Looking Back on August 11th Chapter Meeting
(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record of the great things going on each week at an Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter meeting. —Ye Ed.)
YeEd was glad to be back and see everyone. The set up was well underway when we arrived after our usual 5 pm dinner at Hard Times. The big screen was up again and used to show new song later in the evening.
Gary Plaag did some body warm up and Will Cox did the vocal warm up. He was using the “Gug Gugs” as we used in the past.
Director Joe took the helm and, as promised, selected an octet to sing out front. He said he would and he did! He also had the chorus do a lot of small group work – assigned them into chorus thirds or into octets or the like. Had each smaller group sing a song and other rate them as to intonation, visuals, mouth postures, best selling. It was fun and for sure helped men know what songs they needed to work on personally. Later in the nite, there was a push out quartet exercise with the whole chorus participating.
If you were not there, you will be surprised to see Mike Kelly’s new “doo” – or is that “no doo” since he is shaved!!
Before break, Joe had the big summer crowd on the risers sing the contest package.
At break time, Mark Klostermeyer announced some calendar reviews and birthdays. It would have been Bud Arberg’s birthday this week. He died at 91 recently.
Dan O’Brien plugged the Sept. 15th guest nite and offered several tools for members to use in recruiting and bring in another crowd. Joe made a special appeal for guys to get bring prospective singers – now is the time vs. next spring, if the new person can be ready for Philly. Dan introduced 6 guests – almost all were basses!!!! Steve Power, Victor Hills, Bert Phillips, Thom Faircloth, John Sogn, Anthony Bartholomew (who has gone back to his chapter in TX after a summer internship in DC).
After the break, Bob Rhome reminded all those planning to attend the district contest in Lancaster in Oct. need to get the room requests and ticket orders in to him.
Craig Kujawa plugged the 10 for 10 weight loss program. One team captain tried to lure guys from other teams to stop by his car for cupcakes!!!
President Brad presented Achievement Star pins to the visual quad leaders – Jack Cameron, TJ Jones, Bob Blair and Chuck Powell.
Before closing for the nite, the chorus did a contest package run thru so guys could do their self evaluation tapes and turn them in to section leaders. And everyone was reminded of the Market Square show coming up Friday nite, Aug. 14th. Chorus at 6:30. Show time is 7:30. Official travel uniform for chorus. Lots of guys were talking about going out to dinner either before or after the show. Usually the singers can park under ground and bring up the parking ticket to be stamped to avoid paying.
We had fun with Edris Q7 directing “Keep the Whole World” – a new guy who hardly new the song – to close out the nite.
Until next time – editorjack!
Friday, August 14, 2009
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Looking Back on August 4th Chapter Meeting
Looking Back on August 4th Chapter Meeting
(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record of the great things going on each week at an Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter meeting. —Ye Ed.)
Many thanks to Alan Wile for taking notes and writing up the column while YeEd was in Illinois for his 50th hi school class reunion.
Chuck McKeever was on the Durant stage at 6:00 p.m., ready, willing and able to help with choreography … likely more guys will be there for training next week, especially all the new guys trying to catch up.
The riser crew was Tom Berkey, Jeremy Knobel, Tony Colosimo and, perhaps, one or two others, but efficient.
We were on the risers at 7 p.m., with Tony Colosimo directing warm-ups.
Director Joe Cerutti spoke briefly about Harmony University, noting that it was “awesome, as usual” and that a large number of Harmonizers were there, taking or giving classes. Chapter Members at HU 2009:Faculty: Joe Cerutti, Gary Plaag. Students – Director College: Chris Buechler, Anthony Colosimo. Students – Harmony University: Tom Gannon (YeEd thinks he lives in one of the Dakota’s tho he retains membership), Ryan Griffith, Patrick Kim, Edris Qarghah, Noah Van Gilder.
The chorus performed the contest package for video-taping. These will be put on line and every chorus member is encouraged to view all of them to see, not only how they are performing, but tips from others that might make their individual performance even better.
Next, we sang through our new song, “It Don’t Mean A Thing,” three times for purposes of an introduction and with the challenge to be well prepared next week, when we’ll be octeting!
Next the chorus worked on “When I Lift Up My Head” (again). Joe had us do choreo only, singing only, and the entire song. Then it was “Great Day,” followed by drilling the end of “Kiss The Girl.”
VP Operations Mark Klostermeyer (“K-12”) gave several announcements and introduced others during the business part of the meeting.
Secretary Chris Buechler presented membership documents, pins, “Breathless Moments,” etc., to two of our newest members: Kellen Hertz and Edris Qarghah (“Q-7”). At the same time, he presented “Man of Note” pins to Kyle Blomgren (for sponsoring Kellen) and to Kellen (for sponsoring Edris).
Chuck Harner hyped the newly arrived “Entertainment Books” for (1) Northern Virginia and DC, (2) Maryland and DC, and (3) Greater Baltimore. This year the price is $30 for all the coupons you can possibly use to save money (not a bad idea, given the state of the economy). For each book sold, the chapter receives $6 … and if we sell 71 or more, we get 50%. We reached that goal last year and Chuck is hopeful and encouraging all to do the same this year. (Let’s hear a cheer for Chuck and his extra efforts to head up this activity every year!!!!!)
VP Marketing and PR Scipio Garling urged every member to bring one guest (more is OK, too) to our Guest Night -- September 15th -- and then turned the floor over to Director Joe, who announced that he will present a special reward (not a kazoo) to each man who brings a guest … after all, he’d like to see 110 on the risers in Philadelphia next July! Also, there will be a “grand prize” given to the man who brings the most guests. Yes, it’s another challenge, guys. VP Membership Dan O’Brien (“Dan-O”) asked that each man pick up a stack of guest night-related business cards and flyers before leaving … and to pass them out and post them liberally.
After the break, Dan-O introduced the guests. In addition to former members Ron Rich, Lee Cohen, Chris Yates, and Pat Duffy there were 8 men and two women (an Alexandria choreographer -- Rachel Unterberger and Ken Fess’ sister, Marbeth Hanamura. It was great to have a couple of applicants (Chris Yates, who passed his audition, and John Sogn) and first time guests in the group, together with some others who have visited more regularly. The other guests: Anthony Bartholomew, Paul Elder, Thom Faircloth, Nik Hanlon, Victor Hills, Dean Martin, and Steve Power. Glad to have you all here … and hope to see you all again at subsequent chapter meetings!!!
K-12 reminded us about the Market Square (free) show on Friday, August 14th and that we’ll be meeting in Manassas for our annual inter-chapter visit sponsored by the Prince William Chapter (Bull Run Troubadours) on Tuesday, August 25th.
Terry Reynolds explained that we would do two run-throughs of the contest set each week: (1) for videoing (see above) and (2) for vocal taping. Each member who wants to be on stage at the Mid-Atlantic District Fall Convention/Contest in Lancaster, PA on October 3rd MUST submit at least one “make me better” recording together with his self-evaluation. An evaluation of his presentation skills (from the video) needs to be submitted, too. Constructive feedback will be provided.
Scipio and Alan Wile announced that the chapter Board decided to contribute the proceeds of the weekly “50-50” to the Mid-Atlantic District Endowment Fund. The total amount for the balance of the year must be at least $500. Scipio explained that as the chapter leads in all other areas, it must be a leader in its support to the Endowment Fund, too. Interest earned by the Fund provides scholarships for musical directors and youth quartets to attend Harmony College East at Salisbury University each June.
Quartet Promotion “guy” Eric Wallen reminded all about the Put-Together Quartet Contest to be held December 15th. Details will be coming but it’s not too early to get start thinking and preparing for it. (YeEd hopes for some funny songs and comedy routines.)
President Brad Jones announced that tickets for our fall show with the Pride of Baltimore Chorus are now available and that we are looking to have an afterglow in the same facility (more to follow).
Brad then presented Music Librarian Dick Dangel with a “Make A Difference” pin in recognition of the work he does to keep our guest music books up-to-date … and you know how we love to see guests! Congratulations, Dick!
Innovator Craig Kujawa announced that 40 men had signed up for “The 10 for 10 Challenge.” With the four team captains (Joe Cerutti, K-12, Ken Fess, and Phil Ferguson) up front, the names were drawn, three at a time, to create the teams.
Finally, we got back to singing and Joe worked us -- really worked us -- on “New York, New York.” When satisfied with the product, he then rehearsed “Almost Like Being In Love.” The evening drawing to a close, we performed the contest set once more … this time for recording.
Front Row Captain Craig Kujawa announced that two men have been added to the front row (replacing Chuck Hunter and Bob Sutton). Congratulations to Patrick Kim and Tom Kraus!
The “50-50” was won by one of our guests (YEA!) -- Dean Martin -- who then took us out with “Keep The Whole World Singing.”
Until next time – editorjack!
(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record of the great things going on each week at an Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter meeting. —Ye Ed.)
Many thanks to Alan Wile for taking notes and writing up the column while YeEd was in Illinois for his 50th hi school class reunion.
Chuck McKeever was on the Durant stage at 6:00 p.m., ready, willing and able to help with choreography … likely more guys will be there for training next week, especially all the new guys trying to catch up.
The riser crew was Tom Berkey, Jeremy Knobel, Tony Colosimo and, perhaps, one or two others, but efficient.
We were on the risers at 7 p.m., with Tony Colosimo directing warm-ups.
Director Joe Cerutti spoke briefly about Harmony University, noting that it was “awesome, as usual” and that a large number of Harmonizers were there, taking or giving classes. Chapter Members at HU 2009:Faculty: Joe Cerutti, Gary Plaag. Students – Director College: Chris Buechler, Anthony Colosimo. Students – Harmony University: Tom Gannon (YeEd thinks he lives in one of the Dakota’s tho he retains membership), Ryan Griffith, Patrick Kim, Edris Qarghah, Noah Van Gilder.
The chorus performed the contest package for video-taping. These will be put on line and every chorus member is encouraged to view all of them to see, not only how they are performing, but tips from others that might make their individual performance even better.
Next, we sang through our new song, “It Don’t Mean A Thing,” three times for purposes of an introduction and with the challenge to be well prepared next week, when we’ll be octeting!
Next the chorus worked on “When I Lift Up My Head” (again). Joe had us do choreo only, singing only, and the entire song. Then it was “Great Day,” followed by drilling the end of “Kiss The Girl.”
VP Operations Mark Klostermeyer (“K-12”) gave several announcements and introduced others during the business part of the meeting.
Secretary Chris Buechler presented membership documents, pins, “Breathless Moments,” etc., to two of our newest members: Kellen Hertz and Edris Qarghah (“Q-7”). At the same time, he presented “Man of Note” pins to Kyle Blomgren (for sponsoring Kellen) and to Kellen (for sponsoring Edris).
Chuck Harner hyped the newly arrived “Entertainment Books” for (1) Northern Virginia and DC, (2) Maryland and DC, and (3) Greater Baltimore. This year the price is $30 for all the coupons you can possibly use to save money (not a bad idea, given the state of the economy). For each book sold, the chapter receives $6 … and if we sell 71 or more, we get 50%. We reached that goal last year and Chuck is hopeful and encouraging all to do the same this year. (Let’s hear a cheer for Chuck and his extra efforts to head up this activity every year!!!!!)
VP Marketing and PR Scipio Garling urged every member to bring one guest (more is OK, too) to our Guest Night -- September 15th -- and then turned the floor over to Director Joe, who announced that he will present a special reward (not a kazoo) to each man who brings a guest … after all, he’d like to see 110 on the risers in Philadelphia next July! Also, there will be a “grand prize” given to the man who brings the most guests. Yes, it’s another challenge, guys. VP Membership Dan O’Brien (“Dan-O”) asked that each man pick up a stack of guest night-related business cards and flyers before leaving … and to pass them out and post them liberally.
After the break, Dan-O introduced the guests. In addition to former members Ron Rich, Lee Cohen, Chris Yates, and Pat Duffy there were 8 men and two women (an Alexandria choreographer -- Rachel Unterberger and Ken Fess’ sister, Marbeth Hanamura. It was great to have a couple of applicants (Chris Yates, who passed his audition, and John Sogn) and first time guests in the group, together with some others who have visited more regularly. The other guests: Anthony Bartholomew, Paul Elder, Thom Faircloth, Nik Hanlon, Victor Hills, Dean Martin, and Steve Power. Glad to have you all here … and hope to see you all again at subsequent chapter meetings!!!
K-12 reminded us about the Market Square (free) show on Friday, August 14th and that we’ll be meeting in Manassas for our annual inter-chapter visit sponsored by the Prince William Chapter (Bull Run Troubadours) on Tuesday, August 25th.
Terry Reynolds explained that we would do two run-throughs of the contest set each week: (1) for videoing (see above) and (2) for vocal taping. Each member who wants to be on stage at the Mid-Atlantic District Fall Convention/Contest in Lancaster, PA on October 3rd MUST submit at least one “make me better” recording together with his self-evaluation. An evaluation of his presentation skills (from the video) needs to be submitted, too. Constructive feedback will be provided.
Scipio and Alan Wile announced that the chapter Board decided to contribute the proceeds of the weekly “50-50” to the Mid-Atlantic District Endowment Fund. The total amount for the balance of the year must be at least $500. Scipio explained that as the chapter leads in all other areas, it must be a leader in its support to the Endowment Fund, too. Interest earned by the Fund provides scholarships for musical directors and youth quartets to attend Harmony College East at Salisbury University each June.
Quartet Promotion “guy” Eric Wallen reminded all about the Put-Together Quartet Contest to be held December 15th. Details will be coming but it’s not too early to get start thinking and preparing for it. (YeEd hopes for some funny songs and comedy routines.)
President Brad Jones announced that tickets for our fall show with the Pride of Baltimore Chorus are now available and that we are looking to have an afterglow in the same facility (more to follow).
Brad then presented Music Librarian Dick Dangel with a “Make A Difference” pin in recognition of the work he does to keep our guest music books up-to-date … and you know how we love to see guests! Congratulations, Dick!
Innovator Craig Kujawa announced that 40 men had signed up for “The 10 for 10 Challenge.” With the four team captains (Joe Cerutti, K-12, Ken Fess, and Phil Ferguson) up front, the names were drawn, three at a time, to create the teams.
Finally, we got back to singing and Joe worked us -- really worked us -- on “New York, New York.” When satisfied with the product, he then rehearsed “Almost Like Being In Love.” The evening drawing to a close, we performed the contest set once more … this time for recording.
Front Row Captain Craig Kujawa announced that two men have been added to the front row (replacing Chuck Hunter and Bob Sutton). Congratulations to Patrick Kim and Tom Kraus!
The “50-50” was won by one of our guests (YEA!) -- Dean Martin -- who then took us out with “Keep The Whole World Singing.”
Until next time – editorjack!
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Looking Back on July 28th Chapter Meeting
Looking Back on July 28th 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.)
YeEd brought along the May-June Harmonizer magazine from the BHS to read. Great story about our sing at the Supreme Court building. And a story about former director, Scott Werner, and his FL chorus giving 10% of their individual $250 stimulus payment from IRS to the Barbershop Harmony Foundation.
Before the meeting, Scott Kahler went to work on two sections of risers to tighten ALL the screws. Seemed to make a difference is the “noise” when the chorus did sways and big moves.
Will Cox did the warm ups. We have almost 60 members present before the nite was over. Many of our men were at Harmony University in MO including Director Joe as well as Tony Colosimo.
So, Mike Kelly and Will had directorship duties. They worked the troops in preparation for the August show in Old Town Alexandria at Market Square and provided a good review of a number of package show songs. Chuck McKeever also added review pointers for the stage presence plans of those songs.
Bob Rhome substituted for K12 (who is in Germany). Bob chided the men to wear their badges to chapter meeting. Craig Kujawa confirmed that there will be three teams in the 10 for 10 weight loss team competition. Didn’t hear him say who would be the third team captain. Members have until noon on Aug. 4 to let Craig know via email that they want to be included. Teams members will be drawn that nite at chapter meeting.
Scott Kahler also mentioned his work on developing an emergency notification method for the chapter – much like colleges use to alert students of a problem. The Board will be considering the plan at their meeting this week.
There were some announcements about wearing the correct kaki pants with the blue teal casual shirt. (An email has already come out with correct details.)
Dan O’Brien reminded all of the next guest nite, Sept. 15th at Durant. He also passed out flyers and calling cards developed by Scipio to help everyone plug the date. Dan would like some indication via email as to where the guys put the flyers. An email version is pending.
There were 8 guests introduced. And as usual, some first timers, some guys from other chapters, some guys in the loop to join.
After the break, President Brad alerted everyone to plan ahead for housing and parking and such for the Fall Contest in Lancaster Oct. 2-3. Alexandria is staying at the Willow Valley Resort.
Brad presented a “You Are A Star” pin to Ike Evans for his work on chapter photos and for doing the work to get a supply of black canvas briefcase bags with the guy’s name and Harmo logo. Nice looking.
Bob Rhome reminded all to bring taping equipment next week to make self-evaluated tapes to turn in. He plugged the dates for the Market Square Show Aug. 14th and for the Dog Days sing out in Manassas Aug. 25th where we sing on Tues nite with all the other local VA chapters. A fun nite.
After announcements, it was back to work on the singing. Will formed a push out quartet event and had them sing “Lift Up My Head” which was fun. Several new guys and guests actually got into it too.
The evening ended with the raffle and the winner was Carolyn Hall. She took us out for KTWWS.
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.)
YeEd brought along the May-June Harmonizer magazine from the BHS to read. Great story about our sing at the Supreme Court building. And a story about former director, Scott Werner, and his FL chorus giving 10% of their individual $250 stimulus payment from IRS to the Barbershop Harmony Foundation.
Before the meeting, Scott Kahler went to work on two sections of risers to tighten ALL the screws. Seemed to make a difference is the “noise” when the chorus did sways and big moves.
Will Cox did the warm ups. We have almost 60 members present before the nite was over. Many of our men were at Harmony University in MO including Director Joe as well as Tony Colosimo.
So, Mike Kelly and Will had directorship duties. They worked the troops in preparation for the August show in Old Town Alexandria at Market Square and provided a good review of a number of package show songs. Chuck McKeever also added review pointers for the stage presence plans of those songs.
Bob Rhome substituted for K12 (who is in Germany). Bob chided the men to wear their badges to chapter meeting. Craig Kujawa confirmed that there will be three teams in the 10 for 10 weight loss team competition. Didn’t hear him say who would be the third team captain. Members have until noon on Aug. 4 to let Craig know via email that they want to be included. Teams members will be drawn that nite at chapter meeting.
Scott Kahler also mentioned his work on developing an emergency notification method for the chapter – much like colleges use to alert students of a problem. The Board will be considering the plan at their meeting this week.
There were some announcements about wearing the correct kaki pants with the blue teal casual shirt. (An email has already come out with correct details.)
Dan O’Brien reminded all of the next guest nite, Sept. 15th at Durant. He also passed out flyers and calling cards developed by Scipio to help everyone plug the date. Dan would like some indication via email as to where the guys put the flyers. An email version is pending.
There were 8 guests introduced. And as usual, some first timers, some guys from other chapters, some guys in the loop to join.
After the break, President Brad alerted everyone to plan ahead for housing and parking and such for the Fall Contest in Lancaster Oct. 2-3. Alexandria is staying at the Willow Valley Resort.
Brad presented a “You Are A Star” pin to Ike Evans for his work on chapter photos and for doing the work to get a supply of black canvas briefcase bags with the guy’s name and Harmo logo. Nice looking.
Bob Rhome reminded all to bring taping equipment next week to make self-evaluated tapes to turn in. He plugged the dates for the Market Square Show Aug. 14th and for the Dog Days sing out in Manassas Aug. 25th where we sing on Tues nite with all the other local VA chapters. A fun nite.
After announcements, it was back to work on the singing. Will formed a push out quartet event and had them sing “Lift Up My Head” which was fun. Several new guys and guests actually got into it too.
The evening ended with the raffle and the winner was Carolyn Hall. She took us out for KTWWS.
Until next time – editorjack!
Friday, July 24, 2009
Looking Back on July 21st Chapter Meeting
Looking Back on July 21st 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.)
Folks arrived a little late this week, but the risers and room was set up promptly and we were back to normal in finding all the Harmo “stuff” in Durant. Dick and Carolyn Hall were back from this trip to see family. From the grin on his face, you would think Dick had won the gold medal, not his brother Bob in the Ambassadors of Harmony!
The usual warm up and a warm down for basses was conducted. Then it was off to work with Director Joe in preparation for the Ft. Ward show on Thursday.
Since our chapter is supported by the City of Alexandria Rec Dept., we look forward to this event each year as a small payback for that support. Good PR, good place to bring prospective customers and for sure prospective singers. Show starts at 7:30 for audience.
Joe promised this show is the “send it off our repertoire” for “Kiss de Girl” which drew cheers from all.
After a good singing workout, K12 started the meeting portion of the nite. Secretary Buehler presented a 7-year membership card to Frank Fedarko and a 31-year card to Phil Ashford. J.T. Price was presented his 30-year card and pin.
Dan O reminded everyone of the guest nite coming up Sept. 15th!! He also offered several promotional tools for members to pick up and use – flyers, cards, etc.
Then he introduced 12 guests including a number of first timers, members from other chapters, guys who were at our Youth Festival, and former members Lee Cohen, Jeremy Richardson, Chris Yates (hope I didn’t forget anyone).
Before we left the risers for refreshments, Joe spoke to honor, thank and recognize Chuck Hunter on his last nite with us for a while. He departs soon for a State Dept. assignment in Damascus. It was wonderful that Chuck’s parents, Chuck and Pat, where here from CA too. For old timers who might wonder, we decided not to do the “chair” routine and sing “A Place on the Risers for You” since we have done that for his previous assignments – and we expect him back as soon as his duty is over. There was cake that had Place on the Risers for You written on it to celebrate with our friend as he heads off again.
Other announcements included word from Quartet Promo Chair Eric Wallen that there will be a Chapter Quartet Contest on Dec. 15th. It is a fun event and all the guys need to get started “putting” a quartet together. That is why we call it a Put Together contest, cause the chair will “put” quartets of guys together. Some will do comedy; some will sing their own new songs. Usually there is a ringer quartet or two that has practiced more than twice!!
Show VP Ken Rub covered the Ft. Ward show details and solicited crews for risers and such.
Craig Kujawa launched a new project within the chapter called “10 for 10 Challenge” – two teams of 10 men each with captains Joe Cerutti and Mark Klostermeyer. Each man on the team must loose 10 pounds between Aug. 4 and the Saturday of the retreat before International. 10 people, 10 pounds, 10 months. Watch for better details from Craig. And periodic results being posted. If more guys want to join, he will form another team. Craig also promised a significant prize for the winners!
President Brad Jones explained the media visit earlier in the evening to film the framed tribute our chapter has (and has also given to the BHS museum) of our chapter CDs that were autographed by a Harmonizer fan, John Glenn, when he went into space last time. He took our CDs with him for music.
Brad announced news that Burt Stueve’s wife had fallen and was seriously injured recently while working in the attic of their garage.
President Brad also presented a “You Make A Difference” star to Max Kieba for his good work on managing the scholarship program our chapter sponsors for Harmony University. As an aside to that story, one of our younger winners who was going as part of the Next Generation promotion had to cancel, so we gave that scholarship to a young member in our district from another chapter.
Speaking of Harmony U, there will be a number of our musical leaders and members absent next week. We did a filming of Tony Colosimo directing us that he will use as his submission to director college at the U.
Then it was back to work on show tunes and the contest package. During the “Armed Forces Medley” a guest stood automatically when we sang his service song. Kevin is headed for a duty assignment in Korea today. He sang with Westminster.
Chuck Hunter took us out for the wrap up song. Everyone cleared the hall and another big crowd of guys went to the afterglow. During that event, the Class of 08 and 09 met with Membership VP Dan. They must be plotting an overthrow!!
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.)
Folks arrived a little late this week, but the risers and room was set up promptly and we were back to normal in finding all the Harmo “stuff” in Durant. Dick and Carolyn Hall were back from this trip to see family. From the grin on his face, you would think Dick had won the gold medal, not his brother Bob in the Ambassadors of Harmony!
The usual warm up and a warm down for basses was conducted. Then it was off to work with Director Joe in preparation for the Ft. Ward show on Thursday.
Since our chapter is supported by the City of Alexandria Rec Dept., we look forward to this event each year as a small payback for that support. Good PR, good place to bring prospective customers and for sure prospective singers. Show starts at 7:30 for audience.
Joe promised this show is the “send it off our repertoire” for “Kiss de Girl” which drew cheers from all.
After a good singing workout, K12 started the meeting portion of the nite. Secretary Buehler presented a 7-year membership card to Frank Fedarko and a 31-year card to Phil Ashford. J.T. Price was presented his 30-year card and pin.
Dan O reminded everyone of the guest nite coming up Sept. 15th!! He also offered several promotional tools for members to pick up and use – flyers, cards, etc.
Then he introduced 12 guests including a number of first timers, members from other chapters, guys who were at our Youth Festival, and former members Lee Cohen, Jeremy Richardson, Chris Yates (hope I didn’t forget anyone).
Before we left the risers for refreshments, Joe spoke to honor, thank and recognize Chuck Hunter on his last nite with us for a while. He departs soon for a State Dept. assignment in Damascus. It was wonderful that Chuck’s parents, Chuck and Pat, where here from CA too. For old timers who might wonder, we decided not to do the “chair” routine and sing “A Place on the Risers for You” since we have done that for his previous assignments – and we expect him back as soon as his duty is over. There was cake that had Place on the Risers for You written on it to celebrate with our friend as he heads off again.
Other announcements included word from Quartet Promo Chair Eric Wallen that there will be a Chapter Quartet Contest on Dec. 15th. It is a fun event and all the guys need to get started “putting” a quartet together. That is why we call it a Put Together contest, cause the chair will “put” quartets of guys together. Some will do comedy; some will sing their own new songs. Usually there is a ringer quartet or two that has practiced more than twice!!
Show VP Ken Rub covered the Ft. Ward show details and solicited crews for risers and such.
Craig Kujawa launched a new project within the chapter called “10 for 10 Challenge” – two teams of 10 men each with captains Joe Cerutti and Mark Klostermeyer. Each man on the team must loose 10 pounds between Aug. 4 and the Saturday of the retreat before International. 10 people, 10 pounds, 10 months. Watch for better details from Craig. And periodic results being posted. If more guys want to join, he will form another team. Craig also promised a significant prize for the winners!
President Brad Jones explained the media visit earlier in the evening to film the framed tribute our chapter has (and has also given to the BHS museum) of our chapter CDs that were autographed by a Harmonizer fan, John Glenn, when he went into space last time. He took our CDs with him for music.
Brad announced news that Burt Stueve’s wife had fallen and was seriously injured recently while working in the attic of their garage.
President Brad also presented a “You Make A Difference” star to Max Kieba for his good work on managing the scholarship program our chapter sponsors for Harmony University. As an aside to that story, one of our younger winners who was going as part of the Next Generation promotion had to cancel, so we gave that scholarship to a young member in our district from another chapter.
Speaking of Harmony U, there will be a number of our musical leaders and members absent next week. We did a filming of Tony Colosimo directing us that he will use as his submission to director college at the U.
Then it was back to work on show tunes and the contest package. During the “Armed Forces Medley” a guest stood automatically when we sang his service song. Kevin is headed for a duty assignment in Korea today. He sang with Westminster.
Chuck Hunter took us out for the wrap up song. Everyone cleared the hall and another big crowd of guys went to the afterglow. During that event, the Class of 08 and 09 met with Membership VP Dan. They must be plotting an overthrow!!
Until next time – editorjack!
Thursday, July 16, 2009
Looking Back on July 14th Chapter Meeting
Looking Back on July 14th 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.)
Things were a little turned around at the Rec Center as the staff there had to stash stuff in our storage area in prep for Vice President Biden speaking at Durant on Wednesday. But we found most of the things we needed to run the meeting (tho we opted not to dig for refreshment supplies).
There was a good crowd on hand early – Ye Ed thinks a lot of guys had withdrawal since this was the first Tuesday nite back for many after Anaheim. So they were eager. And they wanted to hear what was being said out there about our performance and by whom.
Director Joe and his musical team did the usual kind of warm ups and then Joe reminded all the men that we have just gotten to the end of one important goal and we can’t wait and rest. We are already working on the next goals – summer shows, fall show and fall contest and an all-important guest nite.
So back to singing – the chorus got to sing a bunch of tunes we have not done for a while (as show producer guy Ken Rub reports that we are going to sing about every song we know at Ft. Ward on July 23rd). Joe had the chorus sing through, work on notes, did some interp fixits as well reviewed stage presence. It was a solid work session, but the guys were “into it” as they were glad to review. All the new men were working hard to catch up on other songs so they can do shows.
K12 acknowledged Dick Newton for his work as chair of our trip to CA. Dick then had the chapter thank the various chairs (as reported in my convention wrap up). He particularly thanked Carl Kauffmann, who is back from his operation, for the initial planning he did before he got sick. And Ye Ed didn’t know that Bill Stewart built the crate to ship the new benches out west.
Membership VP Dan O’Brien had a lot of guests to introduce and welcome including member Alan Kousen who is back in the area to sing with us again.
After the break we got into a review session from Anaheim. Joe spoke about his pride, the feedback he has gotten from judges and coaches and barbershop musical leaders and friends regarding our successful shot and 9th place finish. By all accounts, we made a huge leap in our performance. And not surprising, Joe has challenged us to work to build the chapter by another 20-30 men – many of whom should be basses.
Terry Reynolds, who has agreed to take over for Chuck Hunter who is being posted in Damascus with the State Department and will vacate the music vp position in a couple weeks, did his usual statistical review of scores and comparisons of past years. He was able to help us discover some positive signs of improvement and growth musically and visually.
After the talking, we sang more of the show songs. Joe did share that the Peter Pan medley and package will be put on hold. We will use the Anaheim package in the fall at the district convention. Our goal would be to score more 90s from the judges at that event and to set our numbers high enough to go into the 2010 International chorus contest ranked as high as possible!
We have another big event in November when we sing a show with the Pride of Baltimore SAI chorus. That will be the last time we do the 2009 package. Joe promises that he is working on a killer ballad that shows off the great Harmonizer style and class and talent, plus he is looking for a great up tune. He solicited ideas of serious contender songs.
Before leaving and loading everything back into the truck, we watched our performance from Anaheim – that appeared on the web cast of the convention.
Ye Ed did see another crop of new member prospects headed off to have their auditions toward membership. Hurray.
The crowd at the afterglow was cheerful and the weather was nice enough for the tag singers to gather outside on the patio to sing. A great barbershop nite.
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.)
Things were a little turned around at the Rec Center as the staff there had to stash stuff in our storage area in prep for Vice President Biden speaking at Durant on Wednesday. But we found most of the things we needed to run the meeting (tho we opted not to dig for refreshment supplies).
There was a good crowd on hand early – Ye Ed thinks a lot of guys had withdrawal since this was the first Tuesday nite back for many after Anaheim. So they were eager. And they wanted to hear what was being said out there about our performance and by whom.
Director Joe and his musical team did the usual kind of warm ups and then Joe reminded all the men that we have just gotten to the end of one important goal and we can’t wait and rest. We are already working on the next goals – summer shows, fall show and fall contest and an all-important guest nite.
So back to singing – the chorus got to sing a bunch of tunes we have not done for a while (as show producer guy Ken Rub reports that we are going to sing about every song we know at Ft. Ward on July 23rd). Joe had the chorus sing through, work on notes, did some interp fixits as well reviewed stage presence. It was a solid work session, but the guys were “into it” as they were glad to review. All the new men were working hard to catch up on other songs so they can do shows.
K12 acknowledged Dick Newton for his work as chair of our trip to CA. Dick then had the chapter thank the various chairs (as reported in my convention wrap up). He particularly thanked Carl Kauffmann, who is back from his operation, for the initial planning he did before he got sick. And Ye Ed didn’t know that Bill Stewart built the crate to ship the new benches out west.
Membership VP Dan O’Brien had a lot of guests to introduce and welcome including member Alan Kousen who is back in the area to sing with us again.
After the break we got into a review session from Anaheim. Joe spoke about his pride, the feedback he has gotten from judges and coaches and barbershop musical leaders and friends regarding our successful shot and 9th place finish. By all accounts, we made a huge leap in our performance. And not surprising, Joe has challenged us to work to build the chapter by another 20-30 men – many of whom should be basses.
Terry Reynolds, who has agreed to take over for Chuck Hunter who is being posted in Damascus with the State Department and will vacate the music vp position in a couple weeks, did his usual statistical review of scores and comparisons of past years. He was able to help us discover some positive signs of improvement and growth musically and visually.
After the talking, we sang more of the show songs. Joe did share that the Peter Pan medley and package will be put on hold. We will use the Anaheim package in the fall at the district convention. Our goal would be to score more 90s from the judges at that event and to set our numbers high enough to go into the 2010 International chorus contest ranked as high as possible!
We have another big event in November when we sing a show with the Pride of Baltimore SAI chorus. That will be the last time we do the 2009 package. Joe promises that he is working on a killer ballad that shows off the great Harmonizer style and class and talent, plus he is looking for a great up tune. He solicited ideas of serious contender songs.
Before leaving and loading everything back into the truck, we watched our performance from Anaheim – that appeared on the web cast of the convention.
Ye Ed did see another crop of new member prospects headed off to have their auditions toward membership. Hurray.
The crowd at the afterglow was cheerful and the weather was nice enough for the tag singers to gather outside on the patio to sing. A great barbershop nite.
Until next time – editorjack!
Monday, July 13, 2009
Looking Back on International Convention, Anaheim July 2009
Looking Back on International Convention, Anaheim July 2009
(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 with the Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter. —Ye Ed.)
What a week for the Harmonizers! The 71st International Convention in Anaheim was another important milestone in Harmonizer history.
The chorus earned 2647 points in the contest (88.2%) and ranked 9th. We had 81 singers on stage. More points that 2008 but slipped one notch, but it is great to still be in the TOP TEN. Just wait til we add 20 or 30 more by next year.
Of course, the tough chorus competition at the medalist level was the big news. The upset victory by the Ambassadors of Harmony from St. Charles, (St. Louis) MO was the talk of the town. Dallas Vocal Majority earned a record score when they sang Friday morning only to have that record broken a few hours later when the Ambassadors overwhelmed the audience with a “76 Trombones” uptune complete with a surprise costume change into flashy band uniforms with feather topped hats! Our retreat coach David Wright was on stage with them.
1. St. Charles Ambassadors – 2926, 158 men
2. Dallas Vocal Majority – 2889, 142 men
3. Hilltop, MN – 2764, 86 men
4. Denver Mile High – 2744, 117 men
5. Toronto Northern Lights – 2706, 39 men
Other chorus rankings of interest include Alliance from Ohio in 6th place, new young-guy chorus from Stockholm, Sweden, zero8, in 7th; New Zealand chorus in 10th; Cincinnati in 11th; Atlanta in 12th, Greendale Midwest Vocal Express (the fish bowl guys) in 14th; Northbrook in 15th. Jordan Haedtler, one of our regular Harmonizer guests when he is on campus in DC, sang with Greg Lyne’s chorus, Voices of Harmony, who were 8th.
Our chorus had a busy rehearsal schedule starting Tuesday evening. Each session was just two hours. It is always a great feeling to see everyone who has arrived and gathered for the first time at contest. Tuesday nite was also the first chance for guys to see the new benches made by Dennis Ritchey and shipped to CA. The benches had a new color panel underneath to add some color and support when guys stood on them!
Kyle Blomgren welcomed his fellow chorus members to CA and his old stomping grounds on Tuesday nite. Gary Plaag and Tony Colosimo did warm ups. K12 shifted and coached the guys into windows. Director Joe expressed his sincere thanks to the guys for being there and making it to CA after so many weeks of work.
Then our coach Cindy Hansen spent time with the chorus mostly encouraging and building confidence in the ability to do the job at hand. She asked the men to dig deep into their emotions for the ballad.
Keith Jones shared his emotional story of trying his best to qualify and yet he did not pass the test. Then he gave his previously earned gold medal to 2009 class president Phil Ferguson to take on stage.
Continuing the scenario development work that had begun back in Alexandria, Bob Wachter gave his story of new love and romance and how it compared to the ballad. Joe followed that with the closed eye drill and then a final run of the set.
Before he let the men go to bed, Joe asked each one to pick up a piece of the cream colored paper and an envelope in the back of the rehearsal room. Each man was to come to the Wednesday morning rehearsal having written his Dream that he sings about in the ballad on that paper. They each sealed their envelopes and carried them all week.
The second rehearsal was Wednesday morning. The front row worked out more. Coach Steve Tramack was on hand to cheer for us. The usual work ethic continued. Phil Ferguson did the scenario story before the closed eye drill. Joe had each man hold his Dream envelope during the drill.
Wednesday afternoon was the third rehearsal with more of the same including a scenario story from Terry Reynolds and the Dream envelopes for the closed eye drill. Surprise guests at this session were Geri and Royal Geis. Joe invited her to say hello and she wished the gang the best. She was in town to help Northbrook.
Thursday morning session included some warning about the huge camera that sweeps across the stage and shows your face on the screen during a song. (Some of our men were featured with great looks during our time on stage.) Two former members, Ray Johnson and Bill Power, who sing with last year’s chorus champs, Masters of Harmony in CA, stopped in to present the chapter with a memento from their chorus to ours.
Ken White announced our congrats to the chapter quartet guys for their accomplishments in the quartet contest on Wednesday. Our chapter quartets fought through the tough competition: CRUNCH TIME (with Eric Wallen) was 25th and FULL TILT (with Ed Cazenas, Nick Aiuto, Pete Frank, Steve White) was 35th.
Other district quartets: ‘ROUND MIDNIGHT was 14th; BIGTIME! was 45th. Former Harmonizers who had qualified to sing in the quartet contest: Will Daniel Mudd-Simmons came in 28th place in 65 SOUTH; Mike Louque came in 29th in SKYLINE; and Harold Nantz came in 35th in ATTRACTION.
The quartet contest was won by CROSSROADS with Fred Farrell, Michael Slamka, Brandon Guyton and Jim Henry who is also director of the Ambassadors. (All four of these guys already have a gold medal from other quartets. Brandon was our retreat coach a few years ago.)
1. CROSSROADS
2. OLD SCHOOL - representing our Mid-Atlantic District
3. STORM FRONT
4. RING MASTERS from Sweden and STATE LINE GROCERY quartet with Tim Brooks as lead (he was at our send off) tied for fourth.
At this rehearsal session, Phil Ashford shared his moving story of romance built around life in our chapter. The Dream session and closed eye drill followed.
Thursday afternoon the guys came to work some more. Steve Jamison, arranger for “Clap Yo Hands” stopped in to say hi, have a listen. He was proud of how we were presenting his arrangement. Rik Johnson, a judge and coach we met at Southern Division back in May in Virginia, came over to offer some ideas of things for Joe and the guys to work on. Bill Colosimo brought greetings from the DC Chapter.
While Rik was talking to Joe out in the hall, we planned our usual surprise on the director. This year when we sang the ballad the first time, no one made a sound except Ken White who sang from the Broadway show opener. But there was to be more. When we sang the uptune the last time in this work session, the guys pulled out kazoos and did the song. Poor Joe is always so shocked when these gags happen and then this year he got hit twice. He is a great sport and it was another in a long line of chapter tradition.
Pete Frank told his scenario story of romance and that his Dream is going to take him to Erie, PA, and this was his last time to sing with us. We will all miss him! His story was followed by one more Dream session and closed eye drill.
To wrap up this session, we cheered for the M-AD collegiate quartet, NEXT STOP, who
came over to sing for us before they had to compete on Saturday morning. They ended up
17th place in the contest.
Friday started early for all of the Harmonizer family as it was the our annual Togetherness Breakfast. Guys were up early for coffee in the lobby in their teal shirts and casual uniform. Families and friends all joined too. Guests included district officials (mostly all our own guys), Tom Gentry, arranger of the Peter Pan medley; Steve Jamison and his wife; Steve Tramack and his wife; the original Joe Cerutti, Joe’s Dad; Ray Johnson from the Masters, Cindy Hansen and her husband; and BHS executive vice president Alan Lamson and his wife.
President Brad Jones was emcee. He pointed out that the trophy from the Masters was engraved – The Dream is Carried On. How appropriate for us. Our FRIENDS in HARMONY group had decorated the tables with Dream Catchers. They also presented each singer with a small Dream Catcher to carry on stage. Ina Berky, Tom’s wife, spoke on behalf of the FRIENDS and did a great job in offering motivation and support from them.
The program included remarks from Phil Ferguson who was president of the Class of 2009 that included Tom Hutton, Bob Mattes, Ryan Griffith, Josh Roots, Drew Dias, Edris Qarghah, Kellen Hertz, and Frank Fedarko. There was a bandana check at the breakfast and then, as tradition dictates, they were allowed to discard them before going on stage. Phil shared that their class would be proud to carry on the dream of the chapter.
Next was Ian Poulin who spoke about the generations of barbershopping in the chapter and his urge to join us so he could sing from the heart and not just for score or points. He called it heart-to-heart singing.
Gerry Levine also spoke about how he found us and why the experience of so many years has meant so much to him.
Cindy Hansen spoke of how the chorus had developed, how they were so willing to share their Dreams and how they had helped her with her Dream of better health and courage. She said, “You have made me happy!”
Director Joe was the last speaker and he extended his appreciation to all the admin and musical leaders who helped get us to this new level in our chapter growth. He shared a great story to show how what we do as an individual is so important to the whole; and how our attitude and work ethic make a big difference.
All of the speakers were terrific and you would have figured they had planned together what to say – all related to the task at hand of preparing the chorus for its appearance on stage in a few hours.
The Harmonizers sang 12th in the Friday morning session. There was an evening session too. The Harmo fans were excited and started a clapping routine way before the emcee mentioned the chapter. We kept applauding and the crowd joined us in screaming and welcoming the chorus to the stage. Dixie Kennett was backstage calling the video cues for our chorus and she had previously chosen the background lighting that brightened up the stage for us.
And take the stage they did!!! Just as they were trained. And as many, many folks told us, like the Harmonizers of the past. We were all proud. And then to ice the cake, the audience jumped to their feet for a Standing O. (And it was not our own family and friends, it was the folks in the hi priced seats up front who were on their feet first!)
Immediately after they left the stage, Joe and Terry were interviewed for the Internet audience. Accolades have come to the chapter including a nice note from former director Scott Werner with congrats for a job well done.
General news about the convention would include a report of how we were bussed from the hotel to the Honda Center for all contest sessions. Some guys had cars and that made life a little easier, but the bussing operation was handled well. Our hotel, the Hilton, was just across the street from the Marriott (where we stayed 10 years ago when we were doing our swan-song year and performed 7 shows in one week including one with Dick Van Dyke at Disneyland) and across the parking lot from the Sheritan where Keith Jones had organized the terrific Togetherness breakfast. There were a lot of guys at Disneyland on Tuesday and again on Sunday.
The Harmo Hideaway was fun, had a great view especially at nite when the Disneyland fireworks show was going on, and was stocked well with things cold to drink and goodies to eat. Bill Stewart and Dennis Ritchey and their family members were hosts.
As is the tradition, many former members, families and friends stopped in to get a sneak preview of the chorus package and to lend their support. Chuck Hunter’s parents were there, as was Eric’s Dad, Mike Wallen; and Tony’s Dad, Bill Colosimo; and Joe’s Dad, Joe Sr. There was a continual group of family member in the room all week.
Harmonizers were everywhere all week. Alan Wile and Chris Buechler attended the BHS board meeting on Tuesday. Harmonizer family members were on the judging panels too – Dwain Chambers was chair; Mike Louque was presentation judge for chorus contest; coach Kirk Young was a music judge for quartet and chorus contest; and Chuck Harner was administrator for the collegiate quartet contest early Saturday morning.
As chair of the Society chorus director development committee, Joe was on stage to present a major BHS award during the chorus contest – the Joe Liles Lifetime Achievement Award to R. D. Mathey. Mathey was a choral director at Bowling Green State University in Ohio and has introduced barbershop quartet singing to his students for years. Terry Reynolds is a grad of that program (and Ye Ed thinks there may be another Harmonizer or two from there.).
The Masters of Harmony did their swan song performance at the end of the chorus contest, while judges were adding up the scores. During that time they sang a special song and used audio visual to honor Society icons. They included several folks close to the Harmonizers – two of our own, Wilbur Sparks and Bud Arberg; plus Fred King, Joe Liles, Cindy Hansen, David Wright and Ed Waesche.
Another big event on Saturday afternoon was the Harmony Foundation show. Wow! It included the VM, Ambassadors, Masters, a gold medal Sweet Adeline chorus Harbor Lites, and quartets VOCAL SPECTRUM, OC TIMES, MAX Q. The finale included the 400 plus chorus singers on risers set up on the floor in front of the stage (too much weight for that stage) with the quartets at mics on the stage. The huge chorus sang “Let There Be Peace On Earth” and the quartets sang “One Voice” with them. No dry eyes in the house after that!
In an attempt to continue the tradition Wilbur Sparks used to do in The Echo, here is a list of Harmonizers, past and present, we saw in Anaheim who were not in the 2009 chorus: Tim Emery who came in from San Diego on Friday, got to a rehearsal and bought a ticket to be in the hall to see the chorus sing. John Rettenmeyer, Ben Luttge, Bill Ward from FL, Dennis Malone, Jack Stevens, Larry Deters, Ross Johnson, Lynn Hineman, John Hohl, JT Price, Lew Klinge, Ron Rich, Joe Kane, Dave Binetti, Ray Johnson, Bill Power, Ron Rogers, Darryl Flinn, Terry Traylor, Jim Pyle, Bob Hirsh, Gary Smith, Keith Jones, Dick Newton.
Speaking of Dick Newton, he stepped in to be our convention week chairman when Carl Kauffman had to have his operation in the spring. He was great and really make it a smooth week for all. He and his team also made sure the new guys knew what to expect and met with them several times to keep them in the loop. Others helping Dick that are not mentioned in the article earlier are Bob Rhome who tackled the huge task of housing and registration for our large contingent, Mark Klostermeyer who is the chorus manager/traffic control officer for the week; Dixie Kennett and Chris Buechler also prepared the convention handbook that goes to each Harmonizer; Bob Blair handled transportation; and Jack Cameron handled chorus photos.
Ye Ed heard from a few guys about their trip and experiences. Sounds like John Pence just made it after a frightening ride in a shuttle bus. When the driver got back on the road and finally stopped, all the passengers got out and ran!
And this in from Dick Dangel: “Boy, based on my experience, I plan to take my new cane to the next International. It was unbelievable being whisked thru security without trauma, no waiting on lines, going on the bus first, all the sympathy and empathy. Anyhow, at the airport we had a VM guy come up and tell us we had a terrific performance and we paid him the same compliment. My survey of the Ambassadors we met in our hotel leads me to the conclusion that none live in St. Charles. A number of them drive 1.5 hrs to rehearsal. I gained 6 pounds trying to get my money’s worth from those $21 bufffets”
.
For sure it was a great week. Until next time – editorjack!
(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record of the great things going on each week with the Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter. —Ye Ed.)
What a week for the Harmonizers! The 71st International Convention in Anaheim was another important milestone in Harmonizer history.
The chorus earned 2647 points in the contest (88.2%) and ranked 9th. We had 81 singers on stage. More points that 2008 but slipped one notch, but it is great to still be in the TOP TEN. Just wait til we add 20 or 30 more by next year.
Of course, the tough chorus competition at the medalist level was the big news. The upset victory by the Ambassadors of Harmony from St. Charles, (St. Louis) MO was the talk of the town. Dallas Vocal Majority earned a record score when they sang Friday morning only to have that record broken a few hours later when the Ambassadors overwhelmed the audience with a “76 Trombones” uptune complete with a surprise costume change into flashy band uniforms with feather topped hats! Our retreat coach David Wright was on stage with them.
1. St. Charles Ambassadors – 2926, 158 men
2. Dallas Vocal Majority – 2889, 142 men
3. Hilltop, MN – 2764, 86 men
4. Denver Mile High – 2744, 117 men
5. Toronto Northern Lights – 2706, 39 men
Other chorus rankings of interest include Alliance from Ohio in 6th place, new young-guy chorus from Stockholm, Sweden, zero8, in 7th; New Zealand chorus in 10th; Cincinnati in 11th; Atlanta in 12th, Greendale Midwest Vocal Express (the fish bowl guys) in 14th; Northbrook in 15th. Jordan Haedtler, one of our regular Harmonizer guests when he is on campus in DC, sang with Greg Lyne’s chorus, Voices of Harmony, who were 8th.
Our chorus had a busy rehearsal schedule starting Tuesday evening. Each session was just two hours. It is always a great feeling to see everyone who has arrived and gathered for the first time at contest. Tuesday nite was also the first chance for guys to see the new benches made by Dennis Ritchey and shipped to CA. The benches had a new color panel underneath to add some color and support when guys stood on them!
Kyle Blomgren welcomed his fellow chorus members to CA and his old stomping grounds on Tuesday nite. Gary Plaag and Tony Colosimo did warm ups. K12 shifted and coached the guys into windows. Director Joe expressed his sincere thanks to the guys for being there and making it to CA after so many weeks of work.
Then our coach Cindy Hansen spent time with the chorus mostly encouraging and building confidence in the ability to do the job at hand. She asked the men to dig deep into their emotions for the ballad.
Keith Jones shared his emotional story of trying his best to qualify and yet he did not pass the test. Then he gave his previously earned gold medal to 2009 class president Phil Ferguson to take on stage.
Continuing the scenario development work that had begun back in Alexandria, Bob Wachter gave his story of new love and romance and how it compared to the ballad. Joe followed that with the closed eye drill and then a final run of the set.
Before he let the men go to bed, Joe asked each one to pick up a piece of the cream colored paper and an envelope in the back of the rehearsal room. Each man was to come to the Wednesday morning rehearsal having written his Dream that he sings about in the ballad on that paper. They each sealed their envelopes and carried them all week.
The second rehearsal was Wednesday morning. The front row worked out more. Coach Steve Tramack was on hand to cheer for us. The usual work ethic continued. Phil Ferguson did the scenario story before the closed eye drill. Joe had each man hold his Dream envelope during the drill.
Wednesday afternoon was the third rehearsal with more of the same including a scenario story from Terry Reynolds and the Dream envelopes for the closed eye drill. Surprise guests at this session were Geri and Royal Geis. Joe invited her to say hello and she wished the gang the best. She was in town to help Northbrook.
Thursday morning session included some warning about the huge camera that sweeps across the stage and shows your face on the screen during a song. (Some of our men were featured with great looks during our time on stage.) Two former members, Ray Johnson and Bill Power, who sing with last year’s chorus champs, Masters of Harmony in CA, stopped in to present the chapter with a memento from their chorus to ours.
Ken White announced our congrats to the chapter quartet guys for their accomplishments in the quartet contest on Wednesday. Our chapter quartets fought through the tough competition: CRUNCH TIME (with Eric Wallen) was 25th and FULL TILT (with Ed Cazenas, Nick Aiuto, Pete Frank, Steve White) was 35th.
Other district quartets: ‘ROUND MIDNIGHT was 14th; BIGTIME! was 45th. Former Harmonizers who had qualified to sing in the quartet contest: Will Daniel Mudd-Simmons came in 28th place in 65 SOUTH; Mike Louque came in 29th in SKYLINE; and Harold Nantz came in 35th in ATTRACTION.
The quartet contest was won by CROSSROADS with Fred Farrell, Michael Slamka, Brandon Guyton and Jim Henry who is also director of the Ambassadors. (All four of these guys already have a gold medal from other quartets. Brandon was our retreat coach a few years ago.)
1. CROSSROADS
2. OLD SCHOOL - representing our Mid-Atlantic District
3. STORM FRONT
4. RING MASTERS from Sweden and STATE LINE GROCERY quartet with Tim Brooks as lead (he was at our send off) tied for fourth.
At this rehearsal session, Phil Ashford shared his moving story of romance built around life in our chapter. The Dream session and closed eye drill followed.
Thursday afternoon the guys came to work some more. Steve Jamison, arranger for “Clap Yo Hands” stopped in to say hi, have a listen. He was proud of how we were presenting his arrangement. Rik Johnson, a judge and coach we met at Southern Division back in May in Virginia, came over to offer some ideas of things for Joe and the guys to work on. Bill Colosimo brought greetings from the DC Chapter.
While Rik was talking to Joe out in the hall, we planned our usual surprise on the director. This year when we sang the ballad the first time, no one made a sound except Ken White who sang from the Broadway show opener. But there was to be more. When we sang the uptune the last time in this work session, the guys pulled out kazoos and did the song. Poor Joe is always so shocked when these gags happen and then this year he got hit twice. He is a great sport and it was another in a long line of chapter tradition.
Pete Frank told his scenario story of romance and that his Dream is going to take him to Erie, PA, and this was his last time to sing with us. We will all miss him! His story was followed by one more Dream session and closed eye drill.
To wrap up this session, we cheered for the M-AD collegiate quartet, NEXT STOP, who
came over to sing for us before they had to compete on Saturday morning. They ended up
17th place in the contest.
Friday started early for all of the Harmonizer family as it was the our annual Togetherness Breakfast. Guys were up early for coffee in the lobby in their teal shirts and casual uniform. Families and friends all joined too. Guests included district officials (mostly all our own guys), Tom Gentry, arranger of the Peter Pan medley; Steve Jamison and his wife; Steve Tramack and his wife; the original Joe Cerutti, Joe’s Dad; Ray Johnson from the Masters, Cindy Hansen and her husband; and BHS executive vice president Alan Lamson and his wife.
President Brad Jones was emcee. He pointed out that the trophy from the Masters was engraved – The Dream is Carried On. How appropriate for us. Our FRIENDS in HARMONY group had decorated the tables with Dream Catchers. They also presented each singer with a small Dream Catcher to carry on stage. Ina Berky, Tom’s wife, spoke on behalf of the FRIENDS and did a great job in offering motivation and support from them.
The program included remarks from Phil Ferguson who was president of the Class of 2009 that included Tom Hutton, Bob Mattes, Ryan Griffith, Josh Roots, Drew Dias, Edris Qarghah, Kellen Hertz, and Frank Fedarko. There was a bandana check at the breakfast and then, as tradition dictates, they were allowed to discard them before going on stage. Phil shared that their class would be proud to carry on the dream of the chapter.
Next was Ian Poulin who spoke about the generations of barbershopping in the chapter and his urge to join us so he could sing from the heart and not just for score or points. He called it heart-to-heart singing.
Gerry Levine also spoke about how he found us and why the experience of so many years has meant so much to him.
Cindy Hansen spoke of how the chorus had developed, how they were so willing to share their Dreams and how they had helped her with her Dream of better health and courage. She said, “You have made me happy!”
Director Joe was the last speaker and he extended his appreciation to all the admin and musical leaders who helped get us to this new level in our chapter growth. He shared a great story to show how what we do as an individual is so important to the whole; and how our attitude and work ethic make a big difference.
All of the speakers were terrific and you would have figured they had planned together what to say – all related to the task at hand of preparing the chorus for its appearance on stage in a few hours.
The Harmonizers sang 12th in the Friday morning session. There was an evening session too. The Harmo fans were excited and started a clapping routine way before the emcee mentioned the chapter. We kept applauding and the crowd joined us in screaming and welcoming the chorus to the stage. Dixie Kennett was backstage calling the video cues for our chorus and she had previously chosen the background lighting that brightened up the stage for us.
And take the stage they did!!! Just as they were trained. And as many, many folks told us, like the Harmonizers of the past. We were all proud. And then to ice the cake, the audience jumped to their feet for a Standing O. (And it was not our own family and friends, it was the folks in the hi priced seats up front who were on their feet first!)
Immediately after they left the stage, Joe and Terry were interviewed for the Internet audience. Accolades have come to the chapter including a nice note from former director Scott Werner with congrats for a job well done.
General news about the convention would include a report of how we were bussed from the hotel to the Honda Center for all contest sessions. Some guys had cars and that made life a little easier, but the bussing operation was handled well. Our hotel, the Hilton, was just across the street from the Marriott (where we stayed 10 years ago when we were doing our swan-song year and performed 7 shows in one week including one with Dick Van Dyke at Disneyland) and across the parking lot from the Sheritan where Keith Jones had organized the terrific Togetherness breakfast. There were a lot of guys at Disneyland on Tuesday and again on Sunday.
The Harmo Hideaway was fun, had a great view especially at nite when the Disneyland fireworks show was going on, and was stocked well with things cold to drink and goodies to eat. Bill Stewart and Dennis Ritchey and their family members were hosts.
As is the tradition, many former members, families and friends stopped in to get a sneak preview of the chorus package and to lend their support. Chuck Hunter’s parents were there, as was Eric’s Dad, Mike Wallen; and Tony’s Dad, Bill Colosimo; and Joe’s Dad, Joe Sr. There was a continual group of family member in the room all week.
Harmonizers were everywhere all week. Alan Wile and Chris Buechler attended the BHS board meeting on Tuesday. Harmonizer family members were on the judging panels too – Dwain Chambers was chair; Mike Louque was presentation judge for chorus contest; coach Kirk Young was a music judge for quartet and chorus contest; and Chuck Harner was administrator for the collegiate quartet contest early Saturday morning.
As chair of the Society chorus director development committee, Joe was on stage to present a major BHS award during the chorus contest – the Joe Liles Lifetime Achievement Award to R. D. Mathey. Mathey was a choral director at Bowling Green State University in Ohio and has introduced barbershop quartet singing to his students for years. Terry Reynolds is a grad of that program (and Ye Ed thinks there may be another Harmonizer or two from there.).
The Masters of Harmony did their swan song performance at the end of the chorus contest, while judges were adding up the scores. During that time they sang a special song and used audio visual to honor Society icons. They included several folks close to the Harmonizers – two of our own, Wilbur Sparks and Bud Arberg; plus Fred King, Joe Liles, Cindy Hansen, David Wright and Ed Waesche.
Another big event on Saturday afternoon was the Harmony Foundation show. Wow! It included the VM, Ambassadors, Masters, a gold medal Sweet Adeline chorus Harbor Lites, and quartets VOCAL SPECTRUM, OC TIMES, MAX Q. The finale included the 400 plus chorus singers on risers set up on the floor in front of the stage (too much weight for that stage) with the quartets at mics on the stage. The huge chorus sang “Let There Be Peace On Earth” and the quartets sang “One Voice” with them. No dry eyes in the house after that!
In an attempt to continue the tradition Wilbur Sparks used to do in The Echo, here is a list of Harmonizers, past and present, we saw in Anaheim who were not in the 2009 chorus: Tim Emery who came in from San Diego on Friday, got to a rehearsal and bought a ticket to be in the hall to see the chorus sing. John Rettenmeyer, Ben Luttge, Bill Ward from FL, Dennis Malone, Jack Stevens, Larry Deters, Ross Johnson, Lynn Hineman, John Hohl, JT Price, Lew Klinge, Ron Rich, Joe Kane, Dave Binetti, Ray Johnson, Bill Power, Ron Rogers, Darryl Flinn, Terry Traylor, Jim Pyle, Bob Hirsh, Gary Smith, Keith Jones, Dick Newton.
Speaking of Dick Newton, he stepped in to be our convention week chairman when Carl Kauffman had to have his operation in the spring. He was great and really make it a smooth week for all. He and his team also made sure the new guys knew what to expect and met with them several times to keep them in the loop. Others helping Dick that are not mentioned in the article earlier are Bob Rhome who tackled the huge task of housing and registration for our large contingent, Mark Klostermeyer who is the chorus manager/traffic control officer for the week; Dixie Kennett and Chris Buechler also prepared the convention handbook that goes to each Harmonizer; Bob Blair handled transportation; and Jack Cameron handled chorus photos.
Ye Ed heard from a few guys about their trip and experiences. Sounds like John Pence just made it after a frightening ride in a shuttle bus. When the driver got back on the road and finally stopped, all the passengers got out and ran!
And this in from Dick Dangel: “Boy, based on my experience, I plan to take my new cane to the next International. It was unbelievable being whisked thru security without trauma, no waiting on lines, going on the bus first, all the sympathy and empathy. Anyhow, at the airport we had a VM guy come up and tell us we had a terrific performance and we paid him the same compliment. My survey of the Ambassadors we met in our hotel leads me to the conclusion that none live in St. Charles. A number of them drive 1.5 hrs to rehearsal. I gained 6 pounds trying to get my money’s worth from those $21 bufffets”
.
For sure it was a great week. Until next time – editorjack!
Thursday, July 9, 2009
Looking Back on July 7th Chapter Meeting – Hospital Sing
Looking Back on July 7th Chapter Meeting – 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.)
This was our annual sing out at the Alexandria Hospital – sort of like Christmas caroling in July. We have done it for many years on this week after International convention, since many guys are still on vacation. And we also know that the hospital likes us to do it in July since so many people sing during the winter holiday season.
Ye Ed did not make it this time, but Alan Wile reports to me via phone that there were about 20 folks there. Director Joe, Will Cox, Tony Colosimo and Bob Wachter shared the arm waving duties.
The chorus sang three songs at each of about 8 stations throughout the hospital on Seminary Road.
No official business matters were conducted.
Until next time – editorjack!
(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record of the great things going on each week at an Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter meeting. —Ye Ed.)
This was our annual sing out at the Alexandria Hospital – sort of like Christmas caroling in July. We have done it for many years on this week after International convention, since many guys are still on vacation. And we also know that the hospital likes us to do it in July since so many people sing during the winter holiday season.
Ye Ed did not make it this time, but Alan Wile reports to me via phone that there were about 20 folks there. Director Joe, Will Cox, Tony Colosimo and Bob Wachter shared the arm waving duties.
The chorus sang three songs at each of about 8 stations throughout the hospital on Seminary Road.
No official business matters were conducted.
Until next time – editorjack!
Tuesday, July 7, 2009
Looking Back on Extra Rehearsal June 25th
Looking Back on Extra Rehearsal June 25th
(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 chorus met in the school adjoining Durant, Jeff Houston, on Thurs. for an extra rehearsal in prep for the International chorus competition in Anaheim.
There was a good turn out but it was really hot in the hall -- not just from the great music, and big crowd on the risers, but from summer's heat and humidity.
When Ye Ed arrived about 9:15 (after another meeting) I found them reviewing video of their Tues nite work and then comparing their work with some gold medalists in previous Internationals. Director Joe was enthusiastic with the nite's work ethic by the chorus.
The meeting of course concentrated on contest sets over and over. New benches used for "Clap Yo Hands" were shipped to CA so the front row used the old ones for the nite's work out.
Another news item to report from the nite was word from Director Joe that he had been named new director of the Pride of Baltimore Sweet Adeline Intl. Chorus. Congrats! Great to have him working with two great choruses in the metro area.
Until next time - editorjack!
(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record of the great things going on each week at an Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter meeting. —Ye Ed.)
The chorus met in the school adjoining Durant, Jeff Houston, on Thurs. for an extra rehearsal in prep for the International chorus competition in Anaheim.
There was a good turn out but it was really hot in the hall -- not just from the great music, and big crowd on the risers, but from summer's heat and humidity.
When Ye Ed arrived about 9:15 (after another meeting) I found them reviewing video of their Tues nite work and then comparing their work with some gold medalists in previous Internationals. Director Joe was enthusiastic with the nite's work ethic by the chorus.
The meeting of course concentrated on contest sets over and over. New benches used for "Clap Yo Hands" were shipped to CA so the front row used the old ones for the nite's work out.
Another news item to report from the nite was word from Director Joe that he had been named new director of the Pride of Baltimore Sweet Adeline Intl. Chorus. Congrats! Great to have him working with two great choruses in the metro area.
Until next time - editorjack!
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Looking Back on International Sendoff Chapter Meeting June 23rd, 2009
Looking Back on International Sendoff Chapter Meeting June 23rd, 2009
(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record of the great things going on each week at an Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter meeting. —Ye Ed.)
This year’s International send off was held at Durant on Tuesday nite. The crowd grew to over 270 and we used every chair we could find in the Rec Center.
There were 29 guys who came up from the Richmond Chapter. There were also guys there from the DC Chapter, Dundalk Chapter and a few individuals from other chapters around the area.
Ye Ed counted 35 former or current members in the audience in addition to the nearly 80 guys on the risers. The room was hot enough during this summer season, but the huge crowd warmed up the hall.
The Harmonizers really can turn on the charm with a crowd is cheering and screaming.
Musically there was the usual warm up and then exercises to recapture lessons and instructions from last week. Director Joe took the chorus thru the songs and then sets of the contest package. Then the chorus went out into the lobby to prepare for a contest entrance and performance for the audience.
Terry Jordan did the announcer duties and the chorus did their set. The audience responded with a Standing O.
The chapter was honored to have three judges observe the performance – Steve Tramack from NH and former member or our chapter, Tim Brooks from Georgia and lead in a medalist quartet competing in Anaheim, STATE LINE GROCERY, and Gary Plaag.
The chorus took a break and the audience was invited to enjoy a spread of refreshments provided by the Jordans. After the break, the judges gave comments to the chorus (and the audience could hear them too).
Joe also expressed his thank you to a long list of administrative, musical and motivational leaders. The chapter’s FRIENDS OF HARMONY gave the chapter a monetary guift as well as checks to our two quartets going to Anaheim, FULL TILT and CRUNCH TIME. Representatives of the Dundalk Chapter and the Potomac Harmony Sweet Adeline Chapter also presented gifts to President Brad Jones wishing the chorus well in competition.
Announcement included the distribution of convention packets by Bob Rhome (the actual books were prepared by Dixie Kennett with help from Chris Buechler).
Secretary Chris gave membership renewal cards to Craig Kujawa for 6 years and Ken Rub for 18 years. New members were introduced – Kellen Hertz, Edris Qarghah, Frank Fedarko and Phil Ashford (reinstated in chapter after 25 year absence). They are all going to Anaheim too.
Ye Ed asked for anyone going to Anaheim to send him stories or info or details about the week to use in prep of the next Looking Back column. Get them to him by Thurs. July 9th via email. Thanks.
The evening ended with Tom Kraus doing a personal story of young romance that fits the scenario we have for the ballad. Then the chorus did one of its closed eye drills. And ended with another run thru of the whole set.
The hall was emptied about 10:20 and the truck loaded so we could set up for the extra rehearsal on Thurs nite June 25th in the school next door.
For those who need a reminder, the first rehearsal in Anaheim is Tues evening, June 30th, 7 – 8:30 pm in the Marriott – Marquis North (note that is not our hotel – and note the various locations of our rehearsals all week in CA).
Until next time – editorjack!
(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record of the great things going on each week at an Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter meeting. —Ye Ed.)
This year’s International send off was held at Durant on Tuesday nite. The crowd grew to over 270 and we used every chair we could find in the Rec Center.
There were 29 guys who came up from the Richmond Chapter. There were also guys there from the DC Chapter, Dundalk Chapter and a few individuals from other chapters around the area.
Ye Ed counted 35 former or current members in the audience in addition to the nearly 80 guys on the risers. The room was hot enough during this summer season, but the huge crowd warmed up the hall.
The Harmonizers really can turn on the charm with a crowd is cheering and screaming.
Musically there was the usual warm up and then exercises to recapture lessons and instructions from last week. Director Joe took the chorus thru the songs and then sets of the contest package. Then the chorus went out into the lobby to prepare for a contest entrance and performance for the audience.
Terry Jordan did the announcer duties and the chorus did their set. The audience responded with a Standing O.
The chapter was honored to have three judges observe the performance – Steve Tramack from NH and former member or our chapter, Tim Brooks from Georgia and lead in a medalist quartet competing in Anaheim, STATE LINE GROCERY, and Gary Plaag.
The chorus took a break and the audience was invited to enjoy a spread of refreshments provided by the Jordans. After the break, the judges gave comments to the chorus (and the audience could hear them too).
Joe also expressed his thank you to a long list of administrative, musical and motivational leaders. The chapter’s FRIENDS OF HARMONY gave the chapter a monetary guift as well as checks to our two quartets going to Anaheim, FULL TILT and CRUNCH TIME. Representatives of the Dundalk Chapter and the Potomac Harmony Sweet Adeline Chapter also presented gifts to President Brad Jones wishing the chorus well in competition.
Announcement included the distribution of convention packets by Bob Rhome (the actual books were prepared by Dixie Kennett with help from Chris Buechler).
Secretary Chris gave membership renewal cards to Craig Kujawa for 6 years and Ken Rub for 18 years. New members were introduced – Kellen Hertz, Edris Qarghah, Frank Fedarko and Phil Ashford (reinstated in chapter after 25 year absence). They are all going to Anaheim too.
Ye Ed asked for anyone going to Anaheim to send him stories or info or details about the week to use in prep of the next Looking Back column. Get them to him by Thurs. July 9th via email. Thanks.
The evening ended with Tom Kraus doing a personal story of young romance that fits the scenario we have for the ballad. Then the chorus did one of its closed eye drills. And ended with another run thru of the whole set.
The hall was emptied about 10:20 and the truck loaded so we could set up for the extra rehearsal on Thurs nite June 25th in the school next door.
For those who need a reminder, the first rehearsal in Anaheim is Tues evening, June 30th, 7 – 8:30 pm in the Marriott – Marquis North (note that is not our hotel – and note the various locations of our rehearsals all week in CA).
Until next time – editorjack!
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Looking Back on Harmonizer Activity at Harmony College East, June 2009
Looking Back on Harmonizer Activity at Harmony College East, June 2009
(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 with the Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter members. —Ye Ed.)
Here is a wrap up of Harmonizer activity at the Harmony College East (HCE) event in Salisbury, MD, June 18-21, 2009. The weekend also included the Mid Atlantic District Youth Camp. (We are part of the Mid Atlantic District – one of 16 in the Society. As a sub part of that district, we are part of the Southern Division.)
Harmony College East gets it name from the Society-wide Harmony University that used to be called Harmony College. And because the M-AD weekend school has always been darn near as good as HU, they just added the “EAST” to the name. It is a weekend of coaching for quartets and choruses who sign up; and a weekend of classes for any member who registers or director or coach or judge who registers. The faculty is huge and is brought in from all over the nation to provide education, coaching and training for our district’s ensembles.
Our own Gary Plaag, who is M-AD president now, and his staff conducted the weekend school. Bill Colosimo is music vp for M-AD. The deans for the school were Ron Knickerbocker and Scott Ward.
This report was prepared by Terry Jordan, Alan Wile, Bob Eckman from our chapter, and Jere Richardson, district vp for the southern division.
Thursday, June 18, 2009. With Alan Wile behind the wheel and Bob, Terry, and Jere on board, we headed off to HCE at Salisbury University in Salisbury Maryland. After arrival and checking in to our dorm rooms it was time to go out for supper. We stopped at an Italian place and it was very good. Then it was back to campus for the Thursday evening short courses such as tag singing, quartetting as a business or sight singing. Afterwards we hung out in the staff/faculty lounge until after midnight.
Friday, June 19, 2009. Breakfast was in the campus dinning hall – which is not your average state school eatery. It was a really a huge room with many stations of food at each meal.
For class time, you chose either half day sessions or all day sessions for individuals. A sample of some of the classes you could take include emceeing, Tune It or Die!, marketing your quartet or chorus, or a beginning arranging class.
Choruses and quartets were in coaching sessions all day Friday and Saturday with two to four coaching sessions each day from different coaches. The youth quartets, boys and girls, were also being coached all day on Friday and Saturday. Lunch and supper each day in the dinning hall was really something – ask anyone of our guys about this eating experience.
Friday evening’s show featured performances by some of the men’s quartets, some of the youth quartets, and the chorus that was coached on Friday. Then it was time to relax; sing around the campus open spaces, in the rooms, in the lounge. Or for some it was time for bed.
Saturday, June 20, 2009. Breakfast, class or coaching, lunch, class or coaching, supper, and then another even better show Saturday evening with the rest of the men’s quartets, the rest of the youth quartets, the choruses that were coached on Saturday, and SURPRISE, BIG TIME, CRUNCH TIME, FULL TILT and OLD SCHOOL quaretets. (These quartets are all headed to the International quartet contest in Anaheim and were given top level coaching in preparation for that contest.) Plus, the “boys” chorus, the “girls” chorus and the combined youth chorus. And then more singing and relaxing. The Harmony Heritage Singers, our friends in the neighboring Mount Vernon Chapter and directed by Bob Wachter and Chris Buechler, attend HCE about every third year and they host an afterglow. The youth also have their own special afterglow in their dorm
Youth: Joe Cerutti was in charge of the HCE youth program throughout the entire weekend as the M-A District Vice President for Youth in Harmony. This year there were 50 youth involved in the weekend including seven girls quartets, four boys quartets. The faculty coaches for the youth included several Harmonizers.
Alan Wile and Howard Fetterolf (two of our past district presidents) kept busy both days from the start of breakfast until the end of supper hours selling “opportunity tickets.” Saturday evening near the end of the show tickets were drawn to win various opportunity prizes, the # 1 being a paid registration for HCE next year. The $1500 earned this year was used to support the Youth Camp program.
Sunday, June 21, 2009. Get up, check out, stop somewhere for breakfast, and hit the road for home. Most of the attendees were home by noon Father’s Day.
This year we counted 38 Harmonizers and former Harmonizers, and three Harmonizer family members also. Those we saw:
Nick Aiuto Jerry Kindred
Martin Banks Mike Louque
Chris Buechler Lou Manfre
Eddie Cazenas Bob Mattes
Joe Cerutti Bruce Minnick
Tony Colosimo Howard Nestlerode
Bob Eckman Rob Nutt
Mike Everard Gary Plaag
Darryl Flinn JT Price
Pete Frank Joe Sawyer
Scipio Garling Jim Stockton
Paul Greiner Rick Taylor
Ryan Griffith Bob Wachter
Paul Grimes Eric Wallen
Chuck Harner Mike Wallen
Bob Hirsh Steve White
Keith Jones Alan Wile
Terry Jordan Glenn Williamson
Mike Kelly Bob Wilson
And Nancy Banks, Tony Colosimo’s dad Bill, and Craig Odell’s daughter Erin.
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 with the Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter members. —Ye Ed.)
Here is a wrap up of Harmonizer activity at the Harmony College East (HCE) event in Salisbury, MD, June 18-21, 2009. The weekend also included the Mid Atlantic District Youth Camp. (We are part of the Mid Atlantic District – one of 16 in the Society. As a sub part of that district, we are part of the Southern Division.)
Harmony College East gets it name from the Society-wide Harmony University that used to be called Harmony College. And because the M-AD weekend school has always been darn near as good as HU, they just added the “EAST” to the name. It is a weekend of coaching for quartets and choruses who sign up; and a weekend of classes for any member who registers or director or coach or judge who registers. The faculty is huge and is brought in from all over the nation to provide education, coaching and training for our district’s ensembles.
Our own Gary Plaag, who is M-AD president now, and his staff conducted the weekend school. Bill Colosimo is music vp for M-AD. The deans for the school were Ron Knickerbocker and Scott Ward.
This report was prepared by Terry Jordan, Alan Wile, Bob Eckman from our chapter, and Jere Richardson, district vp for the southern division.
Thursday, June 18, 2009. With Alan Wile behind the wheel and Bob, Terry, and Jere on board, we headed off to HCE at Salisbury University in Salisbury Maryland. After arrival and checking in to our dorm rooms it was time to go out for supper. We stopped at an Italian place and it was very good. Then it was back to campus for the Thursday evening short courses such as tag singing, quartetting as a business or sight singing. Afterwards we hung out in the staff/faculty lounge until after midnight.
Friday, June 19, 2009. Breakfast was in the campus dinning hall – which is not your average state school eatery. It was a really a huge room with many stations of food at each meal.
For class time, you chose either half day sessions or all day sessions for individuals. A sample of some of the classes you could take include emceeing, Tune It or Die!, marketing your quartet or chorus, or a beginning arranging class.
Choruses and quartets were in coaching sessions all day Friday and Saturday with two to four coaching sessions each day from different coaches. The youth quartets, boys and girls, were also being coached all day on Friday and Saturday. Lunch and supper each day in the dinning hall was really something – ask anyone of our guys about this eating experience.
Friday evening’s show featured performances by some of the men’s quartets, some of the youth quartets, and the chorus that was coached on Friday. Then it was time to relax; sing around the campus open spaces, in the rooms, in the lounge. Or for some it was time for bed.
Saturday, June 20, 2009. Breakfast, class or coaching, lunch, class or coaching, supper, and then another even better show Saturday evening with the rest of the men’s quartets, the rest of the youth quartets, the choruses that were coached on Saturday, and SURPRISE, BIG TIME, CRUNCH TIME, FULL TILT and OLD SCHOOL quaretets. (These quartets are all headed to the International quartet contest in Anaheim and were given top level coaching in preparation for that contest.) Plus, the “boys” chorus, the “girls” chorus and the combined youth chorus. And then more singing and relaxing. The Harmony Heritage Singers, our friends in the neighboring Mount Vernon Chapter and directed by Bob Wachter and Chris Buechler, attend HCE about every third year and they host an afterglow. The youth also have their own special afterglow in their dorm
Youth: Joe Cerutti was in charge of the HCE youth program throughout the entire weekend as the M-A District Vice President for Youth in Harmony. This year there were 50 youth involved in the weekend including seven girls quartets, four boys quartets. The faculty coaches for the youth included several Harmonizers.
Alan Wile and Howard Fetterolf (two of our past district presidents) kept busy both days from the start of breakfast until the end of supper hours selling “opportunity tickets.” Saturday evening near the end of the show tickets were drawn to win various opportunity prizes, the # 1 being a paid registration for HCE next year. The $1500 earned this year was used to support the Youth Camp program.
Sunday, June 21, 2009. Get up, check out, stop somewhere for breakfast, and hit the road for home. Most of the attendees were home by noon Father’s Day.
This year we counted 38 Harmonizers and former Harmonizers, and three Harmonizer family members also. Those we saw:
Nick Aiuto Jerry Kindred
Martin Banks Mike Louque
Chris Buechler Lou Manfre
Eddie Cazenas Bob Mattes
Joe Cerutti Bruce Minnick
Tony Colosimo Howard Nestlerode
Bob Eckman Rob Nutt
Mike Everard Gary Plaag
Darryl Flinn JT Price
Pete Frank Joe Sawyer
Scipio Garling Jim Stockton
Paul Greiner Rick Taylor
Ryan Griffith Bob Wachter
Paul Grimes Eric Wallen
Chuck Harner Mike Wallen
Bob Hirsh Steve White
Keith Jones Alan Wile
Terry Jordan Glenn Williamson
Mike Kelly Bob Wilson
And Nancy Banks, Tony Colosimo’s dad Bill, and Craig Odell’s daughter Erin.
Until next time – editorjack!
Monday, June 22, 2009
Looking Back on June 16th Chapter Meeting
Looking Back on June 16th 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 thanks again to Jim Lucey for taking notes and writing up this week’s column.
The evening began with Dr. Will (“Hark”) Cox conducting the warm-up. Then it was time for our Director to get down to serious preparations for the International Chorus Contest.
Joe showed the video of last year’s contest performance of the up-tune at Nashville. He used the video to highlight areas which need improvement to move the performance to a higher level in the singing category. This included reminders to sustain the singing energy throughout the entire song; the need to maintain discipline and control and not over-sing even though the excitement is high; the need to sing through every phrase and not clip-off the word sounds until the very last beat of the measure(s); and the need for a sustained, smooth sound even while maintaining the up-tune rhythms.
It was then time for the chorus to “drill” the songs, including a Sectional session to clean-up selected areas of the song.
Our Presentation Team also spent time fine-tuning the choreography of the chorus to improve the collective synchronization of our moves.
During our Chapter Meeting time, Secretary Chris Buechler presented several membership renewal cards:
Ron Nelson 2 Years
Nick Murane 4 Years
Ian Poulin 6 Years
Tom Berkey 12 Years
Joe Sawyer 14 Years
Tony Colosimo 16 Years
Jim Lucey 21 Years
Bruce Lauther 23 Years
Chris Buechler 24 Years
Martin Banks 26 Years
Jeff Berman 27 Years
Congratulations to all and thanks for being a Harmonizer!
Scipio Garling stood in for our Membership VP and introduced five guests including former Harmonizer, Chris Yates.
K-12 reminded us that next week’s rehearsal is our annual International Send-Off Evening. The chorus will have a full dress rehearsal and mini-performance for our guests. Members are encouraged to invite all friends and family members to come and enjoy the Send-Off.
Music & Performance VP, Chuck Hunter announced the scholarship winners for this year’s BHS Harmony University in St. Joseph, MO:
Tony Colosimo: Directors College
Phil Ferguson: Harmony College
Noah Van Gilder: Harmony College
Edris Qarghah: Harmony College
Congratulations to all, and enjoy the ice cream!! (Jim knows that one of the fun things to do at Harmony U is gather around the ice cream place on campus, eat and eat and sing and sing.)
It was then time to return to the contest songs. Director Joe again started the coaching by showing video clips of two different choruses competing last year in Nashville. The videos clearly demonstrated the impact an energized and involved chorus makes to an audience and judges when they truly live the song they are singing. The chorus that shows facial involvement / natural body and head movements easily is more interesting and exciting than the one that simply stands still and sings. Joe emphasized to us all through these videos the need to have the whole body and face involved in the lyric message of the ballad.
We then began working the ballad to evoke the best music and emotion from the song. Dick Hall stood to tell his personal story of meeting his future wife, Carolyn,
in 1953 upon his return from eighteen months in Korea as a United States Marine. At the conclusion of his sharing his wonderful love story, Joe asked the chorus to sing our ballad to Carolyn Hall. The emotion from the chorus was truly overwhelming.
The evening concluded with a fond farewell to Ron and Ben Nelson who are moving to Washington State. Ron and Ben were seated in the “Chair(s)” while the chorus sang our farewell song that our former Director John Hohl composed (with lyrics by Harmonizer Bob Bates) in 1984: “A Place On the Risers For You”. It was good to see John in the hall last night too.
Ron & Ben took us out with “Keep the Whole World Singing.”
Until next time – editorjack!
(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record of the great things going on each week at an Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter meeting. —Ye Ed.)
Many thanks again to Jim Lucey for taking notes and writing up this week’s column.
The evening began with Dr. Will (“Hark”) Cox conducting the warm-up. Then it was time for our Director to get down to serious preparations for the International Chorus Contest.
Joe showed the video of last year’s contest performance of the up-tune at Nashville. He used the video to highlight areas which need improvement to move the performance to a higher level in the singing category. This included reminders to sustain the singing energy throughout the entire song; the need to maintain discipline and control and not over-sing even though the excitement is high; the need to sing through every phrase and not clip-off the word sounds until the very last beat of the measure(s); and the need for a sustained, smooth sound even while maintaining the up-tune rhythms.
It was then time for the chorus to “drill” the songs, including a Sectional session to clean-up selected areas of the song.
Our Presentation Team also spent time fine-tuning the choreography of the chorus to improve the collective synchronization of our moves.
During our Chapter Meeting time, Secretary Chris Buechler presented several membership renewal cards:
Ron Nelson 2 Years
Nick Murane 4 Years
Ian Poulin 6 Years
Tom Berkey 12 Years
Joe Sawyer 14 Years
Tony Colosimo 16 Years
Jim Lucey 21 Years
Bruce Lauther 23 Years
Chris Buechler 24 Years
Martin Banks 26 Years
Jeff Berman 27 Years
Congratulations to all and thanks for being a Harmonizer!
Scipio Garling stood in for our Membership VP and introduced five guests including former Harmonizer, Chris Yates.
K-12 reminded us that next week’s rehearsal is our annual International Send-Off Evening. The chorus will have a full dress rehearsal and mini-performance for our guests. Members are encouraged to invite all friends and family members to come and enjoy the Send-Off.
Music & Performance VP, Chuck Hunter announced the scholarship winners for this year’s BHS Harmony University in St. Joseph, MO:
Tony Colosimo: Directors College
Phil Ferguson: Harmony College
Noah Van Gilder: Harmony College
Edris Qarghah: Harmony College
Congratulations to all, and enjoy the ice cream!! (Jim knows that one of the fun things to do at Harmony U is gather around the ice cream place on campus, eat and eat and sing and sing.)
It was then time to return to the contest songs. Director Joe again started the coaching by showing video clips of two different choruses competing last year in Nashville. The videos clearly demonstrated the impact an energized and involved chorus makes to an audience and judges when they truly live the song they are singing. The chorus that shows facial involvement / natural body and head movements easily is more interesting and exciting than the one that simply stands still and sings. Joe emphasized to us all through these videos the need to have the whole body and face involved in the lyric message of the ballad.
We then began working the ballad to evoke the best music and emotion from the song. Dick Hall stood to tell his personal story of meeting his future wife, Carolyn,
in 1953 upon his return from eighteen months in Korea as a United States Marine. At the conclusion of his sharing his wonderful love story, Joe asked the chorus to sing our ballad to Carolyn Hall. The emotion from the chorus was truly overwhelming.
The evening concluded with a fond farewell to Ron and Ben Nelson who are moving to Washington State. Ron and Ben were seated in the “Chair(s)” while the chorus sang our farewell song that our former Director John Hohl composed (with lyrics by Harmonizer Bob Bates) in 1984: “A Place On the Risers For You”. It was good to see John in the hall last night too.
Ron & Ben took us out with “Keep the Whole World Singing.”
Until next time – editorjack!
Thursday, June 11, 2009
Looking Back on June 9th Chapter Meeting
Looking Back on June 9th 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.)
It was primary election day in Virginia and so the Durant facility was being used for a polling place. And the school forgot we were gonna be there and had a band concert in the meeting space we normally use in Jeff Houston School.
We were patient and at 7:20 or so we got to start setting up the risers and meeting room. Meanwhile, chapter leaders got the guys into a meeting room for warm ups, then went to sectionals. So even tho it was not what we had planned, things went well.
The riser crew set up 11 risers so the guys could get used to standing on 9 even tho there will be 11 sets on the stage.
Director Joe put the troops thru their paces right after they got on the risers in singing and performing the contest set. There were many sets of eyes out front to offer suggestions thru the visual team. Music team members also offered Joe their thoughts.
At break, we skipped the coffee but the Nelson’s bakery department came thru with a large supply of home baked goodies. We will all miss those treats since Ron and Ben and the family are moving to Washington State soon.
Also during break guys were invited to sign the back of the terrific framed gift we gave our retreat coach, David Wright. It is a matt with the words Alexandria HARMONIZERS cut out and pictures under those cut out letters. Ron Nelson took the pictures at the retreat and he and Mark Klostermeyer had them processed in Westminster and then they finished the framing.
Membership VP Dan O’Brien had another long line of guests to introduce. Some guys were from other chapters all around the nation, some first timers, and some men who had been at our Youth Festival. Former member and lead singer in FRIENDSHIP FIRE COMPANY, Doug Smith, was visiting too.
After break and during the chapter meeting, Ken White reminded all about the scenario plan for the ballad and invited men to share there intimate stories of young love. Craig Odell shared his story. Following his sharing, Joe had the chorus sing the ballad seated and with their eyes closed. You could feel the emotion in the room. Wonder if we are the only chapter that does that? It always works to get us in touch with our feelings and the feeling of the song.
Dick Newton, Anaheim convention chairman, offered ideas of plans, reminded people to get uniforms and tickets and flights. He also distributed a tentative schedule for Alexandria guys for International week. He asked the Class of ’09 to meet with him in the lobby for special help in making arrangements. (Blue bandanas were checked once or twice during the nite!) (And since Ron and Ben would have been in the class, but won’t be going to Anaheim, they were made Honorary Class of ’09 members.)
Max Kieba reminded all about the deadline to submit scholarship request forms to attend the Harmony University in Missouri. The chapter has a long tradition of sending guys there – to learn and come back to our chapter and get involved in musical and chapter leadership.
Terry Reynolds asked for final tapes.
Scott Kahler announced the formation of a technology team. He asked men to step and offer their help. Before the nite ended, Phil Ferguson, was at work with the head sets and helped with the recording of the ballad at the end of the evening. Word is that the recordings in Durant turn out pretty good.
Thursday, June 11th, there will be an extra rehearsal at Jeff Houston. ALL NOTE THIS NEW DATE. There will not be an extra rehearsal June 25th.
The FRIENDS of HARMONY met last nite too.
Chuck McKeever thanked all of his retreat team for their work.
Then it was back to work on the contest package. One big effort was the especially soft passage Joe wants in the ballad. And that prompted a Moment in Harmo History about the year the Toronto chorus mimicked top choruses and when they came to us, they just mouthed the words. Our reputation of singing wonderfully soft and meaningful ballads was known to all.
The rest of the nite was work, work, work, work. Progress continues.
We wrapped up, loaded the truck, and headed for the afterglow. Another big crowd was there for that too.
Until next time – editorjack!
(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record of the great things going on each week at an Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter meeting. —Ye Ed.)
It was primary election day in Virginia and so the Durant facility was being used for a polling place. And the school forgot we were gonna be there and had a band concert in the meeting space we normally use in Jeff Houston School.
We were patient and at 7:20 or so we got to start setting up the risers and meeting room. Meanwhile, chapter leaders got the guys into a meeting room for warm ups, then went to sectionals. So even tho it was not what we had planned, things went well.
The riser crew set up 11 risers so the guys could get used to standing on 9 even tho there will be 11 sets on the stage.
Director Joe put the troops thru their paces right after they got on the risers in singing and performing the contest set. There were many sets of eyes out front to offer suggestions thru the visual team. Music team members also offered Joe their thoughts.
At break, we skipped the coffee but the Nelson’s bakery department came thru with a large supply of home baked goodies. We will all miss those treats since Ron and Ben and the family are moving to Washington State soon.
Also during break guys were invited to sign the back of the terrific framed gift we gave our retreat coach, David Wright. It is a matt with the words Alexandria HARMONIZERS cut out and pictures under those cut out letters. Ron Nelson took the pictures at the retreat and he and Mark Klostermeyer had them processed in Westminster and then they finished the framing.
Membership VP Dan O’Brien had another long line of guests to introduce. Some guys were from other chapters all around the nation, some first timers, and some men who had been at our Youth Festival. Former member and lead singer in FRIENDSHIP FIRE COMPANY, Doug Smith, was visiting too.
After break and during the chapter meeting, Ken White reminded all about the scenario plan for the ballad and invited men to share there intimate stories of young love. Craig Odell shared his story. Following his sharing, Joe had the chorus sing the ballad seated and with their eyes closed. You could feel the emotion in the room. Wonder if we are the only chapter that does that? It always works to get us in touch with our feelings and the feeling of the song.
Dick Newton, Anaheim convention chairman, offered ideas of plans, reminded people to get uniforms and tickets and flights. He also distributed a tentative schedule for Alexandria guys for International week. He asked the Class of ’09 to meet with him in the lobby for special help in making arrangements. (Blue bandanas were checked once or twice during the nite!) (And since Ron and Ben would have been in the class, but won’t be going to Anaheim, they were made Honorary Class of ’09 members.)
Max Kieba reminded all about the deadline to submit scholarship request forms to attend the Harmony University in Missouri. The chapter has a long tradition of sending guys there – to learn and come back to our chapter and get involved in musical and chapter leadership.
Terry Reynolds asked for final tapes.
Scott Kahler announced the formation of a technology team. He asked men to step and offer their help. Before the nite ended, Phil Ferguson, was at work with the head sets and helped with the recording of the ballad at the end of the evening. Word is that the recordings in Durant turn out pretty good.
Thursday, June 11th, there will be an extra rehearsal at Jeff Houston. ALL NOTE THIS NEW DATE. There will not be an extra rehearsal June 25th.
The FRIENDS of HARMONY met last nite too.
Chuck McKeever thanked all of his retreat team for their work.
Then it was back to work on the contest package. One big effort was the especially soft passage Joe wants in the ballad. And that prompted a Moment in Harmo History about the year the Toronto chorus mimicked top choruses and when they came to us, they just mouthed the words. Our reputation of singing wonderfully soft and meaningful ballads was known to all.
The rest of the nite was work, work, work, work. Progress continues.
We wrapped up, loaded the truck, and headed for the afterglow. Another big crowd was there for that too.
Until next time – editorjack!
Monday, June 8, 2009
Looking Back on June 6-7, 2009 Retreat for International
Looking Back on June 6-7, 2009 Retreat for International
(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 with Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter members. —Ye Ed.)
Wow! This year’s retreat was a powerful one for helping the chorus prepare for their International performance in Anaheim, for helping us develop camaraderie, for helping us get to know each other better, and to help welcome three more new members.
One new tradition that might emerge from the weekend will be the idea that it is really fun to go up on Friday nite, get there and relax and enjoy the Irish Pub in town!
But Saturday morning is when most of the troops arrived – over 80 singers – to meet retreat chairman, Chuck McKeever and his team alongside the Harmo van where we were issued our keys and directions and retreat leaflet. The housing at McDaniel College in Westminster is pretty comfortable – tho I can’t imagine sleeping on those beds every nite. The chow was plentiful too.
Our terrific coach and teacher was Dr. David Wright. This is his second retreat with us. One neat thing about his time with us was how he wove musical lessons into his reasons for making changes including barbershop history and arrangement techniques that make the song singable and meaningful. Our coach had fine remarks about Clay Hines’ arrangement of “You Tell Me Your Dream.”
Best of all he gave us new steps to climb to make our performances stronger and more meaningful for audiences (and judges).
Director Joe was certainly a key to making the weekend a success and to keep us learning and gaining from our time with David. The assistant directors were a strong part of the music team for warm ups and sectional training. The visual team helped the singers get more and more comfortable with the plan for both songs as well as were open to new ideas to expand our plan.
The terrific Harmonizer front row developed a whole new finale for the uptune that we can’t wait to present to an audience!! Ye Ed won’t reveal the details here – folks in Alexandria area should plan to come to our meeting place, Durant Rec Center on Cameron St., Tues. nite June 26th for our International sendoff and open rehearsal to see it.
Anyone who knows much about the Alexandria Chapter would not be surprised that during lunch on Sat. there were groups of guys working at lunch tables all around the cafeteria. Front row guys planning, the Class of ’09 planning, a nominating committee planning, basses planning how to add more, and a committee of guys planning for our week in Anaheim.
The music team used a variety of teaching ideas during the work sessions on Sat. such as having bari/lead duet on the ballad, bass/tenor duet. Or mini choruses of guys with birthdays from Jan – June, or July – Dec. to sing for each other. Chairman McKeever invited Jack Pitzer, Brian Ammerman and Chris Huber to make remarks at the end of each of the work sessions. Their themes were about the Harmonizer culture for hard work, team work, fun work and personal work.
The guys got to sing a couple of David’s tags that he taught, including our traditional retreat closing tag, FRIENDS. Chuck Hunter taught a tag and incorporated lessons we worked on all weekend.
As is our chapter tradition, all the new guys who will compete in their first International, the Class of ’09, was welcomed and often checked for their blue bandanas. And their skit during the Sat. nite party was GREAT! They did the spring tonic in 2-minutes and made us laugh til we cried. Lots of stars among that bunch for sure.
This year’s party had some fun new features like playing tapes of past chorus performances, or tapes of individuals like Eric Wallen at age 7 singing with his Dad, Mike, on an Army Chorus holiday show. Then the gang had a Rock Band contest – sort of like karaoke. Plus we had chow and drinks. And there was tag singing til about 2!
Sunday morning we checked out, and after warm ups, went back to work to review lessons learned on Sat.
The retreat wrap up included thanks to those mentioned above and to Scott Kahler and Dennis Ritchey for sound set up, and Mark Klostermeyer for chorus manager duties.
Concluding remarks from Director Joe and then from David Wright put a solid wrap on a great Harmonizer tradition.
Everyone grabbed some risers or sound stuff and hauled it all out to load the Harmo van. And we were off to our homes back in the DC area.
Until Next Time – editorjack!
(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record of the great things going on each week with Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter members. —Ye Ed.)
Wow! This year’s retreat was a powerful one for helping the chorus prepare for their International performance in Anaheim, for helping us develop camaraderie, for helping us get to know each other better, and to help welcome three more new members.
One new tradition that might emerge from the weekend will be the idea that it is really fun to go up on Friday nite, get there and relax and enjoy the Irish Pub in town!
But Saturday morning is when most of the troops arrived – over 80 singers – to meet retreat chairman, Chuck McKeever and his team alongside the Harmo van where we were issued our keys and directions and retreat leaflet. The housing at McDaniel College in Westminster is pretty comfortable – tho I can’t imagine sleeping on those beds every nite. The chow was plentiful too.
Our terrific coach and teacher was Dr. David Wright. This is his second retreat with us. One neat thing about his time with us was how he wove musical lessons into his reasons for making changes including barbershop history and arrangement techniques that make the song singable and meaningful. Our coach had fine remarks about Clay Hines’ arrangement of “You Tell Me Your Dream.”
Best of all he gave us new steps to climb to make our performances stronger and more meaningful for audiences (and judges).
Director Joe was certainly a key to making the weekend a success and to keep us learning and gaining from our time with David. The assistant directors were a strong part of the music team for warm ups and sectional training. The visual team helped the singers get more and more comfortable with the plan for both songs as well as were open to new ideas to expand our plan.
The terrific Harmonizer front row developed a whole new finale for the uptune that we can’t wait to present to an audience!! Ye Ed won’t reveal the details here – folks in Alexandria area should plan to come to our meeting place, Durant Rec Center on Cameron St., Tues. nite June 26th for our International sendoff and open rehearsal to see it.
Anyone who knows much about the Alexandria Chapter would not be surprised that during lunch on Sat. there were groups of guys working at lunch tables all around the cafeteria. Front row guys planning, the Class of ’09 planning, a nominating committee planning, basses planning how to add more, and a committee of guys planning for our week in Anaheim.
The music team used a variety of teaching ideas during the work sessions on Sat. such as having bari/lead duet on the ballad, bass/tenor duet. Or mini choruses of guys with birthdays from Jan – June, or July – Dec. to sing for each other. Chairman McKeever invited Jack Pitzer, Brian Ammerman and Chris Huber to make remarks at the end of each of the work sessions. Their themes were about the Harmonizer culture for hard work, team work, fun work and personal work.
The guys got to sing a couple of David’s tags that he taught, including our traditional retreat closing tag, FRIENDS. Chuck Hunter taught a tag and incorporated lessons we worked on all weekend.
As is our chapter tradition, all the new guys who will compete in their first International, the Class of ’09, was welcomed and often checked for their blue bandanas. And their skit during the Sat. nite party was GREAT! They did the spring tonic in 2-minutes and made us laugh til we cried. Lots of stars among that bunch for sure.
This year’s party had some fun new features like playing tapes of past chorus performances, or tapes of individuals like Eric Wallen at age 7 singing with his Dad, Mike, on an Army Chorus holiday show. Then the gang had a Rock Band contest – sort of like karaoke. Plus we had chow and drinks. And there was tag singing til about 2!
Sunday morning we checked out, and after warm ups, went back to work to review lessons learned on Sat.
The retreat wrap up included thanks to those mentioned above and to Scott Kahler and Dennis Ritchey for sound set up, and Mark Klostermeyer for chorus manager duties.
Concluding remarks from Director Joe and then from David Wright put a solid wrap on a great Harmonizer tradition.
Everyone grabbed some risers or sound stuff and hauled it all out to load the Harmo van. And we were off to our homes back in the DC area.
Until Next Time – editorjack!
Friday, June 5, 2009
Looking Back on June 2nd Chapter Meeting
Looking Back on June 2nd 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 thanks to special reporter this week, Jim Lucey, who offers this report. Thanks Jim!
The evening started with a nice “buzz” from our very successful performance at the U.S. Supreme Court on Monday night. Assistant Director Tony Colosimo led us in warm-up exercises with emphasis on pitch accuracy. As Tony indicated, pitch accuracy is fundamental to success in contest (and performance), and the Harmonizers need to improve if we want back in the “medals.”
Director Joe then began a very intense session on the “up-tune” (“Clap YoHands”). He drilled us on the last third of the song which appears to be the weakest area with respect to tempo / rhythm and note accuracy. We broke for Sectional rehearsal on all three elements and then went back on the risers. Joe placed the chorus members in their new contest positions and we continued to drill “Clap”. When we were done, all appeared to realize that we were making progress in lifting the up-tune to a better singing level.
The chapter meeting began with Chapter Secretary Chris Buechler presenting a 25-Year Pin to Bob Eckman. Bob has served the Harmonizers for many years as our chapter treasurer and is now the Mid-Atlantic District Treasurer. Craig O’Dell was then honored for his 40 years of service to barbershop! Craig has been a “complete” barbershopper: singing with Harmonizer champion choruses and quartets; serving as a Society Presentation Judge; and as our bass section leader. Well done to both Bob and Craig!
Our Chapter VP for Operations, K-12, then formally introduced the Harmonizers’ Class of 2009. Phil Ayoub, Josh Roots, Ryan Griffith, Phil Ferguson, and Bob Mattes were each given the “traditional” class bandana (blue this year) with appropriate instructions as to the carrying/wearing of the coveted symbol…… and the penalties (?) for failing to do so.
Dan O’Brien, our VP for Chapter Development, then introduced a great group of Guests:
Phil Ashford, Edris Qarghah, Kellen Hertz, Chris Yates, Jeremy Richardson, Robb Topolski, Andrew Gipe, Mario Sengco, Frank Fedarko, Michael Plenty, Jack Worrow.
Note that among our guests were two former Harmonizers, Chris Yates and Jeremy Richardson. Always good to have them back.
Max Kieba announced that he is coordinating the Harmonizers’ annual scholarship program for Harmony University (HU). The 2009 HU is again being held on the campus of Missouri Western State University in St. Joseph, MO from July 26 to August 2, 2009. HU is arguably the best barbershop experience available in the Society. The Harmonizers’ are offering three scholarships (for tuition / room / board) to HU this year. If you’d like more information, see the BHS web site or talk with Harmonizers like Joe Cerutti, Tony Colosimo, Eric Wallen, Chris Buechler, Jim Lucey, or Joel Golden who have all attended in recent years. Max asks that Harmonizers, who would like to apply for a scholarship, please contact him by next week.
The FRIEND IN HARMONY are now offering a Harmonizer “booster button” for sale as a fund-raiser for our Anaheim trip. See Linda O’Dell if you’d like to obtain some for your family and friends.
President Brad Jones announced that Mary Kay Bender, wife of our former President Bede Bender and a great friend to the Harmonizers, has been hospitalized. She would welcome notes and calls from all of us.
Brad also awarded a “You Make A Difference” Star to Dick Newton and Keith Jones for quickly volunteering to step-in for Carl Kauffmann and co-chair the Anaheim Convention Committee for the Chapter. Carl is still recovering from his surgery and would also welcome calls and cards from his friends.
Ron Nelson offered a big thank-you to our own MERCURY QUARTET for singing at the Pentagon for his retirement ceremony this past Friday. Ron is retiring from the United States Air Force and moving back to Washington State this month. Congratulations, Ron, and thank you for your great service to the Air Force and our Country.
After the Chapter Meeting and Break, we resumed rehearsal. Joe took us through a quick run-through of the new Peter Pan Package. After singing both songs, we all agreed that we’re a bit rusty and need to keep current on these new songs so that we are ready with them after Anaheim!
We then continued to drill the Anaheim contest songs and fine-tune the interpretation. We worked the ballad very hard and Joe even introduced us to his own version of the “Harmonizer Square Dance!” He then took us through the entire package. After a strong rehearsal we are all looking forward to this weekend’s Harmo-Retreat with Coach David Wright at McDaniel College in Maryland.
A very busy and productive evening then closed with the 50/50 being won by Ian Poulin who then took us out with “Keep The Whole World Singing.”
Until next time – editorjack!
(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record of the great things going on each week at an Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter meeting. —Ye Ed.)
Many thanks to special reporter this week, Jim Lucey, who offers this report. Thanks Jim!
The evening started with a nice “buzz” from our very successful performance at the U.S. Supreme Court on Monday night. Assistant Director Tony Colosimo led us in warm-up exercises with emphasis on pitch accuracy. As Tony indicated, pitch accuracy is fundamental to success in contest (and performance), and the Harmonizers need to improve if we want back in the “medals.”
Director Joe then began a very intense session on the “up-tune” (“Clap YoHands”). He drilled us on the last third of the song which appears to be the weakest area with respect to tempo / rhythm and note accuracy. We broke for Sectional rehearsal on all three elements and then went back on the risers. Joe placed the chorus members in their new contest positions and we continued to drill “Clap”. When we were done, all appeared to realize that we were making progress in lifting the up-tune to a better singing level.
The chapter meeting began with Chapter Secretary Chris Buechler presenting a 25-Year Pin to Bob Eckman. Bob has served the Harmonizers for many years as our chapter treasurer and is now the Mid-Atlantic District Treasurer. Craig O’Dell was then honored for his 40 years of service to barbershop! Craig has been a “complete” barbershopper: singing with Harmonizer champion choruses and quartets; serving as a Society Presentation Judge; and as our bass section leader. Well done to both Bob and Craig!
Our Chapter VP for Operations, K-12, then formally introduced the Harmonizers’ Class of 2009. Phil Ayoub, Josh Roots, Ryan Griffith, Phil Ferguson, and Bob Mattes were each given the “traditional” class bandana (blue this year) with appropriate instructions as to the carrying/wearing of the coveted symbol…… and the penalties (?) for failing to do so.
Dan O’Brien, our VP for Chapter Development, then introduced a great group of Guests:
Phil Ashford, Edris Qarghah, Kellen Hertz, Chris Yates, Jeremy Richardson, Robb Topolski, Andrew Gipe, Mario Sengco, Frank Fedarko, Michael Plenty, Jack Worrow.
Note that among our guests were two former Harmonizers, Chris Yates and Jeremy Richardson. Always good to have them back.
Max Kieba announced that he is coordinating the Harmonizers’ annual scholarship program for Harmony University (HU). The 2009 HU is again being held on the campus of Missouri Western State University in St. Joseph, MO from July 26 to August 2, 2009. HU is arguably the best barbershop experience available in the Society. The Harmonizers’ are offering three scholarships (for tuition / room / board) to HU this year. If you’d like more information, see the BHS web site or talk with Harmonizers like Joe Cerutti, Tony Colosimo, Eric Wallen, Chris Buechler, Jim Lucey, or Joel Golden who have all attended in recent years. Max asks that Harmonizers, who would like to apply for a scholarship, please contact him by next week.
The FRIEND IN HARMONY are now offering a Harmonizer “booster button” for sale as a fund-raiser for our Anaheim trip. See Linda O’Dell if you’d like to obtain some for your family and friends.
President Brad Jones announced that Mary Kay Bender, wife of our former President Bede Bender and a great friend to the Harmonizers, has been hospitalized. She would welcome notes and calls from all of us.
Brad also awarded a “You Make A Difference” Star to Dick Newton and Keith Jones for quickly volunteering to step-in for Carl Kauffmann and co-chair the Anaheim Convention Committee for the Chapter. Carl is still recovering from his surgery and would also welcome calls and cards from his friends.
Ron Nelson offered a big thank-you to our own MERCURY QUARTET for singing at the Pentagon for his retirement ceremony this past Friday. Ron is retiring from the United States Air Force and moving back to Washington State this month. Congratulations, Ron, and thank you for your great service to the Air Force and our Country.
After the Chapter Meeting and Break, we resumed rehearsal. Joe took us through a quick run-through of the new Peter Pan Package. After singing both songs, we all agreed that we’re a bit rusty and need to keep current on these new songs so that we are ready with them after Anaheim!
We then continued to drill the Anaheim contest songs and fine-tune the interpretation. We worked the ballad very hard and Joe even introduced us to his own version of the “Harmonizer Square Dance!” He then took us through the entire package. After a strong rehearsal we are all looking forward to this weekend’s Harmo-Retreat with Coach David Wright at McDaniel College in Maryland.
A very busy and productive evening then closed with the 50/50 being won by Ian Poulin who then took us out with “Keep The Whole World Singing.”
Until next time – editorjack!
Looking Back on Supreme Court Performance June 1, 2009
Looking Back on Supreme Court Performance June 1, 2009
(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 with Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter members. —Ye Ed.)
Thanks to Lew Klinge who served as reporter for this event!!
Here are his notes:
Not sure what to report, as other than the venue, it was routine all the way....
First: Don't over-sing, dammit!
The North entrance seemed to be under re-construction so it was a long walk to get to the door and hit security. The busier it got, the less security there was.
Once inside we were ushered to the cafeteria for changing/warming up. There were 76 of us, including Joe.
Don't over-sing, Dammit! (from what I hear this was stressed a lot during warm up as chorus prepared to sing in the marble hall.)
Will Cox warmed us up and then Joe began to run the order, from last to first.
Don't over-sing, Dammit
About 8:30 we were escorted to a beautiful meeting room for dainty desserts, coffee, tea and assorted soft drinks. In the rush to get at the food, Joe almost lost his hand! It was a beautiful evening and since the doors to the courtyard were open we could enjoy the nite.
Because of the close proximity to the banquet hall, we couldn't sing in the conference room, but we were able to "whisper" through some of the songs before filing into the banquet room which was actually the grand foyer of the Supreme Court building. We were crammed up on risers with Joe about 1.5 feet in front of us. There were probably 40 tables of 10 people in the room with two tables about 2 feet in front of the front row.
Joe gave us a "thumbs up" indicating that he wanted abbreviated choreography ("Great Day" and "NY, NY") and VERY abbreviated choreo for "Clap Yo Hands"). No injuries occurred.
There were four justices in the audience...Roberts, Alito, Thomas and Kennedy. I spotted Roberts and Alito but not the other two. (Actually Ye Ed heard later there were six there.)
Lots of current or ex-military folks in the audience with most having served in the Army, who stood at our invitation during the "Armed Forces Medley. I didn't see any Coast Guard folks but couldn't exactly see everyone.
We received a standing ovation but it wasn't initiated by the Chief Justice. He rose about 10 seconds after some guy 1/3 of the way to the back stood up and got it started.
Probably got the standing ovation because we DIDN'T oversing!
(And those of you who know Lew very well realize that I had to leave out a few items he wrote about!!! Thanks Lew.)
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 with Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter members. —Ye Ed.)
Thanks to Lew Klinge who served as reporter for this event!!
Here are his notes:
Not sure what to report, as other than the venue, it was routine all the way....
First: Don't over-sing, dammit!
The North entrance seemed to be under re-construction so it was a long walk to get to the door and hit security. The busier it got, the less security there was.
Once inside we were ushered to the cafeteria for changing/warming up. There were 76 of us, including Joe.
Don't over-sing, Dammit! (from what I hear this was stressed a lot during warm up as chorus prepared to sing in the marble hall.)
Will Cox warmed us up and then Joe began to run the order, from last to first.
Don't over-sing, Dammit
About 8:30 we were escorted to a beautiful meeting room for dainty desserts, coffee, tea and assorted soft drinks. In the rush to get at the food, Joe almost lost his hand! It was a beautiful evening and since the doors to the courtyard were open we could enjoy the nite.
Because of the close proximity to the banquet hall, we couldn't sing in the conference room, but we were able to "whisper" through some of the songs before filing into the banquet room which was actually the grand foyer of the Supreme Court building. We were crammed up on risers with Joe about 1.5 feet in front of us. There were probably 40 tables of 10 people in the room with two tables about 2 feet in front of the front row.
Joe gave us a "thumbs up" indicating that he wanted abbreviated choreography ("Great Day" and "NY, NY") and VERY abbreviated choreo for "Clap Yo Hands"). No injuries occurred.
There were four justices in the audience...Roberts, Alito, Thomas and Kennedy. I spotted Roberts and Alito but not the other two. (Actually Ye Ed heard later there were six there.)
Lots of current or ex-military folks in the audience with most having served in the Army, who stood at our invitation during the "Armed Forces Medley. I didn't see any Coast Guard folks but couldn't exactly see everyone.
We received a standing ovation but it wasn't initiated by the Chief Justice. He rose about 10 seconds after some guy 1/3 of the way to the back stood up and got it started.
Probably got the standing ovation because we DIDN'T oversing!
(And those of you who know Lew very well realize that I had to leave out a few items he wrote about!!! Thanks Lew.)
Until next time -- editorjack!
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Looking Back on May 26th Chapter Meeting
Looking Back on May 26th Chapter Meeting
(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record of the great things going on each week at an Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter meeting. —Ye Ed.)
The chapter arrived at Durant early this week to get things set up and to be ready to sing as part of the Alexandria Choral Alliance. The chorus looked good in our teal shirts with black slacks and shoes. We were joined by the Alexandria Singers who are directed by Bill Colosimo.
The room was set with the risers facing the stage, but they were all the way at the other end of the room. And were set in a “straight line format” so we could get used to that arrangement in advance of the Supreme Court show.
At 7, the Alliance activities began and the Harmonizers were first up to sing on the risers. We sang “Great Day,” “Armed Forces Medley,” “Clap Yo Hands,” “Battle Hymn,” “New York New York” and “God Bless the USA.” Lazear, T. Colosimo, Joe Sawyer, and Wayne Adams sang the quartet intro for that last song.
After we sang, the chapter was presented a $250 Alexandria Choral Alliance Award for Youth Harmony Education. This was in recognition of the chapter’s successful Youth Harmony Festivals for the last two years.
Next the Alexandria Singers did a great set and sang and danced and entertained with show songs – many that will be used in their spring show coming up soon. Both groups also will do shows at Ft. Ward Park this summer.
The event closed with both groups combined to sing “Let There Be Music; Let There Be Love” written by Joe Liles.
Everyone was invited to enjoy refreshment breaks and take care of barbershop business.
Then when we were back in session, Director Joe thanked his chorus members for their hard work and dedication to run a good convention last weekend, and to sing well too! Then he got all the guests and members up on the risers for a concentrated session on the new contest ballad “You Tell Me Your Dream.” It is sounding so good already. Scipio Garling presented a scenario for all to embrace and remember. Joe asked him to do this to help clarify the change in the general plan that had been announced at previous rehearsals. This will be a message about young love and the way the two parties spoke about their feelings for each other in the beginning days of the relationship.
The contest work continued and Joe had the chorus do several reps of the uptune, and continued concentrated work on the ballad. You could also tell that the musical leaders were using the ideas and suggestions offered by the judging panel from the Southern Division contest.
It was good to see guests and new applicants on the risers digging in to learn (or keep from being trampled!).
Singing time ended with one more run of the Supreme Court package.
At 10 pm, we had our meeting time. Dan O introduced another row of guests – new guys, some who came for the show and stayed, some college guys who are home now and have some time to get into some music and an applicant or two.
Secretary Buechler introduced the two newest members, Phil Ayoub (Chris Granger of Hell’s Kitchen Chapter in NYC got the Man Of Note Award for bringing him into the BHS.); and Phil Ferguson (Dan O’Brien got his first Man of Note Award as his sponsor.)
Lots of our guys have Man of Notes Awards for going the extra mile in helping a guy join the Society. Guys with 10 or more are Sutton, Pitzer, Harner, Witmer, Darryl Flinn, Watcher, Plaag, John Adams, Scott Werner, McFarland, Buechler. And even more interesting – there are 101 of us current members who have at least one Man of Note.
Chris also presented a 25-year membership pin and renewal card to our District President, Gary Plaag (who I forgot to recognize in last week’s column who did the MC task for the Sat nite show). I also reported in last week’s column that Bob Wilson was a former member, but he is still a member.
Other renewal awards presented Tuesday nite were 22 years for Ike Evans, 7 for Steve Murane, 33 for Dave Welter, and 34 years for both Austin Cotton and Howard Nestlerode.
K12 took time to give details about the Supreme Court show but an email was promised with the very latest details. Important detail – bring a photo ID. The riser crew is due at 4 pm and when they were promised dinner, more hands went up to help!
We did a Moment in Harmo History reflecting the first time we won the division contest – in 1976, in Norfolk. Werner was director then and we tossed him in the pool!
Ken White offered chapter congrats to the third place and first place quartets at Southern Division – DOWNTOWN and DOWN A FOURTH. He also announced Eric Wallen is taking on the chapter quartet promotion duties.
Reynolds pushed for guys to get in their tapes to section leaders. Time is up.
A report was given about Carl Kauffmann’s surgery and health status. A tough one but he seems to be on the mend. Our best to him.
Mick Stamps and Ken Fess, show producers, surprised Ken White with a framed personalized Playbill in thanks for helping carrying the show. And darn if Kenny didn’t also win the 50/50 last nite.
The afterglow was well attended and there was a lot of laughing, some gang singing, and when Ye Ed left, a few guys were outside tagging.
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 chapter arrived at Durant early this week to get things set up and to be ready to sing as part of the Alexandria Choral Alliance. The chorus looked good in our teal shirts with black slacks and shoes. We were joined by the Alexandria Singers who are directed by Bill Colosimo.
The room was set with the risers facing the stage, but they were all the way at the other end of the room. And were set in a “straight line format” so we could get used to that arrangement in advance of the Supreme Court show.
At 7, the Alliance activities began and the Harmonizers were first up to sing on the risers. We sang “Great Day,” “Armed Forces Medley,” “Clap Yo Hands,” “Battle Hymn,” “New York New York” and “God Bless the USA.” Lazear, T. Colosimo, Joe Sawyer, and Wayne Adams sang the quartet intro for that last song.
After we sang, the chapter was presented a $250 Alexandria Choral Alliance Award for Youth Harmony Education. This was in recognition of the chapter’s successful Youth Harmony Festivals for the last two years.
Next the Alexandria Singers did a great set and sang and danced and entertained with show songs – many that will be used in their spring show coming up soon. Both groups also will do shows at Ft. Ward Park this summer.
The event closed with both groups combined to sing “Let There Be Music; Let There Be Love” written by Joe Liles.
Everyone was invited to enjoy refreshment breaks and take care of barbershop business.
Then when we were back in session, Director Joe thanked his chorus members for their hard work and dedication to run a good convention last weekend, and to sing well too! Then he got all the guests and members up on the risers for a concentrated session on the new contest ballad “You Tell Me Your Dream.” It is sounding so good already. Scipio Garling presented a scenario for all to embrace and remember. Joe asked him to do this to help clarify the change in the general plan that had been announced at previous rehearsals. This will be a message about young love and the way the two parties spoke about their feelings for each other in the beginning days of the relationship.
The contest work continued and Joe had the chorus do several reps of the uptune, and continued concentrated work on the ballad. You could also tell that the musical leaders were using the ideas and suggestions offered by the judging panel from the Southern Division contest.
It was good to see guests and new applicants on the risers digging in to learn (or keep from being trampled!).
Singing time ended with one more run of the Supreme Court package.
At 10 pm, we had our meeting time. Dan O introduced another row of guests – new guys, some who came for the show and stayed, some college guys who are home now and have some time to get into some music and an applicant or two.
Secretary Buechler introduced the two newest members, Phil Ayoub (Chris Granger of Hell’s Kitchen Chapter in NYC got the Man Of Note Award for bringing him into the BHS.); and Phil Ferguson (Dan O’Brien got his first Man of Note Award as his sponsor.)
Lots of our guys have Man of Notes Awards for going the extra mile in helping a guy join the Society. Guys with 10 or more are Sutton, Pitzer, Harner, Witmer, Darryl Flinn, Watcher, Plaag, John Adams, Scott Werner, McFarland, Buechler. And even more interesting – there are 101 of us current members who have at least one Man of Note.
Chris also presented a 25-year membership pin and renewal card to our District President, Gary Plaag (who I forgot to recognize in last week’s column who did the MC task for the Sat nite show). I also reported in last week’s column that Bob Wilson was a former member, but he is still a member.
Other renewal awards presented Tuesday nite were 22 years for Ike Evans, 7 for Steve Murane, 33 for Dave Welter, and 34 years for both Austin Cotton and Howard Nestlerode.
K12 took time to give details about the Supreme Court show but an email was promised with the very latest details. Important detail – bring a photo ID. The riser crew is due at 4 pm and when they were promised dinner, more hands went up to help!
We did a Moment in Harmo History reflecting the first time we won the division contest – in 1976, in Norfolk. Werner was director then and we tossed him in the pool!
Ken White offered chapter congrats to the third place and first place quartets at Southern Division – DOWNTOWN and DOWN A FOURTH. He also announced Eric Wallen is taking on the chapter quartet promotion duties.
Reynolds pushed for guys to get in their tapes to section leaders. Time is up.
A report was given about Carl Kauffmann’s surgery and health status. A tough one but he seems to be on the mend. Our best to him.
Mick Stamps and Ken Fess, show producers, surprised Ken White with a framed personalized Playbill in thanks for helping carrying the show. And darn if Kenny didn’t also win the 50/50 last nite.
The afterglow was well attended and there was a lot of laughing, some gang singing, and when Ye Ed left, a few guys were outside tagging.
Until next time – editorjack!
Looking Back on Southern Division Weekend May 22-23, 2009
Looking Back on Southern Division Weekend May 22-23, 2009
(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 with the Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter members. —Ye Ed.)
The chapter hosted the Division contest weekend for the district. Carl Kauffmann was chair and coordinated his team of committee chairs.
Registrations – Bob Eckman
Judges Services – Bob Wachter/Audrey Shively
Staging Setup and Take Down – Dean Rust
Auditorium – Tom Berkey
Chorus and Quartet Escorts – Craig Kujawa
Signs – John Pence
Judges Transportation – Austin Cotton
Reproduction – Chris Buechler
Program Ads – Carl Kauffmann
These guys did a lot of the work in the weeks leading up to the contest so our guys could concentrate on the show and other musical activity in the chapter calendar. The members of the chapter then came forward to work on Friday and Saturday to make it all happen. District officials thanked us from the stage all weekend and as I understand it, we get a monetary sum for our services.
If you were there and took a minute to look at the printed program, you would have noticed the names of Harmonizers all over the place. First off, we had members in eight of the 17 quartets who competed in the quartet contest on Friday nite. (I have reported all those names in a couple recent columns.) And several former members were in other competing quartets such as Bob Wilson, Brian Chopp, Gene Thompson. The mic testing quartet was FULL TILT.
Third place quartet was DOWNTOWN with two Alexandria guys – Drew Fuller and Kevin Flynn. Actually the lead singer is a recent applicant at our chapter too.
Second place quartet was RING OF GOLD from neighboring Frederick Chapter.
First place Southern Division quartet was DOWN A FOURTH with Joe Sawyer as tenor, Joe Cerutti as lead, Wayne Adams as bari and Mike Kelly as bass. They brought the house down (or actually up out of their seats) with good singing and while obviously having a good time on stage. (The down-a-fourth gag worked for them with Mike hitting low notes they say are not even on a piano!)
As winners, they get to advance to the district contest in Lancaster in Oct. Other quartets may get to advance depending on the scores earned by all competitors at the four divisions – the next highest scoring groups get to advance til the district gets the total number of contestants they can have for that contest Oct. 2-3.
The chorus contest on Saturday started at 10 am. Alexandria sang after the contest officially ended while judges were still present. The judges offered input for us in preparation for Anaheim. Each of the three categories spent 20 minutes with us.
First place chorus was James River from Richmond. Second place was the Virginia Gentlemen from Roanoke Valley. They were directed by Erin Odell and were also the Most Improved Chorus in the division contest. Third place chorus was The Virginians from Richmond. Fourth place was the Fairfax Jubilaires. Those four choruses advance to the district contest in Oct. Alexandria also advances, with a bye, unless they win a gold medal in Anaheim!!!
There were a lot of former members in other choruses this weekend. There were two new chapters started in the division that competed. One, Harrisonburg Harmonizers, are particularly close to us with leaders there like Mike Organ, Alan Durick, Dewey Feuerhelm and Michael Calhoun. They even got their black slacks from us for uniforms. The other new chapter is in Germantown, MD.
Quite a lot of our guys also sang in the chorus contest such as all the guys in Mt. Vernon’s Harmony Heritage Singers directed by Bob Wachter; three or four guys in the DC Chorus; Mike Wallen directed Richmond with some of our dual members and former members on the risers; Sound Works, James River included several former members too.
For those who plan ahead, the 2010 Southern Division contest will be in Roanoke. The spring prelims quartet contest will be in Harrisburg to select the quartets from our district to advance to the International contest in Philly. And as mentioned above, the fall quartet and chorus contests will be in Lancaster. Our chapter is already preparing to attend and encouraging members to start planning. Even if we win a gold in July, we will take a large chorus to Mid Atlantic fall contest. That is part of the Harmonizer culture.
As mentioned above, we had a lot of our members in visible jobs all weekend. John Hohl was MC for the chorus contest. District leaders and events team staffers included a bunch of familiar names from our chapter including Kennett who was the lighting person. The judging panel included former member Larry Deters and current members Chuck Harner and Chris Buechler.
Director Joe and Mike Kelly presented a great video explaining Youth Harmony work being done in Alexandria and around the district. It was shown while the results were being calculated after the chorus contest.
Saturday nite there was a show of champions for all the winners to sing again. Immediately after it ended, the Harmonizers moved in to take down, pack and load the district truck and Harmo Van. It went fast with many hands – lots of new guys helped and even some of us old timers!
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 with the Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter members. —Ye Ed.)
The chapter hosted the Division contest weekend for the district. Carl Kauffmann was chair and coordinated his team of committee chairs.
Registrations – Bob Eckman
Judges Services – Bob Wachter/Audrey Shively
Staging Setup and Take Down – Dean Rust
Auditorium – Tom Berkey
Chorus and Quartet Escorts – Craig Kujawa
Signs – John Pence
Judges Transportation – Austin Cotton
Reproduction – Chris Buechler
Program Ads – Carl Kauffmann
These guys did a lot of the work in the weeks leading up to the contest so our guys could concentrate on the show and other musical activity in the chapter calendar. The members of the chapter then came forward to work on Friday and Saturday to make it all happen. District officials thanked us from the stage all weekend and as I understand it, we get a monetary sum for our services.
If you were there and took a minute to look at the printed program, you would have noticed the names of Harmonizers all over the place. First off, we had members in eight of the 17 quartets who competed in the quartet contest on Friday nite. (I have reported all those names in a couple recent columns.) And several former members were in other competing quartets such as Bob Wilson, Brian Chopp, Gene Thompson. The mic testing quartet was FULL TILT.
Third place quartet was DOWNTOWN with two Alexandria guys – Drew Fuller and Kevin Flynn. Actually the lead singer is a recent applicant at our chapter too.
Second place quartet was RING OF GOLD from neighboring Frederick Chapter.
First place Southern Division quartet was DOWN A FOURTH with Joe Sawyer as tenor, Joe Cerutti as lead, Wayne Adams as bari and Mike Kelly as bass. They brought the house down (or actually up out of their seats) with good singing and while obviously having a good time on stage. (The down-a-fourth gag worked for them with Mike hitting low notes they say are not even on a piano!)
As winners, they get to advance to the district contest in Lancaster in Oct. Other quartets may get to advance depending on the scores earned by all competitors at the four divisions – the next highest scoring groups get to advance til the district gets the total number of contestants they can have for that contest Oct. 2-3.
The chorus contest on Saturday started at 10 am. Alexandria sang after the contest officially ended while judges were still present. The judges offered input for us in preparation for Anaheim. Each of the three categories spent 20 minutes with us.
First place chorus was James River from Richmond. Second place was the Virginia Gentlemen from Roanoke Valley. They were directed by Erin Odell and were also the Most Improved Chorus in the division contest. Third place chorus was The Virginians from Richmond. Fourth place was the Fairfax Jubilaires. Those four choruses advance to the district contest in Oct. Alexandria also advances, with a bye, unless they win a gold medal in Anaheim!!!
There were a lot of former members in other choruses this weekend. There were two new chapters started in the division that competed. One, Harrisonburg Harmonizers, are particularly close to us with leaders there like Mike Organ, Alan Durick, Dewey Feuerhelm and Michael Calhoun. They even got their black slacks from us for uniforms. The other new chapter is in Germantown, MD.
Quite a lot of our guys also sang in the chorus contest such as all the guys in Mt. Vernon’s Harmony Heritage Singers directed by Bob Wachter; three or four guys in the DC Chorus; Mike Wallen directed Richmond with some of our dual members and former members on the risers; Sound Works, James River included several former members too.
For those who plan ahead, the 2010 Southern Division contest will be in Roanoke. The spring prelims quartet contest will be in Harrisburg to select the quartets from our district to advance to the International contest in Philly. And as mentioned above, the fall quartet and chorus contests will be in Lancaster. Our chapter is already preparing to attend and encouraging members to start planning. Even if we win a gold in July, we will take a large chorus to Mid Atlantic fall contest. That is part of the Harmonizer culture.
As mentioned above, we had a lot of our members in visible jobs all weekend. John Hohl was MC for the chorus contest. District leaders and events team staffers included a bunch of familiar names from our chapter including Kennett who was the lighting person. The judging panel included former member Larry Deters and current members Chuck Harner and Chris Buechler.
Director Joe and Mike Kelly presented a great video explaining Youth Harmony work being done in Alexandria and around the district. It was shown while the results were being calculated after the chorus contest.
Saturday nite there was a show of champions for all the winners to sing again. Immediately after it ended, the Harmonizers moved in to take down, pack and load the district truck and Harmo Van. It went fast with many hands – lots of new guys helped and even some of us old timers!
Until next time – editorjack
Looking Back on May 19th Chapter Meeting
Looking Back on May 19th 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.)
Ye Ed heard this evening that if there is any member who needs a hard copy of a chapter issued song, he should make arrangements with chapter librarian Dick Dangel to get a copy.
The troops were there early to get things set up. Steve White was general in charge since K12 was on business travel. The risers were set up in a straight line format so the chorus could get used to that shape and change in preparation for singing for the Supreme Court. That means there is no room for front row movement and hardly room for Director Joe out front. But we have done a number of times and it is always a fantastic event.
Tony Colosimo worked a strong warm up session to help the chorus prep for their appearance this weekend in Reston at the Southern Division contest (and for working with Dr. David Wright, our awesome coach on ’08 who will also be our coach for the upcoming retreat!)
Lots of guests arrived early too and many men were busy hosting or helping them meet other guys, prepare for audition or find their way around the hall.
The risers were set up facing the stage so that our video crew could stand on the stage and then could record for visual training purposes.
The rehearsal included work on the package for Supreme Court Historical Society – “Battle Hymn,” “Armed Forces Medley” and “God Bless The USA.” At the end of the meeting there was a Moment in Harmo History reflecting on previous appearances in the marble hall for the Justices, the great foods, the fun trying to get pitch pipes thru Security, and recalling that every time we won a gold medal we had sung for the Court earlier that summer!!
Dan O had a good number of guests again -- some first timers, several from the past guest nites, and former members Chuck Botts and Phil Ashford
During the break, the chorus enjoyed goodies sent in by Ron Nelson’s wife and Ben’s mom – the chocolate cookies, orange rolls and Mexi tarts! Members also signed up for Anaheim t-shirts, signed up to help manage the Division contest this weekend.
Ken Fess and Mick Stamps took time to thank each and every guy who helped with the Spring Tonic. (We reported them in this column last week.)
Next week May 26th, we are to wear our teal casual shirts, black pants, shoes and belt. To sing as part of the first Choral Alliance. Joe wants the chorus there about 6:45 to be ready for 7 pm start. We will be joined by Alexandria Singers (directed by Tony’s Dad, Bill.) We will sing a couple songs and then combined with the Singers to do Joe Liles’ “Let There Be Music! Let There Be Love.”
The chorus worked on that song, and then concentrated on the contest package they will sing for judges at the end of the division chorus contest. There was time allotted for men to make tapes to turn in to section leaders.
Then they took some time to review and bring back “God Bless USA” and add interp and warmth to a song we have sung a lot.
Final event for the nite was a musical recording of “Great Day” in an effort to start doing this regularly at Durant and collect songs that might be used for a CD in the future.
The nite ended with packing up risers and equipment and benches to take to contest this weekend. And there was time for some tag singing and visiting, before adjourning to 815 S. Washington for our Tuesday nite afterglow.
Until next time – editorjack!
(This message is prepared for your review if you were there, for your information if you had to miss, and as a historical record of the great things going on each week at an Alexandria Harmonizer Chapter meeting. —Ye Ed.)
Ye Ed heard this evening that if there is any member who needs a hard copy of a chapter issued song, he should make arrangements with chapter librarian Dick Dangel to get a copy.
The troops were there early to get things set up. Steve White was general in charge since K12 was on business travel. The risers were set up in a straight line format so the chorus could get used to that shape and change in preparation for singing for the Supreme Court. That means there is no room for front row movement and hardly room for Director Joe out front. But we have done a number of times and it is always a fantastic event.
Tony Colosimo worked a strong warm up session to help the chorus prep for their appearance this weekend in Reston at the Southern Division contest (and for working with Dr. David Wright, our awesome coach on ’08 who will also be our coach for the upcoming retreat!)
Lots of guests arrived early too and many men were busy hosting or helping them meet other guys, prepare for audition or find their way around the hall.
The risers were set up facing the stage so that our video crew could stand on the stage and then could record for visual training purposes.
The rehearsal included work on the package for Supreme Court Historical Society – “Battle Hymn,” “Armed Forces Medley” and “God Bless The USA.” At the end of the meeting there was a Moment in Harmo History reflecting on previous appearances in the marble hall for the Justices, the great foods, the fun trying to get pitch pipes thru Security, and recalling that every time we won a gold medal we had sung for the Court earlier that summer!!
Dan O had a good number of guests again -- some first timers, several from the past guest nites, and former members Chuck Botts and Phil Ashford
During the break, the chorus enjoyed goodies sent in by Ron Nelson’s wife and Ben’s mom – the chocolate cookies, orange rolls and Mexi tarts! Members also signed up for Anaheim t-shirts, signed up to help manage the Division contest this weekend.
Ken Fess and Mick Stamps took time to thank each and every guy who helped with the Spring Tonic. (We reported them in this column last week.)
Next week May 26th, we are to wear our teal casual shirts, black pants, shoes and belt. To sing as part of the first Choral Alliance. Joe wants the chorus there about 6:45 to be ready for 7 pm start. We will be joined by Alexandria Singers (directed by Tony’s Dad, Bill.) We will sing a couple songs and then combined with the Singers to do Joe Liles’ “Let There Be Music! Let There Be Love.”
The chorus worked on that song, and then concentrated on the contest package they will sing for judges at the end of the division chorus contest. There was time allotted for men to make tapes to turn in to section leaders.
Then they took some time to review and bring back “God Bless USA” and add interp and warmth to a song we have sung a lot.
Final event for the nite was a musical recording of “Great Day” in an effort to start doing this regularly at Durant and collect songs that might be used for a CD in the future.
The nite ended with packing up risers and equipment and benches to take to contest this weekend. And there was time for some tag singing and visiting, before adjourning to 815 S. Washington for our Tuesday nite afterglow.
Until next time – editorjack!
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