I've told some, but not all. This is how I envision structuring the UAB Choir Classes next year:
UAB Women's Chorale
UAB Concert Choir
UAB Chamber Singers
No big change, right?
Here is what those three classes will harbor:
UAB Concert Choir: SATB choir, no change from what we have been doing. The class is now scheduled to meet M-Tu-Wed-Th-Fr. Total class time is reduced from 360 minutes to 300. The class on Friday will sometimes be mixed (SATB), sometimes men (TTBB) and sometimes women (SSAA). This will allow us both scheduled sectional time and time to work as a mens/women's choir.
UAB Women's Chorale: Made up of all women from Concert Choir and Women's Chorale. All women will learn the same music, rehearse occasionally, and perform as one. (40-60 women). I think we will have increased participation for this group. UPDATE. To clarify, the Women's Chorale class will meet MWF from 3-3:50. Women from the Concert Choir will learn their music in the Concert Choir class period and rehearse occasionally with the Women's Chorale, probably in the Concert Choir class time from 2:00-2:50 on occasional Friday's.
UAB Men's Choir: All men from the Concert Choir will occasionally rehearse together and will sing 4-6 part men's choir music.
UAB Chamber Singers: I will be directing this group this year and the literature will be 50% classical.
UAB Jazz Choir (It needs a name--BLAZE?): For the other 50% of the time, the Chamber Singers will perform unaccompanied vocal jazz music. I plan on taking this group (20 in number) around to the schools to help in recruiting.
So, from three classes we will form 5 choirs. In doing so, we will expose our students (you) to a vast array of music and have more opportunity for student conductors, leadership in sectionals, and a more varied offering on our fall, Christmas and spring concerts.
In future years, I expect both the Women's and Men's choirs to perform at Southern Regional and National ACDA conventions.
In other news, no mail arrived at my home from the ACDA National office. That means that we still don't know if we've made it to the National Convention this year. I hope we have, but we've got the Verdi Requiem in our plans if we don't.
Other choirs slated to do the Verdi:
Birmingham Concert Chorale, Samford University A Capella Choir, University of Alabama at Birmingham Concert Choir, University of Alabama University Singers, Birmingham-Southern College Concert Choir, University of Montevallo Concert Choir
I'm excited.
Monday, July 03, 2006
Bach Motets: Evidence for Performing Unaccompanied
I'm considering performing a Bach Motet next year. One of the considerations for performing one of the Bach motets is whether to use accompaniment. There has been significant scholarly disagreement over the matter, and I'm wondering what recent research there is on the subject. I found this today on a website by Thomas Braatz. I'm posting it here for future reference and for your elucidation.
Indeed, the parts for "Jesu meine Freude" are not by Bach. Moreover, recent research has determined:
1) the singing of Bach's motets a cappella is not a romantic-style innovation of a later period than Bach, but rather can be documented as the manner of performance of some of these motets (a carrying on of the tradition that was already established under Bach?) under the cantorship of Johann Friedrich Doles who conducted/performed these motets in this fashion at St. Thomas Church from 1756 to 1789.
2) new evidence that some of Bach's motets, such as this one, were very likely performed a cappella without colla parte instrumental accompaniment or bc
In Klaus Hofmann's new book, "Johann Sebastian Bach: Die Motetten" [Bärenreiter, 2003] pp. 55 ff., the following evidence is presented:
1. in 1761 and in 1764, the music catalogs of printed works available from the publisher Breitkopf in Leipzig offered copies of Bach's motets in the category "Motets - without instruments"
2. the music theoretician, Johann Adoph Scheibe (1708-1776) (his father, Johann Scheibe, an organ builder was very highly regarded by Bach) is the infamous critic of Bach's music in the Birnbaum-Scheibe controversy. To consider his attitude toward Bach to be entirely critical would be unfair since he was also one of the very first to praise in print Bach's 'Italian Concerto.' Scheibe was encouraged by Telemann to publish a periodical, "Der Critische Musicus" ("The critical Musician"). From a reprint of an issue of this periodical dating from 1737 [Hamburg - he had just recently moved from Leipzig (where he had had most of his schooling including some time at the University of Leipzig, until his father's organ building firm went bankrupt)] but reprinted in Leipzig in 1745(facsimile Hildesheim, Wiesbaden, 1970) pp. 181 ff., Scheibe comments on the actual motet performance practices he had experienced in Leipzig:
>>Der Generalbaß sollte zwar allezeit dabey sein; allein, man kann ihn selten gebrauchen, weil die meisten Motetten nur von einem Chore Sänger aufgeführet werden, es müßten denn andere Instrumente mehr dabey seyn, oder man müßte sie bey gewissen Gelegenheiten in der Kirche aufführen.<<
Klaus Hofmann interprets this passage to read: "In reality, a basso continuo ought to be part of this ensemble, but the general performance practice/tradition rarely makes use of this option, because most motets are performed only with voices. It is, however, an entirely different matter if more instruments (beyond the colla parte and bc accompaniment) are used, or when the motets are performed in the church on very special occasions." Klaus Hofmann also extrapolates from this passage the fact that a cappella performances must have been common practice under Bach's tenure in the 1730s.
3. there is no record of any original instrumental parts for "Jesu meine Freude" as ever having existed at any point during Bach's lifetime.
Johann Adolph Scheibe, who participated in the singing of motets under Bach's direction (1723), listened carefully and experienced the exhilarating joy of performing these works as a 15-yr. old student stated later in the reference given above (pp. 179 ff.): "Eine geistliche Moetette, wenn sie in ihrer völligen Stärke genommen wird, verursachet eine außerordentliche Fröhlichkeit des Herzens; sie machet uns munter und doch bedachtsam; sie erhebet das Gemüthe zur Betrachtung." ["A sacred motet, when performed at full strength in numbers (not OVPP but at least 3 or 4 per part), creates an extraordinary joyfulness in our hearts, it awakens us while, at the same time makes us move forward cautiously; it uplifts our spirits to become {more} contemplative."]
Happiest day of my life
I can't remember if I've ever posted this picture on my blog . . . this was truly the happiest day of my life. I thought I had lost the picture in a computer crash a few months ago and I was glad to find it tonight.
Behind the mask I'm wearing the biggest smile I've ever had. I still remember how small those little bundles felt in my arms and how surreal the entire experience was.
Leigh and I took those little 4 pound bundles (now about 30 lbs.) to their first movie tonight (Cars . . . a great movie) and we made it all the way to the end. This was actually our second attempt at movie-going but we found success tonight.
Behind the mask I'm wearing the biggest smile I've ever had. I still remember how small those little bundles felt in my arms and how surreal the entire experience was.
Leigh and I took those little 4 pound bundles (now about 30 lbs.) to their first movie tonight (Cars . . . a great movie) and we made it all the way to the end. This was actually our second attempt at movie-going but we found success tonight.
This summer's night I'm enjoying Roderick Williams (accompanied by Iain Burnside) sing Vaughan Williams' Songs of Travel, a very fine and inexpensive CD, especially on Itunes. Amazon has it, also.
I'm moved once again by these beautiful words. If I die tonight, please have them sung at my funeral:
I'm moved once again by these beautiful words. If I die tonight, please have them sung at my funeral:
Bright is the ring of words
When the right man rings them,
Fair the fall of songs
When the singer sings them.
Still they are carolled and said --
On wings they are carried --
After the singer is dead
And the maker buried.
Low as the singer lies
In the field of heather,
Songs of his fashion bring
The swains together.
And when the west is red
With the sunset embers,
The lover lingers and sings
And the maid remembers.
When the right man rings them,
Fair the fall of songs
When the singer sings them.
Still they are carolled and said --
On wings they are carried --
After the singer is dead
And the maker buried.
Low as the singer lies
In the field of heather,
Songs of his fashion bring
The swains together.
And when the west is red
With the sunset embers,
The lover lingers and sings
And the maid remembers.
Saturday, July 01, 2006
Welcome, Katie Elizabeth
Everyone, welcome Katie Elizabeth to UAB. She's got a blog, but it isn't open to everyone.
I think she'll do well here, even though she doesn't like Renee Fleming.
We welcome her anyway, and hope that she lets us read about her one day!
Unbelievable
Here it is, the middle of summer . . . and three students (defining the word students loosely) blogged.
Here is the first: Erin expresses some remorse for going to a lesser school next year.
In the second, Katie displays another picture of Johnny Depp. I'm not sure why she has a fixation with him. Don't miss this quality post from Katie.
And finally, a future student (unless something changes) blogs about how to write a college paper.
To this music professor, it looks like there are some pretty bored people this summer.
In other news, no word on ACDA yet. I have been officially notified that "the letter is in the mail," but it did not arrive today. I realized today that I really wanted to do the ACDA national convention . . . if not this time, then the next!
Here is the first: Erin expresses some remorse for going to a lesser school next year.
In the second, Katie displays another picture of Johnny Depp. I'm not sure why she has a fixation with him. Don't miss this quality post from Katie.
And finally, a future student (unless something changes) blogs about how to write a college paper.
To this music professor, it looks like there are some pretty bored people this summer.
In other news, no word on ACDA yet. I have been officially notified that "the letter is in the mail," but it did not arrive today. I realized today that I really wanted to do the ACDA national convention . . . if not this time, then the next!
Friday, June 30, 2006
A proud visitor: Man from Manilla
I received this comment from my previous post. The author went to such efforts that I wanted to make sure everyone saw it. I admire his pride in his native country:
We Filipinos envy first world countries such as the US, Finland Germany etc. since there government supports the artists society and gives financial assistance to deserving performing arts group, sad to say in a country where there is an enormous pool of talent in the performing arts such as the Philippines the government nary lift a finger to make efforts although these people continues give pride and honor to this tiny group of island in the pacific.. A good example is our local choral groups, How could you not support such amazing talents:
Philippine Madrigal Singers, regarded as having the most beautiful sound on earth and regarded as Asia's Premiere Choral group http://philippinemadrigalsingers.com/articles.html ( http://www.kathaumixw.org/main/bio/2002/madrigal.htm )
Just Recently won the grand prix de la ville de tours ( http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/storypage.aspx?StoryId=42596 )
UST Singers,awarded as the Choir of the World
and awarded Best Choir in the World twice at the World Choral Festival in Mexico 2001, 2004; Best Choir at the Tonen 2000 Netherlands sweeping all first prizes; 5 Gold Prizes sweep in all five categories in the Mundi Cantat Festa Musicale in Olomouc, Czech Republic;4 first prizes at the 37th Concorso Internazionale di Canto Corale “C.A. Seghizzi 1998 (2) First Prizes, two 2 Jury Prizes and two 2 Public Prizes at the 41st Concorso Internazionale di Canto Corale in Gorizia, Italy;
http://www.conncoll.edu/news/articles/buildarticle.cgi?956065398.txt ( http://www.ust-singers.com/content/chor/chor_e.html )
The UP Concert Chorus,
http://www.soundclick.com/bands/pageartist.cfm?bandID=347588
The UP Singing Ambassadors;;2005 Certamen Internacional de Habaneras y Polifonia de Torrevieja, Spain-1st prize, Polyphony category,
Best Interpretation of a Habanera,
Premio del Publico (Prize of Public)(read: http://news.inq7.net/nation/index.php?index=1&story_id=51403)(http://www.upsa.org.ph/recognitions.htm )
The Philippine Saringhimig Singers, World's Best Choir, World Choir Festival 2003(http://www.saringhimig.org/reviews.asp )
The Ateneo College Glee Club, Grand Winner Florilege Vocal De Tours 2000,
The Ateneo Chamber Singers,
The UAP Chorale 3 gold medal sweep, 2005 23rd International Choral Festival of Preveza
(http://www.uap.edu.ph/announcements.html#osa)
and
The Loboc Children's Choir
Overall grand winner regadrless of age catergory,
Europe and its Songs 2003
( http://users.telenet.be/pinoy -pinay/news/20031008g.htm )( http://www.lobocchildrenschoir.net/index.html )
These choir manage to travel and compete in these tough competitions through corporate sponsorships and endless local concertizing to raise funds.
But without any amount coming from the government, that's why they usually turn down invitations to sing abroad in front of prominent audiences such as european Monarchs, The US President, The Pope etc. simply because they can't raise money for airfare and accomodation that easily. Still these groups never fail to deliver and they have already proven their worth as worthy opponents in every major choral competions they compete in. But one thing that always amazes me is the fact that there is no big choral scene in our country and the only choral competition i know is the NCYM National Competition for Young Musician, still we produce some of the best choirs in Asia and probably in the whole world.
Our singing talent as a people is not only in classical music but also in any other musical genre there is...we have Lea Salonga of the Miss Saigin and Les Miserables fame and a bunch of Pinoy (slang term for Filipino) theater artist who wowed broadway and London audiences. Lea was even awarded a TONY Award and a Lawrence Oliviere for her Miss Saigon performance.
We are also the defending overall champion in the World Championship of the Performing Arts... a fete done in very impressive fashion and on the first time we joined the competition.
- http://www.inq7.net/globalnation/sec_fea/2005/sep/01-01.htm
And now that we have our own philippine idol contest, I have a gut feel that the next World Idol will be from this small group of islands in the far east...take it from British Fremantle Media producer Sheldon Bailey - read: ( http://www.mb.com.ph/issues/2006/06/24/ENTR2006062467659.html )
This year 5 of the choirs mentioned above will try to compete either of the 6 of the qualifying competitions (Varna, Debrechen, Gorizia, Arezzo, Tours, Tolosa) for the European Grand Prix and if luck will go there way 4 of them might qualify for the Gran Premio and that would be a first in the history of the EGP...Now if that happens, i hope our own national budget for the arts will be augmented.
Philippine Madrigal Singers has already earned a slot by winning in Tours less than a month ago, others will compete in the coming months...keepin my fingers crossed.
We Filipinos envy first world countries such as the US, Finland Germany etc. since there government supports the artists society and gives financial assistance to deserving performing arts group, sad to say in a country where there is an enormous pool of talent in the performing arts such as the Philippines the government nary lift a finger to make efforts although these people continues give pride and honor to this tiny group of island in the pacific.. A good example is our local choral groups, How could you not support such amazing talents:
Philippine Madrigal Singers, regarded as having the most beautiful sound on earth and regarded as Asia's Premiere Choral group http://philippinemadrigalsingers.com/articles.html ( http://www.kathaumixw.org/main/bio/2002/madrigal.htm )
Just Recently won the grand prix de la ville de tours ( http://www.abs-cbnnews.com/storypage.aspx?StoryId=42596 )
UST Singers,awarded as the Choir of the World
and awarded Best Choir in the World twice at the World Choral Festival in Mexico 2001, 2004; Best Choir at the Tonen 2000 Netherlands sweeping all first prizes; 5 Gold Prizes sweep in all five categories in the Mundi Cantat Festa Musicale in Olomouc, Czech Republic;4 first prizes at the 37th Concorso Internazionale di Canto Corale “C.A. Seghizzi 1998 (2) First Prizes, two 2 Jury Prizes and two 2 Public Prizes at the 41st Concorso Internazionale di Canto Corale in Gorizia, Italy;
http://www.conncoll.edu/news/articles/buildarticle.cgi?956065398.txt ( http://www.ust-singers.com/content/chor/chor_e.html )
The UP Concert Chorus,
http://www.soundclick.com/bands/pageartist.cfm?bandID=347588
The UP Singing Ambassadors;;2005 Certamen Internacional de Habaneras y Polifonia de Torrevieja, Spain-1st prize, Polyphony category,
Best Interpretation of a Habanera,
Premio del Publico (Prize of Public)(read: http://news.inq7.net/nation/index.php?index=1&story_id=51403)(http://www.upsa.org.ph/recognitions.htm )
The Philippine Saringhimig Singers, World's Best Choir, World Choir Festival 2003(http://www.saringhimig.org/reviews.asp )
The Ateneo College Glee Club, Grand Winner Florilege Vocal De Tours 2000,
The Ateneo Chamber Singers,
The UAP Chorale 3 gold medal sweep, 2005 23rd International Choral Festival of Preveza
(http://www.uap.edu.ph/announcements.html#osa)
and
The Loboc Children's Choir
Overall grand winner regadrless of age catergory,
Europe and its Songs 2003
( http://users.telenet.be/pinoy -pinay/news/20031008g.htm )( http://www.lobocchildrenschoir.net/index.html )
These choir manage to travel and compete in these tough competitions through corporate sponsorships and endless local concertizing to raise funds.
But without any amount coming from the government, that's why they usually turn down invitations to sing abroad in front of prominent audiences such as european Monarchs, The US President, The Pope etc. simply because they can't raise money for airfare and accomodation that easily. Still these groups never fail to deliver and they have already proven their worth as worthy opponents in every major choral competions they compete in. But one thing that always amazes me is the fact that there is no big choral scene in our country and the only choral competition i know is the NCYM National Competition for Young Musician, still we produce some of the best choirs in Asia and probably in the whole world.
Our singing talent as a people is not only in classical music but also in any other musical genre there is...we have Lea Salonga of the Miss Saigin and Les Miserables fame and a bunch of Pinoy (slang term for Filipino) theater artist who wowed broadway and London audiences. Lea was even awarded a TONY Award and a Lawrence Oliviere for her Miss Saigon performance.
We are also the defending overall champion in the World Championship of the Performing Arts... a fete done in very impressive fashion and on the first time we joined the competition.
- http://www.inq7.net/globalnation/sec_fea/2005/sep/01-01.htm
And now that we have our own philippine idol contest, I have a gut feel that the next World Idol will be from this small group of islands in the far east...take it from British Fremantle Media producer Sheldon Bailey - read: ( http://www.mb.com.ph/issues/2006/06/24/ENTR2006062467659.html )
This year 5 of the choirs mentioned above will try to compete either of the 6 of the qualifying competitions (Varna, Debrechen, Gorizia, Arezzo, Tours, Tolosa) for the European Grand Prix and if luck will go there way 4 of them might qualify for the Gran Premio and that would be a first in the history of the EGP...Now if that happens, i hope our own national budget for the arts will be augmented.
Philippine Madrigal Singers has already earned a slot by winning in Tours less than a month ago, others will compete in the coming months...keepin my fingers crossed.
Wednesday, June 28, 2006
My one democratic leaning
I agree with this from Alex Ross: the government should fund the arts at a much higher rate.
The grass is much, much greener
The new issue of the Finnish Music Quarterly reveals that the Finnish government is spending 359.5 million euros on the arts this year, of which 60.5 million goes to music. Orchestras are receiving state grants of 12.26 million. Believe it or not, these grants have been described as inadequate, and there are plans to increase them. Prime Minister Matti Vanhanen recently signed a law stipulating that orchestra subsidies should increase by 37% per year over a three-year period. One in five Finns attends an orchestra concert in any given year.
The population of the U.S. is sixty times larger than that of Finland. The current appropriation for the National Endowment for the Arts is $124,406,353, or $99 million euros. So the ratio of Finnish per-capita arts spending to American per-capita arts spending is more than two hundred to one.
The grass is much, much greener
The new issue of the Finnish Music Quarterly reveals that the Finnish government is spending 359.5 million euros on the arts this year, of which 60.5 million goes to music. Orchestras are receiving state grants of 12.26 million. Believe it or not, these grants have been described as inadequate, and there are plans to increase them. Prime Minister Matti Vanhanen recently signed a law stipulating that orchestra subsidies should increase by 37% per year over a three-year period. One in five Finns attends an orchestra concert in any given year.
The population of the U.S. is sixty times larger than that of Finland. The current appropriation for the National Endowment for the Arts is $124,406,353, or $99 million euros. So the ratio of Finnish per-capita arts spending to American per-capita arts spending is more than two hundred to one.
Daddy is Nanny
Kristy, our incredible nanny, is gone this week and "yours truly" has been the keeper of the three.
It's been a great time of visiting parks, changing the occasional diaper-pullup-panty, and glorious nap-taking.
My proudest moment: surviving WalMart. How? Two buggies and alot of stares.
Leigh is keeping the girls today. Her project: swimming.
It's been a great time of visiting parks, changing the occasional diaper-pullup-panty, and glorious nap-taking.
My proudest moment: surviving WalMart. How? Two buggies and alot of stares.
Leigh is keeping the girls today. Her project: swimming.
Return to the Traditional
The Pope wants it a cappella!
VATICAN CITY, June 27 (UPI) -- Pope Benedict XVI has demanded an end to electric guitars and modern music in church and a return to traditional choirs.
The Catholic Church has been experimenting with new ways of holding Mass to try to attract more people. The recital of Mass set to guitars has grown in popularity in Italy; in Spain it has been set to flamenco music; and in the United States the Electric Prunes produced a "psychedelic" album called Mass in F Minor.
However, the use of guitars and tambourines has irritated the Pope, who loves classical music. "It is possible to modernise holy music," the Pope said, at a concert conducted by Domenico Bartolucci the director of music at the Sistine Chapel. "But it should not happen outside the traditional path of Gregorian chants or sacred polyphonic choral music."
His comments prompted the newspaper La Stampa to compare him with Pope Pius X, who denounced faddish classical and baroque compositions and reinstated Gregorian chants in 1903.
The Pope's supporters argue that the music played during Mass is a vital part of the communion between worshippers and God, and that medieval church music, with the liturgy, creates the correct ambience for perceiving God's mystery.
Cardinal Ersilio Tonini, the Archbishop of Ravenna, said:"Mass is the presence of Christ and the music adds so much more when the harmony allows the mind to transcend the concrete to the divine."
But Cardinal Carlo Furno, grand master of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem, said it was "better to have guitars on the altar and rock and roll Masses than empty churches". The use of modern music was a "sign of the vitality of the faith".
The argument is part of a wider debate about the Latin Mass, restricted in the Vatican II reforms of the 1960s because it was seen to be putting worshippers off going to Church. The Pope believes that if Latin Masses are reintroduced, more Catholics will learn the words to the Gregorian chants that he advocates.
VATICAN CITY, June 27 (UPI) -- Pope Benedict XVI has demanded an end to electric guitars and modern music in church and a return to traditional choirs.
The Catholic Church has been experimenting with new ways of holding Mass to try to attract more people. The recital of Mass set to guitars has grown in popularity in Italy; in Spain it has been set to flamenco music; and in the United States the Electric Prunes produced a "psychedelic" album called Mass in F Minor.
However, the use of guitars and tambourines has irritated the Pope, who loves classical music. "It is possible to modernise holy music," the Pope said, at a concert conducted by Domenico Bartolucci the director of music at the Sistine Chapel. "But it should not happen outside the traditional path of Gregorian chants or sacred polyphonic choral music."
His comments prompted the newspaper La Stampa to compare him with Pope Pius X, who denounced faddish classical and baroque compositions and reinstated Gregorian chants in 1903.
The Pope's supporters argue that the music played during Mass is a vital part of the communion between worshippers and God, and that medieval church music, with the liturgy, creates the correct ambience for perceiving God's mystery.
Cardinal Ersilio Tonini, the Archbishop of Ravenna, said:"Mass is the presence of Christ and the music adds so much more when the harmony allows the mind to transcend the concrete to the divine."
But Cardinal Carlo Furno, grand master of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem, said it was "better to have guitars on the altar and rock and roll Masses than empty churches". The use of modern music was a "sign of the vitality of the faith".
The argument is part of a wider debate about the Latin Mass, restricted in the Vatican II reforms of the 1960s because it was seen to be putting worshippers off going to Church. The Pope believes that if Latin Masses are reintroduced, more Catholics will learn the words to the Gregorian chants that he advocates.
Tuesday, June 27, 2006
Sunday, June 25, 2006
Blogs about everything
I've discovered new blogs lately that some/many of you may enjoy.
For those interested in religious things,
For those interested in religious things,
- I discovered this one and this one while looking for information on the recent Presbyterian USA convention in Birmingham.
- This is my new favorite Presbyterian blog (I didn't have one before). I find Mark Roberts easy to read and quite logical in his approach to most everything.
- I found the dissonant bible tonight. Quite interesting. Start with this post and then go to others. This post is good.
- And although I didn't think alot of Al Mohler while I attended Southern Seminary in Louisville, KY, I do enjoy reading his blog and commentary.
Hilarious comments so far. Add more!
Some great comments about Josh so far.
My favorite by the man with many names:
josh must sing at least one solo: the one maggie doesn't sing
Quite hilarious! Perhaps it brings up an issue on distribution of solos in the choir. I pledge to spread them around and also to have more opportunities this year. Will Maggie sing a solo? Every person has an equal chance.
Nick suggests that Josh must sing one solo this year as a condition of his return. Not a bad idea. He recommends "Flower of Maherally," a great tenor solo. Maybe! But we've done that one very well already, even though Clay wanted to sing it.
Clay wants an overview of strengths/weaknesses in the coming choir. That is something I wouldn't share. I view the choir as very strong this year. How strong? Well, it really depends on the individual efforts of the people in the choir. I will bring my best.
Chamber Singers will be a combination of Classical and Vocal Jazz. If you want a preview of the type of Vocal Jazz, listen to the Real Group (especially this CD) and a few from the Swingle Singers.
My favorite by the man with many names:
josh must sing at least one solo: the one maggie doesn't sing
Quite hilarious! Perhaps it brings up an issue on distribution of solos in the choir. I pledge to spread them around and also to have more opportunities this year. Will Maggie sing a solo? Every person has an equal chance.
Nick suggests that Josh must sing one solo this year as a condition of his return. Not a bad idea. He recommends "Flower of Maherally," a great tenor solo. Maybe! But we've done that one very well already, even though Clay wanted to sing it.
Clay wants an overview of strengths/weaknesses in the coming choir. That is something I wouldn't share. I view the choir as very strong this year. How strong? Well, it really depends on the individual efforts of the people in the choir. I will bring my best.
Chamber Singers will be a combination of Classical and Vocal Jazz. If you want a preview of the type of Vocal Jazz, listen to the Real Group (especially this CD) and a few from the Swingle Singers.
Saturday, June 24, 2006
Josh drops a bombshell
Josh slipped this comment into the previous post:
Yeah, I'm definitely coming back in the fall if you'll allow me too. I miss choir so much and the thought of an overseas competition makes it that much worse. I wanna come back SO BAD!!!
Josh N. a.k.a.- Tater
While we would love to have JoshtheIncredibleTenor back in choir, let's use this opportunity to set some conditions for his return.
I'm thinking:
1. Agree not to marry before age 25
2. Let Dr. Copeland arrange three yet-to-be-named dates with the opposite sex.
Any others?
Some answers
I started this post a few days ago and left it on my computer without posting it. I may have ansered some of the questions already, but here it is.
Andrew asks:
"So what are the level of choirs in these two competitions, or do you know?"
Lauren asks:
"could you maybe give us an estimate comparing one to two..."
Answers:
Level of Competition:
One truly never knows the level of the other choirs until the competition is over, of course! Even then, there may be substantial disagreement among the parties that attended the competition.
What I would guess, though, is that the standard would be higher at the Italian competition. Any preliminary for the Gran Premio would likely attract more qualified choirs. Do we want easy competition? I don't think so . . . who wants to win something that is a foregone conclusion? Would you rather your football team win the SEC or the Sun Belt?
An estimate:
I'm guessing Lauren is wondering about the price. Doing two competitions would add 7-8 more days on to the tour. If we added a bus or two to that cost, I think we are looking at $1000 - $2000 a day to be divided among everyone. That potentially an extra $16,000 or $200 per person. If we factored in hotel for everyone for that long, I'm sure we are up another $400-$600. Home stays might negate some of that cost, but I wouldn't know until I saw the exact numbers. The other very real factor is "group exhaustion." Normally, I'm about ready for a trip to end after 14 days. My consulting with Ms. Reynolds has reinforced that feeling--she recommends against a 21 or 22 day trip and she has been on more of these tours than I have.
If you want my quick opinion on the actual competitions, here it is:
Marktoberdorf: Quite prestigious, we would be lucky to be invited with our current international resume'.
Linz: Good competition.
Gorizia: Prestigious competition, a victory would enter us into the Gran Premio.
Wernigerode: Good competition.
Andrew asks:
"So what are the level of choirs in these two competitions, or do you know?"
Lauren asks:
"could you maybe give us an estimate comparing one to two..."
Answers:
Level of Competition:
One truly never knows the level of the other choirs until the competition is over, of course! Even then, there may be substantial disagreement among the parties that attended the competition.
What I would guess, though, is that the standard would be higher at the Italian competition. Any preliminary for the Gran Premio would likely attract more qualified choirs. Do we want easy competition? I don't think so . . . who wants to win something that is a foregone conclusion? Would you rather your football team win the SEC or the Sun Belt?
An estimate:
I'm guessing Lauren is wondering about the price. Doing two competitions would add 7-8 more days on to the tour. If we added a bus or two to that cost, I think we are looking at $1000 - $2000 a day to be divided among everyone. That potentially an extra $16,000 or $200 per person. If we factored in hotel for everyone for that long, I'm sure we are up another $400-$600. Home stays might negate some of that cost, but I wouldn't know until I saw the exact numbers. The other very real factor is "group exhaustion." Normally, I'm about ready for a trip to end after 14 days. My consulting with Ms. Reynolds has reinforced that feeling--she recommends against a 21 or 22 day trip and she has been on more of these tours than I have.
If you want my quick opinion on the actual competitions, here it is:
Marktoberdorf: Quite prestigious, we would be lucky to be invited with our current international resume'.
Linz: Good competition.
Gorizia: Prestigious competition, a victory would enter us into the Gran Premio.
Wernigerode: Good competition.
Friday, June 23, 2006
Rules of the Blog
Hello to all who read this blog.
Reminder: we don't attack others here, even when we are just kidding. I've removed the post that led to the comments I didn't like and I'll think twice about my own attempts at humor.
That is all.
Thursday, June 22, 2006
Copeland 3rd Triplet Birthday Party Pics
The pics are up. Click here for a slideshow if you are interested.
My girls turned three years old on June 12, 2006. Things are quite different now than the first few months.
I don't know if:
a. the girls are easier to handle,
or
b. i'm used to it.
Either way, it gets better every day.
Enjoy!
My girls turned three years old on June 12, 2006. Things are quite different now than the first few months.
I don't know if:
a. the girls are easier to handle,
or
b. i'm used to it.
Either way, it gets better every day.
Enjoy!
Wednesday, June 21, 2006
Today's Thought
Next summer is on my mind. Considering just doing one competition, but one that would have us in line for the Gran Premio if we won:
There is a competition in Gorizia, Italy that has the original date: July 5-8.
Competition website: http://www.seghizzi.it/
I'm looking at a 12-15 day trip; trips longer than that are very demanding on the traveller and normally cost-prohibitive.
The Gorizia competition would give us some wonderful places to visit in Italy and surrounding areas.
One possibility: Fly into Rome, travel to Venice, travel to Competition, then to Florence, then back to Rome.
I'm also very interested in: flying into Munich (if flights are cheap or same price), travelling to Salzburg, travelling to Competition in Gorizia (July 5-8), 2 nights in Venice, 2-3 Florence, then to Rome for a night or 2 before we leave.
I'm interested to see what the tour company might recommend based on past experience.
If possible, I'm going to try to schedule a concert in St. Mark's Cathedral (Venice).
photo of St. Mark's
(why you need to know about St. Mark's if you are a music major)
Here are other cities in the area:
Facts & Figures about Gorizia, Italy
Nearby Large Cities
Ljubljana, Slovenia (63.8 miles)
Venice, Italy (94.5 miles)
Bologna, Italy (186.1 miles)
Munich, Germany (206.2 miles)
Florence, Italy (221.2 miles)
Your Input Needed!
Want to help plan our tour next summer?
Look to this page of options.
The page contains a list of the competitions that I'm interested in. More may be added later, but that is what I have for now.
As I've said before, I'd like to begin the tour with a competition and then end with one. Although I'm not sold out on the idea, it is very appealing. (more bang for the buck)
The problem? It makes for a longer tour. Translation: more money. That's why I'm interested to hear what you have to say.
Here's one option:
Leave around the first of July or June 30. Compete in the Gorizia contest (one of the 6 contests that qualifies for the Gran Premio). Gorizia is about 100 miles from VENICE, one of my favorite places in the world. Florence is only 200 miles away.
Study the competition sheet. Look at the map. Make suggestions.
I'm listening.
Look to this page of options.
The page contains a list of the competitions that I'm interested in. More may be added later, but that is what I have for now.
As I've said before, I'd like to begin the tour with a competition and then end with one. Although I'm not sold out on the idea, it is very appealing. (more bang for the buck)
The problem? It makes for a longer tour. Translation: more money. That's why I'm interested to hear what you have to say.
Here's one option:
Leave around the first of July or June 30. Compete in the Gorizia contest (one of the 6 contests that qualifies for the Gran Premio). Gorizia is about 100 miles from VENICE, one of my favorite places in the world. Florence is only 200 miles away.
Study the competition sheet. Look at the map. Make suggestions.
I'm listening.
Tuesday, June 20, 2006
Germany Dates are Different
The revised dates for the Johannes Brahms Choir Festival & Competition in Wernigerode will be July 18-22. I originally told you that they would be July 5-8. Here's why I thought that.
I hope they get their information consistent very soon. At least it is correct on their primary website now.
What it may mean:
We may be able to start the trip with a competition in Austria. I can't remember the precise location right now, but there is one that had July 5-8 at one time. My idea is to start the trip with a competition and end with one. Utah did that last year, and I thought it was a good idea--more bang for the buck. Give me your thoughts and ideas if you have them!
Another option:
Listed in their flyer that they sent to my contact at Witte Travel was the 1st Annual Anton Bruckner Choir Competition in Linz, Austria. Dates: June 6-10.
Decisions! Decisions!
I hope they get their information consistent very soon. At least it is correct on their primary website now.
What it may mean:
We may be able to start the trip with a competition in Austria. I can't remember the precise location right now, but there is one that had July 5-8 at one time. My idea is to start the trip with a competition and end with one. Utah did that last year, and I thought it was a good idea--more bang for the buck. Give me your thoughts and ideas if you have them!
Another option:
Listed in their flyer that they sent to my contact at Witte Travel was the 1st Annual Anton Bruckner Choir Competition in Linz, Austria. Dates: June 6-10.
Decisions! Decisions!
Read About How Wierd You Are
Was pointed to this article today by The Phantom Professor.
Read it and let me know if this is talking about you (or some of your friends).
A sample from the article:
Respect is something that Cupertino, Calif., high school teacher Arcadia Conrad has thought a lot about. At 33, she is not so far removed in age from her students, but she's eons away in attitude.
As an interviewer of prospective college students for Vassar, her alma mater, Conrad recalls a student showing up in "flip-flops and a miniskirt and her hair still wet."
"I'm one of the people making college decisions," she says. "I told her she was not on her way to the beach: 'Couldn't you have dried your hair?' "
Conrad, who teaches English and theater arts, says she often has to remind students who work as ushers or at concessions for school performances that listening to an iPod or talking with their friends on the job isn't appropriate.
"They seem to have a lot of trouble with the concept of putting your best foot forward," she says.
But technology and the way the young relate to it are creating the most adult consternation, Verhaagen says. He cites as an example a high school senior from an exclusive private school who was an intern at his office and spent a staff meeting text-messaging friends.
He didn't intend to be rude, but "he was clearly not tuned in to the fact that our expectations and cultural mores were different. If you grow up in a culture that says it's all about you, it's hard to think it isn't."
"I don't think we're requiring civic responsibility anymore — the social graces, ceremony and ritual, dress codes, social mores and manners," she says. "My students seem to be saying, 'I can separate myself from whatever experience I'm in and create my own bubble.' "
Read it and let me know if this is talking about you (or some of your friends).
A sample from the article:
Respect is something that Cupertino, Calif., high school teacher Arcadia Conrad has thought a lot about. At 33, she is not so far removed in age from her students, but she's eons away in attitude.
As an interviewer of prospective college students for Vassar, her alma mater, Conrad recalls a student showing up in "flip-flops and a miniskirt and her hair still wet."
"I'm one of the people making college decisions," she says. "I told her she was not on her way to the beach: 'Couldn't you have dried your hair?' "
Conrad, who teaches English and theater arts, says she often has to remind students who work as ushers or at concessions for school performances that listening to an iPod or talking with their friends on the job isn't appropriate.
"They seem to have a lot of trouble with the concept of putting your best foot forward," she says.
But technology and the way the young relate to it are creating the most adult consternation, Verhaagen says. He cites as an example a high school senior from an exclusive private school who was an intern at his office and spent a staff meeting text-messaging friends.
He didn't intend to be rude, but "he was clearly not tuned in to the fact that our expectations and cultural mores were different. If you grow up in a culture that says it's all about you, it's hard to think it isn't."
"I don't think we're requiring civic responsibility anymore — the social graces, ceremony and ritual, dress codes, social mores and manners," she says. "My students seem to be saying, 'I can separate myself from whatever experience I'm in and create my own bubble.' "
Monday, June 19, 2006
Random Thoughts on a Summer Evening
Greetings again, UAB Choir blog fans.
BIG NEWS. The University of Utah won the Gran Premio. Congratulations to this fine choir and this incredible accomplishment. Their win makes them the second choir from the United States to win the prize (Ole Miss Concert Singers were the first).
The Gran Premio is a contest of international choir winners, the only "grand champion" of the choir competition world.
And a reminder to anyone new to this blog . . . we tied this group in one of the categories last year at the 2005 Florilege Vocal de Tours. I've been watching for news of last Saturday's competition and didn't see anything until UTAH put it on their website. A huge congratulations to the fine choir and their excellent director, Brady Allred.
Saw DaVinci Code last night. It was a great movie, in my opinion. It's been a couple of years since I read the book, but I thought that Ron Howard really captured the essence of the story. I don't understand all of the poor reviews because I was quite pleased with it.
Colorado lowers age of marriage. Fantastic! Maybe it is a trend that will sweep the country! If all of my students were married before they got to college I wouldn't have to waste time advising against it before they are at least 25.
My beautiful girls turned three last week and we had their party at the Birmingham Zoo--a great place to throw a party for 3-5 year olds. Maybe a video or picture will follow.
BIG NEWS. The University of Utah won the Gran Premio. Congratulations to this fine choir and this incredible accomplishment. Their win makes them the second choir from the United States to win the prize (Ole Miss Concert Singers were the first).
The Gran Premio is a contest of international choir winners, the only "grand champion" of the choir competition world.
And a reminder to anyone new to this blog . . . we tied this group in one of the categories last year at the 2005 Florilege Vocal de Tours. I've been watching for news of last Saturday's competition and didn't see anything until UTAH put it on their website. A huge congratulations to the fine choir and their excellent director, Brady Allred.
Saw DaVinci Code last night. It was a great movie, in my opinion. It's been a couple of years since I read the book, but I thought that Ron Howard really captured the essence of the story. I don't understand all of the poor reviews because I was quite pleased with it.
Colorado lowers age of marriage. Fantastic! Maybe it is a trend that will sweep the country! If all of my students were married before they got to college I wouldn't have to waste time advising against it before they are at least 25.
My beautiful girls turned three last week and we had their party at the Birmingham Zoo--a great place to throw a party for 3-5 year olds. Maybe a video or picture will follow.
Thursday, June 15, 2006
Summer Addresses
Taking a little break from blogging (as are most in our little choir community)!
Ms. Reynolds needs summer addresses for these people. Will you please email me your home address?
David Berg
Lauren Davidson
Meredith Foster
Andrew Granlund
Maggie Hendricks
Charles Henry
Sam Pace
Jackie Roche
Martin Schulz
Whitney Sims
Marybeth Verchot
Ms. Reynolds needs summer addresses for these people. Will you please email me your home address?
David Berg
Lauren Davidson
Meredith Foster
Andrew Granlund
Maggie Hendricks
Charles Henry
Sam Pace
Jackie Roche
Martin Schulz
Whitney Sims
Marybeth Verchot
Friday, June 09, 2006
Returned Choir Tux and Dress
Outfits were due to be turned in a couple of weeks ago. On Monday, June 12, I'm going to put a block on everyone's name that isn't on the list. You won't be able to register, get transcripts, pay fees, etc. until that block is removed. Possible fines are in the future.
My advice: get your outfits in.
I have outfits from the following people. If your name isn't on the list and you turned yours in, send me an email (philip.copelandATgmail.com):
David Berg
Luke Boone
Melinda Ewalt
Christy Felderhoff
Meredith Foster
Tina Franks
Andrew Granlund
Rebekah Guthrie
Jenny Harmon
Maggie Hendricks
Charles Henry
Jason Leger
Maggie Malone
Lindsey Mathis
Tommy Nelson
Jessica O'Leary
Erin Pair
Elizabeth Perkins
Chris Reid
Jackie Roche
Martin Schulz
Whitney Sims
Toni Stewart
Ginger Swan
Genoveva Valle
Mary Beth Verchot
Crytstal Whatley
Patrick Williams
My advice: get your outfits in.
I have outfits from the following people. If your name isn't on the list and you turned yours in, send me an email (philip.copelandATgmail.com):
David Berg
Luke Boone
Melinda Ewalt
Christy Felderhoff
Meredith Foster
Tina Franks
Andrew Granlund
Rebekah Guthrie
Jenny Harmon
Maggie Hendricks
Charles Henry
Jason Leger
Maggie Malone
Lindsey Mathis
Tommy Nelson
Jessica O'Leary
Erin Pair
Elizabeth Perkins
Chris Reid
Jackie Roche
Martin Schulz
Whitney Sims
Toni Stewart
Ginger Swan
Genoveva Valle
Mary Beth Verchot
Crytstal Whatley
Patrick Williams
Thursday, June 08, 2006
Prize list, Tours 2006
http://www.florilegevocal.com/palmares.php?lang=en&year=2006
INTERNATIONAL CHORAL SONG COMPETITION
Category I : Mixed choirs
1st prize CLASSIC CHORUS, ODESSA (UKRAINE).
1st prize OREYA, JITOMIR (UKRAINE).
2nd prize STOCKHOLMS MUSIKGYMNASIUMS, STOCKHOLM (SWEDEN).
Category II : Equal voices choirs
1st prize CAMERATA MUSICA LIMBURG, LIMBURG (GERMANY).
2nd prize OZARENIE, TULA (RUSSIA).
3rd prize ENSEMBLE VOCAL HELIADE, SETE (FRANCE).
Category III : Mixed vocal ensembles
1st prize PHILIPPINE MADRIGAL SINGERS, QUEZON CITY (PHILIPPINES).
2nd prize ENSEMBLE 96, OSLO (NORWAY).
2nd prize VOCES NORDICAE, STOCKHOLM (SWEDEN).
Category IV : Free program
1st prize PHILIPPINE MADRIGAL SINGERS, QUEZON CITY (PHILIPPINES).
2nd prize VOCES NORDICAE, STOCKHOLM (SWEDEN).
3rd prize STOCKHOLMS MUSIKGYMNASIUMS, STOCKHOLM (SWEDEN).
3rd prize ENSEMBLE 96, OSLO (NORWAY).
INTERNATIONAL CHILDREN'S CHOIRS COMPETITION
Category V : Child choirs
Not awarded.
2nd prize VESNIANKA, MOSCOU (RUSSIE).
3rd prize SEVERACEK, LIBEREC (RÉPUBLIQUE TCHÈQUE).
3rd prize ONDRASEK, NOVY JICIN (RÉPUBLIQUE TCHÈQUE).
SPECIAL PRIZES
Grand Prix de la Ville de Tours PHILIPPINE MADRIGAL SINGERS, QUEZON CITY (PHILIPPINES), Ce choeur est donc qualifié pour paticiper au Grand Prix Européen 2007, qui se déroulera à Arezzo (Italie).
Prize for a first production work CLASSIC CHORUS, ODESSA (UKRAINE).
Prix du Ministère de la Culture OREYA, JITOMIR (UKRAINE).
Prix du Public VOCES NORDICAE, STOCKHOLM (SWEDEN).
Prix Ronsard (program Renaissance) Not awarded.
Prize of University François Rabelais (program Renaissance) PHILIPPINE MADRIGAL SINGERS, QUEZON CITY (PHILIPPINES).
Prize "A Cœur Joie International" OREYA, JITOMIR (UKRAINE).
INTERNATIONAL CHORAL SONG COMPETITION
Category I : Mixed choirs
1st prize CLASSIC CHORUS, ODESSA (UKRAINE).
1st prize OREYA, JITOMIR (UKRAINE).
2nd prize STOCKHOLMS MUSIKGYMNASIUMS, STOCKHOLM (SWEDEN).
Category II : Equal voices choirs
1st prize CAMERATA MUSICA LIMBURG, LIMBURG (GERMANY).
2nd prize OZARENIE, TULA (RUSSIA).
3rd prize ENSEMBLE VOCAL HELIADE, SETE (FRANCE).
Category III : Mixed vocal ensembles
1st prize PHILIPPINE MADRIGAL SINGERS, QUEZON CITY (PHILIPPINES).
2nd prize ENSEMBLE 96, OSLO (NORWAY).
2nd prize VOCES NORDICAE, STOCKHOLM (SWEDEN).
Category IV : Free program
1st prize PHILIPPINE MADRIGAL SINGERS, QUEZON CITY (PHILIPPINES).
2nd prize VOCES NORDICAE, STOCKHOLM (SWEDEN).
3rd prize STOCKHOLMS MUSIKGYMNASIUMS, STOCKHOLM (SWEDEN).
3rd prize ENSEMBLE 96, OSLO (NORWAY).
INTERNATIONAL CHILDREN'S CHOIRS COMPETITION
Category V : Child choirs
Not awarded.
2nd prize VESNIANKA, MOSCOU (RUSSIE).
3rd prize SEVERACEK, LIBEREC (RÉPUBLIQUE TCHÈQUE).
3rd prize ONDRASEK, NOVY JICIN (RÉPUBLIQUE TCHÈQUE).
SPECIAL PRIZES
Grand Prix de la Ville de Tours PHILIPPINE MADRIGAL SINGERS, QUEZON CITY (PHILIPPINES), Ce choeur est donc qualifié pour paticiper au Grand Prix Européen 2007, qui se déroulera à Arezzo (Italie).
Prize for a first production work CLASSIC CHORUS, ODESSA (UKRAINE).
Prix du Ministère de la Culture OREYA, JITOMIR (UKRAINE).
Prix du Public VOCES NORDICAE, STOCKHOLM (SWEDEN).
Prix Ronsard (program Renaissance) Not awarded.
Prize of University François Rabelais (program Renaissance) PHILIPPINE MADRIGAL SINGERS, QUEZON CITY (PHILIPPINES).
Prize "A Cœur Joie International" OREYA, JITOMIR (UKRAINE).
Wednesday, June 07, 2006
More pictures of UAB in Tours 2006
In this hallway:
On this wall:
Was this picture:
That featured these people:
On this wall:
Was this picture:
That featured these people:
Performance at Miles College
An early entry for the 2006-2007 calendar:
Miles College on 3/5/2007 2:00 p.m. (during class time)
Update on ACDA National:
No official word until June 24. My guess is still a 30% chance of getting invited. I think we will make a stronger case for an invitation in future years, but I submitted an application and recording anyway. What will be . . . will be!
Miles College on 3/5/2007 2:00 p.m. (during class time)
Update on ACDA National:
No official word until June 24. My guess is still a 30% chance of getting invited. I think we will make a stronger case for an invitation in future years, but I submitted an application and recording anyway. What will be . . . will be!
Tuesday, June 06, 2006
Scott Adams cracks me up
I don't expect everyone to love Scott Adams (creater of Dilbert) but he occasionally comes out with some lines that make me giggle. Today's contribution:When I make that argument to religious people, they look at me like I just took a wiz on the couch while announcing that I plan to marry their daughter.Note this: Scott doesn't subscribe to belief in God. He isn't afraid of exploring the issue, however, in what I would call a forthright manner. Check out his blog, you might find it as interesting as I do.
Sunday, June 04, 2006
Winner: Philippine Madrigal Singers
The grand prize winner of the 2006 Tours Competition was the Philippine Madrigal Singers.
I heard both their final sets today and they were incredible. Great literature, fabulous energy, and wonderful interpretations. I found them to be extremely personable, kind, and generous. They had beautiful smiles and kind hearts.
The Alumni Singers did very well in the finals but did not place in the final standings nor win one of the other awards.
It would have been a tremendous win for the group, but it isn't a bad thing that a choir couldn't win a competition in one week of rehearsals. If they could, the competition wouldn't be what it is.
I came on the trip for several purposes. The primary one was to "be a Concert Singer again." That was a great experience . . . to revisit my roots in choral music and remember why I wanted to do this for the rest of my life.
I also wanted the chance to work under Dr. Jordan again. There is always more to learn, you know? No one never knows enough and the greatest are always learning from others.
Will try to be more coherent in future blogs. (It's late)
I heard both their final sets today and they were incredible. Great literature, fabulous energy, and wonderful interpretations. I found them to be extremely personable, kind, and generous. They had beautiful smiles and kind hearts.
The Alumni Singers did very well in the finals but did not place in the final standings nor win one of the other awards.
It would have been a tremendous win for the group, but it isn't a bad thing that a choir couldn't win a competition in one week of rehearsals. If they could, the competition wouldn't be what it is.
I came on the trip for several purposes. The primary one was to "be a Concert Singer again." That was a great experience . . . to revisit my roots in choral music and remember why I wanted to do this for the rest of my life.
I also wanted the chance to work under Dr. Jordan again. There is always more to learn, you know? No one never knows enough and the greatest are always learning from others.
Will try to be more coherent in future blogs. (It's late)
Our 2005 picture featured at Tours 2006
Many of the people at Tours this year remember UAB from last year. It made me proud about our work and accomplishment. Our pictures are featured prominently in several locations . . . I'll post pictures of the other pictures soon. This one was at the hall I visited last night. It is a great shot of one of our rounds.
Note to self: you've gained weight since then. Get back to treadmill ASAP.
Note to self: you've gained weight since then. Get back to treadmill ASAP.
Saturday, June 03, 2006
Results - Qualifying Rounds
Here are the results:
Category I (Mixed Choirs)
Ole Miss Alumni Choir goes to finals
Category IV (Free program)
Ole Miss Alumni Choir does not make finals
The choir is going through a bit of shock--they never expected to not make it to the final category. Both performances went well today, but there is a feeling that we were at a bit of a disadvantage by going first in Category IV.
I was surprised to not make it to the finals . . . and then I'm reminded that we've only been working this music for a little over a week. It is quite astounding that we are singing like we are.
We sing three songs tomorrow: Jauchzet dem Herrn; Radiosfer; Alleluia. I think the choir will do well if they can get over the disappointment of today.
To my UAB students:
We made quite an impression here last year. Our photos are everywhere (I will post some soon) and I have spoken with several people about our performance in the festival. I have the feeling that we were very close to winning it all. If I can, I'll find out the complete scoring from last year.
Category I (Mixed Choirs)
Ole Miss Alumni Choir goes to finals
Category IV (Free program)
Ole Miss Alumni Choir does not make finals
The choir is going through a bit of shock--they never expected to not make it to the final category. Both performances went well today, but there is a feeling that we were at a bit of a disadvantage by going first in Category IV.
I was surprised to not make it to the finals . . . and then I'm reminded that we've only been working this music for a little over a week. It is quite astounding that we are singing like we are.
We sing three songs tomorrow: Jauchzet dem Herrn; Radiosfer; Alleluia. I think the choir will do well if they can get over the disappointment of today.
To my UAB students:
We made quite an impression here last year. Our photos are everywhere (I will post some soon) and I have spoken with several people about our performance in the festival. I have the feeling that we were very close to winning it all. If I can, I'll find out the complete scoring from last year.
Wednesday, May 31, 2006
Tuesday, May 30, 2006
Monday, May 29, 2006
Headed to Caen
Leaving hotel this morning, somehow got it all back in to the suitcases . . . .
Here is Caen.
Here is Caen.
Sunday, May 28, 2006
Concert Singers working hard to win
Here's the update on how things are going in preparation for the competition:
1. The choir is made up of incredible singers and musicians. They are able to do whatever Dr. Jordan asks and we are achieving very musical results without much effort. I would call it stunning, actually.
2. Dr. Jordan is at the top of his game, pulling sounds out of the choir that I've not seen him do before--it is one of the big reasons I wanted to go on the trip--to work with him again on a musical creation.
3. Our first rehearsal (in Memphis) was absolutely horrible. I didn't think we would achieve any success and had some serious doubts that we would make it past the qualifying rounds. It seems to have served as a wake-up call to everyone, however. In the intervening time between the Memphis rehearsal and departure for the trip, the singers really studied thier music. We began at a much higher level when we started rehearsal in France. Lesson #1: individual responsibility can transform a group.
4. As musical as our rehearsals are, our problem is making it stick. We will arrive at incredible heights during a long rehearsal of a particular work and then seem to forget it when we bring it out the next day. Are we going to be able to remember the things we are learning in time for the competition? I honestly don't know. If any group can win with as few rehearsals as we have had, this one can.
5. What else am I learning? Lots . . . I'll try to blog on that later.
1. The choir is made up of incredible singers and musicians. They are able to do whatever Dr. Jordan asks and we are achieving very musical results without much effort. I would call it stunning, actually.
2. Dr. Jordan is at the top of his game, pulling sounds out of the choir that I've not seen him do before--it is one of the big reasons I wanted to go on the trip--to work with him again on a musical creation.
3. Our first rehearsal (in Memphis) was absolutely horrible. I didn't think we would achieve any success and had some serious doubts that we would make it past the qualifying rounds. It seems to have served as a wake-up call to everyone, however. In the intervening time between the Memphis rehearsal and departure for the trip, the singers really studied thier music. We began at a much higher level when we started rehearsal in France. Lesson #1: individual responsibility can transform a group.
4. As musical as our rehearsals are, our problem is making it stick. We will arrive at incredible heights during a long rehearsal of a particular work and then seem to forget it when we bring it out the next day. Are we going to be able to remember the things we are learning in time for the competition? I honestly don't know. If any group can win with as few rehearsals as we have had, this one can.
5. What else am I learning? Lots . . . I'll try to blog on that later.
Remember this man?
I ran into this gentleman today in Paris. He coordinates rehearsal/performance spaces in the city and helped us find a rehearsal space for this tour. It was good to see someone I recognized, but the performance space he had selected wasn't a good one; we had to leave because it was too small.
Le Sacre Coeur Glorius
This Cathedral is probably my favorite landmark in Paris. I have a vivid memory of the first time I saw it and it still strikes me with awe when I see it. At night, the place is lit up and is quite striking against the night sky. I made two trips today to see it; one during the day, one after dinner. There were way too many stairs, but the trip was worth it.
Leigh and I saw it for the first time together in 1989. I've not been able to recapture the profound amazement I felt the first time I viewed it, but I still remember the feeling. On that evening, it looked like heaven.
Leigh and I saw it for the first time together in 1989. I've not been able to recapture the profound amazement I felt the first time I viewed it, but I still remember the feeling. On that evening, it looked like heaven.
Paradise Found
My friend Joey and I discovered a Starbucks in Paris . . . . Ahhhhhh.
I don't know why my camera is making my hair look so gray.
I don't know why my camera is making my hair look so gray.
Friday, May 26, 2006
Back in France, Thinking of You
To my choir,
Arrived in France today, thought of you as we rode around the city with Joop.
About to go searching for needed supplies before we sing our first official rehearsal after arriving.
90% sure of this song for next year, and probably this one.
PDF here. Josquin "Regrets san fin"
PDF here. (justorum)
Arrived in France today, thought of you as we rode around the city with Joop.
About to go searching for needed supplies before we sing our first official rehearsal after arriving.
90% sure of this song for next year, and probably this one.
PDF here. Josquin "Regrets san fin"
PDF here. (justorum)
Wednesday, May 24, 2006
Looks Like I Missed the Dancing
It looks like disco fever broke out on the ship in NY. Hate I missed it!
Tuesday, May 23, 2006
Overheard
Overheard at the choir party:Male speaker #1: Who wants to take some of this pizza home?
Male speaker #2: I do!
Female speaker #1: No you don't.
Male speaker #2: No I don't.
Male speaker #1: Your well on your way to marital bliss, son.
(uncomfortable look between Male speaker #2 and Female speaker #1)
Toilet Paper Awards 2006
I don't know who comes up with all this stuff . . .For more fun, flash back to 2005.
Disclaimer:
To the non-choir member reader of this blog: these awards are all inside jokes among the choir. (stating the obvious, I know)
To the choir: if you'd rather your award not be public information, just let me know and I'll remove it immediately.
The Margaret Hendricks "Anything You Can Sing, I Can Sing Louder Award":
Martin Schulz
David Berg
Kevin A. Beck Straight-Tone Award:
Martin Schulz
David Berg
I Found True Love While Inebbriated:
Whitney Sims
Most Willing to Loan Her SUV to an Uninsured Driver:
Jessica O'Leary
Most Likely to Be Mistaken for a Gap Underwear Model:
Luke Boone
The “We’re Just Friends” Award
Clay Rector - Charles Henry
Anthony-Lindsey
Whitney Sims - Ashley Arrington
David Berg - Meredith Foster
Erin Pair - David Berg
Chris Josof - Jackie Roche
Chris Carter - Katie Krause
Suspected of Planning Delia's Demise Award:
Meghan Granlund
Most Likely to Have an Argument over Scripture Interpretation on Their Wedding Night:
Kristina Banks - John Howard
Lauren Davidson Trail of Tears Award:
Kevin Beck
Kevin Beck
Kevin Beck
Kevin Beck
The "Screw This, I'm Headed to New York" Award:
Chris Carter
Invisible Triangle Award:
Meredith Foster, David Berg, Tommy Nelson
Most Likely to Tangle with Every Girl He Finds Attractive . . . . or Alone:
Chris Carter
Least Likely to Speak in a Choral Rehearsal Setting
Evan Long
Mandy Grenaway
For the soprano In Need of Re-Orientation of the current situation regarding Vocal Fluctuation and Part Obfuscation and Vacillation, the "What the Heck Part Am I Supposed to Sing" award goes to:
Erin Pair
I'm Going to UAB-I'm not going to UAB-I'm Going to UAB-I'm not going to UAB Award:
Katie Krauss
The "I Could Have Kicked that Soprano's @$$" award:
Lindsey Tuller
For her ability to argue a brick wall into submission, the Sandra Day O'Connor needs-to-be-a-lawyer" award:
Rachel Hicks
Most Likely to Use Profound Amounts of Profanity in Her Private Journal Award:
Marybeth Verchot
For Skillful Manipulation of an Automobile in the pursuit of a stationary oak tree, the Car and Driver Award:
Sean Fleischman
Most Likely to Be Mistaken for A Pirate in the Carribean:
Javier Raul Christopher JohnnyDepp Josof
Peaceful Expression - Hidden Aggression Award:
Jackie Roche, Jon Hood
Most In Need of a Nap at Noon:
Tommy Nelson
Delia M. Charest Pretentious Diva Award:
Maggie Hendricks
Lindsey Tuller
David Berg
Most Likely to Show Up On the Stage of the Country Music Awards:
Sarah Green
For Closely Following Dr. Copeland's Advice on Avoiding Life-long Commitment at an Early Age, the "Marriage isn't a cure for Abstinence Award" goes to:
Lindsey Tuller
Clay Rector
Holly Sawardecker - Patrick Williams
Maggie Hendricks - Andrew Granlund
Kristina Banks - John Howard
“Daniel R. Carlisle Memorial Award”
Andy Smith
James Desta
Josh Noland
For His Profound Insight Into Life, Love, and Happiness, the Wandering Philosopher Award :
Keith Kendrick
Most Likely to Realize Submissiveness is the Path to Marital Bliss:
Andrew Granlund
The "Who is Wierder, Him or Her?" Award:
Chris Josof and Katie Movelle
The Personality Transformation Via Manifestation of Suppressed Aggression and Extreme Fatigue Award:
Holly Sawardecker
Most Likely to Date Whitney Sims Next:
Charles Henry
For her ability to navigate locations and performance times the Sir Francis Drake award goes to:
Samantha Pace
Most Likely to Beat You Up, Cuss you Out, and Give you mean Looks While Circling the Roller Derby Rink:
Carlee Jackson
Coulda Woulda Shoulda Award:
Jon Hood and Rachel Hicks
Chris Reid and Erin Pair
Chris Reid and Katie Movelle
Wes Edgar and Holly Sawardecker
Wes Edgar and Mandy Grenaway
Wes Edgar and Chris Reid
Most In Need of an Internet Connection:
Anthony Concepcion
Most in Need of a Cellular Device:
Deidra Brown
Most Likely to Improve Image Because He Has a Goodlooking Girlfriend I mean Fiancee:
Clay Rector
For the Rather Intense Participation in a Late Night Game of Truth or Dare, the "Bus Fever" award goes to:
Andrew Granlund
Maggie Hendricks
David Berg (who denies that he played)
Meghan Granlund
Wes Edgar
Best Use of a Pair of Eyes Mandy Grenaway
"Should Have Gone to New York" Award
Jason Leger
Most Likely to Quote Scripture While Slurring His Speech:
Patrick Williams
Monday, May 22, 2006
Bring softdrinks, chips, sweets
Choir,
I hope everyone is coming to the party.
I need some help in putting it on. I'll supply pizzas and ice but I want you to help by bringing other things to eat. Don't depend on me, or it will be a pizza only night!
See you tomorrow . . .
plc
I hope everyone is coming to the party.
I need some help in putting it on. I'll supply pizzas and ice but I want you to help by bringing other things to eat. Don't depend on me, or it will be a pizza only night!
See you tomorrow . . .
plc
Friday, May 19, 2006
Starting time for the party -- 8:00
We have the pool and clubhouse from 8:00- 10:00 on Tuesday, May 23.
Looking forward to it!
Directions (via Google Map) to my neighborhood poolhouse.
Looking forward to it!
Directions (via Google Map) to my neighborhood poolhouse.
Interesting News
I've been meaning to tell you for a while: Joop will be one of the bus drivers for my trip to France next week. I had recommended him to Dr. Jordan and I guess he requested him. Shall I communicate your greetings to him? (Joop is the guy that looks like a bus driver in this picture)
And in other birmingham news (a brief departure from choir talk):
1. Birmingham Southern is going through a bit of a campus upheaval over their sports program. Students are marching and having public disagreements with their faculty/administration over the proposed move in athletics from Division I to Division III.
2. Remains were found of an assistant principal yesterday. He's been missing about a year.
1. Birmingham Southern is going through a bit of a campus upheaval over their sports program. Students are marching and having public disagreements with their faculty/administration over the proposed move in athletics from Division I to Division III.
2. Remains were found of an assistant principal yesterday. He's been missing about a year.
Wednesday, May 17, 2006
Begging James to Blog Better
Ok, Mr. Desta.Time to learn how to blog. More sentences are required. Context is good. It looks like you are writing messages to one person . . . is that how it is done these days?
A sampling of the last several days:
Wednesday, May 17, 2006
Let's not mess this up.
Monday, May 15, 2006
So I'm not alone in wanting something I haven't conceived of yet. Makes me feel not crazy. =)
Sunday, May 14, 2006
Things are a little bit confusing for me right now, but they'll even out soon. Either way, though, I really don't know what I want. Too much coffee is a bad idea. Seriously. Don't do it. In other news, there is none. I wish there were, though.
Saturday, May 13, 2006
I can't figure out what it is that's missing. But it is. And it's bugging me.
From our Chicago friends
I got this picture and email from Timothy Kou:
Hello, Dr. Copeland
I hope life is treating you mercifully this semester-end. I've just finished my finals, and I now have time to actually send that pic I promised. Again, it was such a blast and a blessing to be able to sing at Carnegie under your direction. I was able to keep my focus on you without having to worry about the music as much because of the intensity of our practices, and all of the extra voices around me as a support. Reading your blog, I can tell your group had at least as much fun in NYC as ours did. If you ever find your way to Chicago, let me know. I'd love to chat.
*diminuendo*
Timothy Kou
P.s. My greetings to Ms. Reynolds as well.
They were a nice bunch of people and I'm glad that they sang with us.
Tuesday, May 16, 2006
Dresses, Folders, Music
To the UAB Concert Choir and Women's Chorale:All UAB uniforms (dresses and tuxedos), Mozart scores, and black folders need to be turned back in to the music office by Wednesday, May 24th. After that date, a HOLD will be placed on your account and you won't be able to do a variety of things: register for classes, pay for tuition, transfer grades, etc.
Please have your dress/tuxedo cleaned and your name clearly affixed on the outfit/music/folder when you turn it in.
PLEASE, do us all a favor and get your things turned in by Wednesday. We need to do an inventory of all school uniforms. Thanks!
Quotes from the BCC choir
Here are some quotes gathered from last night's rehearsal of the Birmingham Concert Chorale. Don't ask me to explain them all. The first, of course, is my favorite and will definitely find its way into the article.
"It was as if the hall was on stage with us, breathing when we breathed, and sighing a long sigh when we were finished."
--Tom Hart
My mother's dream was for me to perform at Carnegie Hall--she was smiling from heaven--thank you for helping make her and my dream come true!
--Macy Johnson
This was an experience of a lifetime for me, and I couldn't have been with a better group of people to share it all with: Texas Tom thanks to Continental, Times Square @ Midnight, Rehearsals, all the typical tourist spots, Broadway shows, Best of All--performing in Carnegie Hall with a most special group.
--Mona Logger?
"Get your head out of your music . . . we must go to starbucks first." I really had an exhilarating experience, especially climbing Carnegie's steps. Thank you for everything.
--Ella Mae Gale
We loved Corpus Christi.
--Claire
I felt most humbled that a kid from Cedar Bluff, Alabama was allowed a chance by the Father to perform a Latin mass in Carnegie Hall
--Melissa Lutenbacker
Dr. Copeland, what a pleasure to rehearse under your baton. Even more fulfilling was it to sing for the performance in Carnegie Hall. You truly inspired us to give our utmost to honor God and thrill the audience. Thank you for your excellent musicianship and your kind spirit. You truly draw out the best in musicians!
--Liz Pate
When we first stood on the Carnegie stage, it was such an overwhelming feeling. Thoughts of all the gifted people who have stood in that hall, on that stage, poured over me. We plowed through the dress rehearsal which was over so quickly. Somehow, by concert time, the moment and the stage became ours. With the first chord, we had arrived.
--Melissa Beebe
There were lots of young voices around us--hopefully we learned from them, too, but the apple eaten during a rehearsal remains a highlight. Hearing our voices remain alive in that hall for all of those moments after our cut-off gave me chills. What a place, what a trip!
--anonymous
"It was as if the hall was on stage with us, breathing when we breathed, and sighing a long sigh when we were finished."
--Tom Hart
My mother's dream was for me to perform at Carnegie Hall--she was smiling from heaven--thank you for helping make her and my dream come true!
--Macy Johnson
This was an experience of a lifetime for me, and I couldn't have been with a better group of people to share it all with: Texas Tom thanks to Continental, Times Square @ Midnight, Rehearsals, all the typical tourist spots, Broadway shows, Best of All--performing in Carnegie Hall with a most special group.
--Mona Logger?
"Get your head out of your music . . . we must go to starbucks first." I really had an exhilarating experience, especially climbing Carnegie's steps. Thank you for everything.
--Ella Mae Gale
We loved Corpus Christi.
--Claire
I felt most humbled that a kid from Cedar Bluff, Alabama was allowed a chance by the Father to perform a Latin mass in Carnegie Hall
--Melissa Lutenbacker
Dr. Copeland, what a pleasure to rehearse under your baton. Even more fulfilling was it to sing for the performance in Carnegie Hall. You truly inspired us to give our utmost to honor God and thrill the audience. Thank you for your excellent musicianship and your kind spirit. You truly draw out the best in musicians!
--Liz Pate
When we first stood on the Carnegie stage, it was such an overwhelming feeling. Thoughts of all the gifted people who have stood in that hall, on that stage, poured over me. We plowed through the dress rehearsal which was over so quickly. Somehow, by concert time, the moment and the stage became ours. With the first chord, we had arrived.
--Melissa Beebe
There were lots of young voices around us--hopefully we learned from them, too, but the apple eaten during a rehearsal remains a highlight. Hearing our voices remain alive in that hall for all of those moments after our cut-off gave me chills. What a place, what a trip!
--anonymous
Quotes . . I need quotes!
Send me some impressions of New York, Carnegie Hall, something!
I'm writing the article, and I need material. A couple of pictures to get you going.
Sleeping Beauty.
Baton as Dagger.
Crowd shot.
I'm writing the article, and I need material. A couple of pictures to get you going.
Sleeping Beauty.
Baton as Dagger.
Crowd shot.
Doesn't Erin look fantastic?
There's a new fire in Erin, it seems.
I want to take a moment to say how much I will miss Erin next year. She has loved the UAB Concert Choir and it has been a wonderful five years.
Some losses are felt more by the director. Erin has been around long enough to know what I'm thinking in choir rehearsal most of the time. She can anticipate a rising frustration; it only takes a look from me to her to confirm what we are both thinking.
Erin is the type of person that will make notes for me without me asking her to do it--she takes charge in handing out dresses--she doesn't shirk away from any responsibility and instead seeks it out--it is the sort of thing I value very much.
In my mind, she joins a special club of students--ones that really had an impact on who we have become (and are becoming). We are better because Erin cared.
I want to take a moment to say how much I will miss Erin next year. She has loved the UAB Concert Choir and it has been a wonderful five years.
Some losses are felt more by the director. Erin has been around long enough to know what I'm thinking in choir rehearsal most of the time. She can anticipate a rising frustration; it only takes a look from me to her to confirm what we are both thinking.
Erin is the type of person that will make notes for me without me asking her to do it--she takes charge in handing out dresses--she doesn't shirk away from any responsibility and instead seeks it out--it is the sort of thing I value very much.
In my mind, she joins a special club of students--ones that really had an impact on who we have become (and are becoming). We are better because Erin cared.
Monday, May 15, 2006
about nyc and CH
From an email tonight:
I thought May 6 would never come. Boarding an airplane for the first time that morning is an experience I will never forget. It was a tiny express jet that one had to duck to get into. Thankfully, I had many friends there with me who were very comforting.
After two planes and a bus, we finally arrived in New York City. That night after walking around Times Square and eating at TGI Friday's, I learned why the city is referred to as "The City that Never Sleeps." How could one sleep with all the honking and yelling in the street below?
Well, the day of our performance finally came. The most memorable moment for me occurred at dress rehearsal that afternoon. As you may recall, we were told no to stop to admire the room until we were in our places in order to avoid a "traffic jam." (Isn't that what New York is famous for?) I got to my place and looked up for the first time. What I felt inside at the moment surpasses all description. I believe it was a combination of wonder, joy, and excitement among other things. The concert hall was breathtaking; my dream had come true. That night, I sang with more energy, strength, and spirit than I have ever sung with before.
The adventure is now over, and I am back home. I am elated that I took so many pictures. Every now and again, I have to take them out to remind myself that it really happened. I was in New York City, and I did sing in Carnegie Hall.
Party: May 23rd
Tell your friends. It's Tuesday, May 23rd from 7-9 p.m.note: this man teaches sign-language. i'm guessing this is the sign for postpone. Thanks, Google Image Search.
Needed: Carnegie Hall quotes and photos
All who went on the trip . . .Would you like to have your words immortalized in a UAB magazine mailed to hundreds of people? I'm looking for quotes and photos of the trip.
Of course, the photo to the left wouldn't be appropriate for a big publication, but I wouldn't mind seeing your funny photos either.
Here are examples of quotes like I need:
Here.
Here.
Here.
Here.
Party planning
Update:
We've been operating under the belief that everyone knew that we were aiming for Tuesday, May 16 for the choir party. Since that doesn't seem to be the case, Charles is calling people to ascertain if May 16 is best or May 23 is best.
We'll make a final call by this evening and announce it via the blog and cell phones.
We've been operating under the belief that everyone knew that we were aiming for Tuesday, May 16 for the choir party. Since that doesn't seem to be the case, Charles is calling people to ascertain if May 16 is best or May 23 is best.
We'll make a final call by this evening and announce it via the blog and cell phones.
Sunday, May 14, 2006
Party?
Slightly updated.Tentative plans are to have an end of the year choir party at the clubhouse in my neighborhood. I've still got to make sure the space is available but make your plans to be there on:
Tuesday, May 17 May 16
Leigh and I will likely supply pizza, you'll need to organize other snacks and drinks. No alcohol allowed, just in case you were wondering.
Determining needs in Paris
I'm headed back over to Paris on 5/25 and I'm busy figuring out what I need to pack. I'm also scoping out other necessary information.
Thursday, May 11, 2006
Documenting the NY Experience
There were so many great things about the trip to New York. One of the greatest was that my parents came with me. Although they've been incredible supporters throughout my life, they've never been on a trip like this with me. This was their first trip to NYC and they are planning on doing the Germany trip next year.We saw three incredible shows: Light in the Piazza, Mama Mia, and Rent. Three nights, three shows . . . and then the Carnegie Hall performance. Two weeks ago I wondered if I'd be able to see anything!
RENT was fabulous. The hit song, Seasons of Love, has been on my mind all day.
Five hundred twenty-five thousand
Six hundred minutes,
Five hundred twenty-five thousand
Moments so dear.
Five hundred twenty-five thousand
Six hundred minutes
How do you measure, measure a year?
In daylights, in sunsets, in midnights
In cups of coffee
In inches, in miles, in laughter, in strife.
In five hundred twenty-five thousand
Six hundred minutes
How do you measure
A year in the life?
How about love?
How about love?
How about love? Measure in love
Seasons of love. Seasons of love
JOANNE
Five hundred twenty-five thousand
Six hundred minutes!
Five hundred twenty-five thousand
Journeys to plan.
Five hundred twenty-five thousand
Six hundred minutes
How do you measure the life
Of a woman or a man?
COLLINS
In truths that she learned,
Or in times that he cried.
In bridges he burned,
Or the way that she died.
ALL
It's time now to sing out,
Tho' the story never ends
Let's celebrate
Remember a year in the life of friends
Remember the love!
Remember the love!
Seasons of love!
JOANNE
Oh you got to got to Remember the love! remember the love,
You Measure in love know that love is a gift from up above Seasons of love.
Share love, give love spread love Measure measure you life in love.
Six hundred minutes,
Five hundred twenty-five thousand
Moments so dear.
Five hundred twenty-five thousand
Six hundred minutes
How do you measure, measure a year?
In daylights, in sunsets, in midnights
In cups of coffee
In inches, in miles, in laughter, in strife.
In five hundred twenty-five thousand
Six hundred minutes
How do you measure
A year in the life?
How about love?
How about love?
How about love? Measure in love
Seasons of love. Seasons of love
JOANNE
Five hundred twenty-five thousand
Six hundred minutes!
Five hundred twenty-five thousand
Journeys to plan.
Five hundred twenty-five thousand
Six hundred minutes
How do you measure the life
Of a woman or a man?
COLLINS
In truths that she learned,
Or in times that he cried.
In bridges he burned,
Or the way that she died.
ALL
It's time now to sing out,
Tho' the story never ends
Let's celebrate
Remember a year in the life of friends
Remember the love!
Remember the love!
Seasons of love!
JOANNE
Oh you got to got to Remember the love! remember the love,
You Measure in love know that love is a gift from up above Seasons of love.
Share love, give love spread love Measure measure you life in love.
What happened to the soloist . . .
Andrew asks "what happened to the soloist?"
The short story: she skipped a beat.
A longer version: she skipped a beat in the beginning of her most exposed and complicated part.
The full story: Instead of singing a dotted half-note, she sang a half note and began the complicated ascending-descending triplet figures a beat early. There was nothing for the conductor/orchestra to do except "keep it all together" until it was time to bring the choir back in. The choir responded perfectly--they came in confidently and securely. (this was right before the staggered "pecattor" entrance from the choir--a wonderful section). The rest of the performance went off without a hitch.
The moral of the story: superb vocal talent isn't enough. Singers must be able to count and sing the right notes.
A second moral of the story: conductors must anticipate mistakes and keep their cool in the face of the unexpected. Luckily, all those involved kept going on as if nothing had happened.
Could it have caused everything to crash into a horrible mess? Yep. Did it? Nope.
What was I thinking? If only Lindsey were singing the solo . . .. . .
The short story: she skipped a beat.
A longer version: she skipped a beat in the beginning of her most exposed and complicated part.
The full story: Instead of singing a dotted half-note, she sang a half note and began the complicated ascending-descending triplet figures a beat early. There was nothing for the conductor/orchestra to do except "keep it all together" until it was time to bring the choir back in. The choir responded perfectly--they came in confidently and securely. (this was right before the staggered "pecattor" entrance from the choir--a wonderful section). The rest of the performance went off without a hitch.
The moral of the story: superb vocal talent isn't enough. Singers must be able to count and sing the right notes.
A second moral of the story: conductors must anticipate mistakes and keep their cool in the face of the unexpected. Luckily, all those involved kept going on as if nothing had happened.
Could it have caused everything to crash into a horrible mess? Yep. Did it? Nope.
What was I thinking? If only Lindsey were singing the solo . . .. . .
So many to thank . . .
Here are my beginning thoughts on words of thanks to the directors that prepared the chorus for our Carnegie performance. I'll be personalizing the message, but here are my first thoughts.
Dear Director,
Please accept my heartfelt thanks for your efforts in making our Carnegie Hall Concert a night to remember. In my opinion, the performance was a wonderful culmination of:
1. our efforts at learning the score before arriving in New York
2. A period of intense but fruitful rehearsals together
3. A superb effort on the night of the performance
Everything that I asked for in the moments prior to the concert was present during our performance: percussive consonants, beautiful vowels, focused eyes, passionate singing and incredible attention to detail.
It was more than a privilege to stand in front of the choir, it was the experience of a lifetime. I will never forget the experience we shared; it is already one of the very special memories in my life and I will always consider the evening of May 9, 2006 with pride and honor.
The concert had one flaw, of course, from one of the soloists. The choir, however, was not shaken. They were focused on the music and responded to the challenge like champions. On this night, the “amateurs” outsang the “professionals” in every way: dramatic nuance, beautiful tone, outstanding precision, and beautiful musicality.
My parting word to the choir was “God sings through you tonight.” It may be presumptuous to make such a statement. If it were possible to invoke such an occurrence, however, it happened. On that night, I felt like a servant to both God and Mozart; it was an honor to be the facilitator of both.
Forever indebted to you and your chorus,
Philip L. Copeland
Dear Director,
Please accept my heartfelt thanks for your efforts in making our Carnegie Hall Concert a night to remember. In my opinion, the performance was a wonderful culmination of:
1. our efforts at learning the score before arriving in New York
2. A period of intense but fruitful rehearsals together
3. A superb effort on the night of the performance
Everything that I asked for in the moments prior to the concert was present during our performance: percussive consonants, beautiful vowels, focused eyes, passionate singing and incredible attention to detail.
It was more than a privilege to stand in front of the choir, it was the experience of a lifetime. I will never forget the experience we shared; it is already one of the very special memories in my life and I will always consider the evening of May 9, 2006 with pride and honor.
The concert had one flaw, of course, from one of the soloists. The choir, however, was not shaken. They were focused on the music and responded to the challenge like champions. On this night, the “amateurs” outsang the “professionals” in every way: dramatic nuance, beautiful tone, outstanding precision, and beautiful musicality.
My parting word to the choir was “God sings through you tonight.” It may be presumptuous to make such a statement. If it were possible to invoke such an occurrence, however, it happened. On that night, I felt like a servant to both God and Mozart; it was an honor to be the facilitator of both.
Forever indebted to you and your chorus,
Philip L. Copeland
Monday, May 08, 2006
Birmingham @ Carnegie
Here's a great shot representing several of the groups at Carnegie: South Highland Presbyterian Church, UAB Women's Chorale, and Birmingham Concert Chorale. Love the sign . . . UAB at Carnegie.
Having a great time and the choirs sound incredible!
A link to more.
Having a great time and the choirs sound incredible!
A link to more.
Thursday, May 04, 2006
NY Rooming as I know it
If you have any questions about rooming, let me know ASAP.
Patrick Williams
Luke Boone
Jason Leger
Anthony Concepcion
Lindsey Tuller
Marybeth Verchot
Katie Movelle
Jessica O'Leary
Wes Edgar
John Howard
David Berg
Charles Henry
G. Gainey
Kristina Banks
Meredith Foster
Crystal Whatley
Melissa Justice
Islara Vasquez
Toni Stewart
Ginger Swan
Rebekah Guthrie
Tina Franks (a.k.a. Tina Tranks)
Genoveva Valle
Patricia Valle
Delia Charest
Erin Pair
Jackie Roche
Sarah Labriola
Chris Carter
Tommy Nelson
Chris Josof
Martin Schulz
Alison Fain
Holly Sawardecker
Elizabeth Perkinss
Christina Felderhoff
Melinda Ewalt
Jasen Ewalt
Linda Pannell
Philip Copeland
Leigh copeland
Marlon Copeland
Charlotte Copeland
Dale Reynolds
Joyce Jennings
Amanda Dixon
Mary Margaret Yielding
Susan Simpson
Peggy McClure
Eleanor Garner
Rosemary Holcomb
Diane Cleveland
Nora Grant
Jan Hill
Amy Dickerson
Maxine Williams
Keith Williams
Ken Hyche
Richard Edwards
Man #3
Man #4
Patrick Williams
Luke Boone
Jason Leger
Anthony Concepcion
Lindsey Tuller
Marybeth Verchot
Katie Movelle
Jessica O'Leary
Wes Edgar
John Howard
David Berg
Charles Henry
G. Gainey
Kristina Banks
Meredith Foster
Crystal Whatley
Melissa Justice
Islara Vasquez
Toni Stewart
Ginger Swan
Rebekah Guthrie
Tina Franks (a.k.a. Tina Tranks)
Genoveva Valle
Patricia Valle
Delia Charest
Erin Pair
Jackie Roche
Sarah Labriola
Chris Carter
Tommy Nelson
Chris Josof
Martin Schulz
Alison Fain
Holly Sawardecker
Elizabeth Perkinss
Christina Felderhoff
Melinda Ewalt
Jasen Ewalt
Linda Pannell
Philip Copeland
Leigh copeland
Marlon Copeland
Charlotte Copeland
Dale Reynolds
Joyce Jennings
Amanda Dixon
Mary Margaret Yielding
Susan Simpson
Peggy McClure
Eleanor Garner
Rosemary Holcomb
Diane Cleveland
Nora Grant
Jan Hill
Amy Dickerson
Maxine Williams
Keith Williams
Ken Hyche
Richard Edwards
Man #3
Man #4
Amazing Grace--the composer speaks
I sent a recording of Amazing Grace to the arranger of the work, Sheena Phillips. Here are her comments:Philip - I absolutely love your recording of 'Amazing Grace'. It is very exciting when the pace suddenly changes in verse 3, and the last verse is fabulous too. I slightly prefer the first take on the CD you sent - it keeps the momentum a little longer on 'sing God's praise' before the final drawing back but both are wonderful and I'd be delighted to put one on my web site, with full acknowledgment of course. Would the soloist appreciate a mention too? She did a wonderful job. Thank you so much - hearing the piece done this way has made me very happy!
Sheena
She later added:
Philip - you can add that I am very impressed by the overall sound of the choir: the ensemble is really fantastic, the whole body moving fluidly together, with both subtlety and power. Marvelous.
I gave her Sarah's name and thanked her for her wonderful comments.
Wednesday, May 03, 2006
AOL blocked my cancellation message
For the record,
AOL blocked my cancellation message to the choir two days ago. Not sure why. So . . . apologies to those who didn't get the message about today's cancelled recording session.
AOL blocked my cancellation message to the choir two days ago. Not sure why. So . . . apologies to those who didn't get the message about today's cancelled recording session.
CBS Early Show - Monday Morning in NYC
Guess what . . . .We've been asked to appear on the CBS morning show on the Monday we are in NYC. We'd be part of the crowd outside the studio and get a little promotional time about the concert the next night. Pretty cool, eh?
Special thanks to Kathleen Drohan of MidAmerica for selecting us--for all the right reasons!
The details:
- We would leave the hotel at 7:10 that morning via a BUS
- Be on the air for two shots: 8:05 a.m. and 8:35 a.m.
- UAB wear would be a great idea--sweatshirts, t-shirts, etc.
- Markers and paper would be available for signs
- There are lots of great places in the area for AFTER the show: Plaza, St. Patrick's Cathedral, Central Park, Trump Tower, Tiffany's, ToysRUs (probably more interesting to me than you)
- Weather forecast is looking to be nice, but bring something warm for this little event. Expect 50s. I guess there is always the possibility of rain, but that is not in the forecast.
- There won't be any bathroom facility for an hour if you have problems like that in the early hours. If you do, don't sit next to me on the plane.
- We won't be singing anything, but we will get a chance to talk about our concert.
- They'll have hot chocolate, donuts, and coffee for us at the event. Woohoo!
Tuesday, May 02, 2006
uab in paris
Delia gives us this wonderful collage.
collage--An artwork comprising of portions of various existing images such as from photographs or prints and arranged so that they join, overlap or blend to create a new image.
www.antiquesbyalternatives.com/Art_Terminology.htm
www.antiquesbyalternatives.com/Art_Terminology.htm
Ole Miss in Competition
Some of you have asked about the literature we're performing at the competition, so here it is. I think you might recognize a couple.
Category IV
Qualifying Round
Song of Triumph Dale Grotenhuis
Wonderful World Liebau
Ride On, King Jesus ---Edward Boatner
Final Round
Salmo XLII--Uros Krek
Ave Maria--Javier Busto
He’s Got The Whole World--Liebau
Category I
Qualifying Round
a) One piece by a composer of the Renaissance, Baroque or Classical period
Regretz sans 4 :25 Josquin Des Prez
b) One piece written after 1900
Justorum Animae 4 :20 Stanford
c) One piece chosen freely from any period desired
Let Me Fly 2 :38 Decormier
Final Round
a) One piece written during the XIXth century
Jauchzet dem Herrn 3 :52 Felix Mendelssohn
b) One piece written after 1940 by a French composer
Radiosfer 2 :36 Patrice Bernard
c) One piece chosen freely from any period desired
Alleluia 4 :23 Josef Karai
Category IV
Qualifying Round
Song of Triumph Dale Grotenhuis
Wonderful World Liebau
Ride On, King Jesus ---Edward Boatner
Final Round
Salmo XLII--Uros Krek
Ave Maria--Javier Busto
He’s Got The Whole World--Liebau
Category I
Qualifying Round
a) One piece by a composer of the Renaissance, Baroque or Classical period
Regretz sans 4 :25 Josquin Des Prez
b) One piece written after 1900
Justorum Animae 4 :20 Stanford
c) One piece chosen freely from any period desired
Let Me Fly 2 :38 Decormier
Final Round
a) One piece written during the XIXth century
Jauchzet dem Herrn 3 :52 Felix Mendelssohn
b) One piece written after 1940 by a French composer
Radiosfer 2 :36 Patrice Bernard
c) One piece chosen freely from any period desired
Alleluia 4 :23 Josef Karai
ACDA Recording Information
If you are interested in purchasing a recording of our ACDA Southern Division performance, please visit ViaMedia productions. Recordings from the Southern Division 2006 covention can be found here.
Their contact information:
ViaMedia Productions, Inc.
568 Shores Avenue
Cave Springs, AR 75718
479-248-7548 - voice
479-248-1072 - fax
http://www.ViaMediaAVPro.com/
Monday, May 01, 2006
Getting it straight for next year
Let me know if I have this right (if you know someone who isn't coming back, tell me in the comments section).
ALREADY UPDATED:
Graduating and not returning:
Luke Boone, Chris Carter, Sarah Green, Erin Pair,
Holly Sawardecker
Not returning, other reasons:
Kristina Banks, Meghan Granlund, Carlee Jackson,
Keith Kendrick, Katie Krauss, Wes Edgar
Am I forgetting someone? (seems like I counted 8 not returning)
Here is who I have returning for UAB Concert Choir:
David Berg, Deidra Brown, Anthony Concepcion, Lauren Davidson,
Meredith Foster, Sean Fleishman, Andrew Granlund
Amanda (Mandy) Grenaway, Maggie Hendricks, Rachel Hicks
John Howard, Chris Josof, Charles Henry, Jon Hood
Jason Leger, Evan Long, Katie Movelle, Thomas Nelson
Jessica O'Leary, Samantha Pace, Clay Rector, Chris Reid
Jackie Roche, Martin Schulz, Whitney Sims, Lindsey Tuller
Marybeth Verchot, Patrick Williams
ALREADY UPDATED:
Graduating and not returning:
Luke Boone, Chris Carter, Sarah Green, Erin Pair,
Holly Sawardecker
Not returning, other reasons:
Kristina Banks, Meghan Granlund, Carlee Jackson,
Keith Kendrick, Katie Krauss, Wes Edgar
Am I forgetting someone? (seems like I counted 8 not returning)
Here is who I have returning for UAB Concert Choir:
David Berg, Deidra Brown, Anthony Concepcion, Lauren Davidson,
Meredith Foster, Sean Fleishman, Andrew Granlund
Amanda (Mandy) Grenaway, Maggie Hendricks, Rachel Hicks
John Howard, Chris Josof, Charles Henry, Jon Hood
Jason Leger, Evan Long, Katie Movelle, Thomas Nelson
Jessica O'Leary, Samantha Pace, Clay Rector, Chris Reid
Jackie Roche, Martin Schulz, Whitney Sims, Lindsey Tuller
Marybeth Verchot, Patrick Williams
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