft singing. So some of the guys in the chapter spoke to Joe and made it happen!!
Right away, Scott jumped in to coach and suggest. And after just a few remarks, the magic was back. Geri was all smiles because much of her work to get guys to sound like they looked happened.
Geri then continued her coaching and Scott offered some more advice. There was a great photo op with Joe and Scott together and then the two of them with Geri. A historical, or Breathless Moment, for the chapter for sure.
YeEd was wondering why so many former members were in the hall, or guys we don’t see often – Everard, Greiner, Abel, Louis, Botts, Levine, Jordan, Galloway. Great to have them all.
As mentioned above, Will Cox took the guys thru a terrific vocal warm up and included some physical movement too. Joe was quick to thank Will for always helping and conducting warm up points that Joe felt were needed. Since Dan O’Brien had a work conflict again, Will was pitchman tonite.
Joe also pushed more on ticket sales and pleaded that if a member has not sold three tickets, he should go buy three himself and give them to Joe to give to youth singers, music educators or other possible supporters.
At the pre-break chapter meeting period, quartet promo chair, Eric Wallen, listed all the quartets that have or will sing in M-AD divisional contests this spring; and as is our chapter custom, presented a check from the chapter to the quartet to help cover their contest registration (the amount based on how many Harmonizers are in the quartet). The line of guys who came up to represent their quartets spread all the way across the building. Congrats to all.
FRiDAYS! sang for the chapter in prep for their appearance this weekend in Roanoke at the Southern Division. YeEd thinks he has the following quartets listed for this weekend: FRiDAYS!, FOUR MAN VOCAL BAND, DOWNTWON, YOUTH RECLAMATION PROJECT, FOUR IN THE MORNING, BELTWAY BLUES, RING OF GOLD, and SURPRISE! (YeEd hopes we did not forget or overlook anyone.)
Secretary Buechler passed out copies of our 50th anniversary history book, Breathless Moments, to the many new men who have join in recent months and have not gotten a copy yet.
Chris also filled in for membership guy Dan. As mentioned earlier, there were a lot of visitors in the hall and forming an audience for the chorus. Ryan Killean from the BHS Foundation staff in Nashville was with us. And Jack Stonesifer, an applicant, was on the risers working to catch up and be ready for Philly.
President Dick Newton shared about Mark Klostermeyers’ father’s memorial service today. Bill Klostermeyer was one of our early Santa Claus guys for holiday shows – with a real beard and all.
Dick also reported that he, Martin Banks and Jim Lucey, attended a reception at Alexandria City Hall tonite and were given word that the chapter will receive another significant grant from the Alexandria Commission for the Arts. The Harmonizers are one of the major arts groups in the city, and likely the only one that spreads the word of our city around the nation.
And Dick asked the chorus to thank Bob Blair and Bob Rhome for repainting the front of the stage area in Durant, which covers the doors to our riser storage area.
Ken Fess reported on ticket sales for the June 27th fantastic show, as well as the almost sell out of the afterSHOW tickets. He mentioned too that there might be a need for some guys to jump in and help with last minute tasks to make this huge effort continue being so successful.
Then it was back to work musically. Director Joe got the men into “Stars and Stripes” again. Phil Ferguson was projector operator. This song along with the contest package and “Summertime” and “Meeting Here Tonight” will be on that show. So guys should get to work on songs they are not familiar with.
The remainder of the evening was used to polish more of the uptune for Philly. Visual team was hard at work helping. New uniform tests were conducted and worked great!
We worked hard til 10:10 pm and then hurried to get the hall back in order and get off to the afterglow at 815 S. Washington. Nice crowd again tonite including Royall and Geri, and Ryan. Fun to see the guys outside singing tags.
Recent report of Men Of Note guys in our chapter is interesting. (When a guy brings in a new member or serves as his sponsor, the Society presents the sponsor with a small 1/8th note pin, or Man Of Note pin.) Several of our guys were in the listing of those with 10 or more: Buechler, 59; Werner, 17; Adams, 14; Everard, 14: Plaag, 13; Wachter, 12; Flinn, 11; Witmer, 11; Harner, 10; Pitzer, 10, Sutton, 10. Good work men.
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.)
Scott Werner came up from Florida to coach a little, see all his friends, meet all the new guys he did not know and encourage our director.
To pull off the surprise, Joe started the guys working on the contest ballad first thing after warm up. And he invited Geri Geis, who was on hand for the evening, to make suggestions. After about 1 run thru, she said she wanted to do something different and have a closed eye drill. She cautioned several times that guys should not open their eyes during the song, because it would destroy the mood and effect.
Soooo – near the end of the song, Joe signaled a ‘shooosh’ sign with his finger to his lips for all of those watching. And then escorted Scott into the room to stand in front of the chorus.
When Geri released the guys from the closed eye drill, there he was. You should have seen the faces. All the men who knew Scott were beaming and ready to come charging off the risers. And of course their applause and cheering was huge. The looks on the 30 or 35 new guys was also fun – who in the world is this guy and why does he have on the red and black Harmo travel shirt. Joe made the introduction, “Gentlemen, meet the Harmonizer musical director for all four of the gold medals the chapter has earned!” More outbursts and cheers.
Some of you may know that Joe has often mentioned, in a joking way, that he wished Scott Werner could come over and help him with the famous Harmonizer soft singing. So some of the guys in the chapter spoke to Joe and made it happen!!
Right away, Scott jumped in to coach and suggest. And after just a few remarks, the magic was back. Geri was all smiles because much of her work to get guys to sound like they looked happened.
Geri then continued her coaching and Scott offered some more advice. There was a great photo op with Joe and Scott together and then the two of them with Geri. A historical, or Breathless Moment, for the chapter for sure.
YeEd was wondering why so many former members were in the hall, or guys we don’t see often – Everard, Greiner, Abel, Louis, Botts, Levine, Jordan, Galloway. Great to have them all.
As mentioned above, Will Cox took the guys thru a terrific vocal warm up and included some physical movement too. Joe was quick to thank Will for always helping and conducting warm up points that Joe felt were needed. Since Dan O’Brien had a work conflict again, Will was pitchman tonite.
Joe also pushed more on ticket sales and pleaded that if a member has not sold three tickets, he should go buy three himself and give them to Joe to give to youth singers, music educators or other possible supporters.
At the pre-break chapter meeting period, quartet promo chair, Eric Wallen, listed all the quartets that have or will sing in M-AD divisional contests this spring; and as is our chapter custom, presented a check from the chapter to the quartet to help cover their contest registration (the amount based on how many Harmonizers are in the quartet). The line of guys who came up to represent their quartets spread all the way across the building. Congrats to all.
FRiDAYS! sang for the chapter in prep for their appearance this weekend in Roanoke at the Southern Division. YeEd thinks he has the following quartets listed for this weekend: FRiDAYS!, FOUR MAN VOCAL BAND, DOWNTWON, YOUTH RECLAMATION PROJECT, FOUR IN THE MORNING, BELTWAY BLUES, RING OF GOLD, and SURPRISE! (YeEd hopes we did not forget or overlook anyone.)
Secretary Buechler passed out copies of our 50th anniversary history book, Breathless Moments, to the many new men who have join in recent months and have not gotten a copy yet.
Chris also filled in for membership guy Dan. As mentioned earlier, there were a lot of visitors in the hall and forming an audience for the chorus. Ryan Killean from the BHS Foundation staff in Nashville was with us. And Jack Stonesifer, an applicant, was on the risers working to catch up and be ready for Philly.
President Dick Newton shared about Mark Klostermeyers’ father’s memorial service today. Bill Klostermeyer was one of our early Santa Claus guys for holiday shows – with a real beard and all.
Dick also reported that he, Martin Banks and Jim Lucey, attended a reception at Alexandria City Hall tonite and were given word that the chapter will receive another significant grant from the Alexandria Commission for the Arts. The Harmonizers are one of the major arts groups in the city, and likely the only one that spreads the word of our city around the nation.
And Dick asked the chorus to thank Bob Blair and Bob Rhome for repainting the front of the stage area in Durant, which covers the doors to our riser storage area.
Ken Fess reported on ticket sales for the June 27th fantastic show, as well as the almost sell out of the afterSHOW tickets. He mentioned too that there might be a need for some guys to jump in and help with last minute tasks to make this huge effort continue being so successful.
Then it was back to work musically. Director Joe got the men into “Stars and Stripes” again. Phil Ferguson was projector operator. This song along with the contest package and “Summertime” and “Meeting Here Tonight” will be on that show. So guys should get to work on songs they are not familiar with.
The remainder of the evening was used to polish more of the uptune for Philly. Visual team was hard at work helping. New uniform tests were conducted and worked great!
We worked hard til 10:10 pm and then hurried to get the hall back in order and get off to the afterglow at 815 S. Washington. Nice crowd again tonite including Royall and Geri, and Ryan. Fun to see the guys outside singing tags.
Recent report of Men Of Note guys in our chapter is interesting. (When a guy brings in a new member or serves as his sponsor, the Society presents the sponsor with a small 1/8th note pin, or Man Of Note pin.) Several of our guys were in the listing of those with 10 or more: Buechler, 59; Werner, 17; Adams, 14; Everard, 14: Plaag, 13; Wachter, 12; Flinn, 11; Witmer, 11; Harner, 10; Pitzer, 10, Sutton, 10. Good work men.
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, May 24, 2010
Looking Back on the May 18th Chapter Meeting and Mic Test at Atlantic Division
Here is a nice report by Alan Wile (thanks Alan - YeEd) regarding the Harmonizer appearance this past weekend in DE at the Atlantic Division contest. We were asked to be mic testers for the chorus contest on Saturday, May 15th.
“While most Harmonizers arrived at the Wilmington DoubleTree Hotel early Saturday morning, a fair number came up Friday afternoon, battling a variety of traffic delays, rain and hail storms.
The Friday night quartet contest began at 6:00 p.m. with Harmonizer (and District Board Member at Large) Dennis Ritchey as Master of Ceremonies. Quartets appearing on the contest stage included CRUCNH TIME (Eric Wallen) as the mic testing quartet. As this quartet will be competing at the international quartet contest in Philly, it performed here for score and evaluation, only). Other quartets with Harmonizer members included MUSIC THERAPY (Don Farrell, Dean Martin, Steve Mateuszewski, Chris Yates), TRIBUTE (Tony Colosimo, Ryan Griffith, former Harmonizer Joe Eckert, and Ryan's father, Steve), DOWN A FOURTH! (Joe Sawyer, Joe Cerutti, Troy Hillier, Wayne Adams). Unfortunately PHIL ‘N THE BLANKS (Rick Savage, Phil Ferguson, Joe Cerutti, Terry Reynolds) had a conflict and had to scratch. In all, 21 quartets crossed the stage before the contest concluded at 8:00 p.m.
TRIBUTE, with a score of 76.4%, won the contest and was named Atlantic Division Champion. Competing out-of-division, DOWN A FOURTH! wowed the audience with a great parody which "addressed" each judge by name and, feigning ignorance of his identity, identified the contest administrator simply as "that guy," and MUSIC THERAPY, which sang for us last Tuesday, gave a very creditable performance. Had they been ranked with the Atlantic Division quartets, these two quartets would have finished fourth and ninth, respectively. Well done to all the Harmonizer quartet singers!
By 8 am Saturday, the Harmonizers were on the stage for warms up with Tony Colosimo, rehearsal with Joe Cerutti, herding by K-12 (Mark Klostermeyer), and visual reminders by Chuck McKeever. We first worked the up-tune, took a break for another chorus to have some pre-arranged stage time, and then hit the ballad and both songs. We were reminded that "softs win contests" and Joe worked to get us to sing softer and softer. Much emphasis on attitude, energy, and focus. K-12 also explained how and when we would be leaving the stage following our performance.
The Harmonizers never left the stage until the start of the chorus contest at 10:00 a.m. As there was no curtain, we were asked to remain in our beginning poses while the audience filed in, took their seats, housekeeping announcements were made ... and we were announced. The package was performed nearly flawlessly (well, OK, that was my take). Once over, we left the stage and were on our own until the evaluation, which began at 1 pm. Those with registrations were permitted back into the auditorium to enjoy the rest of the chorus contest; those without were free to do ... whatever.
Following the contest, district vice president Dick Powell presented certificates to seven chapters in recognition of their financial contributions to Harmony Foundation. The Alexandria Chapter received a gold level certificate for an average contribution of $188.20 per member. If you'd like to know how this works (and about opportunities to support the Society ... and the chapter and/or district), see Alan Wile.
Our evaluations -- 20 minutes per judge -- were conducted in the auditorium and although we began sitting down, we quickly moved to the stage. First we heard from Music Judge Dylan Oxford (from the Dixie District (DIX)). Next, we heard from Singing Judge Larry Deters (also from DIX and a former Harmonizer) and candidate Mark Stock (from the Johnny Appleseed District (JAD)). Last, we heard from Presentation Judge Mike Louque (from Central States District (CSD) ... and a former Harmonizer) and Candidate Mark Kettner (from DIX). On average, we were scored a solid 85% (some higher; some lower). Specific comments and will be covered in more detail at a Tuesday night chapter meeting. However, we received a number of complimentary comments and, as expected and valued, several areas which, if addressed/mastered, will improve our performance even more.
By 2:10 p.m. we were released. While most headed home, some remained behind to take in the Show of Champions at 7pm with Harmonizer (and District President) Gary Plaag as Master of Ceremonies.
Tuesday nite, May 18th was a hard work out session. All the usual Tuesday nites aspects were in place – room set up and volunteers in place, Will Cox did the vocal warm-ups.
Director Joe welcomed Michael Gellert who was on hand to provide voice lessons for those who want them. He will be present now and then as needed. Some guys had individual sessions, other guys met with Michael as a small group of 5 or so.
And Joe announced the recent passing of Mark Klostermeyer’s father. Steve White filled in for Mark as program mc for the nite.
Dan O’Brien had to miss the meeting too for work, so Tony Colosimo was pitchman for the nite and YeEd welcomed the guests.
YeEd also noted Ike Evans working to post new member photos on the big Harmo picture board and he was trying hard to squeeze in the bios he posts there too for all the many new members we are adding.
When the singing got going, Joe and team worked more on “Stars and Stripes” and then he welcomed again our coach Brandon Guyton. Brandon worked hard on sound production and immediately made a huge difference and the guys were able to continue it thru out the nite.
Joe made a surprise gift certificate give away to a guy on the risers really going the extra mile to include emotion with the singing. Nick Aiuto was honored this week. The certificates are donated by a fan of the Harmonizers.
Ken Ives was proud to shout out that 100 % of his baritone section was present again this week!
The pre-break business session included reminders that guys could order a competitor t-shirt for Philly – see Cark Kauffmann; get your uniform parts from Tom Kern; watch for detailed emails about vocal studios in the coming days.
Secretary Buechler offered to take orders for Lands End clothing items with Harmo logos. He also presented membership renewal cards to Edris Qarghah for 2 years; Steve Murane for 8 years, Tom Berkey for 13 years, and Bruce Lauther for 24 years.
Speaking of Chris – you may not all know that he will be working as a contest administrator with the judges in Philly. Thus he can not sing with us.
YeEd and Director Joe welcomed our college students back for the summer – Kellen Hertz and Edris; Max Kieba back after becoming a new dad; and Craig Kujawa back from a several month temporary assignment in Europe. All three will be singing in Philly. There were several other singer guests present too. Al Hanenbaum, who we don’t see often, was in the hall too.
After break, the meeting time continued. (Thanks to those who have brought in goodies to share, we can always use them. And thanks to those who drop a buck or so in the container by the coffee!)
Ken Fess stressed ticket sales for the June 27th show with Westminster. Our director is out to break the record of number of tickets sold. We can’t let him take the lead!!!! But thanks for the enthusiastic sales effort, Joe.
Also it was announced that we do have some afterSHOW tickets left to sell. They are $28. See Steve Murane for these tickets as well as taking show tickets on consignment. Remember that money or tickets must be turned back in to Steve by end of the meeting on Tues. May 25th.
Craig Kujawa reported interim results of the 10for10 weight loss program. Some guys have made quite an effort to loose weight.
Then the chorus went back to work, right up til a little after 10 pm. The troops worked fast and hard to put all away, sing a tag, help new guys try out with a quartet and get guys to pay the $50 for their room and board for the chorus retreat (and $24.50 if they are coming up on Fri nite). Pay to YeEd on Tuesday nite. Give rooming requests to retreat master, Chuck McKeever. Retreat is June 5-6 at McDaniel College in Westminster, Maryland, again.
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.)
“While most Harmonizers arrived at the Wilmington DoubleTree Hotel early Saturday morning, a fair number came up Friday afternoon, battling a variety of traffic delays, rain and hail storms.
The Friday night quartet contest began at 6:00 p.m. with Harmonizer (and District Board Member at Large) Dennis Ritchey as Master of Ceremonies. Quartets appearing on the contest stage included CRUCNH TIME (Eric Wallen) as the mic testing quartet. As this quartet will be competing at the international quartet contest in Philly, it performed here for score and evaluation, only). Other quartets with Harmonizer members included MUSIC THERAPY (Don Farrell, Dean Martin, Steve Mateuszewski, Chris Yates), TRIBUTE (Tony Colosimo, Ryan Griffith, former Harmonizer Joe Eckert, and Ryan's father, Steve), DOWN A FOURTH! (Joe Sawyer, Joe Cerutti, Troy Hillier, Wayne Adams). Unfortunately PHIL ‘N THE BLANKS (Rick Savage, Phil Ferguson, Joe Cerutti, Terry Reynolds) had a conflict and had to scratch. In all, 21 quartets crossed the stage before the contest concluded at 8:00 p.m.
TRIBUTE, with a score of 76.4%, won the contest and was named Atlantic Division Champion. Competing out-of-division, DOWN A FOURTH! wowed the audience with a great parody which "addressed" each judge by name and, feigning ignorance of his identity, identified the contest administrator simply as "that guy," and MUSIC THERAPY, which sang for us last Tuesday, gave a very creditable performance. Had they been ranked with the Atlantic Division quartets, these two quartets would have finished fourth and ninth, respectively. Well done to all the Harmonizer quartet singers!
By 8 am Saturday, the Harmonizers were on the stage for warms up with Tony Colosimo, rehearsal with Joe Cerutti, herding by K-12 (Mark Klostermeyer), and visual reminders by Chuck McKeever. We first worked the up-tune, took a break for another chorus to have some pre-arranged stage time, and then hit the ballad and both songs. We were reminded that "softs win contests" and Joe worked to get us to sing softer and softer. Much emphasis on attitude, energy, and focus. K-12 also explained how and when we would be leaving the stage following our performance.
The Harmonizers never left the stage until the start of the chorus contest at 10:00 a.m. As there was no curtain, we were asked to remain in our beginning poses while the audience filed in, took their seats, housekeeping announcements were made ... and we were announced. The package was performed nearly flawlessly (well, OK, that was my take). Once over, we left the stage and were on our own until the evaluation, which began at 1 pm. Those with registrations were permitted back into the auditorium to enjoy the rest of the chorus contest; those without were free to do ... whatever.
Following the contest, district vice president Dick Powell presented certificates to seven chapters in recognition of their financial contributions to Harmony Foundation. The Alexandria Chapter received a gold level certificate for an average contribution of $188.20 per member. If you'd like to know how this works (and about opportunities to support the Society ... and the chapter and/or district), see Alan Wile.
Our evaluations -- 20 minutes per judge -- were conducted in the auditorium and although we began sitting down, we quickly moved to the stage. First we heard from Music Judge Dylan Oxford (from the Dixie District (DIX)). Next, we heard from Singing Judge Larry Deters (also from DIX and a former Harmonizer) and candidate Mark Stock (from the Johnny Appleseed District (JAD)). Last, we heard from Presentation Judge Mike Louque (from Central States District (CSD) ... and a former Harmonizer) and Candidate Mark Kettner (from DIX). On average, we were scored a solid 85% (some higher; some lower). Specific comments and will be covered in more detail at a Tuesday night chapter meeting. However, we received a number of complimentary comments and, as expected and valued, several areas which, if addressed/mastered, will improve our performance even more.
By 2:10 p.m. we were released. While most headed home, some remained behind to take in the Show of Champions at 7pm with Harmonizer (and District President) Gary Plaag as Master of Ceremonies.
Tuesday nite, May 18th was a hard work out session. All the usual Tuesday nites aspects were in place – room set up and volunteers in place, Will Cox did the vocal warm-ups.
Director Joe welcomed Michael Gellert who was on hand to provide voice lessons for those who want them. He will be present now and then as needed. Some guys had individual sessions, other guys met with Michael as a small group of 5 or so.
And Joe announced the recent passing of Mark Klostermeyer’s father. Steve White filled in for Mark as program mc for the nite.
Dan O’Brien had to miss the meeting too for work, so Tony Colosimo was pitchman for the nite and YeEd welcomed the guests.
YeEd also noted Ike Evans working to post new member photos on the big Harmo picture board and he was trying hard to squeeze in the bios he posts there too for all the many new members we are adding.
When the singing got going, Joe and team worked more on “Stars and Stripes” and then he welcomed again our coach Brandon Guyton. Brandon worked hard on sound production and immediately made a huge difference and the guys were able to continue it thru out the nite.
Joe made a surprise gift certificate give away to a guy on the risers really going the extra mile to include emotion with the singing. Nick Aiuto was honored this week. The certificates are donated by a fan of the Harmonizers.
Ken Ives was proud to shout out that 100 % of his baritone section was present again this week!
The pre-break business session included reminders that guys could order a competitor t-shirt for Philly – see Cark Kauffmann; get your uniform parts from Tom Kern; watch for detailed emails about vocal studios in the coming days.
Secretary Buechler offered to take orders for Lands End clothing items with Harmo logos. He also presented membership renewal cards to Edris Qarghah for 2 years; Steve Murane for 8 years, Tom Berkey for 13 years, and Bruce Lauther for 24 years.
Speaking of Chris – you may not all know that he will be working as a contest administrator with the judges in Philly. Thus he can not sing with us.
YeEd and Director Joe welcomed our college students back for the summer – Kellen Hertz and Edris; Max Kieba back after becoming a new dad; and Craig Kujawa back from a several month temporary assignment in Europe. All three will be singing in Philly. There were several other singer guests present too. Al Hanenbaum, who we don’t see often, was in the hall too.
After break, the meeting time continued. (Thanks to those who have brought in goodies to share, we can always use them. And thanks to those who drop a buck or so in the container by the coffee!)
Ken Fess stressed ticket sales for the June 27th show with Westminster. Our director is out to break the record of number of tickets sold. We can’t let him take the lead!!!! But thanks for the enthusiastic sales effort, Joe.
Also it was announced that we do have some afterSHOW tickets left to sell. They are $28. See Steve Murane for these tickets as well as taking show tickets on consignment. Remember that money or tickets must be turned back in to Steve by end of the meeting on Tues. May 25th.
Craig Kujawa reported interim results of the 10for10 weight loss program. Some guys have made quite an effort to loose weight.
Then the chorus went back to work, right up til a little after 10 pm. The troops worked fast and hard to put all away, sing a tag, help new guys try out with a quartet and get guys to pay the $50 for their room and board for the chorus retreat (and $24.50 if they are coming up on Fri nite). Pay to YeEd on Tuesday nite. Give rooming requests to retreat master, Chuck McKeever. Retreat is June 5-6 at McDaniel College in Westminster, Maryland, again.
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, May 13, 2010
Looking Back on the May 11th Chapter Meeting
Even the warm up session this week was fun and with Will Cox up front, our coach Cindy Hansen got into the act and fired up the singers to add excitement and energy to their very precise and correct warm up drills. It was humorous and the chorus really got into the idea.
So after this background, we had some quartets sing for us. Both will be singing at the Atlantic Division contest this weekend on Friday nite. First was DOWN A FOURTH with Joe Sawyer, Joe Cerutti, Troy Hillier and Wayne Adams. Second was MUSIC THERAPY with Don Farrell, Dean Martin, Steven Matuszewski and Chris Yates.
Later in the evening we learned from quartet promotion guy, Eric Wallen, that Tony Colosimo and Ryan Griffith are singing in that contest too in TRIBUTE quartet. Also Eric’s quartet, CRUNCH TIME, will be the mic testers for the Friday nite quartet contest in Wilmington.
Then it was back to chorus work with Cindy and Joe. She set the stage by allowing the men to make a mistake, take a risk, push their performance to the limit.
She had to laugh tho when the guys were cranking it up on the new song “Stars and Stripes” and got a little bogged down on the new part they were working on. But after a couple of times hitting it again, the tune started to gel. More work next week for the next segment. See messages from Music and Performance VP Terry Reynolds. Joe Sawyer had projector duties tonite. Dennis Ritchey had all the sound and av equipment working.
Another funny point during the coaching tonite was the reference to the “Greg Lyne Pentagon boys” which referred to a fun retreat a few years ago when Greg alleged that too many of the guys were stiff and rigid and not able to get into the emotion of a song. Of course that turned out to be just the challenge the guys needed to “fix it” and become the best at selling a ballad.
Much of the evening was concentrated on the uptune for Philly. Chuck McKeever had worked his pre-rehearsal drills as usual. And tonite he made sure the guys knew which of the 8 quads they were in for a particular ripple move.
Before the nite was over, Cindy thanked Chuck a couple times for his efforts and getting the guys ready to perform for her and being ready to take it up a notch.
She also thanked our front row for their 3-hour session Monday nite to drill and work and revise to make it so good. Tony Colosimo was chorus director stand in for that session so that a visual plan could be developed for Joe.
The chapter meeting period began with singing happy birthday to Mark Klostermeyer and Bruce Lauther. Announcements included:
If you want a competitor t-shirt for Philly, see Carl Kauffmann.
Pay your $50 retreat fee to Jack Pitzer. $24.50 more if you are gonna stay up there on Friday nite.
Sign up during break for the vocal studies
AND - sign up for the new vocal coaching sessions with Michael Gellert. The chapter has arranged for him to provide these sessions for individuals or for small groups.
Chapter Secretary Buechler presented renewal packet for Bruce Roehm and recognized his 9 years of membership. Chris also presented renewal cards to Andrew Plocher for 2 years and Phil Ferguson for 2 years.
Membership vp Dan O’Brien introduced our guests – some of whom are applicants and preparing to sing with us in Philly.
After coffee break during which quartets sang, guys got new uniforms or parts of their uniforms as first time contest singers, or took care of other paperwork and business matters, the chapter meeting continued.
Chorus manager K12 ran down the details for this weekend’s performance in DE where the chorus will sing as mic testers for the chorus contest on Saturday and be given an evaluation by the judges, as a courtesy for a chorus going to represent our district at the International this summer. The chorus is all expected to sit in on the report from the judging panel after the contest ends.
Many more details were released regarding the June 27th show with the Westminster chorus. We are getting closer and closer to a sell out. The afterSHOW party is practially sold out with tickets being saved for the CA guys and the guest quartets. Joe plugged tickets sales all nite and he was proud to report some personal success at it. He challenged all the guys to get some tickets and sell them. (Or else!)
The sign ups for hosting the other chorus has moved along well. And Brian Ammerman got volunteers to make airport runs for guest quartet members.
Then back to a pistol hot rehearsal session with Cindy and Joe working hard. And for sure the guys were firing back too. What a great nite. Worth your dues just to be part of it – as testified by Don Thompson who won the raffle and thus the right to take us out for the nite on KTWWS.
YeEd reports that the FRIENDS group met tonite. AND that 100% of the baritones were present tonite.
Next week will be another great session with coach Brandon Guyton. He won a gold in his quartet FOUR VOICES and last year in CROSSROADS. He is very active with the Ambassadors of Harmony with David Wright. Brandon was our retreat coach a few years ago too.
For former members and chapter friends, this is a great time to come visit the chapter and get a taste of what is happening.
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 after this background, we had some quartets sing for us. Both will be singing at the Atlantic Division contest this weekend on Friday nite. First was DOWN A FOURTH with Joe Sawyer, Joe Cerutti, Troy Hillier and Wayne Adams. Second was MUSIC THERAPY with Don Farrell, Dean Martin, Steven Matuszewski and Chris Yates.
Later in the evening we learned from quartet promotion guy, Eric Wallen, that Tony Colosimo and Ryan Griffith are singing in that contest too in TRIBUTE quartet. Also Eric’s quartet, CRUNCH TIME, will be the mic testers for the Friday nite quartet contest in Wilmington.
Then it was back to chorus work with Cindy and Joe. She set the stage by allowing the men to make a mistake, take a risk, push their performance to the limit.
She had to laugh tho when the guys were cranking it up on the new song “Stars and Stripes” and got a little bogged down on the new part they were working on. But after a couple of times hitting it again, the tune started to gel. More work next week for the next segment. See messages from Music and Performance VP Terry Reynolds. Joe Sawyer had projector duties tonite. Dennis Ritchey had all the sound and av equipment working.
Another funny point during the coaching tonite was the reference to the “Greg Lyne Pentagon boys” which referred to a fun retreat a few years ago when Greg alleged that too many of the guys were stiff and rigid and not able to get into the emotion of a song. Of course that turned out to be just the challenge the guys needed to “fix it” and become the best at selling a ballad.
Much of the evening was concentrated on the uptune for Philly. Chuck McKeever had worked his pre-rehearsal drills as usual. And tonite he made sure the guys knew which of the 8 quads they were in for a particular ripple move.
Before the nite was over, Cindy thanked Chuck a couple times for his efforts and getting the guys ready to perform for her and being ready to take it up a notch.
She also thanked our front row for their 3-hour session Monday nite to drill and work and revise to make it so good. Tony Colosimo was chorus director stand in for that session so that a visual plan could be developed for Joe.
The chapter meeting period began with singing happy birthday to Mark Klostermeyer and Bruce Lauther. Announcements included:
If you want a competitor t-shirt for Philly, see Carl Kauffmann.
Pay your $50 retreat fee to Jack Pitzer. $24.50 more if you are gonna stay up there on Friday nite.
Sign up during break for the vocal studies
AND - sign up for the new vocal coaching sessions with Michael Gellert. The chapter has arranged for him to provide these sessions for individuals or for small groups.
Chapter Secretary Buechler presented renewal packet for Bruce Roehm and recognized his 9 years of membership. Chris also presented renewal cards to Andrew Plocher for 2 years and Phil Ferguson for 2 years.
Membership vp Dan O’Brien introduced our guests – some of whom are applicants and preparing to sing with us in Philly.
After coffee break during which quartets sang, guys got new uniforms or parts of their uniforms as first time contest singers, or took care of other paperwork and business matters, the chapter meeting continued.
Chorus manager K12 ran down the details for this weekend’s performance in DE where the chorus will sing as mic testers for the chorus contest on Saturday and be given an evaluation by the judges, as a courtesy for a chorus going to represent our district at the International this summer. The chorus is all expected to sit in on the report from the judging panel after the contest ends.
Many more details were released regarding the June 27th show with the Westminster chorus. We are getting closer and closer to a sell out. The afterSHOW party is practially sold out with tickets being saved for the CA guys and the guest quartets. Joe plugged tickets sales all nite and he was proud to report some personal success at it. He challenged all the guys to get some tickets and sell them. (Or else!)
The sign ups for hosting the other chorus has moved along well. And Brian Ammerman got volunteers to make airport runs for guest quartet members.
Then back to a pistol hot rehearsal session with Cindy and Joe working hard. And for sure the guys were firing back too. What a great nite. Worth your dues just to be part of it – as testified by Don Thompson who won the raffle and thus the right to take us out for the nite on KTWWS.
YeEd reports that the FRIENDS group met tonite. AND that 100% of the baritones were present tonite.
Next week will be another great session with coach Brandon Guyton. He won a gold in his quartet FOUR VOICES and last year in CROSSROADS. He is very active with the Ambassadors of Harmony with David Wright. Brandon was our retreat coach a few years ago too.
For former members and chapter friends, this is a great time to come visit the chapter and get a taste of what is happening.
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, May 10, 2010
Looking Back on the May 4th Chapter Meeting
YeEd bets every guy went home Tuesday nite and was awake for an hour after such an exciting meeting and rehearsal. The session with Geri Geis on the ballad was awesome. Amazing how deep into the emotion the guys are getting.
It all started with the usual flurry of set up, meetings, getting something to eat, buying things, and getting aferShow or consignment tickets.
Carl Kauffmann is sporting a cast on his left arm. He had a head on car crash last Friday and has a broken arm. But what a trooper – up on the risers anyway and doing the moves too.
Tony Colosimo did a serious and good-for-the-singer vocal warm up and then turned it over to Director Joe. Well, Joe was full of excitement and got the troops laughing and ready to work right from the start.
He bugged them all by saying he has 55 show tickets to sell and expects every guy to sell 5!!! And to do some hosting or any of the other tasks needed. AND IF NOT – he might hurt you!! The guys all laughed but he got his point across.
First big singing period was on “Stars and Stripes” for the show in June. We used the projector again – Terry Reynolds had projector duty. He and Joe made it easier to follow on the screen too. Good. Joe is working t his song in chunks – starting from the back. Progress is underway for a tough musical piece.
Geri and Royall Geis were welcomed by Joe too. And then she worked with the front row for a period. Joe revisited some of the recent note changes. He also expressed again his thanks to Chuck Hunter for his input while here in the DC area from his work overseas.
A major thrust early in the evening was to ask for “First Note Singers” from all.
When the front row returned, Geri worked on the ballad for a good while. At the end of her time, she had Joe do one of her famous “closed eye drills” so the men could feel and experience the depth of their musical presentation. As always, it was a moving event for the singers and the audience.
For the chapter meeting time, Kostermeyer invited all the speakers to the mic. Secretary Buechler presented renewal cards to Ian Poulin for 7 years, and Don Farrell for 15 years.
Dan O’Brien welcomed former member Larry Silva and in-active member Bob Sutton. Plus we had three singing guests – two who are part of the youth chorus our chapter is fostering.
After eating all the goodies, more announcements:
We will wear the casual uniform at Atlantic Division show – get yours from Tom Kern.
Eric Wallen congratulated Noah Van Gilder for his quartet success last weekend at the Northern Division.
Ken Fess pushed ticket sales for the June show, and afterShow ticket sales. What a great name for an event – YeEd thinks it might be that the Harmonizers have created another Society first. Congrats who ever thought of it.
Terry Reynolds explained lasted details of the eval process and sought sign ups for vocal sessions.
Then it was back to singing both contest songs and songs for the June show. Everyone worked hard til past 10. Joe almost lost his voice. But everyone was pumped!
New guy Bert Phillips directed KTWWS and then it was a rush to get stuff all away.
A good crowd got to 815 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.)
It all started with the usual flurry of set up, meetings, getting something to eat, buying things, and getting aferShow or consignment tickets.
Carl Kauffmann is sporting a cast on his left arm. He had a head on car crash last Friday and has a broken arm. But what a trooper – up on the risers anyway and doing the moves too.
Tony Colosimo did a serious and good-for-the-singer vocal warm up and then turned it over to Director Joe. Well, Joe was full of excitement and got the troops laughing and ready to work right from the start.
He bugged them all by saying he has 55 show tickets to sell and expects every guy to sell 5!!! And to do some hosting or any of the other tasks needed. AND IF NOT – he might hurt you!! The guys all laughed but he got his point across.
First big singing period was on “Stars and Stripes” for the show in June. We used the projector again – Terry Reynolds had projector duty. He and Joe made it easier to follow on the screen too. Good. Joe is working t his song in chunks – starting from the back. Progress is underway for a tough musical piece.
Geri and Royall Geis were welcomed by Joe too. And then she worked with the front row for a period. Joe revisited some of the recent note changes. He also expressed again his thanks to Chuck Hunter for his input while here in the DC area from his work overseas.
A major thrust early in the evening was to ask for “First Note Singers” from all.
When the front row returned, Geri worked on the ballad for a good while. At the end of her time, she had Joe do one of her famous “closed eye drills” so the men could feel and experience the depth of their musical presentation. As always, it was a moving event for the singers and the audience.
For the chapter meeting time, Kostermeyer invited all the speakers to the mic. Secretary Buechler presented renewal cards to Ian Poulin for 7 years, and Don Farrell for 15 years.
Dan O’Brien welcomed former member Larry Silva and in-active member Bob Sutton. Plus we had three singing guests – two who are part of the youth chorus our chapter is fostering.
After eating all the goodies, more announcements:
We will wear the casual uniform at Atlantic Division show – get yours from Tom Kern.
Eric Wallen congratulated Noah Van Gilder for his quartet success last weekend at the Northern Division.
Ken Fess pushed ticket sales for the June show, and afterShow ticket sales. What a great name for an event – YeEd thinks it might be that the Harmonizers have created another Society first. Congrats who ever thought of it.
Terry Reynolds explained lasted details of the eval process and sought sign ups for vocal sessions.
Then it was back to singing both contest songs and songs for the June show. Everyone worked hard til past 10. Joe almost lost his voice. But everyone was pumped!
New guy Bert Phillips directed KTWWS and then it was a rush to get stuff all away.
A good crowd got to 815 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.)
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