01/21/2022 – Happy COLD Friday!

Dear folks,

Well, if all goes as planned and the weather cooperates, we will make that magical chord on Tuesday!!! It has been two months since we have been together and the prospect of hearing Mozart LIVE makes me jump for joy!!!

All Covid protocols will be followed and even though it is difficult, please keep a safe distance from others and if you want to chat, save it for outside. Everyone will be receiving a KN 94 black mask to try. I have tried many but this one is highly recommended and very comfortable. The rehearsal will be recorded if you still are not comfortable. The numbers and situation in South Africa are all encouraging so I am hopeful by mid February, we can re-evaluate.

 We have SO much music to learn and I need you to be practicing often!!! Danny and I have been working closely together and I will be meeting his replacement Michael Semancik in February. Also I should have some big news about our March 12th concert by the  end of next week.

We welcome 7 new/returning  singers. In the soprano 2 section, we have Linda Perrine and Suzanne Zantop. In the Alto 1 section, Katie Allen, Jamie and Brittany (Stinefelt sisters) and Alto 2, Kathy Shields. In the Bass section, Barron Shaw. It delights me to welcome new voices to our ensemble.

Now on to our plan for Tuesday. We will do warmups that are on your syllabus and With One Voice and Hand in Hand. Once again I will introduce our commissioned piece and we will study the first movement. Make sure you have a copy of all four movements. Work the Sanctus from the Requiem and drill melismas in Agnus Dei. For those having some challenges with the Latin, will forward a useful tool in a separate email.  Wayne will review Ave Verum and Let the River Run. Please listen to Africa and be ready when Greg Arment, one of our talented basses, teaches it to you. He will direct this at the choral festival. So much fun. Check out the Angel City Chorale and their performance of this on America’s Got Talent.

I look forward to making our magic Tuesday. If we are forced to do another virtual rehearsal, a decision will be made by 3:00 that day. Make sure to check your email for any updates.

Stay safe, keep positive, be well, eat comfort food to keep warm and sing like Mozart’s Starling!!!!!

With great anticipation,

Marty