Looking Back on the Mar. 26, 2024 Alexandria Hybrid Chapter Meeting

 Looking Back on the Mar. 26, 2024 Alexandria Hybrid Chapter Meeting 

The Alexandria A Cappella Collective (AACC) met at the AlexRenew building in Alexandria for their rehearsal.  There were a lot of members and guests present again this week. The warm up session for the combined ensembles was conducted by Metro Voices assistant director, Maggie McAlexander. She used a fun round to get everyone singing. 

 

Then artistic director, Joe Cerutti, just back from Germany, with stories about his visit with the 
German chorus the Harmonizers did a show with when we went to Normandy.  He also congratulated the quartet singers who represented the chapter at the Southern Division contest last weekend in York, PA, and thanked chapter members who helped manage the event.

 

He plugged the spring2ACTion fundraising event coming up on Wed. April 24 including the chapter’s cabaret night/watch party as we keep an eye on the fundraising results.  It will be at The Bike Club in Alexandria. Joe is eager to hear from any members who can do a non-barbershop appearance for the cabaret by April 1.  Zak Sandler will be accompanist for any act that needs it.

 

Finally, Joe highlighted the plans for another outreach opportunity for the two AACC choruses to share their talents and friendship with members of the Northeastern District (NED) of BHS, May 3-4-5 in Lake George, NY.  Leaders of that district have invited AACC to sing as mic testers for the chorus contest, to provide educational sessions and possibly coaching, and to do a show. 

 

A bus will likely depart from the DC metro area Friday afternoon and return Sunday, although some members may wish to drive with a carpool.  Most expenses will be covered by the NED with AACC members covering some minimal costs. 

 

This will be the second time the chapter has gone to another BHS district as an outreach project. The first was to the Seneca Land District in Rochester, NY, a couple years ago in the fall. 

 

Joe has previously announced that our combined ensembles will perform “Why We Sing” in  Lake George.  All NED members are getting the song in advance and will be invited to join us on the risers as the finale for the show.

 

At this point during this week’s meeting, the two ensembles started their rehearsal on new music. Both groups held sectionals during the evening. 

 

At the evening’s half way point, the two groups met back together for a fun ice breaker organized by Becca Williams and Devin Gerzof. It required members to form groups of 5, then using the age of the members in that group, see which group came closest to 200 in years. Actually, one group hit 200 on the nose!

 

 

The chapter business session was managed by chapter communications director, Steve Murane.  History committee chairman, Don Harrington, had brought Harmonizer clothing items from a former member that were free to all.  Zak Sandler asked any of his fellow singers to join him on a song he has written for world peace.

 

President Noah Van Gilder reported on the recent passing of Miriam Barton, wife of Dave who was formerly assistant chorus director and a regular in the front row.  They have lived in FL for several years. 

 

Chapter secretary, Heidi Krukpwski, presented membership renewals to Adam Afifi for 10 years and to Noah Van Gilder for 16 years. 

 

Mary Cooper welcomed recent guests back this week: Mary LaBori, Callie Cirillo and Jim Friel. First time guests were Charles Davis who found us on Facebook, Jimmy King who found us on Google, and Grayland Snead Jr. who is a DCPS music educator and had brought students to the recent Youth Harmony event. Charley Rothemel was introduced as our newest member. Terry Reynolds directed the “Welcome Song.”

 

A chunk of time was used to report to both ensembles the summary results from the 2024 individual interviews. Joemet with new Harmonizers,  and met together with Samantha Tramack with all Metro Voices. The section leaders met with all of the other Harmonizers. Terry Reynolds coordinated all of the interview process.  Joe thanked the interview team and also thanked the singers who took time to attend the interviews. This was the eighth year for the chapter’s interview process. 

 

One outgrowth of the interviews was a revamped self-recording  program for both ensembles.  Sophie Clarkeexplained the new plan which centers around regularly scheduled recordings  and self-evaluation. Some easier steps to submitting the recordings and getting feedback are part of the new program.

 

Terry Reynolds reported statistics he tabulated from answers to the survey all members took prior to the interviews. Joe followed up with comments about six major areas that came to the top when members were interviewed: rehearsal timing (getting there on time so the ending can be closer to 9); improve the on-boarding process of new members (who to see and what to do and when); repertoire (in order to add more songs like many members requested, then singers need to learn songs faster); tags and Polecats (Joe pledged that the musical leadership will add them to the evening); communications (chapter leadership will address coordinating the communication efforts); fundraising (info will come to members about our fundraising programs to explain their differences).

 

A final report from the musical leadership was a listing of coaches for the coming season: Cy Wood for choreography; Kim Newcomb for Metro Voices; Kevin Keller for the Harmonizers; Steve and Renee Tramack for the chapter retreat May 31-June 2 (which includes our appearance at Wolf Trap). The tentative plan for that weekend is a Friday night session from 7-10 pm, Wolf Trap from 9-noon on Saturday with social time in the evening; then 9 am to 2 pm on Sunday.  The location has not been chosen but the plan is to meet somewhere in the DC Metro area not far from Wolf Trap.  

 

Just after 9:30 pm Joe invited the guests and members to come to the Harmo House for an afterglow, took a count for pizza, and invited Zak Sandler to direct “Keep the Whole World Singing.”

There were a couple other recent news items from outside the chapter: Jason Lee organized a fun contest on SLACK among members regarding the NCAA basketball contests; and Kevin Mendez sang with his quartet ,WILDFIRE, at the Sunshine District contest a couple weeks ago and qualified to complete in the BHS quartet contest in Cleveland in July. 

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 for the great things going on each week during the 75^th year of the Alexandria Chapter. - YeEd)

 

The Chapter Mission Statement Enriching lives through vocal harmony in the greater DC area.

 

 

 

 

 

Looking Back on the Mar. 19, 2024 Alexandria Chapter Sing In Old Town

 Looking Back on the Mar. 19, 2024 Alexandria Chapter Sing In Old Town

(Thanks to EJ Herold for taking notes this week. – YeEd)

Tuesday evening, March 19, Alexandria A Cappella Collective (AACC) singers gathered at Market Square in front of Alexandria City Hall to welcome the first day of Spring in song. Unfortunately, we forgot to invite Spring to join us!  With chilly temps and warm hearts, the combined voices of the Harmonizers and Metro Voices arrived in good numbers to prepare for our troubadour trot through Old Town. 

 

Warm-ups were held under the City Hall arches (for acoustical assistance) and showed the group to be in fine singing form.  Tony Colosimo directed the Harmonizers (and used some sign language to remind the leads of lyrics in “Hey Jude.”)  Samantha Tramack directed Metro Voices as they polished up “Happy Together” before she directed the combined voices  for “This is Why We Sing.” Even the warm-up session brought cheers from  on-lookers who gave a hearty applause.

 

The singers began the impromptu performances at the southeast corner of Market Square (intersection of King and N. Fairfax Streets). Curious passersby joined AACC groupies for the first of three stops on the evening. Cars stopping at the traffic light rolled down their windows to enjoy the performance and smiles were in view on sidewalks all around, whether folks stopped or merely appreciated our songs as they passed along.

 

The second stop at King St. and N. Lee, drew more listeners as we were reminded by Tony to project joy and enjoyment in our performance. The small but enthusiastic crowd that gathered gave us the opportunity to showcase not only musicality but enthusiasm for our art form as we responded to the direction of Tony and Samantha.  Several listeners were seen to engage our singers to ask about who we are and “Why we Sing”? Tony reminded audiences at all three stops that information is available on Harmonizers.org and that we are an Alexandria-based organization.

 

The third and final stop was on the  steps under the portico at King and N. Union Streets of the Torpedo Factory. This location provided a natural “band shell” effect that improved our sound for the enthusiastic group that gathered to hear us.  The audience response encouraged the Harmonizers into extra “na, na, na’s” as we extended “Hey Jude” and the encouragement led to an even more rousing rendition of “This is Why We Sing.” The warm applause left the singers with a sense of appreciation from the crowd.

 

A good number of the group then retired to Chadwick’s for an after-glow gathering of camaraderie and team building. The staff was happy to see us and rapidly accommodated us on the upper and lower levels where folks ate dinner, enjoyed drinks together, or simply shared stories and laughs. In all, another successful outing for the AACC!

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 for the great things going on each week during the 75^th year of the Alexandria Chapter. - YeEd)

 

The Chapter Mission Statement Enriching lives through vocal harmony in the greater DC area.

 

 

 

 

 

Looking Back on the Mar. 12, 2024 Alexandria Hybrid Chapter Meeting and DCPS Event

 Looking Back on the Mar. 12, 2024 Alexandria Hybrid Chapter Meeting and DCPS Event

The Alexandria A Cappella Collective (AACC) met at the AlexRenew building in Alexandria this week for their rehearsal.  Traffic was a challenge for those who had to drive thru DC since there are already traffic jams from folks out to see the Cherry Blossoms.

 

YeEd heard that a few guys are walking from the Metro stations near AlexRenew – at King Street and on Eisenhower. Both are about 15 minute walks.

 

There were a lot of members and guests present this week, including 21 Metro Voices singers. The warm up session for the combined ensembles was conducted by Harmonizer associate director, Tony Colosimo. He used the tag, “To The Last Goodbye” as part of the exercise.

 

Then artistic director, Joe Cerutti, just back from Ireland, thanked everyone for a super successful event with DC Public School music educators and their students. He declared it was a “milestone event” for the chapter and for youth education in the Barbershop Harmony Society (BHS), as well as for the music educators in DC. 

 

AACC provided support for the DC Public Schools Youth Harmony event at Capital Turnaround in the Navy Yard area of DC, Friday, March 8.  The chapter helped with musical education and organization, brought risers and sound equipment, staffed rehearsal sessions, provided snacks and water for the day for the 100 or more student singers, and came to cheer and support the event. The chapter also hosted SIGNATURE quartet to come help with the training and to perform with the student chorus at 4 pm on Friday.  A number of parents and members of AACC were on hand to cheer and encourage.

 

The leadership team from DCPS arts department helped organize the participating schools and encouraged the local music educators to bring students and come experience the workshop as well.  At the show, each of those educators were introduced and thanked for bringing their students by Robert Battle from DCPS music department. 

 

Tony Colosimo was dean of the event and host for the show.  Tessa Walker was clinician for the day with help from Sheryl Berlin, Julian LeFlore and Maggie McAlexander.  Their experience in local music education was important to the success of the day. 

 

Some folks from the chapter also played important support roles like Gary Cregan, risers and equipment; Cy Shuster, sound set up; Dean Rust, refreshments for the day; Dean and Carl Kauffmann, general helpers during the event; Liz Birnbaum, refreshment set up; Ken Rub and David Breen, delivery of 60 large pizzas; Doug White, David Breen, Ken Rub, Tony Colosimo, Cy Shuster, Adam Afifi, Patricia Chow, Tyler Carpenter, Carl Kauffmann and EJ Harold helped with unloading and reloading the truck with all the equipment and supplies. A good number of members of both the Harmonizers and Metro Voices were present at various times during the day and particularly at the 4 pm show and move out.  They also enjoyed the afterglow with the DCPS staffers who organized the event and with SIGNATURE.

 

Members of the AACC were generous in donating snacks and water bottles and/or cash donations to raise over $400 to stock supplies for the day. (Info for this event provided by Dean Rust)

 

This week before the two ensembles adjourned to their own rehearsal spaces, Joe made some general announcements.  He started with a reminder that our major fundraiser, Spring2ACTion, will be Wed. April 24. The chapter will wrap up that day with our second cabaret night at The Bike Club where we will watch the results come in from the donations (patrons will be able to watch too). To add to the fun of that night, members of the chapter are encouraged to put together a 

non-barbershop act.  It can be solo, with other members or family, with instrument or comedy or magic.  Auditions must be done by April 1.  Interested entries should speak with Joe or Terry  Reynolds. An accompanist will be available for all entries.

 

Next Joe highlighted the plans for another outreach opportunity for the two choruses to share their talents and friendship with members of the Northeastern District (NED) of BHS, May 3-4-5 in Lake George, NY.  Leaders of that district have invited both ensembles to sing as mic testers for the chorus contest, to provide educational sessions and possibly coaching, and to do a show. A survey will come to all members soon to determine who will be going to sing and who will ride the bus or drive separately.

 

The bus will likely depart from the metro area Friday afternoon and return Sunday, although some members may wish to drive with a carpool.  Most expenses will be covered by the NED with AACC members covering some minimal costs. 

 

This will be the second time the chapter has gone to another BHS district as an outreach project. The first was to the Seneca Land District in Rochester, NY, a couple years ago in the fall. 

 

Last week Joe announced that the combined ensembles will perform “Why We Sing” in  Lake George.  All NED members are getting the song in advance and will be invited to join us on the risers as the finale for the show.

 

As a reminder of the upcoming schedule, the AACC choruses will gather at City Hall in Old Town, Alexandria, Mar. 19, and then serenade folks in restaurants and on the street.  After the singing, singers will stay in Old Town for an afterglow.  The  following three weeks the chapter will meet back at AlexRenew.

 

The chapter business session was managed by Terry Reynolds and he and Joe clarified the words for the tag of the chapter welcome song – “We’ll harmonize til break of day in the barbershopper way, barbershopper way.”

 

Mary Cooper  welcomed our two newest members Ker Medero and William Vesilind. She also welcomed the recent guests who were back: Callie, Charley, Matt, Mary, Hannah and David; and the first time guests this week: Jim, a former barbershop singer in Lansdale, and Tess, a Metro Voices guest of Catherine. Will Cox, directed the chapter “Welcome Song.”

 

Becca Williams and Devin Gerzof got everyone involved in a fun ice breaker before the two ensembles started their rehearsals.  Both groups held sectionals during the evening. 

Before the evening wrapped up, chapter secretary, Heidi Krukowski, presented membership renewals for Bruce Roehm, 23 years; Brad Jones, 32 years; and Brian Ammerman, 30 years. 

Just after 9 pm Joe invited the guests and members to come to the Harmo House for an afterglow, and then he directed“Keep the Whole World Singing.”

As a correction to last week’s Looking Back, a few members attended the graveside ceremony in memory of former member Austin Cotton and his wife, Sue, at Arlington National Cemetery on March 4.  Harmonizers were invited to join other barbershop singers from nearby chapters to sing the “Irish Blessing.” 

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 for the great things going on each week during the 75^th year of the Alexandria Chapter. - YeEd)

 

The Chapter Mission Statement Enriching lives through vocal harmony in the greater DC area.

 

 

 

 

Looking Back on the March 5, 2024 Alexandria Hybrid Chapter Meeting

  Looking Back on the March 5, 2024 Alexandria Hybrid Chapter Meeting 

The Alexandria A Cappella Collective (AACC) met at The Bike Club in Alexandria this week for their rehearsal.  Their regular meeting place was being used as a polling place in the city.

 

Some members attended the burial service for Al Herman on Monday, March 4 at Arlington Cemetery.  Al served as finance committee chair for years even after he stopped singing regularly. The chapter singers joined other barbershop singers from the DC Metro area who came to honor Al and to sing at the service.

 

Associate director of the Harmonizers, Tony Colosimo, conducted warm ups in the theater portion of The Bike Club space. 

 

Artistic director of AACC, Joe Cerutti, expressed his appreciation for all who worked so hard to make the Gala a success. It was a good start to a likely annual event for the chapter. 

 

Joe reports that 89 individual interviews were completed with members of AACC.  Statistics and information about the results will be shared later. He thanked Samantha Tramack for help with Metro Voices interviews, Harmonizer section leaders for their help, and Terry Reynolds for overall coordination.

 

Late breaking news about the youth outreach project the chapter has with DC Public Schools: school administrators have asked if they could bring more students and so the number of participating singers is up to 140! Tony will be dean of the event and Tessa Walker will be clinician.  Gold medal Barbershop Harmony Society (BHS) quartet, SIGNATURE, from Florida, will be guest coaches and mentors for the student singers. The event is on Friday, March 8, and concludes with a one hour show at 4 pm at Capital Turnaround at Navy Yard. Chapter members are encouraged to attend and support the youth singers and enjoy the performances. There will be an afterglow nearby at Ugly Mug about 5:30 pm for those interested.

 

April 24 is the date for our major fundraising event, Spring2ACTion. At the end of that day, there will be a cabaret at The Bike Club that will also be a watch party to see how we are doing in reaching our goal of donations.  AACC members are invited to audition any kind of act – with friends or members.  Auditions deadline will be April 1 in person or for submitting a tape. Best to let Joe know you are thinking of throwing your hat in the ring.  Last year’s cabaret was really fun. Hopefully several new members will try.

 

Next week, March 12, we are back at AlexRenew for our meeting – Joe will be returning from Europe for the rehearsal. March 19 we will sing in Old Town, and March 26 we are at AlexRenew.

 

Joe launched the rehearsal of “Why We Sing” with the combined ensembles with news that we will perform that song at the Northeastern District (NED) barbershop convention at Lake George, NY.  All NED members are getting the song in advance and will be invited to join us on the risers as the finale for the show.

 

He also prompted the Harmonizers to get started working on their second contest song, “I’m Still Standing,” which is up on Groupanizer.

 

Before rehearsing “Defying Gravity,” Joe shared that for the chorus performance at Wolf Trap, AACC will be one of six Metro Area choral groups to sing on the show.  Many other groups will sit in the audience and sing.  AACC will sing this song with Samantha as soloist.

 

The chapter business session was managed by Terry Reynolds. He reports that there will be a memorial service at Arlington Cemetery for Bill Sowers on May 8.

 

President Noah Van Gilder thanked those who coordinated the GALA.  He also thanked the team who got the new name tags produced for Metro Voices – Tyler Carpenter, Adam Afifi and Tessa Walker.  Metro Voices members were issued their name tags.

 

Ben Watsky welcomed guests and reported that three recent guests were back – Jared Lescinsky, Callie Cirillo, andCharley Rothermel. Two first time guests attended this week – Matt, who sang barbershop in St. Louis and is in town for a few weeks for a training class; and David, an Air Force member who found us on Google.  Maggie McAlexander, assistant director of Metro Voices, led the chapter’s “Welcome Song.”

 

This week, the Harmonizers worked on “Lullaby” and “New York New York,”  and Metro Voices worked “After You Who,” and “Fight Song.”

The evening wrapped up about 9 pm with an invitation to guests and members to come to the Harmo House for an afterglow, and then David Breen directed “Keep the Whole World Singing.” The tag singers were glad to have Chuck Hunter at the afterglow to join in the fun!

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 for the great things going on each week during the 75^th year of the Alexandria Chapter. - YeEd)

 

The Chapter Mission Statement Enriching lives through vocal harmony in the greater DC area.

 

 

 

 

Looking Back on the March 2, 2024 Gala for the Alexandria A Cappella Collective

  Looking Back on the March 2, 2024 Gala for the Alexandria A Cappella Collective 

The first annual Gala for Alexandria A Cappella Collective was held Saturday evening, March 2, 2024, at The Garden venue on Eisenhower Ave. in Alexandria.  There were 100 ticketed guests for the festive and fun event organized around the theme, “A Night at the Speakeasy.”  When folks arrived at 6:30 pm, their tickets were checked outside and then they had to knock on the door and give the secret code to get in.

 

Many guests wore appropriate attire for the theme and the venue and tables were decorated too. 

 

The choices for the silent auction part of the evening were in an adjoining room. Bidders could have bid prior to arriving, and even could have bought the item directly. At the venue during the evening, bidders focused on the QR codes for the many items in categories such as art, travel, food, services, and music. There was a live auction after the dinner hour that was fun too – a stay at AKA Hotel Alexandria with breakfast and gift cards from local restaurants; and a basket of booze donated by chapter leadership. 

 

President Noah Van Gilder welcomed all the guests to the fund raising gala.  Artistic director, Joe Cerutti, spoke about the chapter’s growth and movement into becoming an expanded community asset.  (Joe was also the auctioneer for the evening.)

 

Former member, Don Dillingham, and his group entertained with easy jazz as folks arrived and until the dinner began. The bar featured several original “speakeasy” drinks and seemed to be a hit. Waiters passed tasty hors d’ oeuvres prior to the sit down dinner which was served family style.  The caterer and her staff were terrific for the evening – Joan Wolford’s Savoir Fare from Loudon County (and wife of baritone Frank Shipp). The meal was superb with fresh pear salad, beef brisket, tortellini pasta, and artichoke/spinach stuffed tomatoes.   For dessert, there were home-made cookies and coffee choices, and free cigars or cigarettes (candy of course)!

 

Special program entertainment was the recent Mid Atlantic District Barbershop Harmony quartet champion, SMOKE RING, from New York City – Becca Eckes, tenor; Stephanie Taglianetti, lead; Alexander Ronneburg, baritone; and Gabriel Spector, bass. 

 

 The theme committee included Kathy Kauffmann, Catherine LaValley and general manager, Susan Fitzpatrick. The silent auction team headed by Randall Eliason included Susan, Mary Cooper and Brad Jones. Ken Rub gets full credit as overall organizer of the very successful first-annual Gala for the chapter! 

 

Results of the gala will help the chapter make it possible for more people, of all ages, to sing together in our community.

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 for the great things going on each week during the 75^th year of the Alexandria Chapter. - YeEd)

 

The Chapter Mission Statement Enriching lives through vocal harmony in the greater DC area.

Looking Back on the Feb. 27, 2024 Alexandria Hybrid Chapter Meeting

  Looking Back on the Feb. 27, 2024 Alexandria Hybrid Chapter Meeting 

A large crowd of singers were back at AlexRenew this week after meeting last week at 

The Bike Club. As it turns out, next week’s meeting will be back at The Bike Club and both ensembles will have a rehearsal that evening.

 

This week, the Harmonizers launched their first run of one of the contest songs and Metro Voices worked on a new song for their ensemble.  Both groups had a period of small group sessions this week.

Associate director of the Harmonizers, Tony Colosimo, conducted the warm up session this week for the combined ensembles. Artistic director, Joe Cerutti, welcomed all the singers and guests and reported that 83 individual interviews have been completed with just a few left to be done at the Harmo House on Thursday of this week.

He was excited to report the plans for the chapter’s work with DC Public Schools (DCPS).  We have a contract with them to provide something like an all-state choir experience. The event will be on Friday, March 8.  We have invited gold medal Barbershop Harmony Society (BHS) quartet, SIGNATURE, to be the guest quartet for the event. Tessa Walker will be the clinician for the large number of youth singers who will attend at a venue in DC. There will be a 4 pm show but the venue is small and so neither of our chorus ensembles will sing, but interested members are encouraged to attend and support the event.  Joe indicated that the DCPS has totally endorsed the formation of Capital Force too.

Chapter members are asked to support providing a supply of bottled water and snacks by donating cash (give it to Dean Rust next Tuesday night - he will purchase the supplies and bring them to the venue on March 8), or by bringing cases of water to next week’s meeting.

Looking ahead – spring2ACTion will be on April 24^th. It has become our chapter’s largest fundraiser in recent years. It is organized by the City of Alexandria for not-for-profit groups.  Last year we broke all records and we had a fun watch party to keep track of donations that came in. The party included a cabaret with a dozen or so talent acts from with the chapter family.  The event will be at The Bike Club again this year and will be live-streamed for our donors to watch and enjoy too. 

So, this is the call for talent.  Any combination of members or their family is great: solo, duet, trio, instrumental, standup.  It will be a non-barbershop night. An accompanist will be available for the rehearsal and cabaret night. Members interested should let Joe know.

After the two ensembles practiced a while, they gathered for an ice breaker event which was coordinated by Turner Arndt and Becca Williams. It was a fun chance for members of both groups to get to know each other more.  Following the fun, communications director, Steve Murane, conducted a business session. President Noah Van Gilderreported that Ken Ives is doing well after a recent surgery. 

Chapter development director, Ken Rub, updated members that ticket sales for the Gala on March 2 are going well. Tonight was the cut off though for ticket sales so food could be ordered by the caterer. The long list of impressive silent auction items for the Gala was sent via email blast to members and chapter patrons. 

Locations for upcoming meetings are as follows: Mar. 12 – AlexRenew; Mar. 19 – singing in Old Town Alexandria; Mar. 26 – AlexRenew.

Ben Watsky managed guest registration this week and we welcomed back William Vesilind, Jared Liscinsky, Kar Medero, Hanna Nesisch. Dave Ermlick brought his wife, Anne, and their son, Billy, who was in the baritone section. First time guests were Callie Cirillo and Md Fardous – both guests following Metro Voices promotional efforts.  Benalso welcome back members Calvin Schnure and Geoff Berman.  Assistant director emeritus, Will Cox, directed the chapter “Welcome Song.”

The evening wrapped up about 9 pm with an invitation to guests and members to come to the Harmo House for an afterglow, and then Samantha Tramack directed “Keep the Whole World Singing.” There was great celebration at the afterglow to learn that William and Kar both passed their auditions after the chapter meeting this week! Welcome to them.

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 for the great things going on each week during the 75^th year of the Alexandria Chapter. - YeEd)

 

The Chapter Mission Statement Enriching lives through vocal harmony in the greater DC area.

 

 

 

 

Looking Back on the Feb. 13, 2024 Alexandria Hybrid Chapter Meeting

  Looking Back on the Feb. 13, 2024 Alexandria Hybrid Chapter Meeting 

(Thanks for notes from EJ Herold – YeEd.)

The rehearsal opened with Tony Colosimo leading the warm-up and reinforcing the vocalization and breathing training from the last week’s meeting.  Using a tag, “How Will I Get by Without You?,” he taught all of us the notes and techniques leading to a beautiful finish to the drills. 

 

Artistic Director, Joe Cerutti, opened with announcements to the assembled Alexandria A Cappella Collective (AACC) group noting that we have quartets that will deliver singing greetings for Valentine’s Day tomorrow.  A report of those activities from community outreach coordinator, Dean Rust, will be included in next week’s Looking Backreport. 

 

Joe also gave an update on the progress of the annual interview process of all AACC singers. 

 

Because AlexRenew is unavailable on Feb. 20, the chorus will meet at The Bike Club (99 Canal Center Plaza, Alexandria) for an evening of fun activities. Singers will choose from among several activities delivered in sequence or simultaneously to include: new member orientation; “You be the Judge;” barbershop “fails;” a class on proper breathing technique by Tony and a class by Joe.

 

The group will be back at The Bike Club on March 5 as Alex Renew will be used as a polling place that evening. On March 19 the ensembles will sing in Old Town. 

 

The Metro Voices rehearsal with director, Samantha Tramack, worked on “Happy Together,” “Fight Song,” and “Sing/Swing Medley.”  

 

The Harmonizers started with a ‘push out’ quartet activity singing “Hey Jude.” Comedic results were achieved as a couple singers lost their place but the overall effect was pleasing and fun! This will be a continuing practice to encourage quartet singing.

 

It was announced that the music team plans to post the contest songs for the Harmonizers on Groupanizer by the end of the night. Joe said the chorus will start working both “Lullaby of Broadway” and “But the World Goes ‘Round” in two weeks. All singers were asked to focus on measures 101 to the end of “Lullaby”, though the leads were asked to skip measures 117-124 until further instructed. The annotated versions of the music will be coming soon. 

 

The chorus then worked on “Sit Down You’re Rockin’ the Boat” including the choreography led by Turner Arndt. Work on “Wee Small Hours of the Morning” and “Calling Dreams” to polish some of the more challenging spots, filled the rest of the evening.

Midway during the evening, there was a business meeting for the combined ensembles conducted by communications director, Steve Murane.  Development director, Ken Rub, spoke about the upcoming Gala on March 2. His major message was for members to invite non-members to attend understanding that the goal is for it to be a successful fund raising gala. It is not a concert.  There will be passed hors d oeuvres and a family-style dinner.  The Mid Atlantic District (M-AD) quartet champ will sing. Dress is not black tie, but dress up. 

Archives chairman, Don Harrington, announced that there were several framed chorus pictures from a former member set out on tables and free for anyone to take. 

Conventions chairman, Craig Kujawa, spoke about members getting their registrations for the Barbershop Harmony Society (BHS) convention in Cleveland in early July. Note that early-bird prices end on Thursday, Feb. 15.

Membership director, Jacob Broude, welcomed five returning guests –Alex Radt, Charley Rothermel, Jared Liscinsky, Ker Medero and William Vesline. First time guest was Avery Biggers, a guest of Jared. We sang our “Welcome Song” for all of our guests, with Maggie McAlexander as director.  It was great to have Jim Kirkland and Dave Ermlick back to sing. 

The evening wrapped up about 9 pm with the 50/50 drawing, an invitation to guests and members to come to the Harmo House for an afterglow, and then singing of  “Keep the Whole World Singing” directed by Jared.

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 for the great things going on each week during the 75^th year of the Alexandria Chapter. - YeEd)

 

The Chapter Mission Statement Enriching lives through vocal harmony in the greater DC area.

 

 

 

 

Looking Back on the Feb. 6, 2024 Alexandria Hybrid Chapter Meeting

  Looking Back on the Feb. 6, 2024 Alexandria Hybrid Chapter Meeting 

This week’s rehearsal at AlexRenew continued work by both the Harmonizers and Metro Voices on preparing songs for 2024 shows and events. 

The opening warm up session for the combined ensembles was conducted by associate director of the Harmonizers, Tony Colosimo. 

Artistic director, Joe Cerutti, shared that the interview process is underway. Schedules and location charts were posted around the meeting place. New members will meet with Joe; Metro Voices singers will meet with their director, Samantha Tramack; and others will meet with their section leaders. It is important that each member complete the survey prior to their interview which will be scheduled by Terry Reynolds.

Joe also shared that there is a need for more volunteers to sing in quartets to deliver Singing Valentine messages on Wednesday, February 1.  Our organization does not charge for these appearances, but sings to spread cheer and messages of the day in the Alexandria Metro area. Anyone interested should be sure Terry Reynolds knows what part of that day they are available and what part they sing. 

The location of the February 20 meeting for Alexandria A Cappella Collective (AACC) will not be at AlexRenew and that location will be announced soon.

Joe was able to confirm that the choruses would not be expected to sing at the March 8 program introducing barbershop to students and parents from DC Public Schools. He did suggest that it would be a positive showing if some members were in the audience. Past gold medal barbershop quartet, SIGNATURE, will be singing after they and an Alexandria team work with students during the day. Tessa Walker will be clinician.  The event will be at Capital Turnaround at 4 pm in SE Washington, DC.

At this point in the evening, Metro Voices adjourned to the board room to work on “Happy Together,” “Fight Song,” and “Sing/Swing Medley.”  In other news from Metro Voices, they had fun social time at the Harmo House on Saturday evening, February 3. During this week’s meeting, they introduced two Harmonizers, Tyler Carpenter and Chad Ross, as part of an effort to help their members get to know members of the other ensemble. 

The Harmonizers worked on “Calling Dreams,” “Sit Down You’re Rockin the Boat” along with a reminder session for the choreography for that song, and “Wee Small Hours.” 

Joe had just received the learning tracks for the Harmonizers’ new contest package and he was eager to were play them for the singers. Tony DeRosa created the tracks. The ballad, “But The World Goes Round,” was arranged by Kevin Keller. It was often used by Liza Minnelli to close her shows. The uptune, “Lullaby of Broadway,” is a classic Broadway number used by Ella Fitzgerald. It was arranged by David Wright.

Tony did a couple craft sessions to strengthen the skills of the singers during the rehearsal.

Midway during the evening, there was a business meeting for the combined ensembles conducted by communications director, Steve Murane.  Randall Eliason prompted everyone to turn in any silent auction item they have collected for the fundraising GALA.  They should be turned during the next two weeks. 

Kathy Kauffman was on hand to collect empty liquor bottles that she and the decoration committee will use for the Gala on March 2. 

Metro Voices director, Samantha Tramack, reported the recent passing of a founding member of their ensemble, Elaine Cooper, who died from complications of surgery.  The family plans a celebration of life in the future. Joe spoke to share that Elaine was a stronger leader of the Pride of Baltimore chapter. 

Membership director, Jacob Broude, welcomed six returning guests –Alex Radt, Routa Mesfin, Charley Rothermel, Shane Lawson, Jared Liscinsky, and William Vesline. 

First time guests were Tyler Greene, a guest of Turner Arndt; Ker Medero, a guest of Ben Watsky; and Jamie Brazen, a guest of Sheryl Berlin. 

We sang our “Welcome Song” for all of our guests, with Will Cox as director. 

The evening wrapped up about 9 pm with the 50/50 drawing (Joe was shocked to have finally won the drawing for the first time!), an invitation to guests and members to come to the Harmo House for an afterglow, and then singing of  “Keep the Whole World Singing” directed by Lance Fisher.

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 for the great things going on each week during the 75^th year of the Alexandria Chapter. - YeEd)

 

The Chapter Mission Statement Enriching lives through vocal harmony in the greater DC area.

 

 

 

 

Looking Back on the Jan. 30, 2024 Alexandria Hybrid Chapter Meeting

  Looking Back on the Jan. 30, 2024 Alexandria Hybrid Chapter Meeting 

This week’s rehearsal at AlexRenew launched work on preparing songs for 2024 shows and events. 

Alan Wile and Walt Page welcomed everyone when they arrived on the sixth floor (and invited them to get some 50/50 tickets).  The winner keeps one half each week, and the other half is sent to the Mid Atlantic District (M-AD) Endowment Fund in the name of the chapter. 

Speaking of M-AD, it is good to note that several of our members are in leadership positions on the district board.  Bob Eckman is Immediate Past President, Dave Welter is treasurer, and Sheryl Berlin and Mike Fasano are members-at-large.

The opening warm up session for the combined ensembles was conducted by Tony Colosimo. 

Artistic director, Joe Cerutti, was back from his trip to Hawaii and thanked all those who attended the celebration of life for Geri Geis at Arlington National Cemetery, Friday, January 26.  During the service, her daughter Stacie gave the eulogy and shared that Geri was extremely honored to have been recognized at the chapter’s 75^th anniversary when Joewelcomed her and suggested she was the matriarch for the Harmonizers.

There were many Harmonizers there to honor her. The chorus sang “I’ll Walk With God” during the 3 pm service in the chapel, and then sang “I’ll Be Seeing You” at the graveside. Terry Reynolds directed. Attendees included Ken Ives, Bob Wilson, Rick Savage, Geoff Berman, Troy Hillier, Jeff Ashford, Howard Nestlerode, Dean Rust, Steve White, Mike Wallen, Noah Van Gilder, Bob Blair, Dave Welter, Martin Banks, Michael Schwartz, Carl Kauffmann, Bob Bates, Rick Taylor, Sam Brothers, Greg Tepe, Terry Reynolds, TJ Donahue, Jack Pitzer, Chuck Hunter, Ken Rub, Brian Ammerman, Bruce Roehm, Craig Kujawa, Mark Klostermeyer, Ike Evans and Alan Wile.

After that, Joe invited input from members about the recent chapter events. He also encouraged all singers, especially any new members, to consider signing up to be in a quartet or ensemble on February 14 to sing Valentine messages in the Alexandria Metro area. Anyone interested should be sure Terry Reynolds knows what part of that day they are available and what part they sing. In preparation for this project, Tony had the singers do a quick run through of “Heart of My Heart” and “Let Me Call You Sweetheart” during the warm up, that are the songs the quartets will sing. 

Joe also confirmed the plans for the eighth annual interview process when each member has a half hour interview with music team leadership.  New members will meet with Joe; Metro Voices singers will meet with their director, Samantha Tramack; and others will meet with their section leaders. It is important that each member complete the survey prior to their interview which will be scheduled by Terry Reynolds.

The location of the February 20 meeting for Alexandria A Cappella Collective (AACC) will not be at AlexRenew and that location will be announced soon.

At this point in the evening, Metro Voices adjourned to the board room to work on “Happy Together,” “Fight Song,” and “Sing/Swing Medley.”  The Harmonizers worked on “Hey Jude” which will be used at their participation in the Wolf Trap show with other local choral groups; plus “Calling Dreams,” “Sit Down You’re Rockin the Boat” along with a reminder session for the choreography for that song, and “Wee Small Hours.”

Midway during the evening, there was a business meeting for all attendees. Operations director, Gary Cregan, asked for ideas on optional meeting locations for March 5, since that is an election day and AlexRenew will be used as a polling place.

Steve White and all his fellow Harmonizers who are members of the M-AD honor chapter,  Delasusquehudmac (DELA), welcomed another chapter member who was recently elected to membership in DELA – Sheryl Berlin. Members are elected in recognition of their extra service at the district level in a variety of leadership and service positions. She joins 22 current members who are in the DELA chapter. (Delasusquehudmac is a made up name from the names of all the major rivers in the M-AD.)

Kathy Kauffman made an appeal to all members to bring in empty liquor bottles next week that she and the decoration committee will use for the Gala on March 2. 

Membership director, Jacob Broude, welcomed three returning guests – Mary, Alex and Marcia. There were four guests present for their first visit: Routa Mesfin who learned about us via MeetUp Alexandria; Charley Rothermel, a guest of Rob Barnovsky; Shane Lawson, a guest of Matt Ambler; and William Vesline, who saw us singing in Old Town in December. We sang our “Welcome Song” with Terry as director. 

The evening wrapped up about 9 pm with the 50/50 drawing, an invitation to guests and members to come to the Harmo House for an afterglow, and then singing of  “Keep the Whole World Singing” directed by Sheryl.

In other news, the chapter learned recently of the passing of Bill Sowers who died on January 3, 2024, due to complications following a serious fall.  He and his wife Charlie were long-time supporters of the chapter long after Billstopped singing. A private burial service will be held at Arlington National Cemetery. 

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 for the great things going on each week during the 75^th year of the Alexandria Chapter. - YeEd)

 

The Chapter Mission Statement Enriching lives through vocal harmony in the greater DC area.

 

 

 

 

Looking Back on the Jan. 23, 2024 Alexandria Hybrid Chapter Meeting

  Looking Back on the Jan. 23, 2024 Alexandria Hybrid Chapter Meeting 

There was a good turnout for this week’s rehearsal back at AlexRenew.  As is the custom there, early arrivals can help move tables and chairs and set up the large meeting space on the sixth floor. The chorus will meet there for the next four weeks and then will meet off site on Feb. 20. 

The opening warm up session for the combined ensembles was conducted by Tony Colosimo, associate director of the Harmonizers.  

While both ensembles were together for warm ups, there was a brief follow-up to the Jan. 16 kickoff session – comments were good and the plans for a full and fun year seemed to be appreciated by the singers. The Singing Valentines effort for 2024 is coming up soon and all singers were invited to add their name to the clip board offering their availability on Feb. 14 to make quartet appearances in the Alexandria area (such as at city hall, at senior living places, some restaurants and office areas, and at AlexRenew). Chapter leaders will assemble quartets and make appearance appointments.

At this point, Metro Voices moved to the board room with their director, Samantha Tramack, to work on “Happy Together” and “Fight Song.”

Tony continued working with the Harmonizers on “New York New York,” “Hey Jude” which was a new arrangement for many, “Rockin the Boat,” and “Wee Small Hours.”

During the business session conducted by Steve Murane, communications director, Randall Eliason reminded all singers of the need to get gift cards and other major donations for the Gala on March 2. Development director, Ken Rub, alerted everyone that tickets are on sale for attendance at the gala. He also announced a request from the gala’s decorations committee  for members to bring them empty wine, gin, bourbon or rum bottles for the speakeasy theme. (Bring them next week.)

President Noah Van Gilder reported that Sam McFarland is home and doing ok. 

Terry Reynolds alerted all members that the survey will be coming to each person soon that they must fill out prior to their individual interview for 2024.

The details for the funeral service for Geri Geis on Friday, Jan. 25 were reviewed. Those attending met after the meeting to review “I’ll Walk with God.” 

The service will begin at the Ft Myer Old Post Chapel which is on base which means you need to allow time to go through military security. Arrive at the Hatfield Gate off Rt 27/Washington Blvd near Rt 50. Have your photo ID and vehicle registration. At 2:30 singers will gather to rehearse (outside or inside the Chapel - TBD). At 3:00 pm the service begins - Harmonizers sing “I’ll Walk with God.” At about 3:20 the service will be at the gravesite - Harmonizers sing “I’ll Be Seeing You.” Wear your own coat and tie. 

Membership director, Jacob Broude, was back and welcomed recent new members Mark Oswald and Jimmy Miotto, and guests Alex Radt, Hannah Nesich and Marsha Mallett. Jeff Burkey was back to sing too after a few years off the risers.  

There were a few final announcements to wrap up the evening. The Catactones in Frederick, MD, sent an additional donation to go specifically to Metro Voices thanking them for singing on their holiday show. 

As part of the ongoing project to have quartets available to accept singing jobs during the year, Samantha and Mert Tramack and their quartet SWEET AND SOUR, appeared in Lawrenceville, VA, recently; as did a quartet organized by Tony with three men from the Army Chorus. Our organization has a plan to have several smaller ensembles available, as needed, to fill requests when sending the whole chorus would not be possible. 

Cy Shuster won the 50/50 this week; and Jeff Burkey directed “Keep the Whole World Singing.”

Until next time – editorjack!

(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record for the great things going on each week during the 75^th year of the Alexandria Chapter. - YeEd)

 

The Chapter Mission Statement Enriching lives through vocal harmony in the greater DC area.