FALL/WINTER
2009-10
Chorus Abilene’s
THE VOICE
Chorus Abilene, Inc.
Elks Arts Center
1174 North 1st Street
A Semi-annual Publication
PO Box 3358
Abilene, TX 79604
Tour Report
325.673.SING (7464)
[email protected]
www.chorusabilene.net
Singers in Spain
What do Madrid, Spain, and Abilene, Texas, have in
common? Both will be the beneficiaries of Chorus
Abilene Youth Tour performances in June, 2010!
Inside this Issue:
Tour Report
1
Alumni Corner
2
A Word from the
Executive Director
2
2009 - 10 Board of Directors
2
Concert
Christmas with a Spanish Flair
3
Fundraiser 2009
13th Annual Mexican Dinner
3
2009-2010 Season Donors
3
Concert
I Hear America Singing
4
Retreat Report
Fall Youth Retreat
4
2009-10 CA Staff
4
19 for 19!
4
Community Collaboration
Ballet Abilene’s The Nutcracker
5
A Look Ahead
5
CA Internship
5
Upcoming Events
6
On June 10, singers ages 11 - 18 and their chaperones will board a plane and fly to Madrid for 8 days
of educational sightseeing, fun, and performances.
Upon arriving in Madrid, we head straight to SegoChorus Abilene Youth Tour 2007
via, a UNESCO heritage site surrounded by walls
Vienna, Austria
dating back to the 8th century, and spend a couple of
th
days visiting sites such as an 11 century Alcazar
castle and one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in Europe. We travel to Avila to tour the Old Town
and visit the Encarnacion Monastery and Cathedral. Then it’s back to Madrid to see such sights
as the Puerto del Sol, Plaza Mayor, and Royal Palace. From Madrid we head out to Toledo, full
of history and architecture reflecting Spain’s Moorish influences. We will walk the winding streets
to the Gothic Cathedral, the Synagogue and see El Greco's great painting in the Church of Santo
Tome.
Include in these 8 days three performances in venues unlike anything here and as many other
casual singing opportunities as we can find and you have the recipe for an inspirational, educational, musical trip that can only be experienced with a group focused on the love of singing!
Singers have been working hard at raising money. They have washed windows at Sam’s, sold
hot dogs in front of Shoe Carnival, carhopped at Sonic, and have other fundraisers planned.
Because the trip is an expensive opportunity for education and growth, we treat preparation seriously in order to get the most from the trip. Singers attend tour workshops where they learn
about money, safety, customs to respect, art, local food, and even such mundane things as how
to pack. They all write two reports on some facet of the country that interests them. They also
attend extra rehearsals to make sure their music is thoroughly prepared.
Sixteen singers and eleven adults are signed up for this adventure and we have room for a few
more. The trip is focused on our youth singers and what benefits them, but we welcome guests
to travel with us. Our singers are well-behaved, polite, and responsible – a joy to travel with.
Their enthusiasm is contagious!
We are grateful to the Dodge Jones Foundation for providing scholarship money to help some of
these singers who could not make the trip on their own. If you would like to make a taxdeductible contribution to help a young singer with travel funds (or go with us), contact Gwynn
Haseltine, E.D., at 673-SING (7464) or send your check to Chorus Abilene at PO Box 3358, Abilene, 79604.
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THE VOICE
FALL/WINTER 2009-10
A Word from the Director,
Gwynn Haseltine
Alumni Corner
A Note from CA Alumnus, Hannah Best Denton
Greetings from Maryland!
My journey with the Classical Youth Chorus began one day when my mother picked me
up from school and told me that she had found an ad in the Abilene Reporter News
about a choir that I might like to join. I'm from a family of musicians and this seemed like
a great way for me to join in the family business so to speak. I knew I loved to sing. In
the weeks following, my sister Grace played the piano for me and coached me into an
audition piece. I was eleven years old and scared to death. I remember the audition like
it was yesterday. Dr. Betty Karol Wilson was sitting in one of the raised chairs in the choir
room at McMurry University and Mr. Hayes was sitting at the piano and they just kept
smiling at me. I remember the warm up, “I love to run in the sun”. I use this warm up in
my personal rehearsals on a regular basis. This began my eight years with the Classical
Youth Chorus of Abilene.
I have many memories of my experiences with the Classical Youth Chorus: from a girl in
the soprano section in Canada who fell off the risers and we had to sing (without stopping) while there was an ambulance carrying her away, to watching the boys from the
Moscow Boys Choir refuse ice in their beverages (I then learned that people from
Europe and Russia don't like ice in their drinks) backstage at the Civic Center. What I
think about the most is when we performed in Ontario, Canada and we were performing
“The Lord Bless You and Keep You”. It was so beautiful and so magical that I stood
there and felt the power of what were doing. I looked over at Sommer Snow (who had
been singing next to me for the few years prior) and tears were in our eyes. I don't think
moments like that can be recreated. It was when I realized that I would devote my life to
music.
The experience I had with the Classical Youth Chorus of Abilene gave me an outlet to
express myself, shaped my character as a person, and greatly altered the course of my
life. I am grateful beyond comprehension for my opportunity to perform with a group of
such highly talented people. I became apart of something very special while I was a
chorus member and made friends that I think about daily. It is my dream to sing and be
in the music world and I know it is because of my experience with the Classical Youth
Chorus.
Today I am a professional singer. I currently live in Towson, Maryland with my husband
Anthony Denton. Within the next couple of months I will be graduating with a degree in
Fine Arts and Music from Hardin-Simmons University. My hope is to one day print and
distribute music in my own store. I want to encourage the members of the Classical
Youth Chorus of Abilene to take advantage of the opportunity to learn all that you can-it
could change your life.
Good Luck,
Hannah E. Best Denton
2009-10 Board of Directors
Tom Denslow, President
Andrew Ladyman, Vice President
Martha Mills, Secretary
Debbie Chavez, Treasurer
Gloria Bradshaw
Larry Bradshaw
I love fall. It is a time of new beginnings. I guess I developed that feeling as a child, beginning each new
school year in anticipation of seeing
friends and finding all the new and
wonderful things that happen.
I still get that feeling each August as
rehearsals start again for a fresh
season of music. It just doesn’t get
old. I love seeing all the returning
singers gathering back together;
meeting all the new adults, children,
and parents ready to start on a new
adventure; and hearing the beginnings of voices blended together for
a sound that just gets better all year.
I am also always amazed at the new
talent that comes our way each year.
There are so many children that
have a gift and a love for singing. It
is delightful to see them gather from
all over town (and the Big Country)
into one room and begin to form a
group. This year we had a large
number of talented new adults join
us, as well. The busy lives we lead
– and the fact that they do it not for
money but just for the love of producing beautiful music together –
makes it even more special.
Chorus Abilene is beginning the year
with just over 100 singers in four
choirs. We have a great season of
four concerts and three special
events planned – lots of music! I
hope you will join us!
Samuel Cook
Drew Mawson
Kim Melnyk
Scot Miller
Myra Rains
Adam Samuels
April 2009
Members of the
Youth Chorus take
a break from performing on the Big
Country Youth
Tour.
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THE VOICE
FALL/WINTER 2009-10
Concert
Information Station
Christmas with a Spanish Flair
To keep up to date with all
of Chorus Abilene’s
programs and events, visit
our website at
www.ChorusAbilene.net
Saturday, December 12th
7:30 pm
Aldersgate United Methodist Church, 1741 Sayles Boulevard
Christmas is celebrated all over the world in many ways and with music
unique to the culture. On December 12, all the choirs of Chorus Abilene will
gather to wish Abilene a very merry Christmas – with a slight Spanish twist.
While more well-known Christmas music will be performed, conductors will
also include music used to celebrate the holidays in Spain. Members of our
youth choirs will be touring Spain in June, 2010, and this concert continues to
tie together their educational opportunities while giving audience members an
evening to enjoy with the whole family. Special guest will be Dan Mitchell,
performing as a classical guitarist and also accompanying the adults.
Tickets are $15 for adults and $12 for seniors, students, & military. University
students may purchase tickets for $6 with a college ID. Tickets are available
from the Chorus Abilene office at 673-SING (7464) or at the door.
November 2008, Youth Chorus rings
in the Christmas Season caroling at
the Mall of Abilene.
Fundraiser 2009
13th Annual Mexican Dinner
Chorus Abilene’s 13th Annual Authentic Mexican Food Dinner is coming up, so mark your calendar and buy
your tickets! This evening of fun takes place on Saturday, November 7, at St. Paul’s United Methodist Church
Activity Building on the corner of N. 5th and Orange.
Hundreds of plates of delicious Mexican food will be served up to hungry diners while all the choirs of Chorus
Abilene provide snapshots of entertainment to enhance the terrific meal. Each plate includes a handmade
enchilada and taco, along with refried beans, chips, homemade Mexican rice, and drinks. Serving begins at
5:00 and continues until 7:00. If you can’t stay for the music, opt for take-out and enjoy dinner at home while
supporting music education for youth in Abilene and the surrounding Big Country.
Tickets are $6 in advance and $7 at the door. You may purchase a ticket from any chorus member or, if you
can’t find a singer, by calling the office at 673-SING.
2009-10 Season Donors
Chorus Abilene would like to express its sincere
thanks to the many foundations, businesses and
individuals that support our programs. Thank you
for supporting music education in our community!
Contributor ($250 - $499)
Barber Foundation
Charles & Betty Nelson
Sustainer ($2,500 and up)
Dodge Jones Foundation
Future Fund for the Community
Foundation of Abilene - Scholarships
Supporter ($100 - $249)
Drs. Larry & Gloria Bradshaw
Charles & Jean Kay Erwin
Dr. John & June Estes
Lee & Callie Hampton - Donor Advised
Fund at the Community Foundation of
Abilene
Shirley & Bob Hunter
Dr. & Mrs. Anton Melnyk
Charlene Ricketts
Billye Proctor Shaw
Benefactor ($1,000 - $2,499)
Josh Amerine
Greathouse Foundation - Scholarships
Paul & Gail Thames - in honor of Gaye
Lynn Williams and the Children’s
Chorus
3
Friend (Up to $99)
Anonymous
Mr. & Mrs. Tom Denslow
Dr. & Mrs. R. H. Faulk
Dr. Angela Nicolini
Myra & Randy Rains
Mrs. J. R. Ruschmeyer
Sarah Stone
*It is always our intention to thoroughly and appropriately credit out generous contributors. The
above listing reflects contributions received from
July 1, 2009 to October 1, 2009. Errors should be
brought to our attention for expedient correction.
Chorus Abilene is also supported
in part by funding from the Texas
Commission on the Arts.
THE VOICE
FALL/WINTER 2009-10
Concert
I Hear America Singing
“I Hear America Singing” is the first in a series of performances making up the
organizations 2009-10 concert season. This fall concert is unique in that all
four choruses will team together to bring an evening of musical literature. The
only other concert that will boast all four choruses under one roof will be the
Christmas concert, “Christmas with a Spanish Flair” which will be performed at
Aldersgate United Methodist Church later this year.
The Youth Chorale, under the direction of Mr. Jonathan Krake, will begin the
concert with How Can I Keep From Singing by Greg Gilpin, Song for Unsung
Hero by Pamela & Joseph Martin and Cindy arranged by Neil Johnson.
Youth Chorus & guests sing at the 15th
Anniversary Concert in April 2009.
The concert program also includes Pretty Little Gals by Jill Gallina, The Grand
Old Flag by Ruth Artman and Fifty Nifty United States by Ray Charles, performed by the Children’s Chorus under the
direction of Mrs. Gaye Lynn Williams.
The Youth Chorus, directed by Mr. Jonathan Krake, will continue the program with Hush! Somebody’s Calling My Name
by Denard, Red River Dances by Cristi Cary Miller and Turkey in the Straw by Earlene Renz.
The concert will then conclude with the Classical (Adult) Chorus, under the direction of Dr. Paul Piersall, and their presentation of America, the Beautiful by Samuel Ward/arr. Roy Ringwald, The Promise of Living by Aaron Copland, Stomp
Your Foot by Aaron Copland and Home on the Range arranged by Mac Huff.
Tickets are $12 for adults and $8 for seniors, students, & military. University students may purchase tickets for $6 with a
college ID. Tickets are available from the Chorus Abilene office at 673-SING (7464) or at the door.
Retreat Report
Chorus Abilene Staff
2009-2010
Fall Youth Retreat
Friday evening, Sept. 18, 41 members of the Youth Chorus and Chorale
gathered in the parking lot at ACU, heading out to Buffalo Gap Presbyterian
Encampment for the annual overnight fall retreat. Singers played games
and relaxed while getting to know each other, roasted marshmallows over
the campfire and made s’mores, visited Buffalo Gap Historical Village, and
even squeezed in some rehearsal! Singers come from all different schools,
home schools, and even other towns; so the retreat is a great way to let
them meet each other – something there isn’t a lot of time for in rehearsals.
Artistic Staff
Special thanks goes to our chaperones: Rose Elliott, Saylor Prather, Liz
O’Hern, Susan Rose, and Faynette Parks; to our drivers Thora Sutton,
Sheila Ashford, & Patty Quintero (in addition to our chaperones); and to
meal help Connie Long & James Elliott. And of course, thanks to Jonathan
Krake and Van Hayes for lots of games and music!
Gaye Lynn Williams
19 for 19!
Dr. Paul Piersall
Conductor of Classical Chorus
Jonathan Krake
Conductor of Youth Chorus, Youth Chorale &
Vivace! Youth Ensemble
Conductor of Children’s Chorus
Shirley Anderson
Accompanist for Classical Chorus
Van Hayes
Accompanist for Youth Chorus and Youth
Chorale
Help support music education in the Big Country Community
by donating to Chorus Abilene!
An easy way to show your support is to join our
19 for 19 campaign.
Simply donate $19 to help celebrate our 19th year
of music making. Donations can be sent to our
office at: PO Box 3358, Abilene TX 79604.
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Terry Graham
Accompanist for Children’s Chorus
Administrative Staff
Gwynn Haseltine, Executive Director
Amy Krake, Marketing & Special Events
Marisue Meyer, Administrative Assistant
THE VOICE
FALL/WINTER 2009-10
Community Collaboration
Ballet Abilene’s The Nutcracker
A Look Ahead
Once again, we will be collaborating with Abilene Ballet Theatre in their annual performance
of The Nutcracker. Members of the Youth Chorus and Youth Chorale will be singing in the
Snow Scene on November 20th - 22nd.
At Chorus Abilene we are always looking ahead and making plans for the future! Here are some upcoming events to mark on your calendar…
If you plan on attending the Nutcracker, keep
your ears open just before intermission for the
lovely voices of our singers!
Calling All College Students!
Arts Management Internship
Chorus Abilene presents an new educational opportunity for
college students. The Chorus Abilene Internship immerses
students in the daily operations of a performing arts organization. Interns enhance their portfolios with significant projects or
"real-life experience" that give/s students the tools, training and
experience they require for success in future endeavors. The
arts management intern:

Works with the Marketing & Executive Directors to produce the artistic season in the areas of operations, production, marketing and development.

Coordinates production details of the concert season and
acts as house manager for concerts.

Assists with promotional efforts for season and helps organizes the audition process for both youth and adult choruses including material preparation, scheduling, organizing and sending audition materials.

Researches potential funding opportunities and maintains
the database of foundation and corporate requests.

Attends staff and Board of Director meetings.

Additional opportunities include assisting with promotional
and marketing materials, press releases, newspaper articles, concert postcards, media ads, web site updates, etc.
1 semester. 10 hours per week. Unpaid.
Qualifications: Interns must be currently enrolled in undergraduate or graduate studies. S/he should demonstrate excellent written and verbal communication skills, be able to work
independently and have familiarity with Word, Excel, Powerpoint, etc. Interest or background in the arts and marketing
helpful but not necessary. Interested candidates may submit
their resumes to [email protected].
To see up-to-date pictures of Chorus Abilene
members and events, please visit our
flickr site at:
Spring/Summer 2010
Spotlight 2010: Starlight
Saturday, February 13th, 2010
6:30pm
Elks Arts Center Ballroom
A perfect evening to make someone feel special. The Youth Choirs of Chorus
Abilene, along with selected soloists and duets, will sing their favorite movie
and Broadway melodies as you devour delectable desserts in style. A silent
auction will be available in the mezzanine.
Masterworks Concert: Faure’s Requiem
Saturday, April 10, 2010
7:30pm
St. Paul’s United Methodist
Church, 525 Beech
The Classical Chorus (adult
chorus) will perform Gabriel
Faure’s beautiful Requiem,
along with other shorter works.
The chorus will be accompanied by a small orchestra, for
which the piece was originally
written. Featured soloists are
Classical Chorus sings Musica Bella D’all Italia
soprano Lynda Keith McKnight
held in April 2008
and Rick Piersall. It will be an
evening of music you won’t
want to miss!
Island Realms
Saturday, April 24, 2010
7:30pm
First United Methodist Church, 202 Butternut
The Youth Choirs finish up their season, singing the music of such varied island nations as Japan, Jamaica, the Philippines, and even Ireland.
Encore!
Saturday, May 22, 2010
Elks Arts Center Ballroom
Reservations required: $25/each or $40/couple
2009 was the inauguration of this event presented by the Classical Chorus. It
received such a warm reception that they are once dusting off beloved music
from 20-30 years ago, either from musicals or the radio. The evening includes
a finger food buffet, dessert silent auction, and great music from the whole
chorus and from selected soloists and small groups.
Summer Camp
June 2010
Time & Location TBA
The week long camp will feature singing,
dancing, costumes, props, and rhythm
instruments, and will end with a public
performance. The camp will be open to
students grades 1st - 5th.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/chorusabilene
Children’s Chorus members say “Cheese” at Summer Camp.
5
THE VOICE
FALL/WINTER 2009-10
Friends of CA Donation Card
YES!
I wish to support Chorus Abilene, Inc. and its mission to promote choral
music education in the Big Country Community!
Enclosed is my contribution of $_______________.
Please make checks payable to Chorus Abilene, Inc.
Donation card may be mailed to: PO Box 3358, Abilene, TX 79604.
I wish to charge my donation on VISA or MasterCard. (circle one)
Card # _________________________________________________________
Expiration Date: ______________ Signature: __________________________
Name: _________________________________ Phone: _________________
Address: _______________________________________________________
City: ______________________ State: ____________ Zip: ______________
Upcoming Events
CONCERT SERIES:
“I Hear America Singing”
13th Annual Mexican
Dinner
11/7
Artwalk Performance:
Children’s Chorus
11/19
11/20, 11/21
Ballet Abilene’s Annual
& 11/22
Nutcracker - Guest
Choruses: Youth Chorus &
Youth Chorale
CONCERT SERIES:
“Christmas with a
Spanish Flare”
Email: _________________________________________________________
Spotlight 2010
I would like my name listed in publications as: __________________________
Artwalk Performance:
Youth Chorus
(optional) and in memory/honor (circle one) of: __________________________
DONOR LEVELS
Sustainer: $2,500 and up
Contributor: $250 - $499
Benefactor: $1,000 - $2,499
Supporter: $100 - $249
Sponsor $500 - $999
Friend: Up to $99
Many companies match employee or spouse gifts. Please ask your companies for details.
CA is a 501©3 non-profit, therefore all donations/gifts are eligible for tax credit.
formerly the Classical Chorus of Abilene
PO Box 3358
Abilene, TX 79604
www.chorusabilene.net
325.673.SING
6
10/10
12/12
2/13
4/8
CONCERT SERIES:
“Masterworks Concert:
Faure’s Requiem”
4/10
CONCERT SERIES:
“Island Realms”
4/24
Encore 2010
5/22