Congratulations, UAB Choir: Alabama AMEA Performance

Great news: we've been asked to sing for the Alabama Music Educator's Association on Friday morning, January 23 on the morning session.



I'm told it is a prestigious slot, right after the keynote address.

Another great day

Photos from Copenhagen

World Choral Symposium: Day Two

This I can believe.

Choral Music is my passion you know.

Starbucks is a lesser passion, but still a passion.

Here's some interesting news that resonates with me:

Now that Starbucks Corp. has disclosed the 600 locations it wants to shutter, a phenomenon is taking hold: the Save Our Starbucks campaign.

In towns as small as Bloomfield, N.M., and metropolises as large as New York, customers and city officials are starting to write letters, place phone calls, circulate petitions and otherwise plead with the coffee company to change its mind.

"Now that it's going away, we're devastated,"

Full story.

ChoralNet at World Choral Symposium

Engaging Digital Natives

Check this out.

Headed to Copenhagen

It's going to be a little warm and wet in Denmark this week.

Worth repeating . . .

What I'm Reading (in case you care)

Two books have been recommended to me that you might want to check out:

A Whole New Mind:  Why Right Brainers Will Rule the Future (Daniel H. Pink)

Author's blog is here.

Beautiful Evidence (Edward R. Tufte)
Author's website.

Read this.

This Old Church

I happened to visit the Natchez Democrat today . . . my home town newspaper.

Was saddened to see a story on the continued decline of the church where I used to worship pictured here.

It's a sad little story. They entitled it "Silent Sledgehammer: FBC, Arlington left to demolish themselves."

I loved that old church. I visited home the other day and went inside the deteriorating building. It was a bit of a risk . . . the building is in terrible shape. I stood on the basement floor and looked out the roof. I saw where I used to attend Sunday School (basement) and where I attended worship services as a small boy (first floor) and then saw the balcony where I used to watch the organist play.

It's sad to see it in such bad shape.

phone message

UPDATE: I posted the previous phone message as a part of the conference in Oklahoma City. After I did it, I couldn't get a good enough internet connection to take it down . . . so if you heard it . . . you heard it.I wanted to see if I could do it . . . and I could.For more information about the technology, check out GrandCentral.

posting hiatus

Life is going to be pretty busy from July 7 - July 28.  This blog won't be dead, but I won't be posting regularly . . . unless I post regularly.  Know what I mean?

The Hilarity of Auto Replace

Full story.

Arts attendance up in Birmingham

I had to get that violent gun scene off the front page.

ummmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmIdon'tknowwhattosay

More on the purchase of Pita Stop

Here's the whole story.

Blogger has some new images

I'm testing out a new feature or two on Google's blogger.

This is how a quote would work:

Probably the most important new feature is the inline commenting system, that lets you post comments without opening a new page. This year, I tried using a pop-up window for the comment form, but it's still inconvenient to post comments. The new option, which can be added in the Draft Blogger by going to Settings > Comments > Comment Form Placement, uses an iframe to display a textarea and a list of authentication options:

UAB buys Pita Stop building

Interesting news:

The University of Alabama at Birmingham has bought the building that houses the Pita Stop restaurant for $450,000.

The school had an option to buy the restaurant building on 12th Avenue South when it bought HealthSouth's hospital -- now UAB Highlands -- in 2006 for $33 million. But the Pita Stop building was tied up in a title dispute. Former Jefferson County Commissioner John Katopodis sued HealthSouth, saying he was promised the building in exchange for consulting work.

The dispute was resolved June 1, HealthSouth spokesman Andy Brimmer said today.

UAB will lease the building back to the Pita Stop, said UAB spokesman Gary Mans.

UAB @ Southside Baptist 4-19-2009

Had lunch with Paul Dease today.

Looking at singing at Southside Baptist on the Sunday after Easter.

That's April 19, 2009. It's now on the Google Calendar for UAB CHOIR.

UPDATE: 11:00 Service, be there at 10:00 a.m.

Dr. Kasman and I make the paper

Check it out:

PIANO
UAB pianist Yakov Kasman will spend two weeks in July on the faculty of the International Summer Music Academy, part of the Horowitz International Piano Competition. In April, Kasman was a jury member for the competition, one of Europe's most pretigious, in Kiev, Ukraine.

CHORAL
Philip Copeland, who conducts UAB choirs, will be in Copenhagen, Denmark, in July for the World Symposium of Choral Music.

The whole story here.

Google Calendar for UAB Choir

Sign up! These are our dates for 2008-2009. (I'm re-posting this information to make it a permanent feature for the blog.)

Note the AUDITION DATE of Sunday, August 17.



HTML Version.

ICAL version.

Tuition increase

From the Birmingham News:

The cost to attend the University of Alabama will increase by more than 12 percent this fall, the UA System Board of Trustees decided Friday.

Tuition and fees at the University of Alabama at Birmingham will increase by more than 10 percent and at the University of Alabama in Huntsville by 14 percent.

Each university is also cutting costs across the board, including reducing some positions.

System officials said the measures are needed to make up for a drop in state funding. Altogether, with the reduced state appropriations and rising costs of energy, retiree benefits and other needs, the three schools need to make up $98 million, said Chancellor Malcolm Portera.

Tuition and fees for Alabama undergraduates at UA will increase from $2,850 last year to $3,200 this fall.

At UAB, the cost will go from $2,104 to $2,332 for students in arts and humanities, math and science and social sciences; costs for engineering, business and education students will go from $2,152 to $2,380. Both increases are more than 10.5 percent.

At UAH, the cost will go from $2,284 to $2,604.

HERE IS WHO YOU CAN BLAME.

King's Singer Interview - the soft release

It's a rather large file: 20 mb.

The 160 kbps version. (20 Mb)
The 320 kbps version. (41 Mb)

Please listen and let me know what you think.

Great news

Health news is going my way lately:

According to new research, the tasty beverage provides a double-whammy of health benefits: chocolate may slow cancer growth, and java could help you live longer. The good news about chocolate comes from scientists at Georgetown University Medical Center, who found that a synthetic chemical that is similar to a compound present in cocoa beans slows the growth of colon cancer by 50 percent. Not only did it retard growth, it damaged most of the colon cancer cells. The compound, known as GECGC, is most effective at impeding those cancer cells that usually grow at frighteningly-quick rates; promising, given that they are also often the most deadly.

I have a beautiful voice

Caroline singing . . . .

Claire descends from stairs.

Claire: "I don't want you to sing." (in a whiny voice)

Caroline: "But I have a beautiful voice."

5 Minutes Later:

Catherine: "Daddy, Claire told me there were worms in my pancakes.

Daddy: "No there aren't . . . I put the worms in Claire's Fruit Loops."

servin' back (sexy back)

I'm afraid this isn't a joke . . .

Chór Repetitio Regina Coeli R.Twardowski

I thought this may interest you.

"Long Ago" by Eugene Field

Long ago

I once knew all the birds that came
And nested in our orchard trees;
For every flower I had a name--
My friends were woodchucks, toads, and bees;
I knew where thrived in yonder glen
What plants would soothe a stone-bruised toe--
Oh, I was very learned then;
But that was very long ago!

I knew the spot upon the hill
Where checkerberries could be found,
I knew the rushes near the mill
Where pickerel lay that weighed a pound!
I knew the wood,--the very tree
Where lived the poaching, saucy crow,
And all the woods and crows knew me--
But that was very long ago.

And pining for the joys of youth,
I tread the old familiar spot
Only to learn this solemn truth:
I have forgotten, am forgot.
Yet here's this youngster at my knee
Knows all the things I used to know;
To think I once was wise as he--
But that was very long ago.

I know it's folly to complain
Of whatsoe'er the Fates decree;
Yet were not wishes all in vain,
I tell you what my wish should be:
I'd wish to be a boy again,
Back with the friends I used to know;
For I was, oh! so happy then--
But that was very long ago!

Listen. Ray Liebau setting.

prayers and condolences for nebraska and iowa

lots of sadness in the world the past couple of days with the tornado in omaha and the flooding in iowa.

it's easy to completely miss what else is going on in our nation but there are some real tragedies pretty close by.

read firsthand accounts of the tornado here . . . four young boy scouts killed.

Pie Jesu, Pie Jesu
Qui tollis peccata mundi
Dona eis requiem

RealGroup coming to Nashville

If you can make this, you should go.

From A Cappella News:

As an additional treat this year’s special guest artist are none other than Sweden’s The Real Group who will be performing on Saturday July 5 at the Sommet Center in Nashville starting at 2pm. Tickets are available to the general public and can be purchased from Ticketmaster.

Analyzing Caroline's Art: Part 2

We had so much fun last time that I thought we'd take another look at Caroline's latest creation. Have at it.

caroline2_Page_1, originally uploaded by philipco.

Click here for a large version. And now, the Second masterwork:

caroline2_Page_2, originally uploaded by philipco.

Note: in the second masterwork the sister that was born one minute after Caroline supplied additional inspiration to the masterwork. A quiz:

1. What is the sister's name?
2. What portion of the work is hers?

Help me

If you are a visitor to this blog today, will you help me explore this spreadsheet function of Google Documents?

First, a definition of "pithy."
[n. PIH-thee] Pithy, when used accurately, describes speech or writing that is short, direct, and memorable. ...

Just fill this out and it should appear on my google spreadsheet:



View the comments here.

Honoring Mrs. Burt

My piano teacher died a couple of weeks ago, on May 23, 2008.

I wasn't able to go to the funeral, but the Natchez Democrat has a wonderful online presence that allows you to post comments in the obituary section.

I posted this morning. She was important to me and I will miss her.

All musicians should honor their teachers . . . I certainly hold her in the highest esteem.

It's about time

From the "It's about time" category, I present this wonderful development:



I knew something was up when I was able to access AT&T wireless from the Homewood Starbucks on Sunday morning.

I think the service started on Monday or Tuesday . . . so this Thursday post is a little late. It's still a good thing and long overdue.

Now . . . visit your local Starbucks. They need the business and I need my java huts to remain open.

I just realized how many times a week I go to Starbucks:

Sunday: Visited Homewood Starbucks between church services.

Monday: Starbucks in Vestavia City Center - this used to be my favorite place but others moved in.

Tuesday: Starbucks on Hwy 31 - the new one. Enjoyed an extended time with Libby Hearn. The weather was good and the coffee was delicious. We talked about Birmingham Concert Chorale and Jennifer Thorpe.

Wednesday: Starbucks in Homewood. My favorite. Meeting with Larry Hardin about possibilities for Birmingham related to choral music.

Thursday: I've not been anywhere yet but the clock is still ticking . . . I'm a cup low this morning after I shattered a hot mug of coffee as it slipped from my hand. Only a minor cut, but 16 glorious ounces of black gold all over the kitchen floor.

Facebook is messing me up

Facebook is really starting to mess with me. I love the magic of a persons name appearing when I slide my mouse over a picture of a person. It's so interesting to see someone familiar and then finding out their name with a subtle movement of the wrist . . .

I started expecting the same magic from moving video today.

Granted, I had accessed the video from a facebook site (My new friend Libby Hearn) but it still messed with me.

Anyone else had the same experience?

If you need a blog

If you absolutely must read a blog post from me, you can always look here:

ChoralNet.Org.

I'm sure regular blogging will begin again soon. Until then, peace. And pray that God takes away all summer colds.

Mmmmmm

Choir,

I like sharing new "finds" with you about good places in Birmingham. If you like Cajun food, try New Orleans Food and Spirits. It's in Vestavia, off Hwy 31, near the Rave Theater where the Sneaky Petes used to be. I had lunch there the other day and it was delicious.

Menu here.

I had the "Taste of N'awlins" and loved it.

Tuxedos and Dresses

Choir,

There's been a little snag regarding turning in your outfits. For now, please keep them and don't bring them to the UAB Music Office.

Watch your email for instructions.

Read it for yourself - judges comments from Cork

Pretty interesting reading.

I got this in the mail today: comments from all the judges including the scores. I doubt most choral conductors are sharing their comments so publicly . . . but what does it really matter?

We received some very interesting comments . . . a few commonalities:

1. judges commented most on going a half step sharp on "nunc dimittis" (better sharp than flat, i say)
2. judges usually commented on vibrato, desiring less. that's pretty interesting to me, since in the usa we are probably known for singing with less vibrato than most other choirs.

Read it here, and comment below. Enjoy, and respond in the comment section below!

UAB Choir Google Calendar: Fall 2008

I've done it before and I'm trying it again: adding Google Calendar functionality to this blog. All choir dates (for Fall 2008) are on this calendar.

I do it this way: I keep my normal calendar on Google, then I ADD the UAB Choir Calendar to it. Play with it--maybe you can figure it out!

You can subscribe to the UAB Choirs Calendar here: (please let me know if this works)



HTML Version.

ICAL version.

Choir exam times, December 2008

Getting my things together for fall:

FINAL EXAM TIME FOR CHOIR:
1g: Friday, December 5, 1:30 - 4:00
2E: Thursday, December 11, 1:30 - 4:00

Distractions

Many choir members know that I joined "Facebook" recently. I've actually been a member of the community for a few years but recently started accepting "friends."

I should post positive/negative thoughts about the experience soon. However, today's blog post is devoted to the topic of "distractions" and it's dedicated to Brian Denton, who happened to begin facebook chatting with me this morning while he was in the middle of his summer school education class.

It brought to mind this article that I read the other day . . . an article that opens with this joke:

The students sit in class, tapping away at their laptops as the boring old law professor mechanically plods through his lecture. Except one. Instead of hunching over a portable computer or a notebook, he’s playing solitaire with a deck of cards on his desk. The professor halts his droning. “What are you doing?” he demands. The student shrugs. “My laptop is broken,” he says.

Now I know that classes can sometimes be boring.

I am also very familiar with the temptations of a notebook computer and a wireless internet connection.

Here's my wisdom for today: resist the temptation to surf the internet during class. Invest yourself in what is being discussed, even if it is boring.

The internet is a master of distraction . . . it can take you away from important relationships and significant dialogue.

I know that I can't watch TV and surf the internet at the same time. I also know that you can't chat on facebook and have any idea of what is discussed in class.

To be fair, Brian wasn't the first surfer I knew about. I occasionally observe other classes for one reason or another . . . and I was HORRIFIED at what I witnessed from the back of the classroom. At the beginning of class, one young woman dominated the discussion of her personal hard feelings for the Iraq war. Five minutes later she was on Facebook, Ebay, Email, and several other sites.

It was ridiculous. I was observing the class because the professor was nominated as one of the universities best teachers . . . one of the most accomplished and one of the most acclaimed. And here this girl was thumbing her nose at his class so that she could check her email. I was embarassed for her and her lack of respect.

And it's contagious (more from the article):

“Visitors to classes, as well as many of our students, report that the rate of distracting Internet usage during class is astounding. Remarkably, usage appears to be contagious, if not epidemic. Several observers have reported that one student will visit a gossip site or shop for shoes, and within twenty minutes an entire row is shoe shopping. Half the time a student is called on, the question needs to be repeated.”

I already know the typical student response:

"It's not my fault, the professor is boring!"

I'm calling BS on that one. Even the most captivating TV series "Lost" is boring if you aren't paying attention.

"I can multi-task."

BS. You can't. No one can. My computer can. You can't.

Live life, everyone. There's time to surf later.

In the news

Surprise! I'm in the newspaper today, and so are you . . . the winners of the Heinrich Schutz Perpetual trophy . . .

Creating a new standard: Clarifying Expectations

I've been inspired by Dr. Kris' syllabus to clarify my expectations for UAB Choirs. Pay attention to these standards . . . you will see them on the syllabus soon.

90-100% = A (Excellent: exceeds expectations)

The Rehearsal Standard
o Brings music and pencil to every rehearsal
o Marks music with rehearsal comments and language pronunciations and language translations
o Seldom or never excuses self from choir for bathroom or water
o Follows appropriate role in choir as either section leader or section member
o Proper hygiene standards

The Attendance Standard
o Two unexcused absences or less. If absent, calls Dr. Copeland.
o Three tardies or less; always calls section leader if going to be tardy
o Attends all recording sessions, sectional rehearsals

The Performance Standard
o Has all music memorized by deadlines
o Sings with animated face, vocal nuance, keeps eyes on conductor
o Arrives at called time warmed up, dressed appropriately, ready to sing
o Proper Uniform at all concerts, Excellent Hygiene,
o Females: Designated lipstick, Hair pulled back, Black hose, low heeled shoe
o Males: face appropriately shaven

The Communication Standard:
o Follows choir blog for pertinent news
o Communicates promptly with director concerning emergencies, conflicts, potential problems that interfere with choir.

2008-2009 Dates

It's never too early to get it on your calendar:

August 17, 2008 choir room
3:00 All men audition
4:30 All women audition
6:00 Callbacks
Note: I will seat the choir this year before making a final decision.

August 19 UAB Classes begin

Friday, August 22 CHOIR WEEKEND (tentative) (required of all who make choir)
5:00 dinner
6:00 rehearsal
9:30 movie

Saturday, August 23 (required of all who make choir)
9:00 rehearsal
12:00 dismiss

Saturday, September 6
9:00 - 12:00 morning rehearsal

Tuesday, Oct. 14
Recording session, Bluff Park Methodist Church
8-10 p.m.

Oct. 17: Drop dead date
You are not assured of your spot in this choir until the Drop Dead date. If you are not maintaining the standard set forth in the grading rubric you may be dropped from the class.

Oct. 17, 2008 Fall Choral Concert
Jemison, 8:00 PM

Oct. 28, 2008
Recording session, Bluff Park Methodist Church
8-10 p.m.

NCCO Convention Performance (exact travel date not confirmed yet)
Wednesday, October 29 Travel to Louisville, possible concert there
Thursday, October 30 Louisville to Cincinnati
Friday, October 31 4:30 PM Performance at convention

Dec. 6, 2008 Christmas at the Alys
Jemison 7:00 - 10:00 pm

Dec. 7, 2008 Christmas at the Alys
Jemison 3:00 pm

Dec. 5-11, 2008 Final Exams

FINAL EXAM TIME FOR CHOIR: (updated 5/27/2008)
1g: Friday, December 5, 1:30 - 4:00
2E: Thursday, December 11, 1:30 - 4:00

January 7, 2009 UAB Classes begin

January 12, 2009 Rehearse Carmina Burana with Birmingham Concert Chorale
Monday night, 7-9 p.m. Briarwood Presbyterian map

January 17, 2009 UAB Honor Choir
1:30 Gather on Jemison Stage
3:00 Concert

January 22-24 AMEA Conference
UAB Concert Choir hopes to perform at this conference

January 26, 2009 Rehearse Carmina Burana with Birmingham Concert Chorale
Monday night, 7-9 p.m. Briarwood Presbyterian map

February 2-7, 2009 Carmina Week
February 2 7:00
rehearsal with Birmingham Concert Chorale (Briarwood Presbyterian map)

February 3 7:00
dress rehearsal with Alabama Symphony (Jemison)

February 5 7:00
dress rehearsal with Alabama Symphony (Jemison)

February 6-7, 2009
Carmina Burana Performance

April 24, 2009
6:30 p.m. Choirs gather
8:00 p.m. Spring Concert

Thinkin' About Tomorrow

Just looking ahead.

Florilege vocal de tours: May 28-30, 2010

It's a possibility. The dates work for UAB and I like going on a trip in May. At the moment, I don't see any other possibilities but I'm sure I will find a few . . .

Commentary

I don't normally comment on local news stories, but this phrase from one article struck me as funny:

Wilhite said the school system forbids students to bring their cell phones to school, so it's unlikely that the nude photos are being transmitted or received by students during school hours.

Sure . . . since there is a rule against cell phones at school . . . it's unlikely that students break the rule?

Does anyone else think that principal is a little too trusting?

A Note in Our Honor

Choir,

I hope you have kept up with "The Continentals" blog about their trip.

If you haven't, take the time to read some of their stories and see some of their pictures. In a very real sense, our trip continued with them. Our experience started with 65 singers in the Spring Concert, then 44 took the music to Ireland, and then this remnant of 14 singers continue to sing our songs and touch others. I'm proud of that . . .

I'm even prouder of what they are learning over there, even if they are some painful truths about humanity. If you have a little time, check out this post. Read about their experience at the Dachau Concentration Camp. I won't quote Ashley's description of what she saw, but I do want to share with you the note she left on our behalf:

We visited a chapel that was erected later to serve as a worship place for visitors. There was a wall of letters written by visitors in all languages as well as a book of prayers and wishes. I got a little teary eyed reading some of the comments people left, and I decided to leave one on behalf of our choir. It went something like this:

May all who enter this hallowed place remember what it stood for; may all who leave take away a message of peace and acceptance for all people. Let us a remember that despite our differences we all share the commonality of what it means to be human.

"All nations shall come and worship before you.
For your mighty and holy acts have been revealed.
Great and marvelous are your deeds
Lord God Almighty."

Love,
The University of Alabama at Birmingham Concert Choir
Birmingham, AL USA

Music is a powerful force . . . especially choral music. It puts us in touch with great texts, like this one from the Bible. Putting our words of hope in that sacred place honors us . . . on behalf of the choir, I thank you Ashley.

In the comments section of Ashley's post, she references the work Ross Bernhardt wrote for us: Dresden Meditation. Bernhardt's work sets Norbert Capek's powerful words of hope in the face of overwhelming despair:

In the depths of my soul
There where lies the source of strength,
Where the divine and the human meet,
There, quiet your mind, quiet, quiet.

Outside let lightning reign,
Horrible darkness frighten the world.
But from the depths of your own soul
From that silence will rise again
God's flower.

Return to your self,
Rest in your self,
Live in the depths of your soul
Where the divine and the human meet.
Tune your heart to the eternal
And in the depths of your own soul
Your panting quiets down
Where the divine and the human meet,
There is your refuge.

-- Norbert Capek

I hope I can live in that divine place today . . I hope my mind is occasionally quiet . . . I hope God speaks to me like He did through Ashley and the words of Capek.

I wish the same for you.

New Director of BCC: Me

I learned a few things tonight:

1. That I'm the new director of the Birmingham Concert Chorale. I'm excited about it and looking forward to working in that position on Monday evenings.

2. That Facebook is quite a tool for communicating news about yourself. At about 9:45 p.m. I posted the byline (or whatever it is called) that I "had news." In about ten minutes, I had 5 posts to my "wall", two chat invitations, and then a phone call. That's a pretty fast response.

So . . . what does my affiliation with BCC mean for my choirs at UAB?

Well, I'd say things will stay about the same. It doesn't mean that the groups will combine "more." We already combine fairly often.

My position as "Director of Choral Activities" at UAB means that I do what is best for UAB in that capacity. I'll choose works and combined activities for my UAB Choirs on the basis of what is best for my students there. In the meantime, I'll work to build up the BCC in the hopes that it will soon pull off major performances by itself and without other choirs.

For instance, I already committed UAB to Orff's "Carmina Burana" for the 2008-2009 academic year. I'm not sure what other choirs will join for that performance . . . but I'm sure I'll find that out fairly soon.

I know that the 2009-2010 calendar hasn't been decided yet. In my thinking right now, it is time for UAB to NOT do a combined work with the BCC and the ASO. In fact, it might be time for UAB to do a major work by itself for that year.

So . . anyway . . . that's big news in my professional life. I'm excited by the potential of the group and the affiliation with this quality community choir. Mark Ridings has skillfully led the choir for ten years and has done a wonderful job with them. I'm looking forward to building on the foundation that is already there.

In fact, I'll be looking first to UAB Concert Choir Alumni as my first recruits for the BCC. Spread the word!

Facebook: It Might Be a Mistake

LHL, originally uploaded by philipco.

I may have made a mistake.

Brain. Overload. Should not see. Things. Like. This. Albums. Like. This.

Big News

Big news.

I have accepted friendships on Facebook.

Calm down. It means nothing.

Dresses and Tuxedos Due June 1

Ireland people: Tuxedos and Dresses due back on June 1.

Still on Ireland time

7:00 p.m. last night . . . exhausted. Went to bed at 8:00 p.m.

3:30 a.m. Awoke, worked 8 hours.

10:00 a.m. Exhausted. Napped for two hours.

Anyone else having similar issues?

Cap'n Chris Sums it Up Very Well

I read this great post from Chris after I declared the trip over:

The competition was like many I had been to before, almost. We performed at a caliber that rivaled the most glorious moments in my UAB choir history.

After a much needed sectional, I felt that the basses finally found the right balance.

Everything was going so well; the Irish people really liked us and it seemed that the Lord Mayor of Cork was following us around.

We started to lock the chords in faster and make dynamics more polar... it was incredible! With that in mind I know that we all were very satisfied with our performance even though we did not win the entire festival. We had high hopes and emotions and everything looked like it was perfect. Not one person acted in a way that hindered our pride during and after the competition performance. We were simply spectacular.

We walked away with an award and left the stage after the gala concerts as winners, in the way that we, the big American choir, stole the show.

What fantastic remarks from Chris. A couple of thoughts related to his post:

1. Do you think that the people of Cork see the Lord Mayor as often as we did? He certainly seemed to be where we were. I liked him very much and I wish that I could consult with him for my future clothing purchases . . . a very snazzy dresser to be sure. His accessories, especially the ceremonial Lord Mayor wear, were a little much for me but perhaps that kind of thing is popular in Ireland.

2. "We performed at a caliber that rivaled the most glorious moments in my UAB choir history." I agree. Trips like that bring out the best in us. I think we will be able to build on what we learned and experienced for remarkable performances next semester.

3. "I know that we all were very satisfied with our performance even though we did not win the entire festival." A great way of looking at it . . . and it mirrors my thoughts and feelings exactly.

4. "We walked away with an award and left the stage after the gala concerts as winners, in the way that we, the big American choir, stole the show." I can't add anything to that . . . it's absolutely true.

3:30 AM - in own bed - trip is over

I hereby proclaim Ireland 2008 over.

It was a great trip. We didn't accomplish all we wanted to, but we discovered many new things along the way.

Peace.

Flight Delayed Again: Now 8:28 p.m.

UPDATE: NOW 9:20 PM

Jeez. I'll never do American Airlines again.

We're sitting in O'Hare leaning on each other with bad looks on our faces. Perhaps I should video the scene.

What are you thinking?

Looks like we might leave Chicago on time. Enjoy the video!

Landed in Chicago: Delayed to Birmingham

Current information is that we are going to leave here at 7:35 instead of the 6:55 that was originally scheduled.

Hmmm . . . I hope that is the only delay.

Whole World at Dublin Dinner

Toilet Paper Awards 2008

Here's the link to get the full list of awards. Not all UAB Concert Choir got an award . . . but all who were on the trip did. That's not a slight towards our at-home third of the choir . . just a reality of the way it usually works.

I had no official role in the creation of this list.

A few of the highlights:

The Margaret Hendricks "Anything You Can Sing, I Can Sing Louder Award":
Brian Bastow
Brian Denton
Marybeth Verchot

Kevin A. Beck Straight-Tone Award:
Nancy Lewis
Martin Schulz

There’s No Minute Like the Last Minute to Get Your Passport Award:
Daniel New
Michael Dees

Delia M. Charest Pretentious Diva Award:
Nancy Lewis
Erin Pair
Marybeth Verchot

For her future earning potential, otherwise known as FEP, Emily Fledderman receives the Deborah Leigh Hughes Copeland Most Likely to Marry a Music Major Award
Emily Fledderman

Now men notice the color of my eyes award:
Whitney Cummins

The Andrew Granlund Submissiveness is the Easiest Path to Relationship Bliss Award
Lincoln Parrott

Best Use of Lipgloss On a UAB Choir Member:
Lindsey Lingerfelt

Most Likely to Enroll in Opera the NEXT Time It’s About Pirates Award:
Christopher Josof

Most likely to slip the Blarney stone the tongue:
Samantha Pace
Mark Kunkel

The last song . . .

Well . . . the last two songs, really.

We were the last group to perform in the gala concert tonight. I wish everyone at home in the USA could have heard our group and observed the audiences response following our two songs: "Star of the County Down" and "He's Got the Whole World in His Hands."

It was magic. Ashley will probably be able to describe it better, of course, but the crowd just went crazy after both of those songs. It was a perfect ending to a wonderful year of singing.

The Irish crowd was already buzzing about "Star of the County Down" when they heard it announced as one of our selections before we sang. Uncharacteristically of me, to be sure, I addressed the crowd and dedicated the piece to the wonderful people of Cork . . . . for their kindness, their hospitality, and their food! (they've provided wonderful snacks and refreshments at every concert).

The choir sang with unbelievable energy and zest. Their faces were alive and their bodies were moving (in appropriate ways, of course).

Several people told me that we got the best response from the audience of the entire evening . . . and that is saying a lot considering that we sang at 10:30 when the concert began at 7:30.

We've been told by more than a few people that they thought we were going to win the competition. We weren't surprised by those comments . . . we thought so as well! We'll work through our thoughts and feelings as we digest the experiences here.

One thing is for certain . . . we will come back a stronger choir . . . with more members who know the thrill of competition and striving for excellence.

The Liebau piece (Whole World) was a perfect way to end the year. The choir sang with huge volume for the last few words and I really didn't want to cut the last chord off . . . I knew it was the last note we would sing in an official concert . . . . the moment was as precious as it was powerful.

Amen.

Heinrich Schutz Perpetual Trophy

The good news: we won the Heinrich Schutz Perpetual Trophy for our interpretation of a Heinrich Schutz work in the National or International competition.

The bad news: we didn't win. And, of course, we are disappointed. Losing isn't fun, that's what makes winning so great.

It was a very close competition and the caliber of the other choirs was extremely high. Win or lose, we are thankful for the experience and we'll be a better choir from having entered the fray.

Today, I take the most joy in what this has brought for the UAB students. Here's something Ashley Arrington said:

I had a great time singing last night. My face was shaking from smiling so much. I felt like we exuded confidence and pride for our choir, our country, our school and of course our music. I was worried because I didn't know how we measured up to other choirs since we hadn't heard any anothers perform...but when we went out to listen afterwards I realized we were right in stride with everyone else if not a step ahead of them. Performing for an attentive, interested audience is a thrill like none other. I could see people's reactions out of my peripheral vision and that really encouraged and excited me even more. I also think we stood out in a number of ways. We had by far the biggest sound. Other choirs were good at the controlled chamber choir-esque sound, but that got boring very quickly. However, there was no way anyone could sleep through any song in our set. Every song was exciting in some way. Our songs were impeccably chosen and executed.

As we sang I thought about what Dr. C said about all of our songs having a certain universality to them -- that is what this whole experience has been for me. We've gotten to meet people from all over the globe, and despite our differences we all share a love of choral music. It is a source of passion and joy for all of us or else we wouldn't be here. When we hit the phrase "until the universe can fit inside my heart" I could feel the love and warmth in the room. I felt a definite appreciation for what we were doing up there from people of all walks of life. That caused a revelation in me -- that we're all just people, no matter what or where we come from. Music is the single thread that ties us all together and it is truly a universal language.

We're proud of our performance!

We won't know the results until tomorrow, but the choir feels fantastic about the performance (and so do I)!

We sang with great passion, sensitivity, and authority. We were different from the other choirs in some pretty profound ways . . . but it's all up to the judges.

More later. There is a reception to attend . . . . .

plc

We're headed off to sing

We meet downstairs in 20 minutes to travel to the competition. It's rainy and cool here, but the choir feels (and sounds) good.

Perhaps it is the adrenaline, but I feel great momentum building for our performance.

We had a great rehearsal this afternoon. In that final practice, I shared an insight that I'd gained from this morning's study of music:

There is a thread that unites all our works in this performance - an otherworldliness - a place of mystery - a universality - a sense of awe and anticipation. We'll try to find that special place in the music tonight:

1. Regina coeli: ora pro nobis Deum
2. Nunc dimittis: the sense of awe at the beginning of the work that leads to a glorious AMEN of praise
3. So fahr ich hin zu Jesu Christ: the peacefulness of sleep
4. With a Lily: "until the universe . . . "

We will work to find that quiet place tonight.

Tonight is a night of many culminating meanings.

A year of work in 12 minutes.
All of our passion and emotion in 12 minutes.
Our eyes and eyebrows in 12 minutes.
An intense period of lightness, joy, and relaxation in 12 minutes.
Our most beautiful sounds . . . in 12 minutes.

Forty-four people will become one voice . . . .

Wish us luck and passion.

plc

UAB is blogging Ireland again

Don't miss this review of the National Chamber Choir of Ireland. Ashley shows real insight for choral music in this post . . . she's really a remarkable young woman. I wish I had gone to the concert.

Brian Denton is singing beautifully and blogging up a storm. Here is his take on what's next:

Tomorrow night is the real deal. The reason we're here in Ireland. We have 12 minutes to sing our hearts out and make magic with the wonderful music that we're performing. We're ready. Our Spring concert back at home was just the start for this choir.

Chris is busy spying on me spying on others here and he's got a video of pictures he's taken here on his facebook account. I've got to find out how he recorded "Michelle" from our concert yesterday . . . it's a great recording although I took the piece a little fast. The kids were a little restless so I rushed the tempo a bit on purpose. If I'd known I'd here it again I would have milked it for all it's worth!

Patrick is posting pictures and a few comments here.

It's almost like the old days with many choir members blogging! Madison Holler is rumored to have a blog out there that I haven't found yet. If anyone can help, let me know.

Choir is in good spirits. I think tomorrow will be special.

We're having a blast

E6DS1882, originally uploaded by philipco.

Things are busy here . . . the competition has us singing in several venues. On Thursday we sang in a well attended library and later in a concert for Ireland choirs. Between those two performances, we had a session with the Lord Mayor of Cork, who formally welcomed us to the city. It was a very nice experience, one that we were not expecting. Following that, we had this picture taken and I think it will become a favorite of mine. Standing with me are the section leaders with the choir looking triumphant in the background.

Here's a larger version of the picture.

More photos here.

UAB Choir is Blogging Ireland

Other posts for you to check out:

Chris Josof's thoughts here.
Ashley blogging for "The Continentals."
The "Runaways" are blogging here.

In the picture here, we see newcomer and Montevallo transfer Daniel New and Emily Fledderman spending some time in the airport while traveling over.

Still Missing Charles

UAB to Ireland - The Long Plane Ride

Here's video of what we were thinking after finally getting off the plane in Shannon, Ireland.

Do you miss Charles?

We all miss former choir member Charles Henry.

We're here!

We've been in Cork for about five hours now . . . all have made it safely and are in fairly good moods, considering our lack of sleep and the time change.

There was, we thought, luggage missing (Sam Pace and Chris Josof) . . . and Martin worked for about two hours to retrieve it . . and then they found it in the rental car.

We made all of our connections easily and most members of the group are wandering around the city. Our first rehearsal comes in a couple of hours.

I met John Fitzpatrick, the man running the Cork festival . . . a very nice guy. He took time to talk with me and walk me through the performing spaces, something I really appreciated. We talked about the extremely high level of the choirs that are present for the international competition. He told me there were 30 international choirs that submitted for the festival . . . I was honored to be among them.

We're excited right now . . . a little weary . . . but excited. Think good thoughts for us.

Money $$$

I've got money for UAB Ireland folks.

If the people NOT traveling with us in the morning want their $100 before the trip, show up in the morning and I'll give you cash.

For the Atlanta bound folks, you will get your money and airline ticket when you get on the bus. Have your passport ready to show us to get the money and ticket.

Yellow Forms Due Now

These people must get their form to Ms. Reynolds ASAP:

Her message to me:

Please contact the following students and give them a deadline of 5:00 MONDAY to get their yellow forms to me....we HAVE to have these......

Lori Ayler
Ron Baxter
Jason Leger
Harry Miree
Link Parrot
Maegan Reid
Amber Reid
Jennifer Thorp

Tickets for the Competition and Other Cork Festival Events

The UAB Choir is performing at two events that require tickets on this trip for the non-singers going with us. The non-choir folks will have to purchase tickets to get into the competition and gala (as well as any other event they may want to attend).

We've got a few options:

1. I can purchase them now and you can reimburse me
2. You can purchase them online here
3. You can purchase them when we get there.

Think about it and let me know.

Other relevant details:

We perform at 8:47 on Saturday night of the Fleischmann competition, so the event looks this way on the ticket ordering page:

FLEISCHMANN INTERNATIONAL TROPHY City Hall, Cork, Downstairs
Saturday, 3/5/08
8:00PM
We perform at 8:47.

There are other tickets for the other event that will involve us: Closing Gala Concert

CLOSING GALA CONCERT- BACK PARTERRE
City Hall, Cork, Back Parterre
Sunday, 4/5/08
7:30PM
We perform at 10:07 p.m.

Very Kind Words

I got this email today and received permission to share it with you. Here's the Christmas recording post he referenced.

Dear Dr Copeland,

Congratulations. You direct one heck of a chorus.

I hope you don't mind that I've downloaded a few of your recordings (even though you probably meant them only for your singers). I first stumbled across them about a year ago, and still have the audio clip of Thompson's "Choose Something Like a Star."

You might have to commit violence against me to make me give it up. It's one of the most insightful performance of the Thompson I've ever heard! That includes four performances that I've sung in with three regional and local symphony choruses over about 20 years, and even the New York Choral Society's commercial recording of the work. Your interpretation has an intensity and conviction that I've *never* heard in any other performance.

The diction is impeccable to boot. Every word is audible.

Minor technical caveat: I only wish the recording didn't cut off so abruptly at the end, before the last note even finishes. I miss that, and the audience's reaction. But that's a minor point.

I'm listening to the Regina Coeli from your recent concert as I type this, and it only boosts my admiration. What a group. What musicianship. Makes me wish I were a student again so I could sing with them.

Carry on, sir. Enjoy each morning's cuppa. And please post information in your blog when your *official* recording is available.

Warm regards,

David Roden
(Member of the Akron Symphony Chorus, Akron OH)

Ireland lips

For the women going to Ireland:

If you have a brownish-red lipstick, bring it on the bus Tuesday. It must be shown to either Erin or Nancy for approval, since we are trying to all wear the same/similar color. If you are returning from last year, bring last year's lipstick with you (Avon, blue tube, called Buttered Rum). Those who have neither will share with a woman who has a lipstick. We will have alcohol to disinfect the lipstick before sharing! If you still have an issue with sharing, I suggest you buy a brownish-red lipstick before Tuesday!

--Erin and Nancy, lipstick divas

What it takes

I posted this on the ChoralNet blog today . . . you may enjoy it . . . what it takes to sing in choir.

--

One person called this "perhaps the best description of choral music participation that I have ever read."

Take a look at this post and see how one person described what it takes to sing in a choir. A portion of it excerpted here:

Choral scores (for those of you not in choirs) are complex, multi-factored codes from which singers are supposed to produce music. ..not just a sequence of notes, because every mark on the score instructs singers on other things . . .

---

Then there's the mundane side of things...singers must have the commitment, the discipline, to show up at rehearsals, work during rehearsals, do what it takes between rehearsals to arrive at the next one ready to go. Just showing up counts a lot--the time wasted by those who have skipped, who have to stop and ask questions because they weren't there, who come in late and have to ask what page we're on, who are chatting and not listening so they miss which bit comes next, who forgot their score or their pencil and need to borrow...that time is lost, missing from rehearsals. Choirs benefit from the dependable, the prompt, the prepared, the alert, those willing to concentrate on the work at hand. Individual singers must be committed to sing when they don't feel great, when their feet hurt, when their noses tickle, when their throats might be a little raw, when they've just been fired, when their significant other just got a job 400 miles away.

It's a great post . . .

The Continental Blog

In case you don't know, there is a group of our students that are staying over in Europe after the Ireland tour is over. Martin has named them "the continental's" and Ashley has started a blog to keep up with their travels.

I'm proud of the group and left them this comment:

Welcome to the blogging world, So. Continental's. I'm actually quite proud of the experience you've embarked upon with the post-choir trip. It's a great time to do it in your lives and it will give you a number of stories to share for the rest of your life. Most of all, however, the experience will likely change you in some subtle (and some profound) ways.

Be brave, Continental's! Have fun . . . show appropriate caution . . . take care of each other . . . live life . . . remember you represent us as well as yourselves.

Women's Chorale MP3's

Oh The Beautiful - Aura Lee
Riddle

Who has rehearsal today?

Concert Choir: Only Ireland People Monday and Tuesday - Come to class WEDNESDAY
Women's Choir: No rehearsal on WEDNESDAY (bring your dresses!)
Chamber Singers: No rehearsal today but YES on WEDNESDAY

Some Ireland Paperwork and Information

For your information:

Ireland Excuse Memo. (PDF document)

Ireland Performance Schedule (provisional) (word document)

WE WILL TRAVEL BY BUS TO ATLANTA AIRPORT AND LEAVE THE SCHOOL AT 7:30 AM. That's 7:30 in the morning, meeting in front of the Alys Stephens Center (lower entrance)

HOTEL INFORMATION:
APRIL 30, MAY 1, 2, 3, and 4
We are at JURY's Inn Cork at this address:
Anderson's Quay, Cork , Ireland
Tel: (+353 21) 494 3000 Fax: (+353 21) 427 6144

MAY 5 and 6
Jurys Inn Christchurch
Christchurch Place
Dublin 8
Ireland
Phone: 353-1-454-0000
Fax: 353-1-454-0012

FLIGHT INFORMATION:
ATLANTA TO CHICAGO AA1996 29APR ATLORD - 320P 430P TU
CHICAGO TO SHANNON EI 124 29APR ORDSNN - 645P 945AŠ TU/WE
DUBLIN TO CHICAGO EI 125 07MAY DUBORD - 230P 430P WE
CHICAGO TO ATLANTA AA1807 07MAY ORDATL - 635P 935P WE

IRELAND PEOPLE MESSAGE

Bring your passports tomorrow. Everyone.

Listen

Regina Coeli
Nunc dimittis
So fahr
With a Lily
Star of the County
Silence of Time
He's Got the Whole World

Haec dies
Michelle UPDATED with proper title information for Nancy's Itunes.
Country Dances

Don't miss this

Look here.

Tonight was special . . . .

What a night . . . what a semester . . . what a year.

I was so proud of all my groups tonight . . . it was an honor to stand in front of you and make the music we made tonight.

Chamber Singers arrived at a new place on their music:

1. Haec dies was very good . . .
2. Michelle was better than it has ever been before. Tenors blend was superb . . . you made adjustments in the last two days that changed everything for the better. Congratulations, men.
3. Country Dances was superb. The right tempo, the right dynamic, the right spirit, the right transitions. Way to go.

Women's chorale did exceptionally well. Of all the groups I direct, you made the most improvement from where you began and where you ended. We started with small sounds and unsure singers . . . we ended with bigger sounds and confidence. Way to go . . . I was very proud. Erin did a superb job in her conducting and quiet leadership. A great night.

Concert Choir was especially thrilling. This was a seven-year high point . . . the best we've ever done in a spring concert, I think. It brought back to my mind two other concerts: the new york carnegie hall concert and the first night in Tours competition. Here's what I wrote about the night in France . . . tonight was very similar, except better. We sustained emotion, precision, and energy through seven very difficult musical works.

Leigh thought that the Regina Coeli was the best piece . . . Dr. Jordan said that we sang each work with "complete authority." Both of those comments mean quite a bit to me . . .

My friend Greg Park was impressed with the way the choir took the stage . . . they smiled at the audience and tried to make a connection. Way to go.

Nick Cummins said this in an email to me: I have to say tonight was spectacular...best piece overall: tie between "Nunc Dimittis" and "Regina Coeli" both were just awesome.

Dr. Mostellar told me he was "blown away" and that he'd never heard anything like that in twenty years here at UAB. (i think i'm quoting him correctly) A very kind comment and one that I appreciate very much from him. Dr. Irving was the first one to congratulate me after the concert. I really appreciate the support of those two men.

So . . . as I've now passed 1 AM . . . I think two thoughts:

1. I am glad I said what I did about Dr. Jordan to that crowd tonight. It felt good to talk about his influence on me for so many years to a group that knew him and saw his talent firsthand. It felt right to talk about "the curse" of being in his choir and that I've been working out the musical truths he taught me ever since.

2. I'm extremely proud of my students tonight . . . you rose to the occasion and performed with passion, pride, and power. You sang musically and moved appropriately at the slightest gesture I made. You drew the audience to you . . . they sensed your energy and your commitment to excellence.

It was a special night and one that I will never forget. Congratulations, everyone.

And . . . thanks.

Michael Evans makes contact:

Dr. Copeland,

I just listened to the youtube recording of Dale Grotenhuis’ “Song of Triumph,” and I wanted to write you and say your choir sounds wonderful. Watching the choir made me realize what a special time in my life it was to be in the choir, and I miss it terribly. Tell your students to treasure the time they spend there, for it will be gone before they know it. You are doing a great job; I hope to stop in and listen some time.

Michael Evans

Eric Whitacre news

You might enjoy this post I just made on ChoralNet's blog about Eric Whitacre's "i thank you God."

Sunday Recording Session is a YES

The Sunday recording session at Bluff Park Methodist is a YES.

Church open at 6:00, be in place at 7:00. Expected length: 90 minutes.

Directions if you need them.

Birmingham Southern in concert

Birmingham-Southern College Concert Choir Homecoming Performance
Lester Seigel, conductor
Sunday, April 13, 5:00 PM
Canterbury United Methodist Church, 350 Overbrook Road, Mt. Brook AL
Free admission


"If Music Be the Food Of Love"
I. The love of God/Showing God's love for others:

Gloria, from Missa Brevis... Ruth Watson Henderson
Agnus Dei...Thomas Morley
Hymne á la Vierge…Pierre Villette
It Was in That Train…Barry Ferguson
Te Deum for the Empress Marie Therese…Franz Joseph Haydn

II. Love of Nature/Love as Torment:

Ecco mormorar l'onde...Claudio Monteverdi
Non più Guerra, pietate...Monteverdi
Amor, Io Sento L'alma....Morten Lauridsen
Io Piango...Lauridsen
Se per Havervi, Oime....Lauridsen

III. Love From Youth to Age

The Sun is Setting (2006)...Jan Vičar (Three Moravian Folksong settings for women's voices and violin solo; Daniel Szasz, soloist; US premiere)

IV. Plunged Deep in Love

I Am Not Yours...Z. Randall Stroope
Black is the Color of My True Love's Hair...arr. René Clausen

V. Whimsical Love

Soldier, Soldier, Won't You Marry Me?...arr. Robert DeCormier

Modern art work?

caroline abstract #1, originally uploaded by philipco.

Or a creation of Daughter #2 Caroline?

Recording sessions and Ireland

I've not scheduled the church or the recording engineer, but I'm headed towards these two dates:

Thursday, April 10, 7-9 pm
Sunday, April 13, 7-9 pm

Please check them out on your schedule and I'll get feedback from you in class tomorrow.

I'll know something from James and the church tomorrow afternoon.

As far as priority, I think I've got to make the recording sessions the most important aspect of what we are doing right now . . . that has the longest term impact of anything that we do. I'm somewhat concerned about how different it will be for the Ireland folks, but we have several days after the Spring concert to solidify music there.

Last week was a great week of rehearsal . . . Tuesday and Thursday were quite superb. I'm pleased with how the music is shaping up for the concert.

Keep it up!

Copeland Triplets do Brio

What I did tonight. This is night #2 of keeping the girls by myself. Leigh is away for the weekend.

The good news keeps a-coming . . . . .

More evidence for what I already believe to be true:

Coffee may cut the risk of dementia by blocking the damage cholesterol can inflict on the body, research suggests.

The drink has already been linked to a lower risk of Alzheimer's Disease, and a study by a US team for the Journal of Neuroinflammation may explain why.

A vital barrier between the brain and the main blood supply of rabbits fed a fat-rich diet was protected in those given a caffeine supplement.

UK experts said it was the "best evidence yet" of coffee's benefits.

That's exactly what I need . . . a barrier for my high fat diet.

Martin Creates Incredible Spreadsheet

Taking over a task too large for my little mind, Martin has created an excel spreadsheet that reveals the best times for the Ireland choir to have an extra rehearsal or two.

I've loaded up to my Google Documents and made it available for online viewing here.

Nine people still need to contribute:
Lori Ayler
Ron Baxter
Matthew Cantor
Jeremy Concepcion
Alex Fencanin
Jenny Harmon
Harry Miree
Matthew Russell
Crystal Whatley

Martin has indicated that these are our best times for rehearsal:

THURSDAY, APRIL 10, from 1930 until 2200
SUNDAY, APRIL 13, from 1930 until 2200
MONDAY, APRIL 14, from 2000 until 2200
THURSDAY, APRIL 17, from 1900 until 2200 (we won't use this one)

Thanks for the work, Martin. You are a special guy.

National Competition for Schools (for Nancy)

There are other competitions going on in Cork as a part of their festival.

Look here.

We're going to be one of the INTERNATIONAL choirs singing at the NATIONAL competition.

Someone loves me

To the anonymous giver of the Hot Tamale's (and pepsi) . . . Thanks!

Ireland: The Concerts

National Competition of Schools Concert:

Song of Triumph: D. Grotenhuis (1931 - )
Silence of Time: Darmon Meador (1953 -)
Star of the County Down: B. Parry (1965 - )

Carrignafoy Community College, Cobh, Co. Cork Concert:

Regina Coeli : Romuald Twardowski B. 1930
Nunc Dimittis: Gustav Holst 1874-1934
So Fahr Ich Hin Zu Jesu Christ: Heinrich Schutz 1585-1672
Song of Triumph: Dale Grotenhuis B. 1931
Lord’s Prayer: Arr. Jerry Jordan B. 1946
With A Lily In Your Hand: Eric Whitacre B. 1970
Star of the County Down: Arr. Ben Parry B. 1965
Silence of Time: Arr. Darmon Meador B. 1953
He’s Got the Whole World: Arr. Raymond Liebau B. 1937

Fleischman International Competition:

Regina Coeli: Romuald Twardowsky (b. 1930)
Nunc Dimittis: Gustav Holst (1874-1934)
So fahr ich hin zu Jesu Christ, SWV 379: Heinrich Schütz (1585-1672)
With a Lily in Your Hand: Eric Whitacre (1970 - )

Farewell Gala Concert:

Star of the County Down: arr. Ben Parry (1965 - )
He’s Got the World in His Hands: arr. Raymond Liebau (1937 - )

Ireland Performance Schedule

APRIL 30, 2008
Rehearsal: 8:00 p.m. in Hotel if possible

MAY 1, 2008: TWO PERFORMANCES
Event 1:
Event: 1st May 2008, PUBLIC PERFORMANCE, Bishopstown Library, Cork
Event Time: 11am
Choir Performance Time: 11am

Event: 1th May 2008, NON-COMPETITIVE, Nat. Comp. for Schools, Section 3, City Hall, Cork
Event Time: 2.30pm
Choir Performance Time:

MAY 2, 2008: TWO PERFORMANCES
Event: 2nd May 2008, SCHOOL CONCERTS, Carrignafoy Community College, Cobh, Co. Cork
Event Time: : 11.30am
Choir Performance Time: 11.30am

Event: 2nd May 2008, PUBLIC PERFORMANCE, Jury's Inn Hotel, Cork
Event Time: 5pm
Choir Performance Time: 5pm

MAY 3, 2008: ONE PERFORMANCE
Event: 3rd May 2008, FLEISCHMANN INTERNATIONAL TROPHY COMPETITION,
City Hall, Cork
Event Time: 8pm
Choir Performance Time: 8.47pm

MAY 4, 2008: THREE PERFORMANCES
Event: 4th May 2008, MASS, St. Michael's Church, Blackrock
Event Time: 12pm
Choir Performance Time: 12pm

Event: 4th May 2008, ADJUDICATION & AWARD CEREMONY, City Hall, Cork
Event Time: 5pm-6pm

Event: 4th May 2008, FAREWELL GALA CONCERT, City Hall, Cork
Event Time: 7.30pm
Choir Performance Time: 10.05pm

Setting up recording sessions

There's always too much to do, however, there are goals that we have as an ensemble.

One goal is to release a CD very soon.

To do a CD, we need recordings . . . to do recordings we need recording sessions. I want you to put these dates on your calendar, pending department and church and recording technician:

Concert Choir:
Thursday, April 10, 7-9 pm
Sunday, April 13, 7-9 pm
Monday, April 14, 7-9 pm
Tuesday, April 15, 5-7 pm (releasing in time for Wind Symphony concert)

Chamber Choir:
Monday, April 14 4-6 pm