Looking Back on July 22nd Chapter Meeting
(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record of the great things going on each week at an Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter meeting. —Ye Ed.)
The chapter leadership instituted a new schedule for our chapter meeting nite this week. The plan called for social time and purchases etc. from about 6:30 until 7. Since it was pretty new to the troops, it got off to a slow start. But no doubt folks will know, from now on, to come early.
It is also summer and just after International convention, so some folks were absent (and some already en route to judges school or Harmony U in MO). But the risers were pretty full at 7 when the singing and warm up started.
As usual, Director Joe went into action to help Will and Tony jump-start our singing and breathing and vocal techniques. Joe and McKeever and Colosimo worked on reviews such as “Great Day” and “From This Moment On” – homework assignment is to get “Moment” learned and ready to work on!
“Clap Your Hands” work centered on some new off-the-risers exercises to stimulate a better understanding and performance of the rhythm. This number is gonna have a longer shelf life that some recent contest numbers. So guys who did not sing in Nashville should add this one to their homework list.
”Second Star from the Right” also needs homework by the singers. Goal would be to get it ready so we could sing it at Market Square. Neither “Moment” nor “Second Star” will be sung at Ft. Ward this Thurs nite. Chorus is due at 6, show is at 7:30.
As part of the new schedule, the guests were introduced before the break. And Roger had a large crowd to introduce. Some new singer prospects and several guys from other chapters around the nation. That is typical of this time of year when families are on vacation in DC. Bruce Lauther was presented his 22-year membership card.
The break was held to just 10 minutes, so many will want to come early to buy things, and get things done etc. in order to get back on the risers.
The chapter business meeting was held after the break. Bob Blair filled in for Bob Rhome who, according to President Stamps, has had a successful surgery to have three vertebrae fused. Rhome will be back in a few weeks.
Terry Jordan plugged the 60th Anniversary Potluck and Talent Show that will be Sun., August 10th from 2-5 pm at Durant. Basses bring main dish, Leads bring dessert, Baris bring vegetable dish, Tenors bring salad. Chapter will furnish drinks and plates and such. The event will also include a Talent Show. If you or your family members want to be in that show, call anniversary chairman, Terry Jordan -703-406-8742.
Following the break, we sang thru the songs for Thursday nite’s show at Ft. Ward Park. In active members ought to take advantage of this free show. AND all of us could bring prospective tickets buyers to this one to get a “taste” of our good singing and showmanship.
Joe was glad to have a full hour to work on music.
We ended with Jean Stewart winning the 50/50 and she also directed KTWWS! Good job. Thanks to Alan Wile for taking notes for me until I arrived from my work event.
Until next time – editorjack!
Thursday, July 24, 2008
Thursday, July 17, 2008
Looking Back on July 15th Chapter Meeting
Looking Back on July 15th Chapter Meeting
(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record of the great things going on each week at an Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter meeting. —Ye Ed.)
Wow! The risers were full before the 7 pm call to risers! And someone said at break, “this place is getting crowded.” So cool to have a full house the week we are back from International. And to see some familiar faces come out to sing along and see what is up – Yates, Berman, McFarland, Mattes, Acevedo and Rub.
Director Joe announced that our coach for the nite had flight problems and would not attend. So as usual, we pushed the “be flexible” button and a great meeting was conducted by musical and admin leaders.
Joe reminded everyone it was a nite to celebrate our 60th birthday as a chapter. He also recognized Martin Banks and extended chapter cheers for Martin’s honor as PR Officer of the Year in the BHS. The award is given by PROBE – the group for PR officers and Bulletin Editors. Congrats!! (I think it was Martin who also produced a whole single page graphic listing all the songs the Harmonizers have ever sung it its 60 years for tonite handout.)
Joe also took a couple minutes to explain plans for the next couple of contest packages, and put a bug in everyone’s ear about the ways to add new members to the riser crew!!! This is a great time to bring someone too – they can get a running start on new music along with the rest of us.
Then the chorus worked hard on their music in sectionals.
After that was the chapter meeting. District VP for Contest and Judging Chuck Harner presented Gary Plaag a plaque recognizing his 10 years as a Certified Presentation Judge in the BHS.
Chris Buechler offered free Harmonizer record albums – Autin Cotton who handles warehousing and selling CDs and the old records is eager to reduce the album storage needs. Fun to see how many guys came and picked up the albums – and looked at the pictures on the back of quartets and chorus.
Terry Jordan plugged the 60th Anniversary Potluck and Talent Show that will be Sun., August 10th from 2-5 pm at Durant. Stayed tuned for more details as to what food to bring, and how to enter the talent show.
Ken White, quartet promo chair, honored our guys who sang in quartets in Nashville so we could all give them one more big cheer.
VP Roger Day introduced several guests including a couple prospective singers and some guys visiting from other chapters.
Director Joe cut the birthday cake and as always, the Harmonizers made it all disappear in record time.
Right after the break, President Stamps and a character from “Aladdin” did a skit to get everyone’s attention regarding plans for the 2009 Spring Show. It will have a New York and Broadway theme.
More hard work followed on contest songs, and on songs for the upcoming shows this summer, including the road show in Erie, PA. And the summer evening concert at Ft. Ward Park, Thurs. July 24th. That park is at 4301 W. Braddock Rd. Parking is free. Show is in an outdoor amphitheatre. You could also bring a picnic for before or after. Chorus call is 6 pm. Show is at 7:30.
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.)
Wow! The risers were full before the 7 pm call to risers! And someone said at break, “this place is getting crowded.” So cool to have a full house the week we are back from International. And to see some familiar faces come out to sing along and see what is up – Yates, Berman, McFarland, Mattes, Acevedo and Rub.
Director Joe announced that our coach for the nite had flight problems and would not attend. So as usual, we pushed the “be flexible” button and a great meeting was conducted by musical and admin leaders.
Joe reminded everyone it was a nite to celebrate our 60th birthday as a chapter. He also recognized Martin Banks and extended chapter cheers for Martin’s honor as PR Officer of the Year in the BHS. The award is given by PROBE – the group for PR officers and Bulletin Editors. Congrats!! (I think it was Martin who also produced a whole single page graphic listing all the songs the Harmonizers have ever sung it its 60 years for tonite handout.)
Joe also took a couple minutes to explain plans for the next couple of contest packages, and put a bug in everyone’s ear about the ways to add new members to the riser crew!!! This is a great time to bring someone too – they can get a running start on new music along with the rest of us.
Then the chorus worked hard on their music in sectionals.
After that was the chapter meeting. District VP for Contest and Judging Chuck Harner presented Gary Plaag a plaque recognizing his 10 years as a Certified Presentation Judge in the BHS.
Chris Buechler offered free Harmonizer record albums – Autin Cotton who handles warehousing and selling CDs and the old records is eager to reduce the album storage needs. Fun to see how many guys came and picked up the albums – and looked at the pictures on the back of quartets and chorus.
Terry Jordan plugged the 60th Anniversary Potluck and Talent Show that will be Sun., August 10th from 2-5 pm at Durant. Stayed tuned for more details as to what food to bring, and how to enter the talent show.
Ken White, quartet promo chair, honored our guys who sang in quartets in Nashville so we could all give them one more big cheer.
VP Roger Day introduced several guests including a couple prospective singers and some guys visiting from other chapters.
Director Joe cut the birthday cake and as always, the Harmonizers made it all disappear in record time.
Right after the break, President Stamps and a character from “Aladdin” did a skit to get everyone’s attention regarding plans for the 2009 Spring Show. It will have a New York and Broadway theme.
More hard work followed on contest songs, and on songs for the upcoming shows this summer, including the road show in Erie, PA. And the summer evening concert at Ft. Ward Park, Thurs. July 24th. That park is at 4301 W. Braddock Rd. Parking is free. Show is in an outdoor amphitheatre. You could also bring a picnic for before or after. Chorus call is 6 pm. Show is at 7:30.
Until next time – editorjack!
Friday, July 11, 2008
Looking Back on July 1-5 2008 International Convention
Looking Back on July 1-5, 2008 International Convention Week
(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record of the great things going on each week at an Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter meeting. —Ye Ed.)
Many of the Harmonizer guys and their crowd of supporters, family and friends drove to Nashville for the 70th International convention of the Barbershop Harmony Society, July 1-6, 2008. Seemed like we didn’t hear many hardship travel stories this year from those who took flights. The fun started on Tuesday when you started seeing more and more of our Harmonizer family in the Doubletree lobby. The hotel had a great breakfast place and a Starbucks shop. So we were set.
It was about a 4-block walk to the contest session and to the headquarters hotel. Many of us also walked by and/or even toured the new Society headquarters. Great place. We were proud of it and happy that our staffers have good working conditions. There are a lot of Harmonizer mementos there, but too many to mention here.
Always cool to see so many of our guys at the Harmony Marketplace, or in line at the registration (that was one of the snags this year – getting a name tag). I tried the foot massage station in the exhibit hall – felt great, even tho it was early in the week. Some of us got tickets for the extra events like Collegiate contest, AIC show, Harmony Foundation show or World Harmony Jamboree.
Early in the week the Society Board met, and our guy Alan Wile was there as an elected member of that body. Chris Buechler also attended as he has been appointed as parliamentarian for the board.
Tuesday, the Harmonizers helped provide a crowd and demonstration group for Director Joe’s class for Chorus Directors. Then that evening we had our first chorus meeting and practice in the ballroom of our hotel.
During the week, many former members stopped in to check on us. And always there was a good crowd of family and friends to cheer and be an audience. Several Hamonizer families turned out in large numbers – Bill and Jean Stewart and crew, Craig Odells, Steve Whites, and the Cerutti clan. Coaches were there too - Steve Tramack, Stephanie Brickston, and Kirk Young who was there all week for all of the rehearsals. His energy was a great help.
Wednesday morning early was a practice for chorus and front row. Then we all managed to grab some chow and head to the contest site to cheer for RINGERS with Mike Pinto; LAST KIDS PICKED with Mike and Eric Wallen and Tony Colosimo; FOUR ACES with Ed Cazenas, Richard Lewellen and Nick Aiuto. OLD SCHOOL with Rick Taylor.
Former Harmonizers in quartets included Scott Disney, Ron Rogers and Denny Malone.
The RINGERS and OLD SCHOOL made the cut to the top twenty to compete on Thursday. And then OLD SCHOOL made the top ten and earned a 5th place medal behind Redline in 4th, State Line Grocery in 3rd, Crossroads in 2nd and OC Times in 1st.
There were rehearsals on Wednesday and at the Thursday rehearsal, the chorus played its usual prank on Director Joe when they started the chorus of the ballad with the wrong words. This year he did not have a heart attack!!! But it got him good.
During the week, the PROBE group (that stands for PR Officers and Bulletin Editors) honored our own Martin Banks as a PR Officer of the Year for his work at promoting our chapter.
Friday was the big chorus contest day. It started with the long-standing tradition of the Togetherness Breakfast. The FRIENDS group outdid themselves with decorations and President Stamps presided. The class of 2008 president Tom Kraus spoke and set the stage for a good laugh or two and then a zinger of a close. At that point, the class was invited to ditch the kerchiefs they had carried for the last few weeks and become part of the official chorus.
VIP guests included Rob Hopkins who did the music for the ballad. Director Joe recognized several men and his music team who had helped him this year. He also introduced former directors John Hohl, Richard Lewellen and Terry Reynolds.
Coach Young gave a great pep talk about the importance of the moment. Old Timer Pitzer lead the group down memory lane to reflect on our past golden moments. Then Director Joe hit us all hard with a great message about doing our job to succeed.
The chorus contest was a tough one. And a long one. Alexandria did not sing til about 7:30 pm. Then in the midst of it all that evening, we had to take a planned delay for the fireworks. The show was shown on the screen inside the hall. Good plan too, as an earlier set-off-of fireworks was mighty loud.
In the end the Harmonizers captured 8th place and moved up a bunch from last year. We were almost as happy as those who had won a medal. Atlanta Metro was 7th, Dave Calland’s Alliance chorus was 6th, Northbrook was 5th, Denver was 4th, Greg Lyne’s Voices in Harmony was 3rd, St. Charles with Jim Henry and David Wright was 2nd, and Masters of Harmony was 1st.
There were a lot of former members and even a few current members who sang in other choruses during this contest: Denny Malone, Denver; Lynn Hineman and Joe Kane, Tampa; Ron Rogers and Jack Stevens, Heart of TX; Steve Tramack, Nashua; Jeff Hart, Atlanta; Will Mudd Simmons, KY Union; Dwain Chambers, Memphis who were mic testers chorus; Terry Traylor, Phoenix; David Binetti who is president of Voices in Harmony in Bay Area; Sam McFarland, Bob Hirsh, Rick Taylor, Bob Mattes, Scott Disney, and Chris Yates sang with Dundalk; Rich Garodnick, Houston; Ray Johnson and Bill Power, Masters.
Saturday, some of us managed to get up to attend the Collegiate Quartet contest. Our own Eric Wallen was in the first singing quartet, CRUNCH TIME. They captured a 5th place medal!! Winner of that contest was RINGMASTERS from Sweden.
Tony Colosimo and Joe Eckert were in the mic tester quartet for that event – ROAD TRIP. Then they did their swan song set – as last year’s collegiate champs – at the end while scores were totaled. Their quartet had worked a lot all week at events such as the Mass Sing outside the new headquarters office. Tony, Joe and Eric sang in the collegiate quartet champ chorus as part of the opening ceremonies on Saturday nite before the quartet finals.
During the week, Harmonzers were everywhere. Director Joe was emcee for half of the first round of the quartet contest.
These former or current members were also spotted during the week: Mark Samuel, Fred Womer, JJ Jackson, Ben Luttge, Duane Gunn, Mike Louque, Father Joe Witmer, John Rettenmeyer, Alan Durick, John Adams who was honored as 50-year member, Dick Hall, Jack McKendree, Ben Smith, Darryl Flinn who was on the panel all week, Keith Jones, John Hohl, Bob Caldwell, Jack Pitzer, Ross Johnson, Lew Klinge, JT Price, Ron Dionne, Larry Shelton, Bill Sowers, Ken Rub, Greg Tepe, Larry Dieters, Rob Nutt, Ron Rich, Bob Austin, Dick Newton, and Dave Barton. (And I bet we missed one or more.)
It was a week to remember. Hope this helps.
Until next time – editorjack!
(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record of the great things going on each week at an Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter meeting. —Ye Ed.)
Many of the Harmonizer guys and their crowd of supporters, family and friends drove to Nashville for the 70th International convention of the Barbershop Harmony Society, July 1-6, 2008. Seemed like we didn’t hear many hardship travel stories this year from those who took flights. The fun started on Tuesday when you started seeing more and more of our Harmonizer family in the Doubletree lobby. The hotel had a great breakfast place and a Starbucks shop. So we were set.
It was about a 4-block walk to the contest session and to the headquarters hotel. Many of us also walked by and/or even toured the new Society headquarters. Great place. We were proud of it and happy that our staffers have good working conditions. There are a lot of Harmonizer mementos there, but too many to mention here.
Always cool to see so many of our guys at the Harmony Marketplace, or in line at the registration (that was one of the snags this year – getting a name tag). I tried the foot massage station in the exhibit hall – felt great, even tho it was early in the week. Some of us got tickets for the extra events like Collegiate contest, AIC show, Harmony Foundation show or World Harmony Jamboree.
Early in the week the Society Board met, and our guy Alan Wile was there as an elected member of that body. Chris Buechler also attended as he has been appointed as parliamentarian for the board.
Tuesday, the Harmonizers helped provide a crowd and demonstration group for Director Joe’s class for Chorus Directors. Then that evening we had our first chorus meeting and practice in the ballroom of our hotel.
During the week, many former members stopped in to check on us. And always there was a good crowd of family and friends to cheer and be an audience. Several Hamonizer families turned out in large numbers – Bill and Jean Stewart and crew, Craig Odells, Steve Whites, and the Cerutti clan. Coaches were there too - Steve Tramack, Stephanie Brickston, and Kirk Young who was there all week for all of the rehearsals. His energy was a great help.
Wednesday morning early was a practice for chorus and front row. Then we all managed to grab some chow and head to the contest site to cheer for RINGERS with Mike Pinto; LAST KIDS PICKED with Mike and Eric Wallen and Tony Colosimo; FOUR ACES with Ed Cazenas, Richard Lewellen and Nick Aiuto. OLD SCHOOL with Rick Taylor.
Former Harmonizers in quartets included Scott Disney, Ron Rogers and Denny Malone.
The RINGERS and OLD SCHOOL made the cut to the top twenty to compete on Thursday. And then OLD SCHOOL made the top ten and earned a 5th place medal behind Redline in 4th, State Line Grocery in 3rd, Crossroads in 2nd and OC Times in 1st.
There were rehearsals on Wednesday and at the Thursday rehearsal, the chorus played its usual prank on Director Joe when they started the chorus of the ballad with the wrong words. This year he did not have a heart attack!!! But it got him good.
During the week, the PROBE group (that stands for PR Officers and Bulletin Editors) honored our own Martin Banks as a PR Officer of the Year for his work at promoting our chapter.
Friday was the big chorus contest day. It started with the long-standing tradition of the Togetherness Breakfast. The FRIENDS group outdid themselves with decorations and President Stamps presided. The class of 2008 president Tom Kraus spoke and set the stage for a good laugh or two and then a zinger of a close. At that point, the class was invited to ditch the kerchiefs they had carried for the last few weeks and become part of the official chorus.
VIP guests included Rob Hopkins who did the music for the ballad. Director Joe recognized several men and his music team who had helped him this year. He also introduced former directors John Hohl, Richard Lewellen and Terry Reynolds.
Coach Young gave a great pep talk about the importance of the moment. Old Timer Pitzer lead the group down memory lane to reflect on our past golden moments. Then Director Joe hit us all hard with a great message about doing our job to succeed.
The chorus contest was a tough one. And a long one. Alexandria did not sing til about 7:30 pm. Then in the midst of it all that evening, we had to take a planned delay for the fireworks. The show was shown on the screen inside the hall. Good plan too, as an earlier set-off-of fireworks was mighty loud.
In the end the Harmonizers captured 8th place and moved up a bunch from last year. We were almost as happy as those who had won a medal. Atlanta Metro was 7th, Dave Calland’s Alliance chorus was 6th, Northbrook was 5th, Denver was 4th, Greg Lyne’s Voices in Harmony was 3rd, St. Charles with Jim Henry and David Wright was 2nd, and Masters of Harmony was 1st.
There were a lot of former members and even a few current members who sang in other choruses during this contest: Denny Malone, Denver; Lynn Hineman and Joe Kane, Tampa; Ron Rogers and Jack Stevens, Heart of TX; Steve Tramack, Nashua; Jeff Hart, Atlanta; Will Mudd Simmons, KY Union; Dwain Chambers, Memphis who were mic testers chorus; Terry Traylor, Phoenix; David Binetti who is president of Voices in Harmony in Bay Area; Sam McFarland, Bob Hirsh, Rick Taylor, Bob Mattes, Scott Disney, and Chris Yates sang with Dundalk; Rich Garodnick, Houston; Ray Johnson and Bill Power, Masters.
Saturday, some of us managed to get up to attend the Collegiate Quartet contest. Our own Eric Wallen was in the first singing quartet, CRUNCH TIME. They captured a 5th place medal!! Winner of that contest was RINGMASTERS from Sweden.
Tony Colosimo and Joe Eckert were in the mic tester quartet for that event – ROAD TRIP. Then they did their swan song set – as last year’s collegiate champs – at the end while scores were totaled. Their quartet had worked a lot all week at events such as the Mass Sing outside the new headquarters office. Tony, Joe and Eric sang in the collegiate quartet champ chorus as part of the opening ceremonies on Saturday nite before the quartet finals.
During the week, Harmonzers were everywhere. Director Joe was emcee for half of the first round of the quartet contest.
These former or current members were also spotted during the week: Mark Samuel, Fred Womer, JJ Jackson, Ben Luttge, Duane Gunn, Mike Louque, Father Joe Witmer, John Rettenmeyer, Alan Durick, John Adams who was honored as 50-year member, Dick Hall, Jack McKendree, Ben Smith, Darryl Flinn who was on the panel all week, Keith Jones, John Hohl, Bob Caldwell, Jack Pitzer, Ross Johnson, Lew Klinge, JT Price, Ron Dionne, Larry Shelton, Bill Sowers, Ken Rub, Greg Tepe, Larry Dieters, Rob Nutt, Ron Rich, Bob Austin, Dick Newton, and Dave Barton. (And I bet we missed one or more.)
It was a week to remember. Hope this helps.
Until next time – editorjack!
Looking Back on July 8th Hospital Sing
Looking Back on July 8th Hospital Sing
(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record of the great things going on each week at an Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter meeting. —Ye Ed.)
A decent crowd (33) made it to the Alexandria Hospital – after the full barbershop week in Nashville.
Terry Jordan was back to see us and sing. And several new guys were there for their first hospital sing with us.
Director Joe invited several directors to help with the arm waving duties. He planned for us to sing three songs at each stop on the hospital tour. He started off the set with a rep song, then Will or Chuck did one, then Chris Buechler or Mike Kelly directed a PoleCat song.
It was fun. Several of the nurses or hospital staffers remarked that they looked forward to our return during the holidays.
Until next time – editorjack!
(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record of the great things going on each week at an Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter meeting. —Ye Ed.)
A decent crowd (33) made it to the Alexandria Hospital – after the full barbershop week in Nashville.
Terry Jordan was back to see us and sing. And several new guys were there for their first hospital sing with us.
Director Joe invited several directors to help with the arm waving duties. He planned for us to sing three songs at each stop on the hospital tour. He started off the set with a rep song, then Will or Chuck did one, then Chris Buechler or Mike Kelly directed a PoleCat song.
It was fun. Several of the nurses or hospital staffers remarked that they looked forward to our return during the holidays.
Until next time – editorjack!
Friday, June 27, 2008
Looking Back on June 24th Chapter Meeting and Send Off
Looking Back on June 24th Chapter Meeting and Send Off
(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record of the great things going on each week at an Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter meeting. —Ye Ed.)
The risers were set facing the stage and against the far wall with lots and lots of chairs in place for an audience. And the audience came. Even filled seats on the stage. Many were there at the start of the evening.
This annual tradition to have an open rehearsal and then a mini show for friends and family was another huge success. The rehearsal part was typical – serious work for warm up and pitch exercises our coach taught us.
Then some quick starts on the songs for the mini show and then concentrated work on the contest package.
Most men had already changed into the new contest outfit for the dress rehearsal and mini show. Fuschia tux shirts with black bow tie, mirrored button covers with black pants and shoes. The hall was extra warm with the crowds of guests, so the guys got a real workout.
Terry Jordan was back and did his usual MC job for this event. Many former members and long-time chorus friends were with us for the evening and were leading the cheers. But it also seemed there were lots of new friends and family members there last nite.
The chorus sang and entertained. As did CAMERON STATION, who sang a couple of their new songs for the crowd. Then Director Joe expressed his personal thanks to his team and the chapter leaders for their efforts in getting us to this point. He was not embarrassed to say he liked having 80 men to go to the International contest vs. 50 or so.
Ken White presented gift checks to our quartets going to Nashville to compete. Jean Stewart presented a check for $1000 from the FRIENDS OF HARMONY to the chapter in support of the trip to the big battle.
There were reps from other local chapters of the BHS and SAI who attended and made remarks.
After the show and then refreshments, the chorus continued its open rehearsal for guests who chose to stay – and many did so.
The rehearsal went right to the wire and everyone had to help get things packed and put away to clear the hall. It is on the extra rehearsal on Thurs. June 26th. AND THEN TO TN. The first rehearsal is Tues nite there.
Until next time – editorjack!
(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record of the great things going on each week at an Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter meeting. —Ye Ed.)
The risers were set facing the stage and against the far wall with lots and lots of chairs in place for an audience. And the audience came. Even filled seats on the stage. Many were there at the start of the evening.
This annual tradition to have an open rehearsal and then a mini show for friends and family was another huge success. The rehearsal part was typical – serious work for warm up and pitch exercises our coach taught us.
Then some quick starts on the songs for the mini show and then concentrated work on the contest package.
Most men had already changed into the new contest outfit for the dress rehearsal and mini show. Fuschia tux shirts with black bow tie, mirrored button covers with black pants and shoes. The hall was extra warm with the crowds of guests, so the guys got a real workout.
Terry Jordan was back and did his usual MC job for this event. Many former members and long-time chorus friends were with us for the evening and were leading the cheers. But it also seemed there were lots of new friends and family members there last nite.
The chorus sang and entertained. As did CAMERON STATION, who sang a couple of their new songs for the crowd. Then Director Joe expressed his personal thanks to his team and the chapter leaders for their efforts in getting us to this point. He was not embarrassed to say he liked having 80 men to go to the International contest vs. 50 or so.
Ken White presented gift checks to our quartets going to Nashville to compete. Jean Stewart presented a check for $1000 from the FRIENDS OF HARMONY to the chapter in support of the trip to the big battle.
There were reps from other local chapters of the BHS and SAI who attended and made remarks.
After the show and then refreshments, the chorus continued its open rehearsal for guests who chose to stay – and many did so.
The rehearsal went right to the wire and everyone had to help get things packed and put away to clear the hall. It is on the extra rehearsal on Thurs. June 26th. AND THEN TO TN. The first rehearsal is Tues nite there.
Until next time – editorjack!
Friday, June 20, 2008
Looking Back on June 17th Chapter Meeting
Looking Back on June 17th Chapter Meeting
(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record of the great things going on each week at an Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter meeting. —Ye Ed.)
The call to the risers was a few minutes early this week since there was so much to do and most of the troops were already sitting or standing on them!
Tony took charge right away and implemented the serious and important warm up exercises we learned at the retreat.
Then Chuck used “Danny My Boy” tag as a learning exercise to utilize the better singing skills learned at retreat.
Director Joe plowed thru the Anaheim package songs really fast – just so the troops get a chance to work on them as an ensemble. He is counting on all to be working on them at home!
Terry Reynolds checked on his buddies on the risers to see how many had made their goal of 15 minutes a day working on this year’s contest package. Great results!!! Keep it up guys.
Then we did the contest package. And introduced coach Kirk Young. (Also introduced Burt Szabo who had been at Harmony College East this past weekend and as he usually does, he came to see us before going back to FL. He usually stays with Wachter.)
Kirk jumped right in to work on many little details that now pop out since the chorus had made many improvements in big things and is singing and performing well.
During the chapter meeting, members were invited to sign a get well card for Fred King.
Regarding Nashville: the annual chapter member convention book, prepared by Dixie, was distributed. Reminder that there is a rehearsal this Thurs at Jeff Houston school next door. And that the send off is on June 24th at Durant. Guests and former members should come about 8 to cheer and see the package. There were shirts to pick up if you ordered one from Roger Day. There were uniform parts, including a new tux shirt for this year’s contest chorus to get from Tom Kern AND any other clothing items you need like the Harmo bow tie. Jack Cameron has extended the chance to order and pay for chorus photos from Nashville – see him by the 24th.
Roger Day gave emphasis regarding uniform plans for Nashville. He stressed that the new blue casual shirt with kaki pants and black accessories is only for official functions. He stressed that you try on the new tux shirt from Tom so if you need a different size you can get it Thurs nite. TOM is gone next week! And be sure you press the new shirt.
Button covers will be used with the new tux shirt. So there is a call to all former members to bring in their’s. And current members who have one or two extras – they will be needed too. See Roger.
Keith Jones needs all members (any member gets a ticket even if not singing in the contest) to pick up or speak up for their ticket for the Togetherness Breakfast on Fri in Nashville. And to buy any extra tickets for friends or guests. Need to clean that up on 24th!!
I was told that the Harmo schedule in the convention packet has some time changes etc. compared the early bird edition published by our chair Rhome. So be sure you take note.
Secretary Chris gave a second Man of Note award to Vince Cazenas for bringing a man into the Fauquier Chapter. And Bob Sutton got a certificate for having brought ten men into the BHS.
Roger introduced the guests.
And then after a good break we worked hard the rest of the nite on the contest package with our coach.
Until next time – editorjack!
(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record of the great things going on each week at an Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter meeting. —Ye Ed.)
The call to the risers was a few minutes early this week since there was so much to do and most of the troops were already sitting or standing on them!
Tony took charge right away and implemented the serious and important warm up exercises we learned at the retreat.
Then Chuck used “Danny My Boy” tag as a learning exercise to utilize the better singing skills learned at retreat.
Director Joe plowed thru the Anaheim package songs really fast – just so the troops get a chance to work on them as an ensemble. He is counting on all to be working on them at home!
Terry Reynolds checked on his buddies on the risers to see how many had made their goal of 15 minutes a day working on this year’s contest package. Great results!!! Keep it up guys.
Then we did the contest package. And introduced coach Kirk Young. (Also introduced Burt Szabo who had been at Harmony College East this past weekend and as he usually does, he came to see us before going back to FL. He usually stays with Wachter.)
Kirk jumped right in to work on many little details that now pop out since the chorus had made many improvements in big things and is singing and performing well.
During the chapter meeting, members were invited to sign a get well card for Fred King.
Regarding Nashville: the annual chapter member convention book, prepared by Dixie, was distributed. Reminder that there is a rehearsal this Thurs at Jeff Houston school next door. And that the send off is on June 24th at Durant. Guests and former members should come about 8 to cheer and see the package. There were shirts to pick up if you ordered one from Roger Day. There were uniform parts, including a new tux shirt for this year’s contest chorus to get from Tom Kern AND any other clothing items you need like the Harmo bow tie. Jack Cameron has extended the chance to order and pay for chorus photos from Nashville – see him by the 24th.
Roger Day gave emphasis regarding uniform plans for Nashville. He stressed that the new blue casual shirt with kaki pants and black accessories is only for official functions. He stressed that you try on the new tux shirt from Tom so if you need a different size you can get it Thurs nite. TOM is gone next week! And be sure you press the new shirt.
Button covers will be used with the new tux shirt. So there is a call to all former members to bring in their’s. And current members who have one or two extras – they will be needed too. See Roger.
Keith Jones needs all members (any member gets a ticket even if not singing in the contest) to pick up or speak up for their ticket for the Togetherness Breakfast on Fri in Nashville. And to buy any extra tickets for friends or guests. Need to clean that up on 24th!!
I was told that the Harmo schedule in the convention packet has some time changes etc. compared the early bird edition published by our chair Rhome. So be sure you take note.
Secretary Chris gave a second Man of Note award to Vince Cazenas for bringing a man into the Fauquier Chapter. And Bob Sutton got a certificate for having brought ten men into the BHS.
Roger introduced the guests.
And then after a good break we worked hard the rest of the nite on the contest package with our coach.
Until next time – editorjack!
Friday, June 13, 2008
Looking Back on June 10th Chapter Meeting and Retreat
Looking Back on June 10th Chapter Meeting and Weekend Retreat
(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record of the great things going on each week at an Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter meeting. —Ye Ed.)
The Retreat was at McDaniel College in Westminster, MD, over the weekend of June 6 and 6. For those of us who drove up Saturday morning, it was a VERY foggy trip. But as promised the retreat organizer, Chuck McKeever, had things well organized. And the coffee and muffins and juice ready. The Harmo truck was a welcome site and the starting point for registration and getting to the rehearsal hall in a new facility we had not used before. Luckily the AC was working well – some guys were cold but no one complained cause we were glad to have the AC. The rooms this year were new and really nice too.
Coach David Wright made a lot of new barbershop friends this weekend. His advice was easy to follow, it made huge differences in the sound and total package, and it lifted the level of the chorus. Joe and his musical team were busy all weekend too adding, taking notes, asking questions, seeking advice, coaching the visual and helping the chorus members benefit from the experience.
The Saturday morning program started with a check to see that the Class of 2008 had their bandanas. They did! The warms ups were as usual. All tenors were present for the weekend! As is tradition, there were members asked to give reflections – Garling, Fess, Grimes, Sutton and Reynolds. All were different in approach and in message. All were strong.
The Saturday nite party tradition continued, and the Class of 2008 presented a really funny skit that made us all laugh and laugh. Good job guys. The class is Kieba, Kraus, Hughes, Grimes, Kim, Ammerman, VanGilder, Poulin, O’Brien, Kelly, Adams, and Blomgren.
Sunday morning was an early one after such a long day and evening on Saturday, but David did one of his famous warm up sessions (they are often open to the public at International and attract a crowd to see how the Ambassadors do it).
We concentrated on adding meaningful and personal visual plans to the ballad on Sunday. We ended with our usual “Friends” tag – which it turns out was arranged by David Wright.
Tuesday nite the 10th, the gang was ready to go. Many had worked hard to learn and refresh from the Retreat. We met in the school, since Durant was used for a graduation ceremony. The crowd arrived early and eager.
There was a pledge to keep silent and not talk or ask questions and interrupt the musical leaders up front. It worked and was a welcome treat.
Terry “Regular Joe on the Risers” Reynolds extended his challenge to the guys to spend at least 15 minutes on their music and the package. Many hands went up when asked who had done that since the retreat!
Director Joe reviewed the new tag for the ballad and some important spots in the song. Then on to the important reminders for the uptune. There were some good laughs when we worked to recall the new cutoff for the uptune too.
For the chapter meeting period, Bob Blair substituted for Bob Rhome. President Stamps announced no Thursday rehearsal this week (but there will be Thrs rehearsals on the 19 the 26th of this month). There will be NO board meeting this week either.
Terry Jordan is on the mend and sends his regards. He is up and about the house but not out driving just yet. He also has been on the phone a lot – line is always busy!!
Dick Dangel was guest accordion player for Ben Horen’s high school music concert at W.T. Woodson recently. Dick provided background rhythm for one girl’s ensemble number.
Jim Connaughton was quoted and photographed on the front of Washington Times recently as environmental advisor to the Bush administration
Retreat chair McKeever thanked his team: truck driver, Blair; presentation spotters, K Jones and Pitzer; sound, Kahlor; booklet, Pence; logo design, Day; music spotter, Hohl; logistics, Riffer, Eckman, Dornberger; quad leaders, Day, Blair, Cameron, TJ Jones.
Tom Kern has make up kits for sale.
Secretary Buechler offered to order Harmo logo clothing items for the members.
Some one announced the Harmo Send Off on Tuesday nite June 24th at Durant. Usual start time at 7 pm, guests can arrive about 8 pm. No one said, but I bet we have to wear the contest uniform that nite too.
Roger Day announced newest member who passed audition – Ben Nelson (age 14, I hear) and a new bass. His grandparents were there last nite too and his Dad and fellow chapter member. At the end of the nite, he directed KTWWS.
There was a FRIENDS meeting last nite.
Before the break, the CLASS OF 2008 was asked to show their bandanas. Two penalties were issued.
Chuck Hunter taught another tag – “My Love Is Your Love Til I Die.”
Luckily the AC was working in the school. And the strawberry lemonade was a hit too.
After the break, the rest of the evening was used to polish the contest package. There is a huge amount of energy and excitement in the air. Hang on.
Until next time – editorjack!
(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record of the great things going on each week at an Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter meeting. —Ye Ed.)
The Retreat was at McDaniel College in Westminster, MD, over the weekend of June 6 and 6. For those of us who drove up Saturday morning, it was a VERY foggy trip. But as promised the retreat organizer, Chuck McKeever, had things well organized. And the coffee and muffins and juice ready. The Harmo truck was a welcome site and the starting point for registration and getting to the rehearsal hall in a new facility we had not used before. Luckily the AC was working well – some guys were cold but no one complained cause we were glad to have the AC. The rooms this year were new and really nice too.
Coach David Wright made a lot of new barbershop friends this weekend. His advice was easy to follow, it made huge differences in the sound and total package, and it lifted the level of the chorus. Joe and his musical team were busy all weekend too adding, taking notes, asking questions, seeking advice, coaching the visual and helping the chorus members benefit from the experience.
The Saturday morning program started with a check to see that the Class of 2008 had their bandanas. They did! The warms ups were as usual. All tenors were present for the weekend! As is tradition, there were members asked to give reflections – Garling, Fess, Grimes, Sutton and Reynolds. All were different in approach and in message. All were strong.
The Saturday nite party tradition continued, and the Class of 2008 presented a really funny skit that made us all laugh and laugh. Good job guys. The class is Kieba, Kraus, Hughes, Grimes, Kim, Ammerman, VanGilder, Poulin, O’Brien, Kelly, Adams, and Blomgren.
Sunday morning was an early one after such a long day and evening on Saturday, but David did one of his famous warm up sessions (they are often open to the public at International and attract a crowd to see how the Ambassadors do it).
We concentrated on adding meaningful and personal visual plans to the ballad on Sunday. We ended with our usual “Friends” tag – which it turns out was arranged by David Wright.
Tuesday nite the 10th, the gang was ready to go. Many had worked hard to learn and refresh from the Retreat. We met in the school, since Durant was used for a graduation ceremony. The crowd arrived early and eager.
There was a pledge to keep silent and not talk or ask questions and interrupt the musical leaders up front. It worked and was a welcome treat.
Terry “Regular Joe on the Risers” Reynolds extended his challenge to the guys to spend at least 15 minutes on their music and the package. Many hands went up when asked who had done that since the retreat!
Director Joe reviewed the new tag for the ballad and some important spots in the song. Then on to the important reminders for the uptune. There were some good laughs when we worked to recall the new cutoff for the uptune too.
For the chapter meeting period, Bob Blair substituted for Bob Rhome. President Stamps announced no Thursday rehearsal this week (but there will be Thrs rehearsals on the 19 the 26th of this month). There will be NO board meeting this week either.
Terry Jordan is on the mend and sends his regards. He is up and about the house but not out driving just yet. He also has been on the phone a lot – line is always busy!!
Dick Dangel was guest accordion player for Ben Horen’s high school music concert at W.T. Woodson recently. Dick provided background rhythm for one girl’s ensemble number.
Jim Connaughton was quoted and photographed on the front of Washington Times recently as environmental advisor to the Bush administration
Retreat chair McKeever thanked his team: truck driver, Blair; presentation spotters, K Jones and Pitzer; sound, Kahlor; booklet, Pence; logo design, Day; music spotter, Hohl; logistics, Riffer, Eckman, Dornberger; quad leaders, Day, Blair, Cameron, TJ Jones.
Tom Kern has make up kits for sale.
Secretary Buechler offered to order Harmo logo clothing items for the members.
Some one announced the Harmo Send Off on Tuesday nite June 24th at Durant. Usual start time at 7 pm, guests can arrive about 8 pm. No one said, but I bet we have to wear the contest uniform that nite too.
Roger Day announced newest member who passed audition – Ben Nelson (age 14, I hear) and a new bass. His grandparents were there last nite too and his Dad and fellow chapter member. At the end of the nite, he directed KTWWS.
There was a FRIENDS meeting last nite.
Before the break, the CLASS OF 2008 was asked to show their bandanas. Two penalties were issued.
Chuck Hunter taught another tag – “My Love Is Your Love Til I Die.”
Luckily the AC was working in the school. And the strawberry lemonade was a hit too.
After the break, the rest of the evening was used to polish the contest package. There is a huge amount of energy and excitement in the air. Hang on.
Until next time – editorjack!
Thursday, June 5, 2008
Looking Back on June 3rd Chapter Meeting
Looking Back on June 3rd Chapter Meeting
(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record of the great things going on each week at an Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter meeting. —Ye Ed.)
Lots of activity around the hall, as usual, with SP classes, front row, unloading the Harmo truck that came back from the weekend show in Lancaster, distribution of the Harmo watches, picture sales for Nashville, and shirt sales for Nashville. But right at 7 pm things started with some good music for doing exercises to. Then the chorus had a solid warm up session.
Terry Jordan spoke briefly about the road to contest and medals and our 60th year as a chapter. He will be missing some weeks following an operation on Wed. to make sure they got it all the first time, on his back. He did speak with me that the plans are still rolling for a chapter anniversary potluck and talent review in August. So stay tuned.
Then Director Joe and his staff worked on some non contest songs like “I’ll Be Seeing You” “Almost Like Being In Love” “Music of the Night” and “God Bless the USA.”
During the evening I learned that Sam McFarland has been promoted to International president of AHSOW (Ancient Harmonious Society of Woodshedders). AHSOW is an affiliate of the BHS. Ask Sam about it. I know they usually have a place at the International convention for woodshedding.
The past weekend events at Western Division contest and M-AD send off involved a bunch of our guys.
Mic tester quartet was RINGERS with Mike Pinto. In the contest there were four quartets with our guys – SURPRISE! with Minnick and Hirsh; CLASSIC CONNECTION with Mattes and McFarland; TEMPORARY INSANITY with Flynn; and INGTERROBANG as a college quartet with Patrick Kim and Tom Kraus along with former member Will Mudd Simmons who is in college in KY and one of his barbershop buddies from there James Pennington.
Sunday on the send off show, Rick Taylor sang with OLD SCHOOL, Pinto sang again with RINGERS, the Wallens and Colosimos sang with LAST KIDS PICKED. Eric Wallen’s new college quartet, CRUNCH TIME, and who will be going to Nashville to compete, sang as well.
Both Dundalk Chorus and the Harmonizers sang on that show. Mike Kelly was MC and Terry Jordan took over, so Mike could change into a chorus outfit, and announced our guys.
Before break Tuesday nite, the chorus had sectionals to work on the ballad. When the singers came back into the main hall, they worked on “Second Star” “From This Moment On” and “Peter Pan Medley.”
During the meeting time, President Stamps announced the recent passing of John Reisinger who sang in quartets with Bob Wachter for over 25 years. He also told the chapter of the recent stroke suffered by Fred King.
Ops VP Rhome let all the chairmen for Nashville details make a plugs – breakfast tickets from K Jones, shirts from Day, uniform from Kern (NOTE: Tom will be gone the week before Nashville, so be sure you have you stuff you will need!).
Some also gave a plug for all guys to mark their calendars for our FALL SHOW, Sept. 26 and 27.
Secretary Buechler was firm in telling all those who need to renew their membership before appearing on stage in Nashville to do so this week electronically – and if you have questions, call him.
Martin Banks was presented a 25 year pin and Rick Savage presented a 35 year pin.
Then the secretary handed out renewals to a long list of guys: Kujawa for 5 years, Berkey for 11, B Miller for 12, DePuy for 19, Lucey for 20, Buechler for 23, Eckman for 24, Plaag for 24, K Jones for 21, Cotton for 33, Nestlerode for 33 and Dick Hall for 44 years.
Roger Day introduced the guests.
The coffee pot returned and so we had coffee and goodies for break.
After that the chorus worked the rest of the evening on the contest package and some staging effects for the ballad were added.
Everyone was encouraged and ready for the retreat this weekend in Westminster, MD, at the college. Famous coach and arranger, David Wright, will be with us for the weekend.
Until next time – editorjack!
(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record of the great things going on each week at an Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter meeting. —Ye Ed.)
Lots of activity around the hall, as usual, with SP classes, front row, unloading the Harmo truck that came back from the weekend show in Lancaster, distribution of the Harmo watches, picture sales for Nashville, and shirt sales for Nashville. But right at 7 pm things started with some good music for doing exercises to. Then the chorus had a solid warm up session.
Terry Jordan spoke briefly about the road to contest and medals and our 60th year as a chapter. He will be missing some weeks following an operation on Wed. to make sure they got it all the first time, on his back. He did speak with me that the plans are still rolling for a chapter anniversary potluck and talent review in August. So stay tuned.
Then Director Joe and his staff worked on some non contest songs like “I’ll Be Seeing You” “Almost Like Being In Love” “Music of the Night” and “God Bless the USA.”
During the evening I learned that Sam McFarland has been promoted to International president of AHSOW (Ancient Harmonious Society of Woodshedders). AHSOW is an affiliate of the BHS. Ask Sam about it. I know they usually have a place at the International convention for woodshedding.
The past weekend events at Western Division contest and M-AD send off involved a bunch of our guys.
Mic tester quartet was RINGERS with Mike Pinto. In the contest there were four quartets with our guys – SURPRISE! with Minnick and Hirsh; CLASSIC CONNECTION with Mattes and McFarland; TEMPORARY INSANITY with Flynn; and INGTERROBANG as a college quartet with Patrick Kim and Tom Kraus along with former member Will Mudd Simmons who is in college in KY and one of his barbershop buddies from there James Pennington.
Sunday on the send off show, Rick Taylor sang with OLD SCHOOL, Pinto sang again with RINGERS, the Wallens and Colosimos sang with LAST KIDS PICKED. Eric Wallen’s new college quartet, CRUNCH TIME, and who will be going to Nashville to compete, sang as well.
Both Dundalk Chorus and the Harmonizers sang on that show. Mike Kelly was MC and Terry Jordan took over, so Mike could change into a chorus outfit, and announced our guys.
Before break Tuesday nite, the chorus had sectionals to work on the ballad. When the singers came back into the main hall, they worked on “Second Star” “From This Moment On” and “Peter Pan Medley.”
During the meeting time, President Stamps announced the recent passing of John Reisinger who sang in quartets with Bob Wachter for over 25 years. He also told the chapter of the recent stroke suffered by Fred King.
Ops VP Rhome let all the chairmen for Nashville details make a plugs – breakfast tickets from K Jones, shirts from Day, uniform from Kern (NOTE: Tom will be gone the week before Nashville, so be sure you have you stuff you will need!).
Some also gave a plug for all guys to mark their calendars for our FALL SHOW, Sept. 26 and 27.
Secretary Buechler was firm in telling all those who need to renew their membership before appearing on stage in Nashville to do so this week electronically – and if you have questions, call him.
Martin Banks was presented a 25 year pin and Rick Savage presented a 35 year pin.
Then the secretary handed out renewals to a long list of guys: Kujawa for 5 years, Berkey for 11, B Miller for 12, DePuy for 19, Lucey for 20, Buechler for 23, Eckman for 24, Plaag for 24, K Jones for 21, Cotton for 33, Nestlerode for 33 and Dick Hall for 44 years.
Roger Day introduced the guests.
The coffee pot returned and so we had coffee and goodies for break.
After that the chorus worked the rest of the evening on the contest package and some staging effects for the ballad were added.
Everyone was encouraged and ready for the retreat this weekend in Westminster, MD, at the college. Famous coach and arranger, David Wright, will be with us for the weekend.
Until next time – editorjack!
Thursday, May 29, 2008
Looking Back On May 27th Chapter Meeting
Looking Back on May 27th Chapter Meeting
(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record of the great things going on each week at an Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter meeting. —Ye Ed.)
Many accolades for the work of the guys in the chapter and their partners and friends in hosting the Southern Division Contest. Lots of us had fun taking down the stage and drapes and poles and wiring in record time. Also a big thanks to the guys in the Fairfax Chapter who filled in while the Harmonizers were getting ready to sing as mic testers.
Director Joe took the mic right away after the early warm up session and thanked all those who worked, sang and helped this past weekend. And he led the cheers for the quartets and their successes.
And during the chapter meeting section of the evening, Ken White offered congrats to all the quartets. People were talking about how many quartets had Alexandria listed as a chapter for some one or all of the members. FULL TILT with Ed Cazenas, Nick Aiuto, Pete Frank and Steve White too first place. PRIME TIME with Bob Sutton, TJ Barrangar, Gary Plaag and Ken White came in at second place. BACHELOR PARTY with Mike Fasano, Greg Tepe, Ken Rub and Terry Reynolds took third place. YOUTH RECLAMATION PROJECT with Mike Wallen singing lead were fourth place.
DOWNTOWN with Drew Fuller on tenor and Kevin Flynn on bass were fifth place. FRiDAYS! with Dan O’Brien, Bob Caldwell, Ken Ives and Steve Murane took seventh place. KING STREET with Eric Hughes, Brad Jones, John Hohl and Kyle Blomgren were eighth place. CAPITAL A CAPPELA had Kevin Flynn on bass and were thirteenth.
The chorus scores, tho unpublished as mic testers, were good and the music team was pleased with the results. They and the chorus members were also happy with the coaching session provided contestants by the judges.
As usual other chapter leaders were working to make things go well – Dennis Ritchey and Terry Jordan did MC work during the weekend. Chuck Harner was helping run things as district officer in charge. Dixie Kennett did the lights and Mike Kelly was working in the sound booth.
James River, VA, Chapter won first place overall in the chorus contest and Ian Poulin, one of our guys, sang with them. And yes, there were some of our members who sing in other choruses who were there in Richmond and DC and maybe others.
The mic tester quartet was LAST KIDS PICKED with the Wallens and Colosimos.
Back to the singing time, the chorus worked on “Clap” and some adaptations to the SP.
Then coach Stephanie worked with the chorus on the contest package too.
After that there was time to run thru the up tune for 2009.
Back to the meeting, President Stamps thanked Southern Division chairmen and those who helped them: Keith Jones, Bill DePuy, Sandra Stamps, Chris Buechler, Bob Eckman, Gary Bibens and Audrey. The district chairman for the Events Team, Dennis Ritchey, also expressed his appreciation for the good support the chapter gave to running the contest.
Ken White also announced a couple quartets that will be competing this weekend at the Western Division Contest in Lancaster, PA. SURPRISE with Bob Hirsh and Bruce Minnick, and a collegiate quartet with Tom Kraus and Patrick Kim (and two guys from KY – one is former Harmonizer Will Mudd Simmons).
In prep for Nashville, Jack Cameron is taking orders for chorus photos. Roger Day is selling shirts with a special logo. Chris Buechler can order Lands End shirts or other items with the regular Harmo logo. See him next week.
And Mark Your Calendar – the annual open rehearsal and local send off celebration for the chorus will be Tues. June 24th at Durant. Rehearsal starts at 7 as usual. Then about 8 we will do our contest package a couple times. This is a great way for family and friends to see us at our best, especially if they are not gonna get to Nashville to cheer for us.
After the break last nite, CAMERON STATION sang one of their new songs—“St. Louie Woman.” Then Joe took the chorus thru a solid session on “Drunken Sailor” in prep for our singing this weekend at the International Send Off in Lancaster on Sunday.
There was one injury last nite – Dick Dangel got an elbow in the cheek just under his right eye. He was applying ice to keep down the swelling.
Can you believe Terry Reynolds won the 50/50 again? This time he did share!
Until next time – editorjack!
(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record of the great things going on each week at an Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter meeting. —Ye Ed.)
Many accolades for the work of the guys in the chapter and their partners and friends in hosting the Southern Division Contest. Lots of us had fun taking down the stage and drapes and poles and wiring in record time. Also a big thanks to the guys in the Fairfax Chapter who filled in while the Harmonizers were getting ready to sing as mic testers.
Director Joe took the mic right away after the early warm up session and thanked all those who worked, sang and helped this past weekend. And he led the cheers for the quartets and their successes.
And during the chapter meeting section of the evening, Ken White offered congrats to all the quartets. People were talking about how many quartets had Alexandria listed as a chapter for some one or all of the members. FULL TILT with Ed Cazenas, Nick Aiuto, Pete Frank and Steve White too first place. PRIME TIME with Bob Sutton, TJ Barrangar, Gary Plaag and Ken White came in at second place. BACHELOR PARTY with Mike Fasano, Greg Tepe, Ken Rub and Terry Reynolds took third place. YOUTH RECLAMATION PROJECT with Mike Wallen singing lead were fourth place.
DOWNTOWN with Drew Fuller on tenor and Kevin Flynn on bass were fifth place. FRiDAYS! with Dan O’Brien, Bob Caldwell, Ken Ives and Steve Murane took seventh place. KING STREET with Eric Hughes, Brad Jones, John Hohl and Kyle Blomgren were eighth place. CAPITAL A CAPPELA had Kevin Flynn on bass and were thirteenth.
The chorus scores, tho unpublished as mic testers, were good and the music team was pleased with the results. They and the chorus members were also happy with the coaching session provided contestants by the judges.
As usual other chapter leaders were working to make things go well – Dennis Ritchey and Terry Jordan did MC work during the weekend. Chuck Harner was helping run things as district officer in charge. Dixie Kennett did the lights and Mike Kelly was working in the sound booth.
James River, VA, Chapter won first place overall in the chorus contest and Ian Poulin, one of our guys, sang with them. And yes, there were some of our members who sing in other choruses who were there in Richmond and DC and maybe others.
The mic tester quartet was LAST KIDS PICKED with the Wallens and Colosimos.
Back to the singing time, the chorus worked on “Clap” and some adaptations to the SP.
Then coach Stephanie worked with the chorus on the contest package too.
After that there was time to run thru the up tune for 2009.
Back to the meeting, President Stamps thanked Southern Division chairmen and those who helped them: Keith Jones, Bill DePuy, Sandra Stamps, Chris Buechler, Bob Eckman, Gary Bibens and Audrey. The district chairman for the Events Team, Dennis Ritchey, also expressed his appreciation for the good support the chapter gave to running the contest.
Ken White also announced a couple quartets that will be competing this weekend at the Western Division Contest in Lancaster, PA. SURPRISE with Bob Hirsh and Bruce Minnick, and a collegiate quartet with Tom Kraus and Patrick Kim (and two guys from KY – one is former Harmonizer Will Mudd Simmons).
In prep for Nashville, Jack Cameron is taking orders for chorus photos. Roger Day is selling shirts with a special logo. Chris Buechler can order Lands End shirts or other items with the regular Harmo logo. See him next week.
And Mark Your Calendar – the annual open rehearsal and local send off celebration for the chorus will be Tues. June 24th at Durant. Rehearsal starts at 7 as usual. Then about 8 we will do our contest package a couple times. This is a great way for family and friends to see us at our best, especially if they are not gonna get to Nashville to cheer for us.
After the break last nite, CAMERON STATION sang one of their new songs—“St. Louie Woman.” Then Joe took the chorus thru a solid session on “Drunken Sailor” in prep for our singing this weekend at the International Send Off in Lancaster on Sunday.
There was one injury last nite – Dick Dangel got an elbow in the cheek just under his right eye. He was applying ice to keep down the swelling.
Can you believe Terry Reynolds won the 50/50 again? This time he did share!
Until next time – editorjack!
Friday, May 23, 2008
Looking Back on May 20th Chapter Meeting
Looking Back on May 20th Chapter Meeting
(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record of the great things going on each week at an Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter meeting. —Ye Ed.)
Well we had another change in the meeting hall setup this week – the risers were backed up to the stage. The guests were seated near the Harmo Photo Board. Admin folders and guest sign in station was in the usual corner.
Risers were full early again and the exercise music was cranked up right on the nose at 7!
Vocal coach Gayle Doughtie was here too to work with individual singers.
Behind the scenes – I learned the Howard Nestlerode conducted the annual financial review of our chapter treasurer books.
Before the meeting started, there were guys working on the chorus line up chart, special bright colored shirts to buy for Nashville (created by Roger Day like he does every year) for $35.
Chorus worked on “Second Star” and “Battle Hymn.”
During the meeting period, President Stamps thanked those who are lined up to work at Southern Division Contest weekend in Reston. He announced the new plan for us to abide by Rec Center rules and get out by 10 or 10:15 pm. And he announced the tragedy in Brad Jones family.
Director Joe invited all members to stay around the judges critique/coaching session on Sat. afternoon in Reston.
Keith Jones announced the start of issuing tickets for the Harmonizer Breakfast in Nashville on Fri. July 4th at 8:15 am. Free to any member; $20 for any guest we bring. See him for your tickets.
Quartet Promo guy Ken White gave cash gifts to all quartets from our chapter who have reps in contest this weekend. There are 24 members singing in the quartet contest.
Secretary Chris gave Kyle his new member kit and a 5-year card to Bill Stewart and a 27-year card to Rick Wagner.
Roger Day introduced several first time guests and some fellows who have been with us a few times before.
I overheard one member paying $100 for Safeway gift cards. He and his wife use them to buy their groceries each week, and the chapter makes a few bucks. We should all do some of that.
Chuck Hunter did another good craft session last nite.
Most of the second half seemed to be on the contest package – both visual alone and combined. There were some great things happening on the songs.
Now Chuck Hunter won the 50/50 and he did show up to share his rewards!!
Until next time – editorjack!
(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record of the great things going on each week at an Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter meeting. —Ye Ed.)
Well we had another change in the meeting hall setup this week – the risers were backed up to the stage. The guests were seated near the Harmo Photo Board. Admin folders and guest sign in station was in the usual corner.
Risers were full early again and the exercise music was cranked up right on the nose at 7!
Vocal coach Gayle Doughtie was here too to work with individual singers.
Behind the scenes – I learned the Howard Nestlerode conducted the annual financial review of our chapter treasurer books.
Before the meeting started, there were guys working on the chorus line up chart, special bright colored shirts to buy for Nashville (created by Roger Day like he does every year) for $35.
Chorus worked on “Second Star” and “Battle Hymn.”
During the meeting period, President Stamps thanked those who are lined up to work at Southern Division Contest weekend in Reston. He announced the new plan for us to abide by Rec Center rules and get out by 10 or 10:15 pm. And he announced the tragedy in Brad Jones family.
Director Joe invited all members to stay around the judges critique/coaching session on Sat. afternoon in Reston.
Keith Jones announced the start of issuing tickets for the Harmonizer Breakfast in Nashville on Fri. July 4th at 8:15 am. Free to any member; $20 for any guest we bring. See him for your tickets.
Quartet Promo guy Ken White gave cash gifts to all quartets from our chapter who have reps in contest this weekend. There are 24 members singing in the quartet contest.
Secretary Chris gave Kyle his new member kit and a 5-year card to Bill Stewart and a 27-year card to Rick Wagner.
Roger Day introduced several first time guests and some fellows who have been with us a few times before.
I overheard one member paying $100 for Safeway gift cards. He and his wife use them to buy their groceries each week, and the chapter makes a few bucks. We should all do some of that.
Chuck Hunter did another good craft session last nite.
Most of the second half seemed to be on the contest package – both visual alone and combined. There were some great things happening on the songs.
Now Chuck Hunter won the 50/50 and he did show up to share his rewards!!
Until next time – editorjack!
Friday, May 16, 2008
Looking Back on May 13th Chapter Meeting
Looking Back on May 13th Chapter Meeting
(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record of the great things going on each week at an Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter meeting. —Ye Ed.)
I got to the hall about 10 til 7 last nite and found the front row working hard in the lobby. (I gave a plug to a potential singer who was waiting there to teach another class in the building – always gotta be ready to promote joining us!)
Inside the main hall, the stage was full of guys working on SP with Chuck McKeever, risers were up and all the AV equipment in place, and guys all around talking and even a quartet singing in the corner.
Right on the nose at 6:59 pm, the call went out for RISERS and those who were not already in place (some guys, I note, make an effort to be on the risers about 5 til each week) climbed on board.
Tony took over for a solid warm up session on breathing and good singing—at all times.
Director Joe started work on “Drunken Sailor” and then sent the chorus out in sections, with members of CAMERON STATION taking the teaching duties for the song with the guys who also sing the same part. Back in 10 minutes. Joe was pleased with the results of the review and concentration.
Then there were sectionals to work on the future contest song “Star” and after that, two sets of the current contest package.
For chapter meeting, there were the usual plugs for 50/50 sales, gift cards and last chance orders for Harmo Anniversary watches.
Then there were several pleas to help the chapter manage hosting the Southern Division contest, May 23-24. Eckman needs helps with registration Fri. 5-7 pm and Sat. 5-7 pm. De Puy needs help with risers Fri. 8-11 am at the Hyatt in Reston. Keith Jones needs help with contestant guides/hosts Fri. at 5 pm. and Sat. 8 :30 am. Call them if you can help. There is always a need for three or four more helpers.
Bibens reminded the chorus that we are the mic testers for the Southern Div. chorus contest EARLY Sat. morning in Reston. New guys and returning guys get uniform parts from Tom Kern!
Gary also reminded everyone to mark their calendar for the trip to Lancaster, PA, where the chorus will do the contest package as part of a District Send Off Celebration for the quartets and choruses going to Nashville in July. It is not considered a singout but a mandatory performance. Plan ahead for the 2.5 hour or more drive. Watch for reporting times and such to be announced. Uniform is same as Southern Div.
The board meeting is May 21st.
NOTE these date changes: There will not be an extra rehearsal on June 12th, but instead there will be one on June 19th and 26th at the school adjacent to Durant. AND Cindy Hansen will be teaching us the SP for the future contest package on Monday, July 21st and so there will not be a chapter meeting on the 22nd.
Secretary Chris reminded all that have a June 2008 renewal due to get to work on it, as it takes time to get thru the system at Society headquarters.
And if you want any Harmo logo items ordered from Lands End, see Chris right away.
Membership VP Roger introduced some out of town barbershoppers who were in the DC area for visits or work, and then some fellows who are in the process of joining.
After a good break, new quartet promotion chair, Ken White, introduced FRiDAYS! quartet with Dan O’Brien, Bob Caldwell, Ken Ives and Steve Murane. They did a test run performance in preparation for their appearance at Southern Division. (Yes – that is how they spell the name of their quartet.) They are one of several quartets we hear are going to compete there. And the rumor mill is at work confirming some new college quartets with guys in them from our chapter, who are competing at other division contest in the next few weeks, hoping to qualify for the Collegiate Quartet Contest in Nashville.
The rest of the evening was mostly dedicated to the contest package, with several run-throughs, a chance to make a self-improvement tape, and a time to tweak some of the moves taught earlier.
Ken White also won the 50/50 money again, and like his friend Terry Reynolds, took off with his winnings and did now show up to buy drinks after rehearsal!
Until next time – editorjack!
(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record of the great things going on each week at an Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter meeting. —Ye Ed.)
I got to the hall about 10 til 7 last nite and found the front row working hard in the lobby. (I gave a plug to a potential singer who was waiting there to teach another class in the building – always gotta be ready to promote joining us!)
Inside the main hall, the stage was full of guys working on SP with Chuck McKeever, risers were up and all the AV equipment in place, and guys all around talking and even a quartet singing in the corner.
Right on the nose at 6:59 pm, the call went out for RISERS and those who were not already in place (some guys, I note, make an effort to be on the risers about 5 til each week) climbed on board.
Tony took over for a solid warm up session on breathing and good singing—at all times.
Director Joe started work on “Drunken Sailor” and then sent the chorus out in sections, with members of CAMERON STATION taking the teaching duties for the song with the guys who also sing the same part. Back in 10 minutes. Joe was pleased with the results of the review and concentration.
Then there were sectionals to work on the future contest song “Star” and after that, two sets of the current contest package.
For chapter meeting, there were the usual plugs for 50/50 sales, gift cards and last chance orders for Harmo Anniversary watches.
Then there were several pleas to help the chapter manage hosting the Southern Division contest, May 23-24. Eckman needs helps with registration Fri. 5-7 pm and Sat. 5-7 pm. De Puy needs help with risers Fri. 8-11 am at the Hyatt in Reston. Keith Jones needs help with contestant guides/hosts Fri. at 5 pm. and Sat. 8 :30 am. Call them if you can help. There is always a need for three or four more helpers.
Bibens reminded the chorus that we are the mic testers for the Southern Div. chorus contest EARLY Sat. morning in Reston. New guys and returning guys get uniform parts from Tom Kern!
Gary also reminded everyone to mark their calendar for the trip to Lancaster, PA, where the chorus will do the contest package as part of a District Send Off Celebration for the quartets and choruses going to Nashville in July. It is not considered a singout but a mandatory performance. Plan ahead for the 2.5 hour or more drive. Watch for reporting times and such to be announced. Uniform is same as Southern Div.
The board meeting is May 21st.
NOTE these date changes: There will not be an extra rehearsal on June 12th, but instead there will be one on June 19th and 26th at the school adjacent to Durant. AND Cindy Hansen will be teaching us the SP for the future contest package on Monday, July 21st and so there will not be a chapter meeting on the 22nd.
Secretary Chris reminded all that have a June 2008 renewal due to get to work on it, as it takes time to get thru the system at Society headquarters.
And if you want any Harmo logo items ordered from Lands End, see Chris right away.
Membership VP Roger introduced some out of town barbershoppers who were in the DC area for visits or work, and then some fellows who are in the process of joining.
After a good break, new quartet promotion chair, Ken White, introduced FRiDAYS! quartet with Dan O’Brien, Bob Caldwell, Ken Ives and Steve Murane. They did a test run performance in preparation for their appearance at Southern Division. (Yes – that is how they spell the name of their quartet.) They are one of several quartets we hear are going to compete there. And the rumor mill is at work confirming some new college quartets with guys in them from our chapter, who are competing at other division contest in the next few weeks, hoping to qualify for the Collegiate Quartet Contest in Nashville.
The rest of the evening was mostly dedicated to the contest package, with several run-throughs, a chance to make a self-improvement tape, and a time to tweak some of the moves taught earlier.
Ken White also won the 50/50 money again, and like his friend Terry Reynolds, took off with his winnings and did now show up to buy drinks after rehearsal!
Until next time – editorjack!
Friday, May 9, 2008
Looking Back on May 6th Chapter Meeting
Looking Back on May 6th Chapter Meeting
(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record of the great things going on each week at an Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter meeting. —Ye Ed.)
Room set up took a new direction this week – the tables for coat/briefcase drop off were set up along the wall behind the risers. And the mail folders and sign up sheets for events were set up under the Harmo Photo Board.
Then sales and admin desks were set up along the wall where coats used to go. Goal was to increase flow to admin tables, coffee station and general networking area.
As usual, there was a class on stage for SP. And a number of guys worked to get out risers, AV equip, membership station, director’s music stand.
After warm up session, Director Joe introduced former Harmonizer (in 1992) Steve Tramack. Steve is director of Granite Statesmen in Northeast District. He came to lead a Barbershop Singers Boot Camp for our chorus. It was sold hard work for the first half of the evening. There were demonstration groups called out, and there were break outs of small groups to try and experiment with the concepts. Plus he had AV presentation too.
The chapter meeting started with President Stamps accepting a check for the recent sing out from Bruce Lauther. And a reminder to the board of their rescheduled meeting now on May 21st.
The Chapter is hosting the Southern Division Contest May 22-23 in Reston. (For new guys: a division contest is where quartets and choruses earn the right to move up to our district contest in the fall.) Bill DePuy is back stage manager for us and is already seeking names of guys to set up risers and such. See him to help.
Chapter Secretary Buechler reported a phone visit with Baker Collins, who was asking about paying his dues. Baker has been a member for 50 years and so gets free membership. Chris sent the card to Baker in FL. Joe Cerutti was given his 7 year card tonite too.
Roger Day announced the guests present. There was a good break; everyone was busy.
After break, Steve conducted 15 more minutes of his class. Then Joe worked the chorus hard on contest songs, and took them thru “First Star on the Right” a couple times.
Note: if you turn in Campbell Soup labels into the big can on the admin table, be sure you have gotten the Bar Code off the can or container. Otherwise they do not count. We give these coupons to the school next door for them to turn in for rewards.
Until next time – editorjack!
(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record of the great things going on each week at an Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter meeting. —Ye Ed.)
Room set up took a new direction this week – the tables for coat/briefcase drop off were set up along the wall behind the risers. And the mail folders and sign up sheets for events were set up under the Harmo Photo Board.
Then sales and admin desks were set up along the wall where coats used to go. Goal was to increase flow to admin tables, coffee station and general networking area.
As usual, there was a class on stage for SP. And a number of guys worked to get out risers, AV equip, membership station, director’s music stand.
After warm up session, Director Joe introduced former Harmonizer (in 1992) Steve Tramack. Steve is director of Granite Statesmen in Northeast District. He came to lead a Barbershop Singers Boot Camp for our chorus. It was sold hard work for the first half of the evening. There were demonstration groups called out, and there were break outs of small groups to try and experiment with the concepts. Plus he had AV presentation too.
The chapter meeting started with President Stamps accepting a check for the recent sing out from Bruce Lauther. And a reminder to the board of their rescheduled meeting now on May 21st.
The Chapter is hosting the Southern Division Contest May 22-23 in Reston. (For new guys: a division contest is where quartets and choruses earn the right to move up to our district contest in the fall.) Bill DePuy is back stage manager for us and is already seeking names of guys to set up risers and such. See him to help.
Chapter Secretary Buechler reported a phone visit with Baker Collins, who was asking about paying his dues. Baker has been a member for 50 years and so gets free membership. Chris sent the card to Baker in FL. Joe Cerutti was given his 7 year card tonite too.
Roger Day announced the guests present. There was a good break; everyone was busy.
After break, Steve conducted 15 more minutes of his class. Then Joe worked the chorus hard on contest songs, and took them thru “First Star on the Right” a couple times.
Note: if you turn in Campbell Soup labels into the big can on the admin table, be sure you have gotten the Bar Code off the can or container. Otherwise they do not count. We give these coupons to the school next door for them to turn in for rewards.
Until next time – editorjack!
Friday, May 2, 2008
Looking Back on April 29th Chapter Meeting
(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record of the great things going on each week at an Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter meeting. —Ye Ed.)
There was a sense of relaxation from the pressure of the show last weekend tonite, but there was a lot of musical work to do. So things rolled along right from the first call to RISERS.
Director Joe had a memory recall session when he had the chorus work on “Armed Forces Medley.” Chuck Hunter incorporated things taught during warm ups in his Barbershop Craft Class.
Then as part of the new plan to get things ready a whole year in advance, Joe had the chorus do a couple sing-thrus of a new ballad destined for Anaheim , “Second Star to the Right.”
Next musical workout was on this year’s contest package and especially the uptune. The visual team had cameras running during this session and later in the evening let the chorus see themselves for a self evaluation of visual.
During the meeting session, President Stamps thanked everyone for their hard work and for making last minute adjustments all weekend.
Alan Wile asked members to consider chapter leadership positions for next year, as he is chair of the nominating committee. A member can self nominate or suggest another member. Those suggestions go to Alan.
Ike Evans invited all to check out the new feature on the Harmo Photo Board – a special section with a picture and bio of new members.
As part of continual efforts to reduce what we have in storage (and thus save money on rental fees for storage units), the tools left over from our “Lazy Bones” package were brought out so they can go back to their original owners.
Gary Bibens was next on tap to express the chapter’s thank you to all the hard workers who did “above-and-beyond” work for the Spring Tonic this past weekend. He was assisted by show business manager, Tom Kraus.
The reunion chorus was a fun addition to the show and was organized by Terry Jordan. (These men sang at one or all of the performances: John Adams, Bud Arberg (who directed one of the songs we sang), Bob Bates, Mike Bell, Geoff Berman, Neil Bibens, Chuck Botts, Alan Durick, Paul Durning, Mike Everard, Mike Geipel, Paul Greiner, Dave Guenther, Allen Hanenbaum, Al Herman, Roger Hinkley, John Hohl (who directed one of the songs we sang), Keith Jones, Terry Jordan, Arthur Lewis, Jack McKendree, Tommy Morris, Dick Newton, John Parkinson, Jack Pitzer, Jeremy Richardson, Paul Ritchey, Burt Stueve, Jerry TePaske, Don Thompson, Bob Wells, Chris Buechler, Bruce Minnick, and J.T. Price.
During the show weekend, Secretary Buechler caught Jerry Kindred in audience to give him his 31 year card, Jim Stockton to give him his 36 year card, and Jeff Taylor to give him his 16 year card. Tuesday nite Chris presented Joel Golden his 3 year card, Dick Newton his 24 year, Dean Rust his 28 year, Chuck Hunter his 36 year and John Hohl his 41 year card.
Also Will Cox was presented his 30 year pin. (Our chapter is likely one of the few that honors membership milestones for its members and buys them a Society pin in recognition of service starting at 25 years.)
Roger Day introduced a cadre of guests who are working into membership at differing stages. He gave a plea for all of us to bring in new guys who would enjoy the hobby. This is a major task for newer guys, but all of us have to ask and invite, then follow up and even bring prospects.
After a good break, there was extended work on “Clap Your Hands” to include integration of the visual plan with good singing.
And finally, a good review of our often used ballad, “I’ll Be Seeing You.”
Terry Reynolds won the big pot of money for two weeks of 50/50. Just before KTWWS, Will Winder, a former member who stopped by to say hello while in town to visit family, was introduced.
The Harmonizers have experienced another milestone: a beginner’s barbershop arrangement class for our own members was held off site. Taught by Hohl and Cerutti. Big sign up.
Until next time – editorjack!
(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record of the great things going on each week at an Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter meeting. —Ye Ed.)
There was a sense of relaxation from the pressure of the show last weekend tonite, but there was a lot of musical work to do. So things rolled along right from the first call to RISERS.
Director Joe had a memory recall session when he had the chorus work on “Armed Forces Medley.” Chuck Hunter incorporated things taught during warm ups in his Barbershop Craft Class.
Then as part of the new plan to get things ready a whole year in advance, Joe had the chorus do a couple sing-thrus of a new ballad destined for Anaheim , “Second Star to the Right.”
Next musical workout was on this year’s contest package and especially the uptune. The visual team had cameras running during this session and later in the evening let the chorus see themselves for a self evaluation of visual.
During the meeting session, President Stamps thanked everyone for their hard work and for making last minute adjustments all weekend.
Alan Wile asked members to consider chapter leadership positions for next year, as he is chair of the nominating committee. A member can self nominate or suggest another member. Those suggestions go to Alan.
Ike Evans invited all to check out the new feature on the Harmo Photo Board – a special section with a picture and bio of new members.
As part of continual efforts to reduce what we have in storage (and thus save money on rental fees for storage units), the tools left over from our “Lazy Bones” package were brought out so they can go back to their original owners.
Gary Bibens was next on tap to express the chapter’s thank you to all the hard workers who did “above-and-beyond” work for the Spring Tonic this past weekend. He was assisted by show business manager, Tom Kraus.
The reunion chorus was a fun addition to the show and was organized by Terry Jordan. (These men sang at one or all of the performances: John Adams, Bud Arberg (who directed one of the songs we sang), Bob Bates, Mike Bell, Geoff Berman, Neil Bibens, Chuck Botts, Alan Durick, Paul Durning, Mike Everard, Mike Geipel, Paul Greiner, Dave Guenther, Allen Hanenbaum, Al Herman, Roger Hinkley, John Hohl (who directed one of the songs we sang), Keith Jones, Terry Jordan, Arthur Lewis, Jack McKendree, Tommy Morris, Dick Newton, John Parkinson, Jack Pitzer, Jeremy Richardson, Paul Ritchey, Burt Stueve, Jerry TePaske, Don Thompson, Bob Wells, Chris Buechler, Bruce Minnick, and J.T. Price.
During the show weekend, Secretary Buechler caught Jerry Kindred in audience to give him his 31 year card, Jim Stockton to give him his 36 year card, and Jeff Taylor to give him his 16 year card. Tuesday nite Chris presented Joel Golden his 3 year card, Dick Newton his 24 year, Dean Rust his 28 year, Chuck Hunter his 36 year and John Hohl his 41 year card.
Also Will Cox was presented his 30 year pin. (Our chapter is likely one of the few that honors membership milestones for its members and buys them a Society pin in recognition of service starting at 25 years.)
Roger Day introduced a cadre of guests who are working into membership at differing stages. He gave a plea for all of us to bring in new guys who would enjoy the hobby. This is a major task for newer guys, but all of us have to ask and invite, then follow up and even bring prospects.
After a good break, there was extended work on “Clap Your Hands” to include integration of the visual plan with good singing.
And finally, a good review of our often used ballad, “I’ll Be Seeing You.”
Terry Reynolds won the big pot of money for two weeks of 50/50. Just before KTWWS, Will Winder, a former member who stopped by to say hello while in town to visit family, was introduced.
The Harmonizers have experienced another milestone: a beginner’s barbershop arrangement class for our own members was held off site. Taught by Hohl and Cerutti. Big sign up.
Until next time – editorjack!
Thursday, April 24, 2008
Looking Back on April 22nd Chapter Meeting
Looking Back on April 22nd Chapter Meeting
(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record of the great things going on each week at an Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter meeting. —Ye Ed.)
The hall was a busy place on Tuesday! Big crowd of guys learning the SP for contest and show songs from Chuck on the stage at Durant. Usual set up of risers, mirrors, sound equipment, registration station, tables, guest chairs.
After the solid musical warm up with Tony out front, we worked on the three songs to be sung as the Reunion Chorus on the Spring Tonic this weekend. Terry Jordan introduced Bud Arberg as guest director for that group. Bud added some fun info as to how he came be get the nod as our third chorus director in 1951. Jack Pitzer introduced John Hohl, also a former director and medalist quartet guy, who will be the other guest director for the Reunion gang. Jack also introduced Bob Bates, who wrote the words for “A Place On The Risers for You” when John did the music.
There was a large crowd of the 30+ guys who will sing in the reunion chorus who came on Tuesday for a live rehearsal. Some stayed and used the guest books to get a barbershop music fix. I forgot the list of names, so I won’t even try to mention them all here.
Then Director Joe and his musical staff launched a rehearsal for all the songs to be sung at the gig on Wed nite, April 23rd.
During the chapter meeting period, President Stamps asked the Southern Division leadership team to meet with him. And he formally announced the funeral of Mike Gorham that was held earlier in the day. About 35 barbershoppers were there – some from other chapters and M-AD leaders plus our guys.
Bibens plugged the Wed nite singout and also asked for a work crew of guys who were not gonna do the singout to come to Bishop Ireton to help with Tonic technical things.
Pitzer substituted for the voice-less Roger Day. There were several men present who are in the process of joining including Mike Kelly. And again, the large group of guys who will sing in the reunion chorus (about half are still members, but not active singers).
It was Dick Hall’s birthday and we sang to him in special recognition of his years of dedication to call every member on that man’s birthday!! It was also Dick Dangel’s birthday and we had a great huge cake, thanks to his wife Carol, to share with the coffee.
We had to keep the break short, so the guys were pushed to eat fast, buy things, sing up for things, get t heir uniform parts from Tom Kern, etc. But we didn’t do bad in keeping it close to 5 minutes.
Then Kirk Young, our music coach, worked the chorus hard on “Clap” rhythms and solid singing skills at the same time we do the SP. He also helped Joe with ideas on what to do to make things happen. Because he is a band instructor, Kirk also offered some tips to the percussion team for “Kiss de Girl.” Ken White has a whole new take on the intro of the song which is funny and we all enjoyed a good laugh.
No winner on the 50/50 so better get a ticket next week!
We dismantled the place and headed out in record time too – which included loading the Harmo Truck for the shows this week and weekend.
Until next time – editorjack!
(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record of the great things going on each week at an Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter meeting. —Ye Ed.)
The hall was a busy place on Tuesday! Big crowd of guys learning the SP for contest and show songs from Chuck on the stage at Durant. Usual set up of risers, mirrors, sound equipment, registration station, tables, guest chairs.
After the solid musical warm up with Tony out front, we worked on the three songs to be sung as the Reunion Chorus on the Spring Tonic this weekend. Terry Jordan introduced Bud Arberg as guest director for that group. Bud added some fun info as to how he came be get the nod as our third chorus director in 1951. Jack Pitzer introduced John Hohl, also a former director and medalist quartet guy, who will be the other guest director for the Reunion gang. Jack also introduced Bob Bates, who wrote the words for “A Place On The Risers for You” when John did the music.
There was a large crowd of the 30+ guys who will sing in the reunion chorus who came on Tuesday for a live rehearsal. Some stayed and used the guest books to get a barbershop music fix. I forgot the list of names, so I won’t even try to mention them all here.
Then Director Joe and his musical staff launched a rehearsal for all the songs to be sung at the gig on Wed nite, April 23rd.
During the chapter meeting period, President Stamps asked the Southern Division leadership team to meet with him. And he formally announced the funeral of Mike Gorham that was held earlier in the day. About 35 barbershoppers were there – some from other chapters and M-AD leaders plus our guys.
Bibens plugged the Wed nite singout and also asked for a work crew of guys who were not gonna do the singout to come to Bishop Ireton to help with Tonic technical things.
Pitzer substituted for the voice-less Roger Day. There were several men present who are in the process of joining including Mike Kelly. And again, the large group of guys who will sing in the reunion chorus (about half are still members, but not active singers).
It was Dick Hall’s birthday and we sang to him in special recognition of his years of dedication to call every member on that man’s birthday!! It was also Dick Dangel’s birthday and we had a great huge cake, thanks to his wife Carol, to share with the coffee.
We had to keep the break short, so the guys were pushed to eat fast, buy things, sing up for things, get t heir uniform parts from Tom Kern, etc. But we didn’t do bad in keeping it close to 5 minutes.
Then Kirk Young, our music coach, worked the chorus hard on “Clap” rhythms and solid singing skills at the same time we do the SP. He also helped Joe with ideas on what to do to make things happen. Because he is a band instructor, Kirk also offered some tips to the percussion team for “Kiss de Girl.” Ken White has a whole new take on the intro of the song which is funny and we all enjoyed a good laugh.
No winner on the 50/50 so better get a ticket next week!
We dismantled the place and headed out in record time too – which included loading the Harmo Truck for the shows this week and weekend.
Until next time – editorjack!
Friday, April 18, 2008
Looking Back on April 15th Chapter Meeting
(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record of the great things going on each week at an Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter meeting. —Ye Ed.)
There was a buzz in the air last nite as many former singers came to Durant to get some rehearsal time for the Reunion chorus songs. So there was a lot of greeting (and whispering – who is that guy over there [ha]). It was great to see them all.
The usual frenzy to get things set up for the chapter and chorus.
After warm ups, we did indeed work on the Reunion songs for the anniversary show coming up next weekend.
Then there were sectionals to work on “Ed Sullivan.” Noted that Wayne Adams was helping with the basses. Front row guys and some fill-in helpers worked on how to manage all the props and their timing. And Nick Aiuto was on had to do the “Lady of Spain” solo. What fun.
We had a review of “God Bless The USA”.
Bob Madigan from WTOP Radio, 103.5, was there to tape some singing and did a few minutes chat with Director Joe.
Then there were a lot of reps for “CLAP” with both music and visuals included. Sure seems to be coming along.
The meeting period included announcements about the request of FRIENDS IN HARMONY for all members to bring cookies, bar cookies, snacks and such for them to sell in the lobby at the show. Bring them before Fri nite show at 6 pm or before Sat shows.
Those who need housing in Nashville, see Bob Rhome. Those who need uniform pieces, see Tom Kern tonite.
President Stamps had the hard task of announcing the death on Monday of Mike Gorham. Services will be Tues, April 22, at 11 am at Everly Wheatly. Singers look for email – but likely at 10:30 and wear suit and tie.
Bibens filled us in on chorus call for a good paying gig on April 23rd at Reagan Bldg. about 9 pm for the Aircraft Electronics Assoc. Thanks to salesman Bruce Lauther.
Saddest news of the nite was only 30% of tickets sold for the three shows this coming weekend.
Bob Sutton filled in for the ailing Roger Day as membership guy – he welcomed former members back to sing, and several guests.
Secretary Buechler recognized Andy Smith for his 32 years of membership; and presented Bob Mattes with his membership packet. Bob is a dual member from Dundalk.
After the break (there was a big effort to keep it to 10 minutes) the chorus sang “Battle Hymn” and then did a chunk of work on “I Love You Truly” and also “Kiss de Girl” and “Music of the Night.”
A new item was on sale tonite – a 60th anniversary wrist watch. Much like the ones we had a few years ago, and only $20 for man’s or woman’s size. Sale continues thru April 29th. Order goes in on May 1st. Members and former members and guests may buy one too. They will be on sale at the show.
Busy nite for the Harmonizers. With more to come just like it. HURRAY!
Until next time – editorjack!
(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record of the great things going on each week at an Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter meeting. —Ye Ed.)
There was a buzz in the air last nite as many former singers came to Durant to get some rehearsal time for the Reunion chorus songs. So there was a lot of greeting (and whispering – who is that guy over there [ha]). It was great to see them all.
The usual frenzy to get things set up for the chapter and chorus.
After warm ups, we did indeed work on the Reunion songs for the anniversary show coming up next weekend.
Then there were sectionals to work on “Ed Sullivan.” Noted that Wayne Adams was helping with the basses. Front row guys and some fill-in helpers worked on how to manage all the props and their timing. And Nick Aiuto was on had to do the “Lady of Spain” solo. What fun.
We had a review of “God Bless The USA”.
Bob Madigan from WTOP Radio, 103.5, was there to tape some singing and did a few minutes chat with Director Joe.
Then there were a lot of reps for “CLAP” with both music and visuals included. Sure seems to be coming along.
The meeting period included announcements about the request of FRIENDS IN HARMONY for all members to bring cookies, bar cookies, snacks and such for them to sell in the lobby at the show. Bring them before Fri nite show at 6 pm or before Sat shows.
Those who need housing in Nashville, see Bob Rhome. Those who need uniform pieces, see Tom Kern tonite.
President Stamps had the hard task of announcing the death on Monday of Mike Gorham. Services will be Tues, April 22, at 11 am at Everly Wheatly. Singers look for email – but likely at 10:30 and wear suit and tie.
Bibens filled us in on chorus call for a good paying gig on April 23rd at Reagan Bldg. about 9 pm for the Aircraft Electronics Assoc. Thanks to salesman Bruce Lauther.
Saddest news of the nite was only 30% of tickets sold for the three shows this coming weekend.
Bob Sutton filled in for the ailing Roger Day as membership guy – he welcomed former members back to sing, and several guests.
Secretary Buechler recognized Andy Smith for his 32 years of membership; and presented Bob Mattes with his membership packet. Bob is a dual member from Dundalk.
After the break (there was a big effort to keep it to 10 minutes) the chorus sang “Battle Hymn” and then did a chunk of work on “I Love You Truly” and also “Kiss de Girl” and “Music of the Night.”
A new item was on sale tonite – a 60th anniversary wrist watch. Much like the ones we had a few years ago, and only $20 for man’s or woman’s size. Sale continues thru April 29th. Order goes in on May 1st. Members and former members and guests may buy one too. They will be on sale at the show.
Busy nite for the Harmonizers. With more to come just like it. HURRAY!
Until next time – editorjack!
Chorus Notes #16 - Chapter Meeting April 15, 2008
Special Thanks to Dean Rust for this week's chorus notes!
A Place on the Risers for You
- "There will always..." (beginning): connect the sounds, enunciate, no mush mouth, shoot for "ways".
Side by Side
- Learn the song; listen to the recording; bring the music if you need it next week; if you don't know it, don't sing it.
- Intro: tall vowels, lots of support, use whole instrument, all four parts sing "side" when tenors come in. Crescendo the last "side."
- "See that sun in the mornin..": sing it out, needs a lot of energy after the strong intro.
- "Peeking over the hill...": "Peeking" with a "P".
- Lead, "Through all kinds of weather..." (ms 33-34): Get the melody line right, it's different than some are used to.
Climbin Up the Mountain
- "...was a mighty day. Oh Lord" (m 40, key change): "day" is a quarter note, go right on to "Oh".
- "... didn't come here for to stay." (ms 43-44, after key change): straight, not syncopated.
Ed Sullivan
- Watch Will - follow his tempo - don't get distracted.
- Sing out on the "dum dah dah, dah dah dah dum dah dah..."
- Bass: Let's hear the "bm's"
God Bless the USA
- Big sound when chorus enters and then sustain the intensity.
- "ones who died"
- Bari, "and defend her still today": like violins
Clap Yore Hands
- "Clap-a yore hands (m 29, etc): connect the sounds, got to hear the "c" on clap but make it quick and crisp.
- "shake yore shoe time" (m 41): three hand flicks on "shake yore shoe" but no floppy fingers.
- "Come on you children gather around" (Bass solo, ms 63-64): Bass, bring it home, connect the sound, stay on top of the pitch on "round; Lead: on "woe" need presence, but not too loud.
- "(and we will) lose ...called the Voo doo!" (ms 66-69): must be together on "lose"; give a huge punch to "Voo doo."
- "On the sands of time..." (2nd time, ms 71-72): remember to sway, rows 2-3 start to the left, rows 4-5 start to the right, time the sways so you don't stop until "trouble".
- "hands", last chord: no "z", make the "nds" quick.
Battle Hymn
- "Brum" - roll "r" but don't sound the "r" and the roll of the "r" comes before the beat.
- Think subdivide during the intro.
I Love You Truly
- Know where "do" is.
- Watch Joe's hands; make all breaths inaudible; no blank faces; connect with your sweetheart through Joe.
- Baris, "Coming home": Show your pride.
- "Coming home to you.": same vowel on "to" and "you".
- Bass, "sweetheart" (m 14): press through the sound on the slide on "sweet".
- "I love you truly" (ms 17-18: need absolute precision on the entrance, start with an "h" and turn the dipthong together, sustain the energy into the "l" of love.
- Bass, "feel you are near" (ms 27-28): higher on half-step up on "near."
- "...by your side to stand" (ms 38-40): watch Joe for growth in intensity on "stand" in preparation for "Gone."
- "Gone" (m 41): The "G" needs to be on the pitch and from the heart, not hard; target is "aw"; make it a big chord, but not with loud singing, keep it bright and forward.
-"...is the sorrow." (ms 41-42): sustain the intensity through the phrase.
- "For you love me truly" (ms 45-46): quick turn from "tru" to "ly"; Bass, higher on the jump up on "tru."
Kiss the Girl
- "Sha la la la don't be scared you got the mood prepared..." (ms 56-58): with anticipation, sustain energy on "scared" and "prepared", don't hit them and then back off, ditto on subsequent phrases.
- "You got to kiss the" (ms 77-78, near the end):sing out on these barbershop chords.
Music of the Night
- pull pitch off the last note of the recorded intro which is "ti".
- Beginning: the different vowels being sung need to be distinct.
- "Grasp it, sense it, tremulous and tender' (ms 21-22): no break and Bass bring some emotion to "tremulous"
A Place on the Risers for You
- "There will always..." (beginning): connect the sounds, enunciate, no mush mouth, shoot for "ways".
Side by Side
- Learn the song; listen to the recording; bring the music if you need it next week; if you don't know it, don't sing it.
- Intro: tall vowels, lots of support, use whole instrument, all four parts sing "side" when tenors come in. Crescendo the last "side."
- "See that sun in the mornin..": sing it out, needs a lot of energy after the strong intro.
- "Peeking over the hill...": "Peeking" with a "P".
- Lead, "Through all kinds of weather..." (ms 33-34): Get the melody line right, it's different than some are used to.
Climbin Up the Mountain
- "...was a mighty day. Oh Lord" (m 40, key change): "day" is a quarter note, go right on to "Oh".
- "... didn't come here for to stay." (ms 43-44, after key change): straight, not syncopated.
Ed Sullivan
- Watch Will - follow his tempo - don't get distracted.
- Sing out on the "dum dah dah, dah dah dah dum dah dah..."
- Bass: Let's hear the "bm's"
God Bless the USA
- Big sound when chorus enters and then sustain the intensity.
- "ones who died"
- Bari, "and defend her still today": like violins
Clap Yore Hands
- "Clap-a yore hands (m 29, etc): connect the sounds, got to hear the "c" on clap but make it quick and crisp.
- "shake yore shoe time" (m 41): three hand flicks on "shake yore shoe" but no floppy fingers.
- "Come on you children gather around" (Bass solo, ms 63-64): Bass, bring it home, connect the sound, stay on top of the pitch on "round; Lead: on "woe" need presence, but not too loud.
- "(and we will) lose ...called the Voo doo!" (ms 66-69): must be together on "lose"; give a huge punch to "Voo doo."
- "On the sands of time..." (2nd time, ms 71-72): remember to sway, rows 2-3 start to the left, rows 4-5 start to the right, time the sways so you don't stop until "trouble".
- "hands", last chord: no "z", make the "nds" quick.
Battle Hymn
- "Brum" - roll "r" but don't sound the "r" and the roll of the "r" comes before the beat.
- Think subdivide during the intro.
I Love You Truly
- Know where "do" is.
- Watch Joe's hands; make all breaths inaudible; no blank faces; connect with your sweetheart through Joe.
- Baris, "Coming home": Show your pride.
- "Coming home to you.": same vowel on "to" and "you".
- Bass, "sweetheart" (m 14): press through the sound on the slide on "sweet".
- "I love you truly" (ms 17-18: need absolute precision on the entrance, start with an "h" and turn the dipthong together, sustain the energy into the "l" of love.
- Bass, "feel you are near" (ms 27-28): higher on half-step up on "near."
- "...by your side to stand" (ms 38-40): watch Joe for growth in intensity on "stand" in preparation for "Gone."
- "Gone" (m 41): The "G" needs to be on the pitch and from the heart, not hard; target is "aw"; make it a big chord, but not with loud singing, keep it bright and forward.
-"...is the sorrow." (ms 41-42): sustain the intensity through the phrase.
- "For you love me truly" (ms 45-46): quick turn from "tru" to "ly"; Bass, higher on the jump up on "tru."
Kiss the Girl
- "Sha la la la don't be scared you got the mood prepared..." (ms 56-58): with anticipation, sustain energy on "scared" and "prepared", don't hit them and then back off, ditto on subsequent phrases.
- "You got to kiss the" (ms 77-78, near the end):sing out on these barbershop chords.
Music of the Night
- pull pitch off the last note of the recorded intro which is "ti".
- Beginning: the different vowels being sung need to be distinct.
- "Grasp it, sense it, tremulous and tender' (ms 21-22): no break and Bass bring some emotion to "tremulous"
Monday, April 14, 2008
New Learning Tracks available
Gentlemen,Tony has provided the Last Kids Picked recording of Mona Lisa that has the interp/breathing that he wants in that song. Get it in the Mona Lisa learning track folder. It is labeled "Mona Lisa for the harmonizers". Also now posted are complete learning tracks for Side-by-Side and Climbin Up the Mountain. Brad
Thursday, April 10, 2008
Chorus Notes # 15 - Chapter Meeting April 8, 2008
Thanks to Dean Rust for this week's rehearsal notes
General
- two weeks to Spring Tonic; be very attentive and ready to sing; lots to cover.
- Please learn the songs for the reunion chorus (Place on Risers, Side-by-Side, Climbin' Up the Mountain); Former Musical Directors Bud Arberg and John Hohl will be conducting.
Craft
- "I Love You Truly" gives judges many opportunities to determine how well we sing in tune.
- Must remain faithful to the tonal center; know where "doe" is as you sing your part.
- Don't "short-change" yourself on the "cents" between 1/2 steps.
- Recall the drill on the verse; sing-lip sync-sing-lip-sync; practice at home with a pitch-pipe.
Place on the Risers
Side-by-Side
Climbin' Up the Mountain
- recall the rhythmic traps: (i) non-leads, "climbin" (m 9) is off the beat; (ii) non-basses, "ha-le-lu" is on the beat, then off the beat; (iii) "never more" is off (m 5), on (m 13), off (m 45); and (iv) "for to" is on the beat (m 43, after key change).
- last three measures: learn the notes; basses, some of you were not going high enough on "judge."
Lift Up My Head
Almost Like Being in Love
-Watch Joe; he's giving lots of interpretive direction.
- "Maybe the sun...": smooth and connected, a little more on "sun".
- "for I could swim Loch Lomond...": sing lighter.
- "What a" (pick up to the chorus): back off a little on "a" and don't change your mouth posture (don't go wide).
Drunken Sailor
- Leads to be tested individually next week on ms 122-128; baris are next as a group.
Great Day
- Lots of interpretion in the verse is not being performed; instead of squaring off at the beginning, go to center audience and keep your peripheral on Joe.
- Focal goes to Joe for the refrain "When you're down and out..."
- Focal goes back to center audience at the Tag.
Clap Yore Hands
- Performance with choreo has led some to oversing; be careful.
- Intro - duration (again), start with a purpose, good oh vowel
- "Clap-a-yore-hands, Slap-a-your-thigh": crescendo on "hands" and "thigh"
- "Hallelujah, hallelujah, everybody...": Sing through it, don't let the choreo move on "jah" cause you to break the flow of sound.
- "On the sands of time...(first time)": eyes on Joe for choreo direction; smooth singing
- "Join the Jubilee Oh me Oh my Oh me Oh" (ms 58-62): turn out (along the risers) on "lee", keep facial focal to CA, break after "lee", no break through the rest of the phrase with a little extra push on "my" as you make the key change, sustain support after the key change to help set up the bass solo.
- "Everybody come along" (ms 83-84, near the end after the 4th Clap-a-yore hands): the turn to the left starts on "everybody"
- ripples near the end: make the turns quick, flash your hand with spread fingers.
- Movement on last chord: 12 (4 + 8) count starts from a crouch; 1-4 arms up slowly, bring hands together, still in crouch; and then on a new count from 1-7 slowly stand up and slowly spread arms, 8 recover.
- Last chord "Hands": emphasize "nds" on cutoff.
I Love You Truly
- Feel the song, show it in your vocal and visual presentations.
- You need to be in a solid singing position to start the song; get a good breath; take responsibility for being on top of the pitch when you start the song.
- Bari: too thin at the start, need all your resonances.
- Lead, "Coming home to you" (ms 1-3): make sure you're on top of the pitch on "you".
- "Coming home to you is...": feel and show the musical tension on "is" (m 3); ditto for the first chord on "life" (m 7).
- "I love you truly, truly dear" (ms 17-20): no sliding from note to note.
Happy Feet
- Keep moves small, even smaller, all the time
- "Charle-ston, Charle-ston, and even the rhumba": crescendo on "ston" both times, and have a good face on "rhumba".
- "Weary blues don't get into my shoes" (reprise, ms 77-79): faces, there are no choreographed moves for a few measures and the faces tend to drop out.
Mona Lisa
- Interpretation to be used on the Tonic will be sent to you. Please study it.
- Watch Director. It goes much better when you do this; otherwise there is a tendency to go too slow.
Jezebel
- Watch Joe at the end, "Night and day, every way etc."
General
- two weeks to Spring Tonic; be very attentive and ready to sing; lots to cover.
- Please learn the songs for the reunion chorus (Place on Risers, Side-by-Side, Climbin' Up the Mountain); Former Musical Directors Bud Arberg and John Hohl will be conducting.
Craft
- "I Love You Truly" gives judges many opportunities to determine how well we sing in tune.
- Must remain faithful to the tonal center; know where "doe" is as you sing your part.
- Don't "short-change" yourself on the "cents" between 1/2 steps.
- Recall the drill on the verse; sing-lip sync-sing-lip-sync; practice at home with a pitch-pipe.
Place on the Risers
Side-by-Side
Climbin' Up the Mountain
- recall the rhythmic traps: (i) non-leads, "climbin" (m 9) is off the beat; (ii) non-basses, "ha-le-lu" is on the beat, then off the beat; (iii) "never more" is off (m 5), on (m 13), off (m 45); and (iv) "for to" is on the beat (m 43, after key change).
- last three measures: learn the notes; basses, some of you were not going high enough on "judge."
Lift Up My Head
Almost Like Being in Love
-Watch Joe; he's giving lots of interpretive direction.
- "Maybe the sun...": smooth and connected, a little more on "sun".
- "for I could swim Loch Lomond...": sing lighter.
- "What a" (pick up to the chorus): back off a little on "a" and don't change your mouth posture (don't go wide).
Drunken Sailor
- Leads to be tested individually next week on ms 122-128; baris are next as a group.
Great Day
- Lots of interpretion in the verse is not being performed; instead of squaring off at the beginning, go to center audience and keep your peripheral on Joe.
- Focal goes to Joe for the refrain "When you're down and out..."
- Focal goes back to center audience at the Tag.
Clap Yore Hands
- Performance with choreo has led some to oversing; be careful.
- Intro - duration (again), start with a purpose, good oh vowel
- "Clap-a-yore-hands, Slap-a-your-thigh": crescendo on "hands" and "thigh"
- "Hallelujah, hallelujah, everybody...": Sing through it, don't let the choreo move on "jah" cause you to break the flow of sound.
- "On the sands of time...(first time)": eyes on Joe for choreo direction; smooth singing
- "Join the Jubilee Oh me Oh my Oh me Oh" (ms 58-62): turn out (along the risers) on "lee", keep facial focal to CA, break after "lee", no break through the rest of the phrase with a little extra push on "my" as you make the key change, sustain support after the key change to help set up the bass solo.
- "Everybody come along" (ms 83-84, near the end after the 4th Clap-a-yore hands): the turn to the left starts on "everybody"
- ripples near the end: make the turns quick, flash your hand with spread fingers.
- Movement on last chord: 12 (4 + 8) count starts from a crouch; 1-4 arms up slowly, bring hands together, still in crouch; and then on a new count from 1-7 slowly stand up and slowly spread arms, 8 recover.
- Last chord "Hands": emphasize "nds" on cutoff.
I Love You Truly
- Feel the song, show it in your vocal and visual presentations.
- You need to be in a solid singing position to start the song; get a good breath; take responsibility for being on top of the pitch when you start the song.
- Bari: too thin at the start, need all your resonances.
- Lead, "Coming home to you" (ms 1-3): make sure you're on top of the pitch on "you".
- "Coming home to you is...": feel and show the musical tension on "is" (m 3); ditto for the first chord on "life" (m 7).
- "I love you truly, truly dear" (ms 17-20): no sliding from note to note.
Happy Feet
- Keep moves small, even smaller, all the time
- "Charle-ston, Charle-ston, and even the rhumba": crescendo on "ston" both times, and have a good face on "rhumba".
- "Weary blues don't get into my shoes" (reprise, ms 77-79): faces, there are no choreographed moves for a few measures and the faces tend to drop out.
Mona Lisa
- Interpretation to be used on the Tonic will be sent to you. Please study it.
- Watch Director. It goes much better when you do this; otherwise there is a tendency to go too slow.
Jezebel
- Watch Joe at the end, "Night and day, every way etc."
Friday, April 4, 2008
Looking Back on April 1st Chapter Meeting
(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record of the great things going on each week at an Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter meeting. —Ye Ed.)
First off, great to see Carolyn Hall back at her post on Tuesday with the 50/50 tickets and Script cards to sell.
First thing after the 7 pm start was the terrific first-time appearance of another new chapter quartet. PRIME TIME with Sutton, Plaag, Ken White and TJ Barranger who directs Ann Arundel chapter.
They were also testing a new chapter idea – to use a mic when a quartet sings in front of the chapter since that huge room in Durant just eats up the sound. Was good.
Director Joe thanked folks for attending the recent round of Studios – nearly 100%. He did remind everyone that they need to attend at least one of the visual studios that are coming up at the dance studio (that is where we got the name for these workouts in the first place).
Then the chorus worked hard on “Clap” with the front row out in the lobby working with their new benches Bill Stewart made. We are all eager to see the routine. Some new guys are in front row these days – Scipio Garling, Patrick Kim and brand new member Kyle Blomgren.
Next was a revival of “Kiss de Girl” with Ken White doing the solo part up front and Roger Day continuing in the duet roll. Rhythm was done by Blair, Plaag and Cameron.
During the chapter meeting period, President Stamps thanked Brad Jones for all the work that made this past weekend’s Harmony Youth Festival such a success. About 60 students and 4 or 5 music educators, including former Harmonizer Alan Weberg, participated. Brad thanked lots of chapter members and their partners who helped with the work of the day starting with set up Friday nite, food prep and serving and clean up, teaching and registering, preparing packets including the special t-shirt Roger had made, putting on the show Sat nite for a crowd of over 100, and bringing in lots of goodies to share. Friends in Harmony were a big help too.
President Stamps also gave an early warning that we are hosting the Southern Division Contest in Reston on Memorial Day weekend – Friday and Saturday, May 23 and 24. It makes us some needed cash and is a way for guys to get in on the action of barbershop outside the chapter. Section chiefs have been lined up and so be ready to offer to help when they call you to assist. Certainly a good way for non-singers to get in on the fun too.
The usual reminders were made to see Nick or Steve Murane regarding selling tickets; Tom Kraus about selling program ads; Ike Evans for new photos.
There was word announced of a paying job lined up by Bruce Lauther for the chorus on April 23rd – so mark your calendar.
Secretary Buechler presented the following membership cards: Bob Rhome for 7 years; Brad Jones , 16 years; Dennis Ritchey, 16 years; TJ Jones, 17 years; Gerry Levine, 21 years; Terry Jordan, 44 years and 8 Men of Note; Bob Wachter, 56 years and 12 Men of Note.
The usual guest announcement routine and welcome song preceded the break. There were lots of goodies left from the weekend, including pie which got gobbled up first!
After break, there was a review of “Lady of Spain” including all the front row antics; and then a few minutes on realigning the chorus. Evening ended with more solid work on contest songs. And the admonition to work on music at home; AND to take note of what is being planned for next Tuesday nite when you get the schedule via email mid week.
It was Ken White’s nite – he also won the raffle and directed the send off song.
Until next time – editorjack!
(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record of the great things going on each week at an Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter meeting. —Ye Ed.)
First off, great to see Carolyn Hall back at her post on Tuesday with the 50/50 tickets and Script cards to sell.
First thing after the 7 pm start was the terrific first-time appearance of another new chapter quartet. PRIME TIME with Sutton, Plaag, Ken White and TJ Barranger who directs Ann Arundel chapter.
They were also testing a new chapter idea – to use a mic when a quartet sings in front of the chapter since that huge room in Durant just eats up the sound. Was good.
Director Joe thanked folks for attending the recent round of Studios – nearly 100%. He did remind everyone that they need to attend at least one of the visual studios that are coming up at the dance studio (that is where we got the name for these workouts in the first place).
Then the chorus worked hard on “Clap” with the front row out in the lobby working with their new benches Bill Stewart made. We are all eager to see the routine. Some new guys are in front row these days – Scipio Garling, Patrick Kim and brand new member Kyle Blomgren.
Next was a revival of “Kiss de Girl” with Ken White doing the solo part up front and Roger Day continuing in the duet roll. Rhythm was done by Blair, Plaag and Cameron.
During the chapter meeting period, President Stamps thanked Brad Jones for all the work that made this past weekend’s Harmony Youth Festival such a success. About 60 students and 4 or 5 music educators, including former Harmonizer Alan Weberg, participated. Brad thanked lots of chapter members and their partners who helped with the work of the day starting with set up Friday nite, food prep and serving and clean up, teaching and registering, preparing packets including the special t-shirt Roger had made, putting on the show Sat nite for a crowd of over 100, and bringing in lots of goodies to share. Friends in Harmony were a big help too.
President Stamps also gave an early warning that we are hosting the Southern Division Contest in Reston on Memorial Day weekend – Friday and Saturday, May 23 and 24. It makes us some needed cash and is a way for guys to get in on the action of barbershop outside the chapter. Section chiefs have been lined up and so be ready to offer to help when they call you to assist. Certainly a good way for non-singers to get in on the fun too.
The usual reminders were made to see Nick or Steve Murane regarding selling tickets; Tom Kraus about selling program ads; Ike Evans for new photos.
There was word announced of a paying job lined up by Bruce Lauther for the chorus on April 23rd – so mark your calendar.
Secretary Buechler presented the following membership cards: Bob Rhome for 7 years; Brad Jones , 16 years; Dennis Ritchey, 16 years; TJ Jones, 17 years; Gerry Levine, 21 years; Terry Jordan, 44 years and 8 Men of Note; Bob Wachter, 56 years and 12 Men of Note.
The usual guest announcement routine and welcome song preceded the break. There were lots of goodies left from the weekend, including pie which got gobbled up first!
After break, there was a review of “Lady of Spain” including all the front row antics; and then a few minutes on realigning the chorus. Evening ended with more solid work on contest songs. And the admonition to work on music at home; AND to take note of what is being planned for next Tuesday nite when you get the schedule via email mid week.
It was Ken White’s nite – he also won the raffle and directed the send off song.
Until next time – editorjack!
Friday, March 28, 2008
Chorus Notes #13 - Chapter Meeting March 25, 2008
Special Thanks to Dean Rust for this week's rehearsal notes.
General
- Focus; on top of your game every second of rehearsal; no talking on the risers.
- Have the instrument ready when the Director raises his hands.
- Good singing posture.
- Off the music by April 8 on "From This Moment On"
Climbin' Up the Mountain
- Word change, Lead (m 9): "Climbin' up the mountain" NOT "Climbin' in the judgment"
- Word change, Bass, (m 17): "Jonah" NOT "Hannah"
- non-basses: "Hal-le-lu" is on the beat in ms 18, 26,34, and on the off-beat in ms 20, 28, 36.
Side By Side
Bass, "Sing-in' a song" (ms 51-52): easy on the upper octave on "in", let Bari handle it.
Music of the Night
- learn the words
- follow the Director
- Intro: Lead - More of the lyric line, need to understand the words; non-leads - back off a little.
- "Night time sharpens, heightens each sensation" (m 11), first Bass solo: Bass, more emotion (here and in other solo passages), breathless quality; non-basses, more support.
- "darkness of the Music of the Night" (ms 45-46): more on "Night"
- last measure: only section leaders put "t" on "night"
From This Moment On
- Off the music by April 8
- "Hang on baby" (m 89): return to tempo.
Great Day
- Remember dynamic plan at the beginning.
- Bass, "...there's a Great Day." (ms 23-24): review the entire line (after the dms), there are 2 beats on "Day" before the octave jump.
- " Ta, ta, ta, ta, It's not far ..." (ms 36-37): Carry over to "It's", no break.
Happy Feet
- Keep the choreo moves small and crisp.
- Choreo move on the last chord: knees bent, move slowly out to audience first with knees still bent, and then straighten up.
- "Wha-da-dance, do we do" (ms 1-2): Keep "Wha-da-dance" smooth and connected; crescendo on "dance" and carry that volume over to the first "do".
- "Lordy" (m 3): the swipe is fast, as is the move with the hat.
- "Happy Feet..." (ms 13-14): remember to increase energy through "Feet-2-3" and also on "beat", "those", "toes", "blues", "shoes", "refuse".
- Don't speed up the quarter notes during Happy Feet, i.e. on "I got those", "give them a", "ten li-ttle", "and when they", "I can't con-trol my", "to save my soul", "can't get in", "be-cause my".
Clap A Yore Hands
- Intro: duration
- Lead, "Come on you children": tell the story.
- "Clap a yore hands" (m 29): lighter, but with energy, let the rhythm tell the story.
- Lead, "slap a yore thigh" (m 30, etc.): don't change your vocal instrument as the notes go up.
- Non-leads, "Come join the jubilee" (ms 35-36): emphasis on "join" and "ju" of "jubilee".
- Tenor-Bass, "Don't lose time" (ms 39-40)": with drama, make each note go somewhere.
- "Come on you children gather around", bass melody (m 63): Bass, make it swing, not heavy, tell the story, don't make it stale, put a vocal inflection on "gather"; Non-bass, nice clean "oh", lots of resonance; Tenor, a little punch as you move to the next "oh"; Lead/Bari, spin the sound as the tenors move.
- "Clap a yore hands", 4th time (m 80): Bass melody, let's hear it; non-Bass, lighter.
- "Come a-long and", new tag, (ms 88-90): smooth and connected.
- Bass, "C'mon you children" (m 92): cool it, yield to Bari on high notes on "C'mon".
- Bass, "gather a-round" #2 of 4 (m 94): upper octave
C-flat tends be under the pitch. Fix it.
I Love You Truly
- Follow the Director (for the umpteenth time)
General
- Focus; on top of your game every second of rehearsal; no talking on the risers.
- Have the instrument ready when the Director raises his hands.
- Good singing posture.
- Off the music by April 8 on "From This Moment On"
Climbin' Up the Mountain
- Word change, Lead (m 9): "Climbin' up the mountain" NOT "Climbin' in the judgment"
- Word change, Bass, (m 17): "Jonah" NOT "Hannah"
- non-basses: "Hal-le-lu" is on the beat in ms 18, 26,34, and on the off-beat in ms 20, 28, 36.
Side By Side
Bass, "Sing-in' a song" (ms 51-52): easy on the upper octave on "in", let Bari handle it.
Music of the Night
- learn the words
- follow the Director
- Intro: Lead - More of the lyric line, need to understand the words; non-leads - back off a little.
- "Night time sharpens, heightens each sensation" (m 11), first Bass solo: Bass, more emotion (here and in other solo passages), breathless quality; non-basses, more support.
- "darkness of the Music of the Night" (ms 45-46): more on "Night"
- last measure: only section leaders put "t" on "night"
From This Moment On
- Off the music by April 8
- "Hang on baby" (m 89): return to tempo.
Great Day
- Remember dynamic plan at the beginning.
- Bass, "...there's a Great Day." (ms 23-24): review the entire line (after the dms), there are 2 beats on "Day" before the octave jump.
- " Ta, ta, ta, ta, It's not far ..." (ms 36-37): Carry over to "It's", no break.
Happy Feet
- Keep the choreo moves small and crisp.
- Choreo move on the last chord: knees bent, move slowly out to audience first with knees still bent, and then straighten up.
- "Wha-da-dance, do we do" (ms 1-2): Keep "Wha-da-dance" smooth and connected; crescendo on "dance" and carry that volume over to the first "do".
- "Lordy" (m 3): the swipe is fast, as is the move with the hat.
- "Happy Feet..." (ms 13-14): remember to increase energy through "Feet-2-3" and also on "beat", "those", "toes", "blues", "shoes", "refuse".
- Don't speed up the quarter notes during Happy Feet, i.e. on "I got those", "give them a", "ten li-ttle", "and when they", "I can't con-trol my", "to save my soul", "can't get in", "be-cause my".
Clap A Yore Hands
- Intro: duration
- Lead, "Come on you children": tell the story.
- "Clap a yore hands" (m 29): lighter, but with energy, let the rhythm tell the story.
- Lead, "slap a yore thigh" (m 30, etc.): don't change your vocal instrument as the notes go up.
- Non-leads, "Come join the jubilee" (ms 35-36): emphasis on "join" and "ju" of "jubilee".
- Tenor-Bass, "Don't lose time" (ms 39-40)": with drama, make each note go somewhere.
- "Come on you children gather around", bass melody (m 63): Bass, make it swing, not heavy, tell the story, don't make it stale, put a vocal inflection on "gather"; Non-bass, nice clean "oh", lots of resonance; Tenor, a little punch as you move to the next "oh"; Lead/Bari, spin the sound as the tenors move.
- "Clap a yore hands", 4th time (m 80): Bass melody, let's hear it; non-Bass, lighter.
- "Come a-long and", new tag, (ms 88-90): smooth and connected.
- Bass, "C'mon you children" (m 92): cool it, yield to Bari on high notes on "C'mon".
- Bass, "gather a-round" #2 of 4 (m 94): upper octave
C-flat tends be under the pitch. Fix it.
I Love You Truly
- Follow the Director (for the umpteenth time)
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