Attention All Singers, Directors & Conductors

Serbian Singing Federation of America Jednom Pevač – Uvek Srbin! 26352 John R Road, Madison Heights, Michigan 48071

Message from the Editor SSF Hi-Notes The Official Quarterly Publication of the Serbian Singing Federation Dear Singers, of the USA and Canada What a busy spring it has been!! Physical Address: This issue is full of news and information pertain- 26352 John R Road, ing to Festival, Choral Workshop and Convention, so Madison Heights, Michigan 48071 please take the time to read this and share with your Mailing Address: fellow members. 2010 promises to be another excit- P.O. Box 71007, Madison Heights, Michigan 48071 ing year for the SSF. ~ 248-542-4004 (phone) ~ Since it is not in the SSF budget to print the Hi- www.serbiansingingfederation.org Notes, please take the time to print some copies and Editor-in-Chief: distribute to those in your choir that do not have Jelena Stojaković computers or maybe are not that tech savvy. Assistant Editor: My gratitude and sincere thanks to all the mem- Holly Goljić ber choirs, committee chairs, and fellow executive Editorial Staff: board members for submitting materials in a timely Milka Chuk, Milan Damljanović, Thomas Olsen, Alexandra Starcevich manner for this current issue. It definitely helps with meeting deadlines. Executive Board Contacts: Constructive comments for improving the Hi- President: Marko Borato [email protected] Notes are always welcome. Please e-mail me if you 1st Vice President: Vonnie Orlich have suggestions and/or ideas for improvement. [email protected] Please send in your Festival experiences, choir 2nd Vice President: Jelena Stojaković [email protected] news, milestones, announcements, and pictures to Treasurer: Milka Chuk share with your fellow singers. The Summer issue is [email protected] slated to be published at the end of August. Deadline Executive Secretary: Brad Hijaz to submit material is August 15, 2010. [email protected] Asst Executive Secretary: Petra Koprivica See you all at Festival in Chicago! [email protected] Sincerely, Executive Secretary Emeritus: Paul Bielich [email protected] Jelena

Mailing Address: P.O. Box 71007, Madison Heights, Michigan 48071 ~ 248-542-4004 (phone) ~ www.serbiansingingfederation.org From the President’s Desk

Hristos Voskrese!

I hope everyone had a glorious and joyful Easter. With spring in the air and warmer weather, it’s time to get out and enjoy all of the upcoming events.

Foremost on our list of activities is the annual SSF Festival in Chicago, IL the 28th – 30th of May. The theme for this year’s festival is “ONE LOVE SERBIAN SONG” ~ “JEDNA LJUBAV SRPSKA PESMA”.

It is with great pleasure that the SSF joins our Brothers and Sisters of SOCA in jointly hosting this Historical Event. The combined efforts, organization and planning of the Hosting Choirs, SSS Branko Radichevich and SOCA Stevan St. Mokranjac are a tribute to the true Serbian spirit. Through their continued efforts, long hours and constant planning, the joy of singing our Serbian songs will once again, be shared by ALL Serbians on a common stage!

We on the SSF Board, congratulate both organizations for their dedication in seeing this jointly hosted festival through to fruition. May this be the first of many combined Concerts and Festivals! Our best wishes go out to all of the participating choirs, singers and directors.

The next event taking place will be the SSF Choral Workshop August 13th – 15th hosted by St. Elijah Choir of Aliquippa, PA. Please keep your dates open for this entertaining and learning experience.

The SSF Convention will be held on September 16th – 19th and will be hosted by the St. Nicholas Cathedral Choir of Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. Please remember to have your passports ready and updated as they will be required as new laws have gone into effect.

As with all of our events, please keep referring to the SSF website for additional information, Hi-Notes and other Choir tidbits. The link is www. serbiansingingfederation.org. Special thanks go out to our Web Master, Mr. Dragan Koprivica, for all of his hard work and dedication to keeping us all informed.

In closing, I hope to see all of you at one or all of our events and look forward to personally speaking to everyone.

Musically yours, Marko Borota President, Serbian Singing Federation

4 Serbian Singing Federation e Hi-Notes e Spring-Easter Edition 2010 N E W S from the Executive Secretary’s Desk

Hristos Voskrese!

Dear Singers,

I trust that everyone is getting ready for what promises to be a very enjoyable festival in Chicago, IL. A few reminders:

. Choir History/Officer forms If your choir has not turned in the choir register forms and choir history forms, please return them ASAP.

. Paul S. Bielich Scholarship Applications The Paul S. Bielich Scholarship Applications are due at the SSF Headquarters office by May 15, 2010. Copies had been sent to each choir, but applications can also be found on our Federation website.

. 2010 SSF Convention in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada Please also make sure your choir votes on your 2010 Convention Delegates ASAP so they can make sure they have the proper identification to cross the border.

Looking forward to seeing everyone in Chicago!

Brad Hijaz SSF Executive Secretary

Serbian Singing Federation e Hi-Notes e Spring-Easter Edition 2010 5 DONATIONS TO THE SERBIAN SINGING FEDERATION March 1, 2010 to April 26, 2010

HEADQUARTERS/LIBRARY FUND S.S.S. Sloboda (Lansing, IL) 100.00 Total Headquarters/Library Fund ………………………….. 100.00

PAUL S. BIELICH SCHOLARSHIP FUND S.S.S. Sloboda (Lansing, IL) 100.00 Total Paul S. Bielich Scholarship Fund ………………….. 100.00

Memorial Plaque in Memory of +DOROTHY MATICH S.S.S. Josif Marinkovich 25.00 Total Donations for Memorial Plaque …………………….. 25.00

SERBIAN SINGING FEDERATION - DUES

SSF Dues – Please be sure to send in your dues made payable to the Serbian Singing Federation at the address below. So far 63% of our member choirs have paid. Let‘s make it 100% on or before May 31st.

Serbian Singing Federation P.O. Box 71007 Madison Heights, MI 48071

6 Serbian Singing Federation e Hi-Notes e Spring-Easter Edition 2010 From your National Choral Youth Advisor!

Hristos Voskrese! I hope you all had a blessed Pascha season, and I look forward to seeing you all at the “One Love – Serbian Song” Choral Festival in May. In this article, I would like to point out some additional organizational aspects of developing and running a successful children’s/youth choir. Today, whether public or private, school music programs are finding it more difficult to remain as part of the school curriculum. Children’s church choirs are a wonderful vehicle for sharing the power of music with the next generation, and achieving the dominant goals and continuation of Serbian Choral Societies in North America. In addition to passing along the song/religious traditions, a children’s choir can be one of the places where a love of music can be sparked. It will increase the desire to pursue more connection and involvement with peers and adults, ultimately drawing them to the parishes we all belong to and cherish. Mental warm-ups are essential to a successful rehearsal with a children’s choir. Kids are coming from numerous environments before they enter the choir rehearsal. These range from baseball practice, homework, piano lessons, to the vast amount of activities in which they are involved. Children’s sched- ules are incredibly hectic and choir rehearsal for them can be just one thing in a long list of tasks that they complete for a given day. One of the largest challenges for the choir director is to get the students mentally prepared for the rehearsal. Beginning the rehearsal with some sort of mental warm-ups can really help establish the learning environment and build the ensemble. These can be as simple as breathing exercises, to anything separate from singing itself, but with a child centered focus. After you have established a comfortable atmosphere, introduce some vocal warm ups. Here are a few examples: • Stretch and yawn; hold the ending “ah” sound; relax your throat and jaws • Feel different parts of mouth and nasal passages vibrate with these different sounds: MMMMMMMMMMMMM… ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ… EEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE… NNNNNNNNNNNNNNNNN… This will help introduce resonation, and can even help or be applied to adult choirs. • Introduce children to their diaphragm, and show them proper breathing and posture. Breath- ing low with support vs. shallow breaths.

Serbian Singing Federation e Hi-Notes e Spring-Easter Edition 2010 7 Language may or may not be an issue with your children’s choir, but overall focus should be on unification of vowels in the text regardless of language. This will, in turn, create a healthy and full sound. Introduce children to Church Slavonic, Serbian and English. Most parishes readily have these native speakers available to consult. Younger children easily enjoy singing in different languages, and it ex- poses them to a whole new world. Diction warm-ups should be in every rehearsal, and can be as easy as reciting a favorite tongue twist- er. Children enjoy the fun and challenge these entail. Here are a few examples: • “The lips the teeth, the tip of the tongue.” Have children quickly repeat this text while ascend- ing/descending a scale, for example a C Major scale. • “Aluminum, linoleum, aluminum linoleum, aluminum.” Use any rhythmic and tonal creation and repeat these words.

Overall have fun, but have a plan. Children not only look up to you, but also rely on you. These warm ups can easily be used for adult choirs. As singers, we owe composers such as Mokranjac, Stankovich, Binicki, plus many more, and should always perform their works with respect and 100% effort. This should be presented in rehearsal of any ensemble, child or adult, and will equate to a positive performance for the musicians as well as the audience

Again, I hope to see you all in Chicago, and if any questions arise, feel free to contact me.

Thomas Olsen NCYA, Omaha, Nebraska

8 Serbian Singing Federation e Hi-Notes e Spring-Easter Edition 2010 Music 101: Serbian National by Milan Damljanović Anthem: “Bože pravde”

National anthems often have an historical significance and an intriguing story behind their origin, such is the case with the Serbian National Anthem, Bože pravde (God of Justice). The origins of the Serbian National Anthem, Bože pravde, begin in the 19th century Principality of Serbia, during the rule of then Prince Milan Obrenović IV, who would later be crowned King Milan Obrenović I. Bože pravde was originally written as part of a theatrical play called Markova sablja (Mar- ko’s Sword) in honor of Prince Milan Obrenović IV being “declared of age” in the year 1872 at the age of 18. He was the reigning Serbian monarch as Prince Milan IV (1868-1882) and later becoming King Milan I (1882-1889). The text for Markova sablja was written by Jovan Đorđević (dramatist) and the music was composed by Davorin Jenko (composer). Jovan Đorđević (1826-1900) was a Serbian author, professor, and the founder of the Serbian National Theater. He authored the text for the play Markova sablja, in which the song Bože pravde appeared in and was premiered in 1872. Davorin Jenko (1835-1914) was a Slovenian composer and conductor. He spent the majority of his professional life working in Serbia. He composed in the Serbian music tradition and left a substantial impact on Serbian music. He was a music director of the First Belgrade Singing Society, conductor of the Serbian National Theater and a leading musician in Serbia at the time. He was buried without hon- ors in Ljubljana, Slovenia because he was a naturalized Serbian citizen and patriot. While with the Serbian National Theater he composed the music for Markova sablja. In the final scene of Markova sablja, while standing with nymph Ravijojla, Prince Marko holds the sword, with which he rescued the oppressed Serbs from Turkish control, he greets and listens to the people while they sing Bože pravde.1 Like many national anthems, Bože pravde did not begin as a national anthem per se. The song itself existed for many years in the public repertoire gaining public appeal which played a critical part in its selection as the national anthem. At the crowning ceremony of King Milan I in 1882, Bože pravde was performed by a choir with the text …Knjaz-Milana (Prince Milan) Bože spasi… changed to …Kralj- Milana (King Milan) Bože spasi…2 From this point forward, some historians believe Bože pravde became the official national anthem, although there would follow another occasion, in 1909, that is also cited as the official beginning. In any event, Bože pravde was sung and performed for many years before being cited as the official national anthem of the Kingdom of Serbia. King Petar I ruled from 1903-1918. Six years after taking the throne (1909), King Petar I accepted Bože pravde as the national anthem. A competition was held for the selection of a new anthem in which many notable poets and composers submitted proposals. Among the many proposals was Božena polja zemlja ove by the famous Serbian poet Aleksa Šantić (1868-1924). During the 37 years following its premiere, Bože pravde became popular amongst Serbs and was performed at various public functions as an independent choral composition. This helped it to be selected as the official anthem by King Petar I in 1909. At the time of the discussion to use the Đorđević text, Đorđević had been deceased for 9 years. Therefore, his input for text changes was impossible. It was decided that where King Milan I was mentioned the name of King Petar I would be used and so it stayed as such in the country of Serbia during the Balkan and First World Wars until the liberation and unification of the Serbs, Croats, and Slovenes

1, 2 Babić, Konstantin (2000). Zašto Srbija još nema himnu?, Iz ličnog ugla: Vreme broj 513, 2. novembar 2000.

Serbian Singing Federation e Hi-Notes e Spring-Easter Edition 2010 9 in the newly found territory of the Kingdom of Yugoslavia. In 1918 an anthem was adopted for the Kingdom of Yugoslavia by combining the anthems of Serbia, Croatia, and Slovenia. King Petar I died in 1921 at which time the text that spoke of “kralja Petra” (King Petar) became “našeg kralja” (our king) and “srpski rod” (Serbian people) became “naš rod” (our people). In other words, “Bože spasi, Bože hrani našeg Kralja i naš rod.” Keep in mind, the original text was written with the king in mind, not country, state, or Republic. The original anthem of the Kingdom of Serbia had the text “srpskog kralja” (Serbian king), this was replaced by “srpske zemlje” (Serbian lands). The original, “srpskog kralja, Bože spasi” (Serbian king, God protect) currently, “Bože spasi, Bože brani” (God save, God protect). The current national anthem of the Republic of Serbia is a slight variation of the national anthem of the Kingdom of Serbia. original: “srpskog kralja” (Serbian king) current: “srpske zemlje” (Serbian lands) original: “srpskog kralja, Bože spasi” (Serbian king, God protect) current: “Bože spasi, Bože brani” (God save, God protect) An interesting note, the music for the Serbian National Anthem as well as the Slovenian National Anthem (in use from 1918-1990) was composed by a Slovenian, Davorin Jenko, while the music for the Croatian National Anthem was composed by a Serbian, Josif Runjanin.

Timeline: Principality of Serbia: 1817-1882 – (Bože pravde premiered 1872) Prince Milan Obrenović IV (1868-1882) Kingdom of Serbia: 1882-1918 King Milan I Obrenović (1882-1889) – (Bože pravde performed at 1882 crowning ceremony) King Aleksandar I Obrenović (1889-1903) King Petar I Karađorđević (1903-1918) – (Bože pravde officially adopted in 1909) Kingdom of Yugoslavia: 1918-1943 – (Bože pravde combined with two others for the new anthem) King Petar I Karađorđević (1918-1921) King Aleksandar I Karađorđević (1921-1934) King Petar II Karađorđević (1934-1945) SFR Yugoslavia: 1943-1992 – (Hej Sloveni becomes new anthem) FR Yugoslavia: 1992-2003 Serbia and Montenegro: 2003-2006 Republic of Serbia: 2006-Present – (Bože pravde becomes anthem once again) Please note within the timeline above each of those territories were comprised of various ethnic groups besides Serbians. Hence, over the years, since 1872, the lyrics have been altered slightly in order to denote the current monarch, the governing body or ruling party, and the people being governed at the time (constituents), including not being the official anthem at all for a time. The current official anthem makes mention of Serbia but makes no mention of kingdom or monarchy. While the original version was written with a kingdom in mind, it has evolved to the current text used by the Republic of Serbia in thereby eliminating reference to a kingdom. Public performance practice and protocol are slightly varied based on usage and location. The text of the current official national anthem, Bože pravde, of the Republic of Serbia (not to be confused with

10 Serbian Singing Federation e Hi-Notes e Spring-Easter Edition 2010 Republika Srpska) makes no mention of the Serbian King or anything related to the Kingdom – spe- cifically the words: kralja (king), krune (crown), kraljevina (kingdom) or any associated names. This text is used for any official public performances. On the other hand, Republika Srpska’s anthem was also Bože pravde from 1992-2006, during which time it retained the old lyrics. In the diaspora there is no specific rule governing the use of Bože pravde, it is customary to use the original text which makes mention of the king. Protocol states, that if performing Bože pravde in the presence of HRH Crown Prince Alexander II or any of the Royal family then the original text (same as customarily used in the diaspora) be used even if it is being performed in the Republic of Serbia. For example, if one were performing at the Royal Palace or any other venue where HRH Crown Prince Alexander II was attending it would be correct to perform the original text. If one were performing at a government function or a sporting event then the official text would be used. In other words, the official Republic of Serbia anthem is specific to the legal description of the country, whereas the original text is in honor of the historical nature of Serbia, that being a Kingdom. Therefore, in the diaspora, performing either version would be accept- able at a concert event. However, if a member of the Serbian government were visiting for a formal event, protocol states the official version be used. There are slight variations in the performed versions as well. For example, Bože spasi, Bože hrani srpske zemlje, srpski rod! or Bože spasi, Bože hrani moli ti se sav naš rod! Bože pravde, as we know it today, has been in use since 1872. Its text has had subtle variations in its early use to denote the ruler at the time. It was the unofficial national anthem from 1882 and the official anthem from 1909 until 1918. After the death of King Petar I in 1921, the text was altered to resemble what is now commonly used in the diaspora. It was not used by the SFR Yugoslavia, but eventually re- turned with the Republic of Serbia.

Jovan Đorđević Milan Obrenović Davorin Jenko (1826-1900) (1854-1901) (1835-1914) authored Markova sablja Prince Milan IV of Serbia (1868-1882) composed the music for and Bože pravde King Milan I of Serbia (1882-1889) Markova sablja and Bože pravde

Serbian Singing Federation e Hi-Notes e Spring-Easter Edition 2010 11 Bože pravde1 God of Justice3 Bože pravde, ti što spase God of Justice; Thou who saved us od propasti dosad nas, when in deepest bondage cast, čuj i odsad naše glase Hear Thy Serbian children‘s voices, i od sad nam budi spas. Be our help as in the past. Moćnom rukom vodi, brani With Thy mighty hand sustain us, budućnosti srpske brod, Still our rugged pathway trace; Bože spasi, Bože hrani God, our hope; protect and cherish srpske zemlje (srpskog kralja), srpski rod! Serbian lands and Serbian race! Složi srpsku braću dragu Bind in closest links our kindred na svak‘ dičan slavan rad, Teach the love that will not fail, sloga biće poraz vragu May the loathed fiend of discord a najjači srpstvu grad. Never in our prevail. Nek na srpskoj blista grani Let the golderanks n fruits of union bratske sloge zlatan plod, Our young tree of freedom grace; Bože spasi, Bože hrani God, our Master! guide and prosper srpske zemlje (srpskog kralja), srpski rod! Serbian lands and Serbian race! Nek na srpsko vedro čelo Lord! Avert from us Thy vengeance, tvog ne padne gneva grom, Thunder of Thy dreaded ire; Blagoslovi Srbu selo Bless each Serbian town and hamlet, polje, njivu, grad i dom! Mountain, meadow, heart and spire. Kad nastupe borbe dani When our host goes forth to battle k‘ pobedi mu vodi hod, Death or victory to embrace- Bože spasi, Bože hrani God of armies! be our leader srpske zemlje (srpskog kralja), srpski rod! Strengthen then the Serbian race! Iz mračnoga sinu groba On our sepulchre of ages srpske slave (krune) novi sjaj, Breaks the resurrection morn, nastalo je novo doba From the slough of direst slavery Novu sreću, Bože daj! Serbia anew is born. Otadžbinu (Kraljevinu) srpsku brani Through five hundred years of durance pet vekovne borbe plod, We have knelt before Thy face, Bože spasi, Bože brani (Kralj’ Al’ksandra, Bože hrani)2 All our kin, O God! deliver, moli ti se srpski rod! Thus entreats the Serbian race!

1. Official National Anthem of the Republic of Serbia. Parenthetical shows variation to Kingdom. 2. Text from the Himna Arhiv Jugoslavije (Anthem Archives of Yugoslavia). Parenthetical shows variation to Kingdom. 3. Translated by Elisabeth Christitch, this is a free, not literal translation of the lyrics, also fitting the meter of the original.

12 Serbian Singing Federation e Hi-Notes e Spring-Easter Edition 2010 Serbian Singing Federation e Hi-Notes e Spring-Easter Edition 2010 13 14 Serbian Singing Federation e Hi-Notes e Spring-Easter Edition 2010 Serbian Singing Federation e Hi-Notes e Spring-Easter Edition 2010 15 16 Serbian Singing Federation e Hi-Notes e Spring-Easter Edition 2010 Serbian Singing Federation e Hi-Notes e Spring-Easter Edition 2010 17 18 Serbian Singing Federation e Hi-Notes e Spring-Easter Edition 2010 One Love Serbian Song Festival Information

The‘One Love Serbian Song – Jedna Ljubav Srpska Pesma’ is almost at our doorstep! There will be thirty choirs performing throughout the weekend. We are encouraged by the positive responses received from choirs from both organizations, the Serbian Singing Federation and the Serbian Orthodox Choral Association. We are equally grateful for the support received from both parishes where the weekend’s events will be held. It is our hope that all who participate in this festival, whether as singers or as guests, will truly embrace our theme for the weekend. The ‘One Love’ that we all share is our love for our Orthodox Faith, together with our love for our Serbian music… sacred and secular.

Just a couple of updates:

 Badge Registration: Cutoff date is Wednesday, May 26, 2010. Just a reminder that there will be a Festival registration area at the Renaissance Suites, the headquarters hotel on Thursday afternoon, all day Friday, and Saturday morning before the concert. The price of a badge is $25.00 for adult singers. Children performing with the Jr. Mass chorus are eligible for a discounted rate of $10 for 12 and under.

 Travel Information: Will you be traveling by bus to the festival? The hotel must have this information so that they can accommodate the busses overnight. Please notify the committee with this information.

 Hotel Parking at the Renaissance Suites: Hotel parking is free to all registered guests. When checking in please ask the front desk to provide you with a parking ticket for your entire length of stay as that will allow you in–out privileges.

 Hotel Reservations: You should have all made your hotel reservations by now. If not… ♪ Renaissance Chicago O’Hare Suites: The group rate will no longer be honored. Next available rate on-line is your best bet. Hotel information is as follows: 8500 W Bryn Mawr Ave • Chicago, Illinois 60631, (773) 380-9600 ♪ Springhill Suites Chicago O’Hare: The group rate will be honored if you call the hotel directly. Hotel information is as follows: 8101 W Higgins Rd • Chicago, Illinois 60631, (773) 867-0000. Group Code: ONE LOVE SERB SONG

 Banquet Reservations: Deadline has been extended. Please get your reservations in by May 23rd, 2010.

 SSF 2010 Raffle: Please turn in your tickets to Jelena Stojaković ASAP. And remember to SELL… SELL… SELL!!!

Looking forward to seeing you all in Chicago!

Serbian Singing Federation e Hi-Notes e Spring-Easter Edition 2010 19 Participating Choirs

♪ S.S.S. Branko Radichevich, Chicago, IL ♪ Stevan St. Mokranjac Choir, Chicago, IL ♪ S.S.S. Njegoš, Cleveland, OH ♪ Kornelije Stankovich Choir, East Chicago, IN ♪ S.S.S. St. George, Lenexa, KS ♪ Holy Trinity Serbian Orthodox Cathedral Choir, Pittsburgh, PA ♪ Serbian Men’s Choir “Kosovo”, Northeast Ohio ♪ St. Nicholas Serbian Orthodox Cathedral Choir, Hamilton, ON ♪ S.S.S. Gračanica, Windsor, ON ♪ S.S.S. Karageorge of Merrillville, IN ♪ S.S.S. St. Elijah, Merrillville, IN ♪ S.S.S. Aleksa Shantich, South Bend, IN ♪ S.S.S. St. Nicholas, Omaha, NE ♪ Stevan Mokranjac Choir, Hamilton, ON ♪ Petar Krstich Serbian Choir, Steubenville, OH ♪ S.S.S. Mita Topalovich, Joliet, IL ♪ S.S.S. Sloboda, Lansing, IL ♪ Holy Trinity Church Choir, St. Louis, MO ♪ S.S.S. Ravanica, Detroit, MI ♪ St. Elijah Serbian Church Choir, Aliquippa, PA ♪ Dr. Laza Kostich Serbian Singing Society, Midland, PA ♪ Draža Mihailovich Choir, Cudahy, WI ♪ Sveti Roman Serbian Orthodox Choir, Toronto, ON ♪ S.S.S. Stevan Šijački, Milwaukee, WI ♪ S.S.S. Bishop Stefan Lastavica, Schererville, IN ♪ St. George Serbian Orthodox Choir, Niagara Falls, ON ♪ Tsar Lzar Male Chorus, Tri-State Area ♪ Srpska Crkvena Pevačka Družina “ B R A N K O “, Niš – Srbija ♪ Jr. Brankies, Chicago, IL ♪ Mass Junior Chorus

20 Serbian Singing Federation e Hi-Notes e Spring-Easter Edition 2010 SCHEDULE OF EVENTS May 28, 29, & 30, 2010

FRIDAY, May 28th 2010 HOLY RESURRECTION CHURCH (3062 W. Palmer Blvd., Chicago, IL 60647) Vespers: 5:30pm Mini - Concert: 6:30pm Welcome Dance: 8:00pm to 12:00am Entertainment: Šumadija Orchestra indoors in the main hall. Prazna Flaša Tambura of Milwaukee in the outside tent. The kitchen will be serving grilled specialties and will feature a palačinka bar. The admission price for the dance for adults (13 and older) is $10. Children 3-12 is $5; Children 2 and under Free. No admission price for badge holders. ¯ SATURDAY, May 29th 2010 RENAISSANCE SUITES HOTEL (8500 W. Bryn Mawr Ave. • Chicago, IL 60631) CONCERT – RENAISSANCE HOTEL GRAND BALLROOM: 12:30PM – 4:30PM HOLY RESURRECTION CATHEDRAL (5701 N. Redwood Dr., Chicago, IL 60631) Directors’ Reception (Library/Conference Room): 5:30pm – 6:30pm Gala Banquet and Awards (Hall) The gala banquet is by reservation only. Semi-Formal attire is required. The reservation form is enclosed in the second mailing sent to choirs or online. Cocktails: 6:00pm Gala Dinner: 6:30pm

Serbian Singing Federation e Hi-Notes e Spring-Easter Edition 2010 21 Dance Entertainment: 8:00pm – Drina in the Outside Tent, T-Rroma in the Lounge, Eyes Manouche Orchestra in the Hall The kitchen will be open during the dance serving Serbian grilled specialties, as well as an array of homemade sweets. The admission price for the dance for adults (13 and older) is $15. Children 3-12 is $7. Children 2 and under are Free. No admission fee for badge holders.

SUNDAY, May 30th HOLY RESURRECTION CATHEDRAL (5701 N. Redwood Dr., Chicago, IL 60631) Liturgy: 9:30am Responses to be sung by Honored S.O.C.A. Church choir: Holy Trinity Choir of St. Louis. HOLY RESURRECTION CHURCH (3062 W. Palmer Blvd., Chicago, IL 60647) Liturgy: 10:00am Responses to be sung by Honored S.S.F. Church choir: S.S.S. Ravanica of Detroit. Box lunches will be available at both locations following Liturgy. You may enjoy lunch at dining areas on premises or take to go.

RENAISSANCE SUITES HOTEL (8500 W. Bryn Mawr Ave • Chicago, IL 60631) CONCERT – RENAISSANCE HOTEL GRAND BALLROOM: 1:30PM – 4:30PM

HOLY RESURRECTION CATHEDRAL (5701 N. Redwood Dr., Chicago, IL 60631) Farewell Dance/After Glow Bash Doors Open: 5:00pm Bar and Kitchen open 4:00pm Entertainment: Orkestar Majstori in the Hall T-Rroma in the Lounge The kitchen will be open during the dance serving grilled specialties, as well as an array of homemade sweets. The admission fee for the dance for adults (13 and older) is $10. Children 3-12 is $5; Children 2 and under Free. No admission fee for badge holders. ¯ There will be a suggested donation of $5 for adults for each of the concerts

22 Serbian Singing Federation e Hi-Notes e Spring-Easter Edition 2010 ONE LOVE SERBIAN SONG FESTIVAL 2010 SATURDAY NIGHT GALA DINNER MAY 29th, 2010 6 PM

MENU Predjelo Platter: Suva Pršuta, Suva Kobasica, Feta Cheese, Ajvar, Kajmak Spring Greens Salad Pork Loin with Mushroom Gravy Stuffed Chicken Breasts with Spinach and Feta Vegetarian Lasagna Oven-Roasted Herbed Baby Potatoes French-Cut Green Bean Almondine Apple Pita à la Mode

Tickets for Adults are $25 per person. Tickets for Children 12 and under are $10. For questions, please contact Chairperson Biljana Sevic at [email protected] or [email protected]. Reservations should be mailed to: OLSS c/o Holy Resurrection Cathedral 5701 N. Redwood Dr. Chicago, IL 60631

Deadline for Reservations is May 23rd (please detach and return the slip below)

I would like to attend the One Love Serbian Song Festival 2010 Saturday Night Gala Dinner. Deadline to return slip is May 23rd . Make checks payable to: OLSS. Please return reservation and payment to: OLSS c/o Holy Resurrection Cathedral, 5701 Redwood Dr. Chicago, IL 60068

Name ______

Address ______

Phone ______, Email: ______

Number of Adults ______x $25 = ______

Number of Children ______x $10 = ______

Total Amount Enclosed: ______

Serbian Singing Federation e Hi-Notes e Spring-Easter Edition 2010 23 Greetings to all Junior Choir Directors and Junior Choir Members!

ristos Voskrese! My name is Alexandra Starcevich, directress of S.S.S. Mita Topalovich of Joliet, Illinois. As you probably know, this year, our annual Choral Festival will be in Chicago, Illinois, and will be jointly hosted by the HS.S.S. Branko Radichevich and Stevan St. Mokranjac Choir. As in past years, I am very pleased and excited to announce that we are to have another Mass Junior Choir performance for Festival on Sunday, May 30th (concert time at 1:30 p.m.). At this time, I would like to extend this invitation, not only to children who sing with an established Junior Choir within their parish, but also to children that will be attending the Festival that may not have an established Junior Choir within their parish, but have the want and desire to sing – meaning that I would love to have as many children on stage for this great event as possible! I will accept any child willing to sing from age 4 on up to high school. I realize that this news comes very close to Festival time, as I just received word about it myself a few days ago, but I am certain that with a couple practices, and knowing how children “absorb” information so quickly, it will work out splendidly, as it has before. Believe me, I don’t look for perfection. My only objective is to expose the “hidden talents” of our children to this type of performance as much as possible, in order for them - when they are of age - to have the desire to join the ranks of our es- teemed member Choirs. The two selections I have chosen this year are “Duh Tvoj Blagij” and “Kosovo Je Dusa Srbija”. From what I hear, “Duh Tvoj Blagij” has been taught to several Junior Choirs with much success. I have also taught this piece at St. Sava Camp in Liber- tyville, Illinois, in the past, so I’m aware of how fairly easy it is to learn. The other selection “Kosovo Je Dusa Srbija” is also a song I taught at St. Sava Camp last year – thus, there will be several children who are singing in the Mass Junior Choir performance who already know this quite well, and are really enthusiastic when singing this music piece. I am confident every child involved will exceed my/our expectations (and they ALWAYS do)! For the piece “Duh Tvoj Blagij”, I have attached the sheet music onto this email. I would like to have as much “harmonization” as possible with this, so if you have children that can do just that, please encourage them to do so, otherwise, learning the “melody” will be just fine. I will however be “lowering” the pitch from the original attached score, to D major (F#, D, A) for our performance that day. I think it will be more “comfortable” for the children, so they don’t have to “reach-up” so high for the notes. For our second selection, “Kosovo Je Dusa Srbija”, I do not have traditional sheet music for this song. However, I have attached a two-page “lyrics only” sheet on this email, along with a “you tube” link of the song that hopefully our young singers can listen to during a practice, or at their own leisure (I most often find that this method

24 Serbian Singing Federation e Hi-Notes e Spring-Easter Edition 2010 works better when trying to teach music, especially to “younger” singers): http://www. youtube.com/watch?v=tsN0lA-I2_g Harmonizing also applies for this piece, although you will notice when listening to this selection, there isn’t much harmony in the three “Verses” section, as there is in the “Chorus” section. As I mentioned before, encourage “harmony”, but learning the melody will suffice. You will also notice as you listen to “Kosovo Je Dusa Srbija”, that there is musical accompaniment and some long pauses, throughout the song. Of course that will not be the case for us, however I am thinking of playing a “steady beat” on a type of bongo drum instrument. I did this for camp, and it seemed to keep the song “rolling along”, and the campers seemed to like the drum accompanying them, thus being more excited about singing it. What I also did for this selection at camp, was divide up parts. You will hear that on the verses only, there are only men or women singing at one time. In other words, on each of the “Verses”, I would have the boys sing lines 1 and 2, the girls sing lines 3 and 4, and then have everyone sing the 5th line together (with harmony). Of course everyone would sing the “Chorus”, in harmony, together. I may or may not do the “dividing of parts”; pending the amount of “male participants” I have for our performance. So with saying that, please have every singer learn the song in its entirety. The pitch I used for teaching this song was basically the starting note in the beginning of the song where the gentleman starts singing after the music interlude, which I believe is a “low E” (I taught this during “Teen” week, as most of the boys there had “lower singing ranges”). This may change however, when I see what I have to work with come rehearsal time at Festival. So feel free to try a slightly higher pitch once they know the song well enough to sing it without the “you tube” link. If you find it too difficult or impossible to teachKosovo “ Je Dusa Srbija” using the “you tube” link, I will gladly send out a CD to you with the same rendition. Also, if you would at your earliest convenience, please email me a list of your Ju- nior Choir participants, along with their ages. That way I will have an idea of the number of children I will be working with, along with knowing how many in each age group (especially for the “Kosovo” piece). As of now, I do not have a scheduled practice time available for you, but will definitely send you more information, as the time draws closer (more than likely a Sunday “before concert time rehearsal”). As far as “singing attire”, please have them in “nice dress” clothes. I believe that should be a fairly easy thing for everyone to abide by, without making it too compli- cated. I am so looking forward to accomplishing, for what I believe is a necessary and integral part of our Festival weekend - having our children be heard, in SONG! If you have any questions/concerns/comments etc., please do not hesitate to call or email me with them. I’m here to help in any way I can!

With anticipated excitement – Alexandra Starcevich 708-301-1186 (home), 708-525-5533 (cell), E-mail: [email protected]

Serbian Singing Federation e Hi-Notes e Spring-Easter Edition 2010 25 26 Serbian Singing Federation e Hi-Notes e Spring-Easter Edition 2010 Kosovo je duša Srbije Kosovo is the soul of Serbia

Kosovo je duša Srbije Kosovo is the soul of Serbia Sveto polje najSrpskije Hallowed ground, most Serbian Kosovo je Vera, Nada Kosovo is Faith, Hope Mesto gde se za krst strada Land of martyrdom for the cross Kosovo je najSrpskije Kosovo is most Serbian Lice Božije Face of the Lord

Tamo gde je duša ostala There where the soul remained Tamo je i naša sudbina There too is our destiny Tamo gde je srce bilo There where the heart remained Gde se Božje dogodilo Where God’s will was done Tamo sto je, sve je Srbija All that is there, all is Serbia

(Chorus) REFRAIN: Jedno polje prelepo One most beautiful field Božurom se kitilo Adorned with poppies Jedno polje presveto One most sacred field U nebo se propelo Has ascended to heaven Jednu veru čuvao One faith safeguarded U krvi se kupalo Bathed in blood

Kad se java razdeli od sna When reality replaces the dream I ostane samo ikona Only an icon remains I kad većnost broji dane And when Eternity counts the days Nad Srbijom sunce grane Above Serbia the sun shines Kosovo je uvek Srbija Kosovo is always Serbia Uvek Srbija Always Serbia

Serbian Singing Federation e Hi-Notes e Spring-Easter Edition 2010 27 ATTENTION ALL SINGERS, DIRECTORS & CONDUCTORS Serbian Singing Federation Presents It’s Annual

Choral Workshop August 13, 14 & 15, 2010 Hosted by St. Elijah Serbian Choir Aliquippa, PA

Detailed packages will be mailed to all choirs following the Festival.

Check the SSF Website for updates.

28 Serbian Singing Federation e Hi-Notes e Spring-Easter Edition 2010 SERBIAN SINGING FEDERATION 2010 CHORAL WORKSHOP

Aliquippa, PA Friday, August 13th- Sunday, August 15th 2010

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

Thursday, August 12th, 2010

Arrival of Workshop Participants to Aliquippa, PA

Evening Hospitality at Hyatt Hotel at the Pittsburgh Airport Hospitality Room hosted by the St. Elijah Serbian Church Choir of Aliquippa.

Friday, August 13th, 2010

8:45 am Introduction & Welcome……………………………Dr. Rick Zivic

9:00- 10:20 am: Introduction to Scales and Modes in Serbian Liturgical and Secular Music ………………………………………………………. Dr. Nikola Resanovic

10:30-12:00 pm: Vocal Techniques: Breathing and Singing with Open Tone Through Freely Produced Forward Vowels ………………… Prof. Milutin Lazich

Noon- LUNCH

1:00-2:20 pm: Sight Reading: “Svjete Tihij” (Russian Chant) and “Statija Prva” (Vojislav Ilic) …………………………… All Faculty

1:30- 2:20pm: Basic Directing & Giving Pitches ………….. Dr. Rick Zivic

2:30- 3:20 pm: Presentation of Newly Published Serbian Orthodox “Christmas Hymns” (Bozicne Pesme) …………….. Dr. Nikola Resanovic

3:30- 5:00 pm: Group RehearsaL: “Hand’s-On” Conducting with Student Directors

5-7 pm: DINNER - Serbian Club

7:00-9:00 pm: Divine Liturgy Rehearsal with Host Choir Members along with all Workshop Participants …………………………. All Faculty

Serbian Singing Federation e Hi-Notes e Spring-Easter Edition 2010 29 Saturday, August 14th, 2010

9:00- 10:20 am: Analysis of Choral Lliterature ………… Dr. Nikola Resanovic

10:30- 11:15 am: Innovative Rehearsal & Conducting Techniques and Procedures ………………. Prof. Milutin Lazich 11:25 am- Noon: Tempo Indications and Musical Style ………. Prof. Milutin Lazich

Noon - LUNCH

1:00-2:20 pm Role of the Choir and Meaning of Choral Responses During a Liturgy Service … V. Rev. Fr. Stevan Stepanov

2:30-3:20 pm Group Forum- “Making Our Choirs Better” …….. All Participants

3:30-5:30 pm Final Group Rehearsal with “Hand’s-On” Conducting by Student Directors ……. All Faculty

SATURDAY EVENING MERRIMENT- Serbian Club

Sunday, August 15th -

10:00 am Divine Liturgy, St. Elijah Serbian Orthodox Church

Responses by the St. Elijah Choir and Workshop participants (under the direction of Professor Milutin Lazich, Kathy Loverich, faculty, and student directors).

Noon- Luncheon Banquet and Departures (“Srecan Put”)

30 Serbian Singing Federation e Hi-Notes e Spring-Easter Edition 2010 Serbian Singing Federation e Hi-Notes e Spring-Easter Edition 2010 31 32 Serbian Singing Federation e Hi-Notes e Spring-Easter Edition 2010 Serbian Singing Federation e Hi-Notes e Spring-Easter Edition 2010 33 2009 SSF Festival Raffle Update March 2010 result: The drawing was held on March 28, 2010 in Park Ridge, IL. Thank-you to Sofia Stojakovic for pulling the winning ticket! The winning ticket was #440: Dusan and Sava Saula from North Versailles, PA.

CONGRATULATIONS!

The March drawing was the final drawing of the 2009 Raffle.

HUGE THANK-YOU TO EVERYONE THAT SOLD and BOUGHT RAFFLE TICKETS, THEREBY SUPPORTING OUR FUNDRAISING INITIATIVE!!!

34 Serbian Singing Federation e Hi-Notes e Spring-Easter Edition 2010 Hristos Voskrese!

The Executive Board of the SSF wishes to extend greetings to all of our choirs and members during this 2010 Pascha Season!!!

See you in Chicago !!!

President - Mark Borato First Vice - President Vonnie Orlich Second Vice - President Jelena Stojakovic Executive Secretary - Brad Hijaz Assistant Executive Secretary - Petra Koprivica Treasurer - Milka Chuk Executive Secretary Emeritus - Paul Bielich

Serbian Singing Federation e Hi-Notes e Spring-Easter Edition 2010 35 HRISTOS VOSKRESE! FROM

SERBIAN SINGING SOCIETY JOSIF MARINKOVICH of St. Nicholas Serbian Eastern Orthodox Church Steelton, PA

President … Patricia Hernjak Vice-President … Cheryl Klipa Treasurer … Diane Cashman Secretary … Yovanka Hoover Financial Secretary … Sandra Book Directress … Nadine Klipa

We wish our sister choirs and friends a joyous Pascha!

36 Serbian Singing Federation e Hi-Notes e Spring-Easter Edition 2010 HRISTOS VOSKRESE! VOISTINU VOSKRESE!

From: S.S.S. Branko Radichevich

Wishing you a blessed PASCHA season!

May the joy of Christ’s glorious Resurrection remain with all our choirs throughout the year.

Executive Board Jelena Stojaković, President Aleksandar Lappin, Vice President David Sekicky, Secretary Milica Barjaktarević, Assistant Secretary Jovo Puhar, Financial Secretary Mary Flynn, Treasurer

Elizabeth Neskow, Director

Celebrating 104 Years November 13-14, 2010

See you in Chicago!

Serbian Singing Federation e Hi-Notes e Spring-Easter Edition 2010 37 Eulogy for + Olga Tarailo

38 Serbian Singing Federation e Hi-Notes e Spring-Easter Edition 2010 Eulogy for + Eva Matijasevic

Bereaved family, Kumovi, and friends: On behalf of the Gracanica choir, I would like to say a few words about our departed and respected honorary member Evica Matijasevic. Evica supported the choir in many ways over the years. She always contributed to choir events. It was not unusual to find her in the kitchen helping to prepare for a choir concert weekend banquet, baking for a bake sale, or donating for garage sales. As a result of her hard work she was made an honorary member in 1988. The choir always especially looked forward to Christmas carolling at the Matijasevic home because we were always treated to her out of this world apple strudel. She attended choir events whenever possible and supported us both morally and financially. It is a credit to her and husband Stanko’s shining example of volunteerism for their church that their children and most of their grandchildren are or were at one time choir members. Daughter Shirley and granddaughter Colleen have both been directors of our choir. Colleen and her husband Pete Bizic are now members of the St. Luke Church Choir of Washington, D.C. Grandson Brian, who met his wife Jelena (Backo) in our choir was a founding member and president of S.S.S. St. John the Baptist of Denver, Colorado, and was instrumental in having their choir inducted into the Serbian Singing Federation. Grandsons, Mickey and Bob Senic, who now live in Paris, France and Sydney, Australia, were also valued members of our bass section. Sadly, her middle daughter Joyce died in 2005. Both she and her husband Byron were active members of the choir. Grandson Danny, who now resides in Las Vegas was never a member, however was always there to support and party with us. Her daughter Nancy is still an active member here in Windsor, along with her husband Steve who is an honorary member. Despite a decline in her health in the last few years she attended our fish fries with her family whenever possible. She was a soft spoken, kind lady with a sunny disposition who always had a dazzling smile, a twinkle in her eye and a hardy laugh. We will miss you; however you will never be forgotten. Rest in peace, memory eternal. Vecnaja Pamjat!

Denise Chuk, 2nd Vice President Tuesday April 27, 2010

Serbian Singing Federation e Hi-Notes e Spring-Easter Edition 2010 39 ENGAGEMENTS NEWS Petar Chuk & Natasa Dragicevic

Bogdan & Milka Chuk and Lazar & Milica Dragicevic along with their families pass on good wishes to their children on their recent engagement. Family, kumovi and friends look forward to their August wedding.

40 Serbian Singing Federation e Hi-Notes e Spring-Easter Edition 2010 BABY NEWS

CONGRATULATIONS TO MIRA AND MILAN DAMLJANOVIĆ

of S.S.S. Njegoš on the arrival of their newest little ‘M’.

Welcome Metodije to your extended choral family.

ŽIVELI NA MNOGAJA LJETA!

Serbian Singing Federation e Hi-Notes e Spring-Easter Edition 2010 41 S.S.S. Mita Topalovich Celebrates Golden Anniversary

wonderful celebration of Serbian music was held the weekend of November 7th & 8th 2009, as the S.S.S. Mita Topalovich of St. George Serbian Orthodox Church in Joliet commemorated its A50 th re-induction Anniversary. The weekend also marked the Church’s 81st year. Hats off to our Choir Directress Alexandra Starcevich who accomplished her mission of featuring the three music selections, spanning their 50 years – the highlight being a medley of old Serbian songs arranged by the late +V. Rev. Stevan Prostran, sung by the 25 person choir, along with a few of Mita’s past members that were in attendance that evening, and accompanied for the first time by the young tambura group, Veselo Selo. Featured guest choir was neighboring S.S.S. Sloboda of Lansing, Illinois, led by Melanie Evancevich. As always, Sloboda delivered. Additional choirs performing during the 50th Anniversary Concert included S.S.S. Branko Radichevich of Chicago, under the direction of Elizabeth Neskow, and the Mil- waukee Choir, S.S.S. Stevan Sijacki, under the direction of Milena Walker, which performed a variation on the theme of a song to include lyrics celebrating the Choir’s anniversary. Not to be forgotten was the surprisingly large number of St. George Junior Choir members from Joliet, under the direction of Kathy Petkovich, who performed several numbers as well, to the delight of everyone. Fittingly, the concert was dedicated to the deceased members & supporters of the S.S.S. Mita To- palovich. Several members of the Serbian Singing Federation Board were on hand, and 1st Vice Pres. Vonnie Orlich presented the Mita Topalovich Choir with a commemorative plaque.

42 Serbian Singing Federation e Hi-Notes e Spring-Easter Edition 2010 The concert finale found Melanie calling upon all choir members to come on stage for a memorable musical performance of “Srpske Ratne Pesme”, a well known selection by the late Adam N. Popovich. The evening concluded with hours of kolo dancing and best-ever entertainment by Orkestar “Sumadija”, and “Dri- na”, Orchestra, featuring Geor ge Ivancevich, Nick Rakich, Steve and Mo Brajac and Joe Peritan. The performers were gracious enough to invite several of the young tamburashi to join in the jam session which was well-received by guests young and old. The following day found Sloboda in the choir loft for Divine Liturgy with His Grace Bishop Longin and his Protodeacon (whose voice is evidence of God’s gifts) on their first visit to Joliet’s St. George Par- ish. A wonderful Church Anniversary banquet followed, and included performances by our Junior Choir, our Folklore Group of young dancers, as well as a spot-on performance by Veselo Selo, whose members range in age from 9-18. Sloboda President Bob Jakovich sang the praises of the Joliet Choir, thanking them with a generous donation. A great day capped off a great weekend that will surely be remembered by all for many many years to come. Congratulations to Choir Pre sident Darlene Jovanovich and Mistress of Ceremonies/Chair- person Rebecca Prieboy, as well as Event Chairs Cheryl Suitca Ferguson and Bonnie Dauer, along with a large and hard-working volunteer crew, who once again – as they did during the Fe stival over Memorial Day – pulled off a tremendous gathering of Serbs and music and fun!

(A big “Thank You” to Chrissy Book for writing this article in honor of Mita’s 50th Year)

Serbian Singing Federation e Hi-Notes e Spring-Easter Edition 2010 43 News from the Sijacki’s in Milwaukee

Hristos Voskrese! Christ is Risen! The members of the Stevan Sijacki Choir send greetings and Pascha blessings to all in the SSF. In December of 2008, our choir joined with the Sv. Nikola Choir of Cudahy, WI to put on a benefit concert in our cathedral, singing liturgical music and hymns. The church of Sv. Nikola had suffered an electrical fire and needed significant repairs and renovations. This benefit concert raised $9022 which was donated to the Sv. Nikola congregation for the new interior of their church. This April 17 they will have their consecration and they have asked us to sing for the consecration and Divine Liturgy. We are so happy to accept and join them on this joyful day. Another blessing to our choir was a generous bequest from the estate of +Anne Goronja, a wonderful parishioner of St. Sava’s. Due to +Anne’s generosity, the Sijacki’s have undertaken the project of making much need improvements to our cathedral’s choir loft. Our first purchase was a beautiful chandelier in the same Byzantine style as the two main ones in the church. This gorgeous chandelier, made in Greece, was hung in time for Easter services and will be blessed sometime in the future. Future improvements include new music stands that may have lighting and room for storage of music books. It’s a pleasure to have adequate lighting again! Especially for those of us with aging eyes… We would like to thank Dan Takacs for his work on the chandelier project. Had it not been for his persistence, we’d still be in the dark...so to speak. Another thank you goes to Nada Potkonjak, Djidji Berich, Seka Radisich, Jenny Sweetland and Popadija Kelly Cutilo for their directing talents over the last two months while our director, Mimi Walker, was on leave. We are looking forward to seeing all our friends and fellow singers and participating in this historic SSF Festival in Chicago. Our future plans also include a trip to Phoenix the weekend of October 15-17 to be the guest choir for the Stevan Hristich Serbian Choir’s concert weekend.

44 Serbian Singing Federation e Hi-Notes e Spring-Easter Edition 2010 Serbian Singing Federation e Hi-Notes e Spring-Easter Edition 2010 45 46 Serbian Singing Federation e Hi-Notes e Spring-Easter Edition 2010 Serbian Singing Federation e Hi-Notes e Spring-Easter Edition 2010 47 48 Serbian Singing Federation e Hi-Notes e Spring-Easter Edition 2010 Serbian Singing Federation e Hi-Notes e Spring-Easter Edition 2010 49 News through April 2010

The SSS “Branko Radičevich’s” busy Fall 2009 was full of performances, trips, and meetings. On September 27th the choir under the direction of David Sekicky sang responses for Divine Liturgy and for the Cutting of the Kolac for the Slava of the Kolo Srpskih Sestara of our Ohio/ parish. Our director Elizabeth Neskow and assis- Northwest tant director Jelena Stojaković along with Holly Pennsylvania. Our Goljić and Mileva Ruvarac were en route back guests were overwhelmed by from Detroit where they represented Brankies at the “gostoprimstvo” shown by Brankies. the Serbian Singing Federation Convention. Con- Not only did we receive thanks from the choir as a gratulation to Jelena who is now the 2nd Vice-Pres- whole, but individual members of the Kosovo ident of the SSF and who skillfully presented the choir also took the time to send individual notes case for cohosting a joint choir festival with the of thanks. The combined talents of each member SOCA Choirs of the former New Gračanica Met- are what made this weekend the success it was. ropolitanate: read further for more details! The Kosovo choir sang responses to Saturday eve- The choir would like to thank our clergy for ning vesper services as well as the Divine Liturgy committing to accompanying us when we travel. on Sunday morning while the faithful listened in Presbyter Darko Spasojević accompanied us to awe. This year’s Director’s Award for Musical Ex- Boston and Deacon Damjan Božić joined us in cellence went to David Sekicky. Omaha. Father Vasilije Vranić joined us on stage On our concert program we were also joined for our annual concert. SSS “Branko Radičevich” by three local choirs including our co-hosts, The values the support of the cathedral clergy and look Stevan Mokranjac Choir, of the upcoming histor- forward to many years of conveying the message ic Combined Serbian Singing Federation and Ser- this sends to the parishes we visit. bian Orthodox Choral Association “One Love th th On October 29th, Brankies joined parents, Serbian Song” Festival to be held on May 28 , 29 th friends and faculty of the St. Sava Academy for and 30 2010. Up until now, the two choir federa- dinner at Noodles and Company in Park Ridge. A tions had separate festivals, and Brankies has had portion of each menu item sold was donated to the honor to perform at each individually. This the school. The planning committee changed the historic weekend will mark the first time that both location of its meeting for our then upcoming organizations’ respective choir festivals are com- concert so we could have dinner and support the bined into one. “One Love-Serbian Song” is the academy. Saturday November 7th Brankies per- theme for the weekend and planning is already th formed in Joliet for the SSS “Mita Topalovich” an- well underway. Save the dates: May 28 through th nual concert, this year being their 50th anniversary. the 30 and be a part of history. More information and a full itinerary for the weekend is available at th th November 14 and 15 was Brankies annual serbiansingingfederation.org and on Facebook rd concert, which marked the beginning of our 103 under the group One Love Serbian Song. year of stewardship of our collective members’ tal- nd rd ent in service to God and a kickoff to the historic January 2 and 3 marked the third consecu- year to come. Honored guest choir for the week- tive year that we have gone caroling to parishio- end was the “Kosovo” Men’s Choir of Northeast ners of our congregation, particularly those who are in local nursing homes and rehabilitation cen-

50 Serbian Singing Federation e Hi-Notes e Spring-Easter Edition 2010 ters. This year we were joined by our Junior Brankies who added an extra level of holiday spark and cheer. It was touching to see people, lucid or otherwise, so moved while we sang and so buoyant after we fin- ished, even when they were not with us in mind, they became a part of us in spirit as we sang… and everyone knew the songs and their meaning for the season. Dashing from one end of the our Cathedral’s three parishes require some planning, a bit of skilled driv- ing, and careful indulgence of the hospitality provid- ed by all of our hosts, but at the end, everyone felt Jr Brankies ‘cheering’ our Kolo President good for spreading our own brand of Serbian holiday cheer to those who otherwise may receive none. Something can be said for each home we stepped into and each person we visited, speaking of one as opposed to speaking of all would not be right. This year’s visits were even more meaningful, as three of the people we visited departed for the next world: +Mary Perovich, who with her husband Zack and son Steve were long-time supporters of Brankies; Teta +Jelica Bilbija, who we visited each of the last three years at the Greek American Home; +Ralph Trifunov, a former president of Brankies. To those who could, thank you for having us into your homes and for your hospitality. Singing for Vida Kovilić

Pa gle i mi Srpčići, Ko srebreni zvončići

Aleksija Iglendža

Bringing holiday cheer to Joan and George Jovanovich

Serbian Singing Federation e Hi-Notes e Spring-Easter Edition 2010 51 The days and weeks after the Nativity of Our choir executive board were debated and approved. Lord were filled with sorrow as several well-known The 2010 executive board is Jelena Stojaković, members of not only Holy Resurrection, but president; Alek Lappin, vice-president; Mary Fly- Brankies members and supporters, passed away. nn, treasurer; Jovo Puhar, financial secretary; Mil- Brankies sang at the pomens, funerals and most of ica Barjaktarjević, assistant secretary and David the memorial services for +Smiljana Pavichevich, Sekicky, secretary. Rada Sretenovich and Olga a member of the choir when she lived in Chicago, Kljajić will serve as sunshine committeepersons. +Mary Perovich and of course longtime member Živeli na Mnogaja Ljeta to the new board, who is and officer of Holy Resurrection Cathedral, SSS now in the throes of planning for this May’s his- “Branko Radičevich” and the Serbian Singing Fed- toric “One Love-Serbian Song” Festival. eration, +Wally Vukovich. In April, members of Brankies supported our On a chilly Sunday in March, the Brankies Circle of Serbian Sisters and bowled in the first held their annual meeting where the 2009 reports ever ‘Bowling with the Bajich’s’ tournament. This were read, resolutions and directives to the 2010 was a most welcome event… filled with fun and laughter. A welcome break from the sadness of the preceding months, and all the hard work, planning and meeting… and more meetings associated with Festival preparations.

52 Serbian Singing Federation e Hi-Notes e Spring-Easter Edition 2010 ‘We Bowl for Rakija’

Look for Serbian Singing Society Branko Radi- Horvatovich, who is battling illness and will un- chevich on Facebook! Click on your “like” button dergo surgery soon. We extend our prayers for her and join the Brankies as an “e-supporter” today! speedy recovery… tenors are in short supply these Please note that “Brankies” on FB has been taken days. by another organization and is not affiliated with To paraphrase +Vlajko Lugonja, the late us. Looking ahead, we anticipate performing at founder of the Serbian Singing Federation, who Holy Resurrection’s Vi- wondered aloud “what does the future hold for dovdan observance and the Serbian Singing Society Branko Radičevich?” sponsoring another we can say that we continue to seize the moment successful golf outing in and dare to dream. We hope that the One Love- the late summer or early Serbian Song Festival is the beginning of a new era fall: the date is to be de- for our choirs on this continent, and plan it with termined. And of this in mind, Daj Bože! Brankies looks forward to course, Slava will be ob- th its future and the history it will be a part of in 2010 served on May 9 and and continuing to be a part of Holy Resurrection all are welcome. Serbian Orthodox Cathedral’s earthly mission Our thoughts and through the year! prayers go out to our Brankie’s Reporter faithful tenor, Rada David Sekicky

Serbian Singing Federation e Hi-Notes e Spring-Easter Edition 2010 53