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{2018-2019}

SPRING CONCERTS VOCALESSENCE WITNESS: YET THEY PERSIST THEY ARE A-CHANGIN’

VOCALESSENCE CONTENTS 1900 Nicollet Avenue , Minnesota 55403 CONCERT: VocalEssence WITNESS: Yet They Persist ...... 5 612-547-1451 vocalessence.org VocalEssence is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. VocalEssence in the Community: VocalEssence WITNESS ...... 16

VocalEssence in the Community: VocalEssence ¡Cantaré! ...... 18 .com/vocalessence Reatha Clark King Award Winner ...... 19 .com/vocalessencemn linkedin.com/company/vocalessence VocalEssence in the Community: VocalEssence Singers Of This Age ...... 20 .com/vocalessence .com/vocalessencemn CONCERT: The Times They Are A-Changin’ ...... 23

About VocalEssence ...... 26 PLEASE NOTE: Mining the Never-Ending Impacts of the Artist from the North Country ...... 28 • Concerts will be recorded for possible broadcast—please help us keep the space quiet. Take a moment now Donor Spotlight: Traci Bransford ...... 30 to check that all cell phones, paging devices, wristwatch alarms, and the like are turned of Thank you, VocalEssence Donors ...... 31 before the concert begins. Thank you. • Out of respect for the performers and the music creators, please refrain from using cameras or other recording devices during the performance. • VocalEssence documents its concerts and events through audio and video. As a ticket HONORARY DIRECTORS holder to this event, you consent to use your BOARD OF DIRECTORS ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF Dominick Argento likeness, without compensation, in any or all David Mona Mary Ann Aufderheide William Bolcom media. Please contact [email protected] President Executive Director * with questions. Alfred Moore * Andrew Alness • Student and group discounts are available for Vice President Håkan Hagegård Production Manager and Artistic Assistant most VocalEssence concerts. Half-price tickets Jacob Wolkowitz Louise Hefelfinger* are available to students (ages 6-18 and college) Treasurer Eskil Hemberg* Jef Bina with a student ID. Groups of 10 or more save 15% Betty Hulings* Director of Finance Roma Calatayud-Stocks on tickets. Sigrid Johnson and Operations Secretary • Children of all ages are welcome at all of our David Erickson Mary Ann Aufderheide Garrison Keillor Family Series events. Intern Julie Bader Donald Mitchell* Traci V. Bransford Helmuth Rilling Rhiannon Fiskradatz • Visit www.vocalessence.org/welcomefamily for Philip Brunelle John Rutter Operations Manager for more information and a list of events. Tickets for Cassidy McCrea Burns Peter Schickele VocalEssence Singers Of This Age children ages 0-17 are free. Margaret Chutich Dr. André J. Thomas Robert Graham Daniel Fernelius Eric Whitacre • Accessible seating is available at all of our Program Manager for Learning Wayne Gisslen concert venues. However, some of our facilities *In remembrance and Engagement | Conductor, Carolina Gustafson do not have elevator access to the balcony level. Vintage Voices Please make your needs known when you RJ Heckman ARTISTIC STAFF order tickets. Robin Helgen Philip Brunelle Laura Holst Samuel Ingram Artistic Director Development and • You may return VocalEssence single concert Joseph Kalkman Marketing Associate tickets for resale up to 48 hours prior to a G. Phillip Shoultz, III David Myers Amanda Timmer performance. No refunds or exchanges can be Nancy Nelson Associate Conductor | Director of Operations Manager for Learning given; however, you will be sent a receipt for Don Shelby Learning and Engagement your tax-deductible contribution. (VocalEssence and Engagement Timothy Takach Gavin Berg subscribers may call 612-371-5642 to request free Katrina Wallmeyer Jennifer Vickerman Assistant Director and ticket exchanges and lost ticket replacement.) Dorene Wernke Collaborative Artist for Director of Development • Latecomers will be seated at appropriate pauses VocalEssence Singers Of This Age and Communications in the concert according to the conductor’s LIFETIME DIRECTORS Mary Jo Gothmann Elissa Weller wishes. Please plan plenty of time for locating Ann Barkelew Accompanist Institutional Giving and the concert venue and parking. Or, better yet, Ann Buran Events Manager allow an extra hour and join us for Concert Art Kaemmer Conversations with the composers and artists, Nikki Lewis held one hour before most concerts. Mike McCarthy

2018-2019 Season Page 3 BE A WITNESS {2019-2020}

Celebrating 30 years of VocalEssence WITNESS in our community.

Tales & Tunes Deep Roots, Sat, Sept 28, 2019 a VocalEssence WITNESS Concert Sun, Feb 23, 2020 Divine Light Sun, Oct 13, 2019 The Mendelssohns Sat, Apr 4, 2020 What a Mighty God, a VocalEssence WITNESS Concert Get Minnesota Singing Tour – Worthington Sun, Nov 17, 2019 Sat, Apr 25, 2020 Welcome Christmas Get Minnesota Singing Tour – Morris Dec 7-15, 2019 Sat, May 2, 2020 Winter Wonder Get Minnesota Singing Tour – St. Cloud Sat, Dec 14, 2019 Sat, May 9, 2020 Together We Sing Festival VocalEssence Gala Sat, Jan 18, 2020 Sun, May 17, 2020 Moana Movie Sing-Along VocalEssence ¡Cantaré! Sat, Feb 1, 2020 Community Concert Thurs, May 21, 2020 Voices Calling Pre-Tour Concert Sat, May 30, 2020

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR 2019-2010 SEASON: vocalessence.org/subscribe 612-371-5642

Page 4 2018-2019 Season 2018-2019 50TH ANNIVERSARY SEASON

SPECIAL THANKS FOR THE SUPPORT VOCALESSENCE WITNESS: OF THIS CONCERT YET THEY PERSIST Sunday, February 24, 2019 at 4 PM Orchestra Hall Katherine B. Andersen Fund of 1111 Nicollet Mall The Saint Paul Foundation Minneapolis, MN Spelman College Glee Club VocalEssence Chorus VocalEssence Singers Of This Age G. Phillip Shoultz, III, conductor Kevin Johnson, conductor Gavin Berg, accompanist Brittney Boykin, accompanist This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts and cultural heritage fund. SPECIAL THANKS Martha Arradondo Louis J. King, II, President and CEO of Sharon Sayles Belton Summit Academy OIC Zoe Bourgerie Connor McNutt Traci Bransford Medtronic The Hallie Q. Brown Center, Jonathan Ilhan Omar Palmer, Executive Director Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI) Tazha Buckner Lezlie Taylor, Thrivent James Burroughs Melvin Tennant, II, Meet Minneapolis Asha Harris Andrea Turner Andrea Jenkins Novelli Jurado N. Judge* and Reatha Clark King Family Fund 2018-2019 SEASON SPONSORS Nathaniel and Victoria Davis Charles M. Denny Hellervik Fund of the Saint Paul Foundation Walt McCarthy and Clara Ueland Summit Academy OIC

This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota *In remembrance through a Minnesota State Arts Board Operating Support grant, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts and cultural heritage fund.

2018-2019 Season Page 5 WELCOME THE PROGRAM VocalEssence VocalEssence Singers Of This Age WITNESS: Yet Shosholoza Traditional They Persist honors past, present, and future trailblazing Spelman College Glee Club African and African Don’t You Let Nobody arr. Kevin Johnson American women (2003) who persist against all odds to change their communities and the world. VocalEssence WITNESS began VocalEssence Chorus as a single concert with a single school Hold On Margaret Bonds partner in 1991. Now in its twenty-ninth (1962) year, the program celebrates the outstanding contributions of African Americans in the arts through concerts, VocalEssence Chorus & Singers Of This Age conversations, recitals, workshops, and Ella’s Song Bernice Johnson Reagon programming in over fifty schools (1991) throughout the metropolitan region. Each year, with the help of our phenomenal Teaching Artists, we use a theme to VocalEssence Chorus & Spelman College Glee Club highlight past achievements and Lift Every Voice and Sing arr. Roland Carter illuminate our role in making today’s (1979) society more equitable for all.

Using songs of protest and progress as our Spelman College Glee Club guide, this afternoon’s concert features America the Beautiful arr. Kevin Johnson music selected to honor four trailblazing (2018) women in our Twin Cities community, beginning with the and legacy of Hallie Quinn Brown and then moving Cantate Domino Ambrož Čopi to focus on former Minneapolis mayor (2016) Sharon Sayles Belton, Minneapolis City Council Vice President Andrea Jenkins, and U.S. Representative Ilhan Omar. A Jubilant Song Norman Dello Joio VocalEssence WITNESS: Yet They (1946) Persist celebrates entrepreneurship, highlights the importance of education, and advocates for the equality of all. Psalm 23 Franz Schubert (1832) It is my distinct pleasure to welcome Dr. Kevin Johnson and the women of the Spelman College Glee Club as our Glory to God arr. Kevin Johnson featured guest artists. Spelman College (2004) Glee Club is an historically black institution for higher learning in Atlanta, INTERMISSION Georgia known for nurturing the minds and hearts of many prominent African American female leaders throughout the , and the world. If this is your first occasion to hear them, you will be mesmerized by their performance. They are FANTASTIC!

Now, I encourage you to sit back and prepare to bask in the glory of our community at its finest—people of all ages and backgrounds coming together in song!

—G. Phillip Shoultz, III, Associate Conductor | Director of Learning and Engagement

Page 6 2018-2019 Season VocalEssence Singers Of This Age Resilience Abbie Betinis (2017)

I Need You to Survive David Frazier (2003)

VocalEssence Chorus & Singers Of This Age No Mirrors in My Nana’s House Ysaÿe Barnwell (1992)

VocalEssence Chorus Spiritual (Cain’t No One Know) Ysaÿe Barnwell (1994)

Daniel, Daniel, Servant of the Lord (1953)

VocalEssence Singers Of This Age This is Me Benj Pasek and (2017)

Combined Choirs We Are the Ones Bernice Johnson Reagon (1995)

Spelman College Glee Club Steal Away arr. Kevin Johnson (2005)

As the Deer Pants Rosephanye Powell (2006)

Wade in the Water arr. Kevin Johnson (2018)

A Choice to Change the World Kevin Johnson & Sarah Stephens (2007)

Combined Choirs Still I Rise Rosephanye & William Powell (2018)

2018-2019 Season Page 7 TEXTS AND TRANSLATIONS SHOSHOLOZA Wanna go to heav’n, Traditional I’ll tell you how, Keep your hand on the gospel plow, Sung in Zulu & Ndebele Keep your hand on-a that plow, Hold on. Move fast, On those mountains I was blind and could not see, Train from South Africa Jesus opened my eyes for me, Keep you hand on-a that plow, You are running away Hold on, hold on. On those mountains –Traditional Spiritual Train from South Africa –Traditional South African work song ELLA’S SONG Bernice Johnson Reagon DON’T YOU LET NOBODY arr. Kevin Johnson We who believe in freedom cannot rest, We who believe in freedom cannot rest until it comes. Don’t you let nobody turn you ’round! Don’t you let nobody turn you ’round! Until the killing of black men, black mother’s sons, Keep the straight and narrow way! Is as important as the killing of white men, white mother’s sons.

’Twas at the river of Jordan That which touches me most Baptism was first begun Is that I had a chance to work with people John baptized the multitude Passing on to others that which was passed on to me. But he sprinkled not a one To me young people come first, The Baptists they go by water. They have the courage where we failed The Methodists they go by land. And if I can but shed some light as they carry us through the gale. When they get to heaven, Lord, They’re gonna shake other’s hand The older I get, the better I know that the secret of my going on Is when the reins are in the hands of the young who dare to run You may be a good Christian, against the storm. Or a good Muslim as well, If you ain’t the pure of heart, Not needing to clutch for power, You’re gonna rock the gates of hell! Not needing the light just to shine on me, –Traditional Spiritual I need to be one in the number as we stand against tyranny.

HOLD ON Struggling myself don’t mean a whole lot, I’ve come to realize Margaret Bonds That teaching others to stand up and fight is the only way our struggle survives, Noah, let me come in, Door’s all fastened and the window’s pinned, I’m a woman who speaks in a voice, and I must be heard; Keep your hand on the plow, Sometimes I can be quite difcult, I’ll bow to no man’s word. Hold on, hold on. We who believe in freedom cannot rest, Noah said “You done los’ your track, We who believe in freedom cannot rest until it comes. Can’t plow straight and keep a-lookin’ back, –Bernice Johnson Reagon, based on statements made Keep you hand on the plow, by Ella Baker Hold on, hold on. LIFT EVERY VOICE AND SING Mary had a golden chain, arr. Roland Carter Ev’ry link was in my Jesus’ name Keep your hand on the plow, Lift every voice and sing, Hold on, hold on. Till earth and heaven ring, Ring with the of Liberty; Keep on a-plowin’ an’ don’t you tire, Let our rejoicing rise Ev’ry round goes higher and hi’er High as the list’ning skies, Keep your hand on the plow, Let it resound loud as the rolling sea. Hold on, hold on. Sing a song full of the faith that the dark past has taught us, Sing a song full of the hope that the present has brought us; Facing the rising sun of our new day begun, Let us march on till victory is won.

Page 8 2018-2019 Season A JUBILANT SONG Stony the road we trod, Norman Dello Joio Bitter the chast’ning rod, Felt in the days when hope unborn had died; O! Listen to a jubilant song! Yet with a steady beat, Have not our weary feet The joy of our spirit-it is uncaged, it darts like lightning! Come to the place for which our fathers sighed? My it darts like lightning! We have come over a way that with tears has been watered. We have come, treading our path through the blood of the Listen to a jubilant song, slaughtered, For we sing to the joys of youth, and the joy of a glad light-beaming day. Out from the gloomy past, Till now we stand at last For we sing to the joy of life, and youth, and the joy of a glad light- Where the white gleam of our bright star is cast. beaming day. O!

God of our weary years, O! Our spirit sings O! Our spirit sings a jubilant song that is to a life God of our silent tears, full of concord, of music, a life full of . Thou who hast brought us thus far on the way; Thou who hast by Thy might, We sing prophetic joys of lofty ideals. Led us into the light, We sing a universal love awaking in the hearts of men. Keep us forever in the path, we pray. We sing prophetic joys, we sing of lofty ideals— Lest our feet stray from the places, our God, where we met Thee, we sing of love,—of love—awaking in the hearts of men,—of men—a Lest our hearts, drunk with the wine of the world, we forget Thee; universal love. Shadowed beneath Thy hand, May we forever stand, True to our God, True to our native land. O! to have life, a poem of new joys, –James Weldon Johnson to shout! shout! shout! shout! shout! shout! shout! to and exult, shout and leap. AMERICA THE BEAUTIFUL O! to realize space and flying clouds, O! to realize space, the sun arr. Kevin Johnson and moon, O! to be rulers of life, O! to be rulers of destiny, of life, of destiny, O beautiful for spacious skies, for amber waves of grain, and of life. For purple mountain majesties above the fruited plain America, America, God shed His grace on thee, O! O! la la la la la… And crown thy good with brotherhood, from sea to shining sea. Listen, listen, O! Listen to a song, a jubilant song. Listen to our song, the joy of our spirit, the joy of our spirit it is O beautiful for heroes proved, in liberating strife, uncaged. Who more than self their country loved, and mercy more than life! Listen, listen to a song. We dance, exult, we shout and leap. America, America, God shed His grace on thee, O! O! O! Listen to our song. O! And crown thy good with brotherhood, from sea to shining sea. –Adapted from words by Walt Whitman

O beautiful for patriot dream, that sees beyond the years PSALM 23 Thine alabaster cities gleam, undimmed by human tears! Franz Schubert America, America, God shed His grace on thee, And crown thy good with brotherhood, from sea to shining sea. Sung in German –Katharine Lee Bates God is my Shepherd, I will lack nothing. God keeps me in a green pasture and leads me by quiet streams; CANTATE DOMINO God refreshes my fainting courage. Ambrož Čopi God leads me on the right paths to the honor of His Name. And although I wander in the valley of the shadow of death, Sung in Latin Yet I wander without fear, for You protect me, Sing to the Lord, a new song, Your rod and staf are always my comfort. sing to the Lord, all the earth. You prepare a joyous meal for me in front of my enemies; Sing to the Lord and bless God’s name: You anoint my head with oil, and give me an overflowing cup, because God hath done wonderful things. Blessing and happiness will follow me in this life, Make melody, rejoice and sing on the harp, And one day I will rest forever in the house of the Eternal. and with the voice of a psalm. –Psalm 23, paraphrased by Moses Mendelssohn Sing to the Lord a new song, sing to the Lord, all the earth. –Psalm 95: 1ab, 2a & Psalm 97: 1b, 4b, 5b

2018-2019 Season Page 9 GLORY TO GOD NO MIRRORS IN MY NANA’S HOUSE Kevin Johnson Ysaÿe Barnwell

Peace on Earth! There were no mirrors in my Nana’s house, Glory to God in the highest! And the beauty that I saw in everything Was in her eyes. Praise the Father and the Son! You are the holy one I never knew that my skin was too black. Lord. God, heavenly King I never knew that my nose was too flat. Glory to your name we sing! I never knew that my clothes didn’t fit. Glory, glory! I never knew there were things that I’d missed, ’Cause the beauty in everything Father God we worship you, Was in her eyes. Mother God we worship you. Take my sin and make me whole. I was intrigued by the cracks in the walls. Glorify my aching soul! The dust in the sun looked like snow that would fall. Glory, glory! The noise in the hallway was music to me. The trash and the rubbish just cushioned my feet. Et in terra pax hominibus bonae voluntatis And the beauty in everything (Glory to God in the highest, and peace on earth to all of good will.) Was in her eyes.

Peace on Earth! The world outside was a magical place. Glory to God in the highest! I only knew love and I didn’t know hate, Peace to God’s people on Earth. And the beauty in everything –adapted from the Latin Mass Was in her eyes.

RESILIENCE “Child, look deep into my eyes.” Abbie Betinis “Child, look deep into my eyes.” “Child…” Resilience, we are strong! –Ysaÿe Barnwell Shoulder to shoulder, keep movin’ on. Resilience, make a new plan! SPIRITUAL (CAIN’T NO ONE KNOW) Stand up again and say yes we can. Ysaÿe Barnwell

Oh! We are strong, hold on Cain’t no one know at sunrise I wanna make it and I know we will How this day is gonna end. Because it’s hard to keep goin’ Cain’t no one know at sunset But it’s worse to stand still. If the next day will begin. –Abbie Betinis In this world of trouble and woe, I NEED YOU TO SURVIVE A person had better be ready to go. David Frazier We look for things to stay the same, But in the twinkling of an eye, everything can be changed. I need you. You need me. We’re all a part of one body. The troubles of this world fill our hearts with rage Stand with me, agree with me From Soweto, to Stonewall, Birmingham, and LA. We’re all a part of one body. We are searching for hope that lies within ourselves We do believe that every need will be supplied. As we fight against misogyny, race, hatred, and AIDS. You are important to me. –Ysaÿe Barnwell I need you to survive.

I stand with you. You stand with me. I love you. I need you to survive. I won’t harm you with words from my mouth. I love you. I need you to survive. –David Frazier, adapted by VocalEssence Singers Of This Age

Page 10 2018-2019 Season DANIEL, DANIEL, SERVANT OF THE LORD I won’t let them break me down to dust. Undine Smith Moore I know that there’s a place for us. For we are glorious. Oh, the King cried, “Oh, Daniel, oh! A-that-a Hebrew Daniel, When the sharpest words wanna cut me down Servant of the Lord!” I’m gonna send a flood, gonna drown them out This is me Among the Hebrew nation, –Benj Pasek and Justin Paul One Hebrew, Daniel was found. They put him in a-the lion’s den WE ARE THE ONES WE BEEN WAITING FOR He stayed there all night long. Bernice Johnson Reagon

Oh, the King cried, “Oh, Daniel, oh! We are the ones, we are the ones we been waitin’ for A-that-a Hebrew Daniel, –June Jordan Servant of the Lord!” STEAL AWAY Now the king in his sleep was troubled, arr. Kevin Johnson And early in the morning he rose, To find God had sent-a His angel down Steal away, steal away, steal away to Jesus To lock the lion’s jaws. Steal away, steal away home I ain’t got long to stay here Oh, the King cried, “Oh, Daniel, oh! A-that-a Hebrew Daniel, My Lord, He calls me Servant of the Lord!” He calls me by the thunder –Traditional Spiritual The trumpet sounds within-a my soul I ain’t got long to stay here THIS IS ME – FROM “THE GREATEST SHOWMAN” Benj Pasek and Justin Paul Green trees are bending Poor sinner stand a-trembling I am not a stranger to the dark The trumpet sounds within-a my soul Hide away, they say I ain’t got long to stay here ’Cause we don’t want your broken parts –Traditional Spiritual I’ve learned to be ashamed of all my scars Run away, they say AS THE DEER PANTS No one’ll love you as you are Rosephanye Powell

But I won’t let them break me down to dust As the deer pants for streams of water, I know that there’s a place for us So my soul pants for you, oh God. For we are glorious My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When can I go and meet with God? When the sharpest words wanna cut me down I’m gonna send a flood, gonna drown them out My tears have been my food day and night, I am brave, I am bruised While they say to me all day long, I am who I’m meant to be, this is me “Where is your God?” Look out ’cause here I come And I’m marching on to the beat I drum These things I remember as I pour out my soul: I’m not scared to be seen How I used to go to the multitude I make no apologies, this is me With shouts of joy and with thanksgiving, Leading the procession to the house of God. Another round of bullets hits my skin –Psalm 42:1-4 Well, fire away ’cause today, I won’t let the shame sink in We are bursting through the barricades and Reaching for the sun We are warriors Yeah, that’s what we’ve become

2018-2019 Season Page 11 WADE IN THE WATER The change begins today arr. Kevin Johnson With every choice that I make Spelman look around and see Wade in the water, Where the changes need to be Wade in the water children, End poverty Wade in the water, Fighting overseas God’s a-gonna trouble the water. Another dies from a disease End hypocrisy Wade in the water children, Starving on the streets Wade in the water children, And no one does a single thing God’s a-gonna trouble the water. –Sarah Stephens

Who’s that all dressed in red, STILL I RISE God’s a-gonna trouble the water. Rosephanye and William Powell Looks like the ban’ that Moses led, God’s a-gonna trouble the water. Though I have been wounded, aching heart full of pain. Still I rise, yes, still I rise. See that host all dressed in white, Jus’ like a budding rose, my bloom is nourished by rain. God’s-gonna trouble the water. Haven’t time to wonder why, though fearful I strive. The leader looks like the Israelite, My prayer and faith uphold me ‘til my courage arrives. God’s a-gonna trouble the water. Still I rise as an eagle, soaring above every fear. With each day I succeed, I grow strong an’ believe Wade in the water children, That it’s all within my reach; I’m reaching for the skies, Wade in the water children, Bolstered by courage, yes, still I rise. God’s a-gonna trouble the water. Yes, it’s all within my reach; I’m reaching for the skies, Yes, still I rise. –Traditional Spiritual Gentle as a woman; tender sweet are my sighs. Still I rise, yes, still I rise. A CHOICE TO CHANGE THE WORLD Strength is in my tears and healing rains in my cries. Dr. Kevin Johnson and Sarah Stephens Plunging depths of anguish, I determine to strive. My prayer and faith uphold me ‘til my courage arrives. It’s my choice Though you see me slump with heartache; Heart so heavy that it And I choose to change the world breaks. It’s my voice Be not deceived I fly on bird’s wings, rising sun, its healing rays. And I’ll speak with pride and courage Look at me, you see a woman; Gentle as a butterfly. I’ll be the change I wanna see But don’t you think, not for one moment, that I’m not strong I’ll scream out loud and say because I cry. It’s my choice –Rosephanye Powell And I choose to change the world

Why put of for tomorrow What I can do today Why wait for another When I can pave the way No matter how young or old I hold the power of change Rather large or small, few or all My choice remains the same

Within this institution We are women of change The shoulders that we stand upon Never received applause or fame But in their honor I will live Each day better than before And show just how it takes a choice To change yourself and so much more

Page 12 2018-2019 Season BIOGRAPHIES SHARON SAYLES BELTON ILHAN OMAR An activist, Ilhan Omar is a politician, and Somali American ADVISORY COUNCIL leader of her politician serving community, as the U.S. Marvin Anderson Martha Arradondo Sharon Sayles Representative Sylvia Bartley Belton was the for Minnesota’s Traci Bransford first African 5th congressional Stanley Brown American and district and was Tazha Buckner first woman to be the first of two James Burroughs mayor of the city Muslim women Eric Clark of Minneapolis. For most of her life she ever elected to Congress. Born in Somalia, Victoria Davis fought for racial equality, women, family Ilhan and her family fled the country’s civil Ashley Dubose Jacob Gayle and child care issues, youth development, war when she was eight years old. Before Gleason Glover and neighborhood development. She is the running for ofce, Ilhan worked as a Valton Henderson recipient of the Gertrude E. Rush community educator at the University of Samuel Ingram Distinguished Service Award, presented by Minnesota, was a Humphrey Policy Fellow, Tricia Kaufman the National Bar Association, and the Rosa and served as a senior policy aide for a Reatha Clark King Parks Award, presented by the American Minneapolis City Council Member. Kevin Lindsey Association for Afrmative Action, among Chris Majors many other honors. Lavern McCartney Knighton HALLIE QUINN BROWN Maria Mitchell Hallie Quinn Amanda Norman ANDREA JENKINS Brown was an Jonathan Palmer Andrea Jenkins educator, public Chadwick Phillips Sharon Smith-Akinsanya is an American speaker, writer, Jason Sole policy aide, and women’s Lezlie Taylor politician, writer, activist during the George Thompson performance late nineteenth Annika Wills artist, poet, and and early transgender twentieth activist. She is centuries. Brown known for being was active in the Civil Rights and Temperance the first African- Movements and presented speeches across American openly transgender woman the U. S. and overseas including speaking elected to public ofce in the United for Great Britain’s Queen Victoria. She States, serving since January 2018 on the helped establish the National Association Minneapolis City Council as the Vice of Colored Women and served as president President. In addition to her public of this group for several years before being service, Andrea participates in the Trans appointed as its honorary president for the Lives Matter movement, and in 2015, she remainder of her life. Brown was the was grand marshal of the Twin Cities author of several books, many of which Pride Parade. detailed the plight of African Americans.

2018-2019 Season Page 13 SPELMAN COLLEGE GLEE CLUB VOCALESSENCE SINGERS OF THIS AGE

The Spelman College Glee Club has maintained a reputation for VocalEssence Singers Of This Age is a dynamic group of 50 choral excellence since 1925. Their repertoire consists of sacred young people from Minneapolis and Saint Paul high schools who and secular choral literature for women’s voices, with a particular sing, dance, write their own music, rap, and—most importantly— focus on traditional , music by African American reflect the diversity of our community in its membership. composers, music from many cultures and commissioned works. Performing at such prestigious venues and with world renowned • Sing a wide range of music—from classical to hip-hop and artists such as singer Jessye Norman, a highlight of the Glee Club’s everything in between history was performing at the in 2016 for President • Perform in world-class venues—Orchestra Hall, The Ordway . Center for Performing Arts Bria Adams Stephanie Crawford Riayn Mack • Awaken your creativity by studying voice, dance, theatre, and Ariel Alvarado Nina Danley Shelby Marcee spoken word Alyssa Armstrong Imani Diggs Kennedy Mebane Desirae Banks Adleesa Edwards Shelby Richardson • Travel throughout the state and region Lauryn Banks Jasmine Euell Dianna Sanders • Rehearse at Augsburg University to provide exposure to life in college Delvonae Beckles Jessica Hansberry Faith Shannon Elaina Blake Bahi Iboaya Kalia Simms • Belong to an accepting community of your peers from all Brittney Boykin Tyler Jennings Kennedy Starkey walks of life Clarke Brown Brooke Joynes Terri Wright Mikaela Brown Christian Kenney I’reyon Wright Acacia Johnstone Euan Lim Malcolm Kinard Lexcia Carr Shekinah Kinlow Aishat Daud Hta Soe Margaret Feng Shalyn Carthan Christian Knox Alexander Refuerzo Htee moo hser Ku k Muhsin Aidid Alise Moore paw ne Pan Myine Amae Pierson Isaiah Bates Sally Petersohn Amaya Fokuo Jade Shionoya Sar Wait Dr. Kevin Johnson, associate professor, is a Andreina Rodriguez Jaydon Gilkes Sierra Trejo musician, composer, and an active clinician. Aria Martinez John Nguyen Simone Meyer The director of the Spelman College Glee Arrianna Stallman Joshua Hofman Soliyana Woldu Club has traveled through the United States Ashley Tapia Martinez Joshua Sabin Stephon Marcus providing choral workshops and retreats for Austin Vang Kayla Gibson Thaw Paw music educators and churches. He is the Breanna Prudhomme Keon Miller Voravij Vang minister of music at Our Lady of Lourdes Brian Baltazar Lila Insook Wah Htoo Catholic Church in Atlanta. He is also one of the most highly in Chiashee Vue Lucas Plaman Yee Xiong Claudia Lo Cascio Maifa Vang demand and prominent musicians in the Archdiocese of Atlanta and the Catholic Archdiocese nationwide. Gavin Berg joined VocalEssence in 2017 as Brittney Boykin, instructor and Glee Club Collaborative Artist for the inaugural year accompanist, is known as a versatile pianist, of VocalEssence Singers Of This Age, where composer, and conductor. Boykin was he works as accompanist and assistant featured as the conductor/composer-in- conductor. As a pianist and organist, Gavin residence for the 2017 Harry T. Burleigh is currently the Artist-in-Residence at Good Commemorative Spiritual Festival at Samaritan United Methodist Church. He has Tennessee State. Her instrumental and recorded several solo , and is a featured performer choral works are published and distributed through her own throughout the region. As a choir director, Gavin focuses on publishing company, Klavia Press. She is currently pursuing a Ph.D. working with children and youth in an efort to make music with an emphasis in Music Education at Georgia State University. accessible to all.

Page 14 2018-2019 Season I read it in the Spokesman-Recorder In-depth coverage and news analysis Community events Prep sports coverage

In print weekly, available at locations around the Twin Cities Sisterhood Sister Spokesman is a monthly gathering of Online at spokesman-recorder.com African American women of all ages and walks of life, with the goal of providing an informative and fun environment for learning and networking. From pertinent health and ftness to fnance, relationship, and beauty and fashion advice — you name it, Sister Spokesman Call today to get your copy in the mail covers it! each week: 612-827-4021 For more info go to MSRNewsOnline and click Or go on line on the Sister Spokesman tab www. spokesman-recorder.com

Tues, May 21, 2019 at 7 pm Ordway Concert Hall, Saint Paul

Robbinsdale Spanish Immersion School, New Hope Field Community School, Minneapolis Harding High School, St. Paul VocalEssence Singers Of This Age G. Phillip Shoultz, III, conductor COMMUNITY Pablo Mendoza Halliday, visiting composer CONCERT 2019 5•21•19

TICKETS: available March 18, 2019

2018-2019 Season Page 15 VOCALESSENCE IN THE COMMUNITY

A BRIEF HISTORY

In 1991, VocalEssence WITNESS was created to celebrate the contributions of African Americans to the fine arts and to our cultural heritage. By commissioning and programming rarely heard works by African American composers, and featuring African American guest artists, we help broaden ideas about African American musical expression and introduce new voices to our audiences through concerts, recordings, and broadcasts. Past VocalEssence WITNESS concert guest artists and composers have included James Earl Jones, Bobby McFerrin, , Moore by Four, , Morehouse College Glee Club, Sweet Honey In The Rock®, and many more. 2018-2019 SCHOOL PROGRAM PARTNER SCHOOLS Consisting of three components—Artist Workshops, Teacher Alice Smith Elementary School Resources, and a Young People’s Concert—the VocalEssence Anoka Middle School for the Arts WITNESS School Program is geared toward students in grades Arcadia Charter School 4-12, and has reached more than 130,000 students since its inception. Ascension Catholic School Middles STEAM • Young People’s Concert (YPC): An abbreviated version of the Magnet School VocalEssence WITNESS public concert, the YPCs reach more Como Park Senior High School than 4,000 students through three performances at Orchestra Creative Arts Secondary School Hall. Evergreen Park World Cultures Community School • Artist Workshops: VocalEssence ofers WITNESS partner Folwell Performing Arts schools two free days of workshops that allow students to work Magnet School with a VocalEssence Teaching Artist. Teaching Artists explore Harambee Elementary School the annual program theme through their artistic discipline, Hazel Park Preparatory Academy creating an integrative academic experience that combines the Highland Elementary School study of African American culture with art, music, social studies, Irondale High School literature, theater, character building, and other areas of school Jeferson Community School curriculum. Linwood Monroe Arts Plus Upper School • Teacher Resources: Teachers at participating schools LoveWorks Academy attend a half-day orientation seminar that engages them with Minnesota Waldorf School professionally-written, culturally relevant lesson plans that Oak Ridge Elementary School fulfill Minnesota Academic Standards and introduces them to Osseo Senior High School the VocalEssence Teaching Artists. Parkway Montessori Middle School Pilgrim Lutheran School Rockford Elementary VocalEssence WITNESS is critical for many students who would Arts Magnet School not otherwise have the opportunity to attend a professional Shannon Park Elementary School event at a major concert hall. We believe that an education and Sheridan Arts Spanish Dual performance experience like VocalEssence WITNESS gives students Immersion School an opportunity to learn from exceptional role models, increasing Sonnesyn Elementary School their self-esteem, and creating a desire to continue exploring ways to Southside Family Charter School express themselves through the arts. St. Peter Claver School Thomas Edison High School Westview Elementary For more information or to sign up for the Windom Dual Immersion School 2019-2020 VocalEssence WITNESS School Program, Woodland Elementary School contact Rob Graham at [email protected] or 612-547-1458.

Page 16 2018-2019 Season 2018-2019 TEACHING ARTISTS

TIMOTHY BERRY: KARLA NWEJE: Vocalist, Composer, Percussionist Arts Educator, Choreographer, • Eclectic performances include Performer, Literary Artist appearances with The Urban Flavor • BFA in Dance Performance & band, and Grammy Award Winner Composition from Brooklyn Larnelle Harris, and Robert Robinson College/CUNY • Composing awards include: the • Performed and toured with several Live Music for Dance award from the American Composer’s dance and theater companies NYC, Atlanta, and the Forum, the Cultural Community Partnership grant, and Twin Cities winner in the Essentially Choral Competition for emerging • Former K-12 academic school teacher, published author, American composers sponsored by VocalEssence and the anthology editor American Composers Forum • Creates and performs her work with her group, The Samimejon Movement • 2013 recipient of Ordway’s Excellence in Educational PATRICIA BROWN: Service Award Dance Instructor, Choreographer, Performer • Regular presenter at arts and education conferences and summits • African-based movement styles • Primary and secondary schools, detention facilities, and organizations • Choreographs for dance groups, T. MYCHAEL RAMBO: choirs, and theaters such as , Vocalist Penumbra, Pillsbury House, SteppingStone, and In the Heart • Actor, vocalist, arts educator and of the Beast Puppet and Mask Theaters community organizer • Adjunct faculty at Macalester College, and the University • Performer with Penumbra Theatre, of Minnesota where she received the College of Continuing the Guthrie, Ordway, Illusion Theatre, Education Distinguished Teaching Award, and the Century MixedBlood, Park Square, Children’s Council Diverse Community Award Theatre, Ten Thousand Things Theater and Minnesota Opera • 2013 Sage Award nominee for Outstanding Dance Educator • Afliate professor in the College of Theatre Arts and Dance at • 2015 Art-Us Legacy Arts Recognition Award recipient the University of Minnesota • Honors and awards: singing National Anthem for President Obama, 2008 BRANDON COMMODORE: • Regional Emmy Award, 2009 Sally Award, 2010 Minnesota Musician, Producer, Educator Black Music Award, • Young Audience Artist of the Year, McKnight Theatre Artist • Touring drummer with Mint Fellowship, Minnesota Condition and Stokley Williams • State Arts Board Artist Fellowship, Bush Finalist, the U of M • Founder of #MPLS Century Council • and Music producer • Community Award and Outstanding Community • Attended McNally Service Award of Music • Has taught drum and percussion at Walker West Music Academy and served as a mentor to many students ANITA RUTH: Musician, Educator GINGER COMMODORE: • Has worked for thirty years with Singer, Songwriter, Actress young and musicians • Resident Music Director for • Performs , , rhythm and Artistry Theater blues, contemporary, and gospel • Co-presents with • Actress and singer with Penumbra T. Mychael Rambo Theatre, Mixed Blood Theatre, Children’s Theatre Company, Minnesota Opera, Hey City Theater, Chanhassen Dinner Theater, The Capri Theater ROXANE WALLACE: • Instructor with Penumbra Theatre Company’s Performer, Instructor, Choreographer Summer Institute • McKnight Artist Fellow in Dance • Joining the cast of The Color Purple at Park Square Theater • Minnesota Sage Award for is one of her career highlights Outstanding Performer • Teaching Artist- Cowles Center for Dance and the Performing Arts • Dance Instructor- Zenon Dance Studio and School • Dance Artist with over 20 years of professional and teaching experience

2018-2019 Season Page 17 VOCALESSENCE IN THE COMMUNITY

Now in its 11th year, VocalEssence ¡Cantaré! has engaged singers of all ages in the celebration of Mexican culture by connecting composers from with school choirs and community choruses. Each year, visiting composers work directly with Minnesota students and community members for four weeks, becoming familiar with the ensembles and writing a new song specifically for each.

In May of each year, all singers come together to present world premieres of the new music in concert at the Ordway Center for the Performing Arts. More than 5,500 singers have participated in VocalEssence ¡Cantaré! since its inception. Over 180 new Mexican songs have been created, and many are published by VocalEssence Music Press making them accessible to choirs around the world.

This season, composer Pablo Mendoza Halliday is working with VocalEssence Singers Of This Age, who represent 17 diferent metro area schools, and the following Twin Cities schools: Field Community School, Minneapolis; Harding Senior High School, Saint Paul; and Robbinsdale Spanish Immersion School, New Hope. The culminating concert will be at the Ordway Music Theater on Tuesday, May 21, 2019 at 7 pm. Tickets are available at vocalessence.org.

In addition, for the third year VocalEssence ¡Cantaré! is extending to Chicago, IL. VocalEssence is supporting Chicago a capella as they implement ¡Cantaré! Chicago with Julio César Morales Pineda in the Chicago metro area, which will premiere new choral works at the ¡Cantaré! Chicago Community Concert at Northeastern Illinois University on Friday, May 3, 2019 at 7 pm.

“I have found VocalEssence ¡Cantaré! to be the perfect way to bring families and students of diferent backgrounds together, as I believe that is the key in the development of any community.” —Ana Luisa Fajer Flores, former Consul of Mexico, St. Paul, MN and now Mexico Ambassador to South Africa

For more information, please contact VocalEssence at [email protected] or 612-547-1451.

Page 18 2018-2019 Season REATHA CLARK KING AWARD WINNER HALLIE Q. BROWN COMMUNITY CENTER

The Reatha Clark King Award for Excellence and Youth Motivation through the Cultural Arts was established by VocalEssence in 2007 to celebrate and recognize leaders and organizations that provide the resources to empower youth through direct contact, making a way for them to be as successful as they can be.

For thirteen years, VocalEssence has given out an award named after pioneering African American scientist, educator, and philanthropist Reatha Clark King. We’re pleased to recognize the vital work of the Hallie Q. Brown Community Center, located in St Paul’s historic Rondo neighborhood, as the 2019 Reatha Clark King Award recipient.

The Hallie Q. Brown Community Center, named after the prominent African American educator, activist, and author, improves the quality of life in its community by providing access to critical human services, fostering and promoting personal growth, and developing community leadership. Executive Director Jonathan Palmer has led the organization through a period of renewal as it enters its 90th year serving the community in more ways than ever: with senior programs, an early learning center (ELC), services for low-income families, food security, after-school programs, and more. Hallie Q. Brown Community Center “I’m only the sixth executive director in our history,” says Jonathan, who started at the Center more than a decade ago. “My uncle, Gleason Glover, was once president of the Minneapolis Urban League, and shadowing him during a break in my college years taught me to love nonprofit community work.”

“I’m especially proud of how we’ve strengthened our programs to empower young people,” Jonathan says. “Our Youth Enrichment Program provides care both before and after school. We help kids develop and sharpen skills through our teen tutoring program. We seek out partners who can connect our students with valuable opportunities and support our Center—we have Breck School students visiting to read and engage with our ELC children, JJ Hill Montessori students who host a month-long food drive as part of our annual March campaign, Project Cheer which has partnered with us for over 50 years to PAST REATHA CLARK KING provide music lessons to low income students, and we’ve been partnering with Saint Paul AWARD WINNERS Parks and Rec since we opened the Martin Luther King Center together in 1972 to provide a more robust physical exercise and extracurricular experience.” 2018: Dr. Jacob A. Gayle, Jr. and the Medtronic Foundation “VocalEssence has played its part, as well,” said Jonathan. “We’ve partnered with the WITNESS program for several years, hosting mini-concerts for our seniors with the 2017: T. Mychael Rambo Morehouse and Spelman Glee Clubs. In the last year, we added a program for one of the 2016: Dr. Josie Robinson Johnson VocalEssence Vintage Voices choirs, connecting seniors with the social and mental health benefits of group singing.” 2015: Sanford Moore 2014: General Mills “Receiving the Reatha Clark King Award from VocalEssence means a lot,” says 2013: Phyllis Wheatley Community Center Jonathan. “It afrms the work we’ve done in the last decade to restore and reinvigorate our organization. It is a testament to the eforts of the people who make our organization 2012: Theresa Neal successful. And it holds personal significance for me because I have known Reatha’s family 2011: Sharon Sayles Belton for over 30 years. Her son Scott and I were in school at Morehouse College together and sang in the Glee Club with each other. I have extremely high regard for her; she is someone 2010: Laysha Ward I strive to emulate in the work that I do. I am deeply moved for us to be receiving this honor.” 2009: Minnesota Supreme Court Justice Alan C. Page and Diane Sims Page Congratulations, Jonathan Palmer and the Hallie Q. Brown Community Center, for your long history of anchoring, nurturing, and transforming the Rondo community. 2008: Patricia A. Harvey 2007: Ms. Ossie Brooks James

2018-2019 Season Page 19 VOCALESSENCE IN THE COMMUNITY

Under the visionary leadership of Associate Conductor, G. Phillip Shoultz, III, VocalEssence launched a high school choral arts program that revolutionizes the concept of choir and reflects the diversity of our community in its membership. Last year, members of VocalEssence Singers Of This Age had workshops with 14 diferent artists representing a variety of artistic disciplines including: acting, choreography, composing, dance, hip-hop, spoken word, singing, music theory, and aural skills.

Through this choir, VocalEssence is awakening artistic expression and creativity in young people, championing the community-building power of group singing, and encouraging a wider circle of participation in the choral art form.

Assessment of the inaugural impact of this program found that participating students:

• Gained confidence • Found a place of belonging • Realized the power music has to bring people together

VocalEssence Singers Of This Age (VESOTA) have been busy! Highlights include performing with Josh Groban at the Xcel Energy Center, their inaugural solo performance, Identity, on November 8, 2018 at Westminster Presbyterian Church, and serving as performing participants at the third annual Together We Sing Festival at the Minnesota History Center. VESOTA will honor past, present, and future trailblazing African and African American women at the February VocalEssence WITNESS: Yet They Persist concert at Orchestra Hall, celebrate Mexican music at the May VocalEssence ¡Cantaré! Community Concert at the Ordway, and take part in world premiere performances of the opera, Tienda, sponsored by the Schubert Club.

“Choir was just an interest and something I deeply liked; but after hearing stories of many who rely on music for life I realized music is actually life-giving.” – VESOTA Singer

“This program is amazing and I want it to continue.” – VESOTA Singer

“I’ve always wanted to, and now I feel I can truly express my feelings through song.” – VESOTA Singer

Page 20 2018-2019 Season 2018-2019 Season Page 21 photo © Allen Weeks MAR 21-24, 2019 The Cowles Center for Dance and the Performing Arts

FEATURING WITH Phinehas Bynum VocalEssence Chamber Chorus & Michael Fairbairn Ensemble Singers Bradley Greenwald Chamber Orchestra Elizabeth Hawkinson Philip Brunelle, music director Susan Hofander Peter Rothstein, stage director Rodolfo Nieto The Royal National Theatre Version Music by Liv Redpath Book adapted from Voltaire by Hugh Wheeler G. Phillip Shoultz, III In a New Version by John Caird Lyrics by Additional Lyrics by , This production is in partnership John Latouche, Lillian Hellman, and with Theater Latté Da. Leonard Bernstein

Tickets: $35-$45 vocalessence.org | 612-371-5656

Page 22 2018-2019 Season 2018-2019 50TH ANNIVERSARY SEASON

SPECIAL THANKS FOR THE SUPPORT THE TIMES THEY ARE OF THIS CONCERT A-CHANGIN’ Ronald and Nicolai Lewis Saturday, April 27, 2019 at 8 PM SPECIAL THANKS Palace Theatre Paul Gerike 17 West 7th Place Becky Hofman Saint Paul, MN 55102 Valerie Kahler Matthew Mehafey VocalEssence Chorus & Ensemble Singers Philip Brunelle, conductor G. Phillip Shoultz, III, conductor Ashley DuBose Jeremy Messersmith Nation

2018-2019 SEASON SPONSORS

This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a Minnesota State Arts Board Operating Support grant, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts and cultural heritage fund, and a grant from the Wells Fargo Foundation Minnesota.

2018-2019 Season Page 23 WELCOME THE PROGRAM For 50 years VocalEssence Ensemble Singers VocalEssence has The Uncertainty of the Poet from With a Poet’s Eye Cary John Franklin embraced the (1985) music of Minnesota VocalEssence Chorus & Ensemble Singers composers and poets, proud of the The Water Is Wide Stephen Paulus creativity this state (1996) has produced, not to forget we are the only state with a Be You Ashley DuBose 25-year Legacy Amendment to fund the (2015) arts! So it is fitting that we conclude this Ashley DuBose, soloist 50th season with the timeless music of . We are pleased to present the Hands Jocelyn Hagen Midwest premiere of Bob Dylan’s music (2017) arranged for chorus by Steve Hackman, making our debut in the venerable Palace Nation, soloists Theatre in St. Paul. She Gave Her Angels But we don’t want to have just one arr. G. Phillip Shoultz, III Minnesotan on the program — why not (2019) a bunch of them? This state is filled with great musical talent in many forms and the Violet! Jeremy Messersmith first half of the program celebrates a few arr. by Val Kahler and Paul Gerike of our many composers from the classical (2017) to the folk to the pop worlds. Sit back and enjoy the marvelous wealth of Minnesota music we proudly present! Closing Time arr. Paul Gerike —Philip Brunelle, (2018) Artistic Director and Founder INTERMISSION

The Times, They are A-Changin’: The Words and Music of Bob Dylan Steve Hackman (2018) 1. The Times, They are A-Changin’ 2. Like a 3. Mr. Man 4. 5. The Times, They are A-Changin’ II 6. 7. Subterranean Homesick Blues 8. Don’t Think Twice, It’s Alright 9. It’s Alright Ma (I’m Only Bleeding) 10. 11. Knockin’ on Heaven’s Door 12. The Times, They are A-Changin’ III 13. 14. A Hard Rain’s A-Gonna Fall 15. Blowin’ in the Wind

Page 24 2018-2019 Season BIOGRAPHIES ASHLEY DUBOSE JEREMY MESSERSMITH Singer-songwriter Ashley DuBose is Hailed as a “Minnesota music hero” by probably most widely known for her hit the Star Tribune, singer-songwriter single, “Intoxicated,” and for her Jeremy Messersmith got his start like participation in Season 5 of NBC’s The most musicians: performing in cofee Voice. Her two albums—Somethin’ shops. His first record (Alcatraz More and Be You—have fans in more Kid) drew the attention of Dan than 37 countries, with 5 million Wilson (Trip Shakespeare, ), streams to date. In 2014, Ashley was who then produced Jeremy’s follow-up chosen as “Best Vocalist (Female)” by . His reputation continued to City Pages. In addition to writing and build nationally with acclaim from performing music, Ashley works as an instructor for the Twin NPR, Time Magazine, and an appearance on Late Night with David Cities Mobile Jazz Project. Letterman. His newest efort, the orchestral pop record Late Stage Capitalism, was released in March of 2018. BOB DYLAN http://www.jeremymessersmith.com Bob Dylan is one of the most influential singer- of the NATION 20th century, known for songs that Founders of the a cappella band chronicle social and political issues. Nation, and expanding on their Much of his most celebrated work dates composing successes, Jocelyn Hagen from the 1960s, when songs such as and Timothy C. Takach are quickly “Blowin’ in the Wind” (1963) and “The becoming known for reshaping the Times They Are a-Changin’” (1964) choral experience with singers around became anthems for the Civil Rights the globe. Pioneers in their field of Movement and anti-war movement. composing, entrepreneurship, coaching His lyrics incorporated a wide range of political, social, youth and adults, and leading ensembles in the spirit of philosophical, and literary influences, defied existing conventions collaboration, Jocelyn and Tim guide participants through a of popular music, and appealed to the burgeoning . collective and creative journey, modeling healthy, accessible and honest pedagogy for developing singers. STEVE HACKMAN A musical visionary, Steve Hackman is a daring voice leading the charge among a new generation of classical musicians intent on redefining the genre. Equally adept in classical and popular forms, his breadth of musical fluency and PROUD TO technique is uncanny—he is at once a composer, conductor, producer, DJ, arranger, songwriter, singer, pianist, SUPPORT and even rapper. He uses those wide- ranging abilities to create ingenious hybrid compositions that blur the lines between high and pop art and challenge our very VOCALESSENCE definitions thereof.

Thomson Reuters is dedicated to the CHAMBER MUSICIANS communities where we live and work. Lee Blaske, piano Pat Donohue, guitar Learn more at ThomsonReuters.com. Greg Hippen, bass Roger Frisch, violin Claire Loudon, violin Tamás Strasser, viola Darin Anderson, Chris Volpe, contractor

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2018-2019 Season Page 25 ABOUT VOCALESSENCE VocalEssence, called “one of the irreplaceable music ensembles of our time” by , past chairman of the National Endowment for the Arts—and the choir that of says “sings magnificently”—impacts thousands of students, singers, and composers each year through its initiative programs, contests, and support for innovative art. VocalEssence was founded in 1969 and has debuted more than 300 commissions and world premieres. For more information, visit www.vocalessence.org.

PHILIP BRUNELLE Artistic Director and Founder

Philip Brunelle, artistic director and founder of VocalEssence, is an internationally-renowned conductor, choral scholar, and visionary. Philip has conducted symphonies, choral festivals, and operas on six continents. He recently completed 9 years as Vice President of IFCM (International Federation for Choral Music), holds five honorary degrees, and has been recognized for his commitment to choral music by the governments of , Hungary, Sweden, Mexico, and the . His thoughts on music are at RenaissanceManpodcast.com. vocalessence.org/philipbrunelle.

G. PHILLIP SHOULTZ, III Associate Conductor | Director of Learning and Engagement

Known for his innovative pedagogy and ability to inspire singers, G. Phillip Shoultz, III, serves as the Associate Conductor and Director of Learning and Engagement at VocalEssence. Phillip completed doctoral studies at the University of Minnesota and also earned degrees from the University of Georgia and Georgia State University. The winner of the 2015 American Choral Directors Association Graduate Student Conducting Competition, Phillip appeared as a Conducting Fellow with the Oregon Bach Festival. www.vocalessence.org/gps.

MARY JO GOTHMANN Accompanist

Mary Jo Gothmann joined VocalEssence as staf accompanist in 2015. She enjoys a varied career as a chamber musician, soloist, opera coach, and organist. Mary Jo performs frequently with the Minnesota Orchestra and Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra, and is a graduate of the Metropolitan Opera Lindemann Young Artist Program, University of Minnesota, Conservatory, and St. Olaf College. Mary Jo is the founder and Artistic Director of the Joya Chamber Music Series at Zion Lutheran Church in Anoka.

Celebrate Philip Brunelle’s 50th year as Organist and Choirmaster at Plymouth Church

Sun, Apr. 7, 2019 at 4:30 PM Sun, May 12, 2019 at 11 AM Recital by Plymouth Soloists Sunday Service World Premiere Maria Jette and Jenny French, soprano Debut of hymn commissioned in honor Lisa Drew, alto of Philip Brunelle with text by James Dan Dressen, tenor Gertmenian and music by David Evan James Bohn, bass Thomas. The service will be followed by Philip Brunelle and Sonja Thompson, a celebration of Philip and his 50 years piano at Plymouth with friends, colleagues, and the congregation.

Plymouth Congregational Church Proud home of VocalEssence 1900 Nicollet Ave., Minneapolis 612/871-7400 www.plymouth.org Find us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram

Page 26 2018-2019 Season VOCALESSENCE CHORUS VOCALESSENCE ENSEMBLE SINGERS

Minnesota is home to an international choral music gem—the VocalEssence Ensemble Singers. Declared by the Oxford Times (UK) as having “a blend that could—and should— be the envy of every choir in the business,” The VocalEssence Chorus is an exceptional group of talented, committed singers from this 32-voice professional chorus is enjoyed many walks of life. A staple on the VocalEssence season, the Chorus also performs at by millions from Duluth, Minnesota to community events including the VocalEssence WITNESS Young People’s Concerts Shanghai, China. The VocalEssence Ensemble at Orchestra Hall and the VocalEssence ¡Cantaré! Concert at the Ordway. The Singers are equally at ease premiering music VocalEssence Chorus was selected to perform at the 2017 Fall Convention for the by Pulitzer Prize winning composers as well American Choral Directors Association of Minnesota. as teen moms in our Lullaby Project. www.vocalessence.org/what-we-do/performing-ensembles/vocalessence-chorus/ www.vocalessence.org/what-we-do/ performing-ensembles/vocalessence- ensemble-singers/ SOPRANO Katherine True Erin Sandsmark David G. Erickson Amanda Allen Jennifer S. Katie Sandsmark Matt Ferguson AnnaLisa Anderson Vickerman*† Heidi Schleif Tim Graham SOPRANO TENOR Libby Anderson Laura Walklet Forrest Schrader Alex Halverson Jennifer Bevington Eli Baumgartner Barbara Anderson Hilary Wiek Johanna Smith John Henrich JoAnna Johnson Anders Eckman Jessica Belt Dannika Wright Sandra Swami Ward Jacobson Chloe Johnson Michael Fairbairn Whitney AI Laura Tanner Ben Kucera Myrtle Lemon Robert J. Graham Bembenek ALTO Rosita Tendall James LeVoir Meghan Lowe William Pederson Ali Biatek Akosua Obuo Addo Cassandra Warn Philip Lowry Natalia Romero Kyle Schwartz Julia Braaten Kellie Asher Allie Wigley Walker MacSwain Margaret Sabin Jennica Date Jo M. Beld Nicholas Mroczek* Mari Scott BASS Regan Debban Constance Chen TENOR Milo Oien-Rochat Joshua Conroy Judy Drobeck Rachael Feord Steve Aggergaard David Olson ALTO Ben Dyleuth Maria Gisselquist Becky Gaunt Andrew Alness Thomas Paulson Robin Joy Helgen† Joseph Ellickson Kristina M. Guifre Judy Gaunt David Andrew Brian Ruhl Marita J. Link David Gindra Tommie Yvonne Grover* Beccue Joseph Scheller Anna George Meek Erik Krohg Hollingsworth Autumn Gurgel Larry Brandts Richard L. Shallbetter Judith McClain A.J. Lund Rebecca Hovsepian Mary Haasl Josh Brockbank Trent Stenoien Melander Nicholas R. Mattsson Sally Jafray Marjorie Hakala Ryan Coopergard Timothy Supol Sadie Nelson Nathan Petersen- Lisa Kapsner-Swift Meghan Hanna Ben Demaree Matthew Terhaar Erin Peters Kindem Jeanne Kenney Shannon Hart Blake Downing David Toht Kristina Rodel Sorum Kartra Kohl Dee Hein Samuel Fouts* Brady Toone Joy MacArthur Kristin Howlett Jason Kaiser Liam Vance Erin Meyer Aileen Rosa Kasper John Lee Christopher John Lisa Moncur Jenny Kisner Reagan Lee Wallace Christina Pederson Jeenee Lee Andrew Leshovsky Shira Rabkin Rebecca Modert David Paese *Section leader Leah Refuerzo Kristi Mueller Jonathan Posthuma †Board liaison Alexa Rosenbaum Emily Nelson Rabindra Tambyraja Cheryl Roberts Samantha Phillippe Barry Tikalsky Saunders Ana Lucía Piedrahita Adam Van der Sluis Susan Scofield Fernández LeAnn Stein Marty Raymond BASS Abbie Sulik Miriam Sahouani Robert Atendido Dana Terres Coral Sampson Haskel Black Amanda Troolin Debra Samuelson Phil Bratnober

2018-2019 Season Page 27 MINING THE NEVER-ENDING IMPACTS OF THE ARTIST FROM THE NORTH COUNTRY Can choral music reinvent the music of Bob Dylan the way Bob For a time, you couldn’t pick up a Byrds album without it featuring Dylan reinvented the American pop song and revolutionized rock a feast of Dylan songs, such as “Mr. Tambourine Man,” which music? Given the vibrant strengths of the VocalEssence Chorus became a hit for the now legendary folk-rockers. Reigning and Ensemble Singers—combined with the hip sensibilities of contemporary pop artists like , along with grizzled industry composer, conductor, producer, and songwriter Steve Hackman— vets Garth Brooks, Billy Joel, and others all recorded “Make You tonight’s concert will answer that question in many surprising ways. Feel My Love,” introducing new generations and other fans to his handiwork. Even in Bluegrass music, having a Dylan arrangement Hackman has successfully bridged the realm between classical in your repertoire has been a standard for decades now. and popular music before by fusing the works of Radiohead, , Bon Iver, and others with orchestral heavies like Brahms, Meanwhile, whole albums of Dylan material that occasionally Beethoven, and Copland respectively. But in Dylan, he meets a defy description warrant hearing – including ’s essential singular, master songwriter who covers an array of themes and double disc set from 1968 to soul singer Betty Levette’s five-star musical styles. They range from simple love songs to sophisticated, masterpiece in 2018. A personal favorite, sometimes epic, storytelling, often shaped by a stinging moral though, is the collection of songs called Dylan’s Gospel by The authority, a subtle sense of humor, and the antics and pathos all on Brothers and Sisters, featuring some of the back-up singers Dylan display in the passing parade of the human experience. would deploy during his controversial and so-called “Gospel period” of the early ’80s, including and Carolyn Willis. Hackman’s Dylan arrangements, however, will get more than , who sang the blood-curdling back up parts on the the usual scrutiny. As a native son raised on the Iron Range in Rolling Stones’ classic, “Gimmer Shelter,” is also in that choir. Hibbing, Robert Allen Zimmerman remains a legendary “export” that most Minnesotans still hold in the highest regard. We value Just as the singers will do tonight, The Brothers and Sisters his geographic roots—the blue-eyed “Boy” from the North explore Dylan’s “The Times They Are A-Changin’” and “I Shall Be Country—and his enigmatic as much as his monumental Released” with a fervor that only truly timeless songs can inspire. accomplishments, including all those Dylan records, 36 studio While these and other selections might reflect the specific time albums alone at last count! periods in which they were written, ultimately, they remain a testament to the transcendent words and music that pour from the The Times They Are A-Changin’: The Words and Music of Bob hand, heart, and spirit of one of the greatest artists America—or Dylan surveys 15 select songs from Dylan’s massive artistic output the wider world—will ever produce. that has won him every music award ever given. In 2016, he even received a Nobel Prize for Literature for radically changing the Martin Keller is a Minneapolis-based writer and publicist who substance, structure, and spirit of the American popular song. interviewed Bob Dylan in 1983 upon the release of the album “Infidels.” In 1994, he spent a week on The Never-Ending Tour for “How could it be!?” screeched detractors. concerts dates in Midwest. Details from that adventure, along with many others, is published in Scenester Stories from Minnesota’s Pop It really wasn’t a stretch. Dylan’s artistic strengths often lie in Life: Hijinx and Hearsay by the Minnesota Historical Society Press. fiercely imbuing lyrics with a poetic and an authentic literary voice, while firmly embracing—and often rewriting in his own hand— elements from the nation’s enduring musical traditions, from folk and blues to gospel, spirituals, and rock ‘n roll. Well-crafted allusions also abound: images, ideas, lines, and landmarks that can be found in everything from the theater to the Bible to French, Italian and Beat poets to hallowed blues and folksong lyrics to the headlines of American history, and the back pages of his own journey. Should it be any surprise that his lifetime of songwriting has spurred a new class of Dylan scholarship and studies at universities and publishing houses?

In performance, fans have come to expect the unexpected. During his “,” the Rock Bard of the world is certain to re-arrange even his more familiar work like “Tangled Up in Blue” and “All Along the Watchtower”—two trademark tunes in tonight’s program. Such a canny strategy keeps them fresh, sure, but it also ensures that they remain, well, “Dylanesque.”

Although his impact is worldwide, one way to measure Dylan’s influence is to scan the hundreds of other artists—across genres, gender, and races—that have covered in concert or recorded Dylan songs (you know you have arrived again and again when unlikely luminaries of varying brightness such as Sebastian Cabot and William Shatner have performed your work!).

Page 28 2018-2019 Season CELEBRATE OUR COMMUNITY OF VOICES.

Classical MPR’s Choral Stream includes a variety of Minnesota ensembles, composers, presenters and performances. Discover a range of musical styles — from world-class to college choirs, from Baroque to Bernstein.

Listen at classicalmpr.org/choral.

Made possible in part by the State of Minnesota Legacy Amendment’s Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund, approved by voters in 2008.

2018-2019 Season Page 29 DONOR SPOTLIGHT: Advocacy, music, and mentorship harmonize in the life of VocalEssence board member Traci Bransford

Her extraordinary legal career provided The work ahead is to ensure the organization’s vitality by building Traci Bransford with an insider’s view into strong ties with the younger generation. “We are outward-looking, some amazing historical moments. As an searching for new communities to touch, which is crucial for an attorney, she worked at a Beverly Hills organization in its 50th year,” says Traci. practice specializing in police misconduct during the era of the Rodney King verdict, as As an entertainment lawyer, Traci watches artists fight to break Prince’s General Counsel for his Paisley Park into the business and to stay relevant. It gives her an extra Enterprises during his high profile, pre and appreciation for successes like the VocalEssence Super Bowl post “1999” era, and on Wall Street during the financial sector’s moment. “Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis were hosting a week of free scandals at the beginning of the new millennium. concerts on Nicollet Mall,” she remembers, “and VocalEssence was right there! VocalEssence, performing outside, warming things up Now the Spelman College and University School of for Idina Menzel.” Law graduate is in a position to help shape the future of her profession. Like the world of choral music, the legal industry is Her work with VocalEssence has led the organization to new challenged with evolving to reflect our society’s diversity. Traci partnerships. “I was so extremely impressed with Phillip Shoultz’s is a vocal advocate in the legal profession regarding the need to accomplishment with VocalEssence Singers Of This Age,” she improve the retention of people of color, particularly in large law said of the diversity-focused high school choir, which provides firms, and she helps the younger generation of high achievers find transportation and rehearsal night meals for its singers. “I was a voice in a profession where most faces do not look like theirs. able to connect VocalEssence with local urban entertainers like These experiences inform her role on the VocalEssence Board of Chadwick ‘Niles’ Phillips and Ashley DuBose and bring them in as Directors, where she chairs the VocalEssence WITNESS Advisory teaching artists and role models to VESOTA.” Council, and helps the organization identify a clearer path toward equity and inclusion. “The breadth and depth of VocalEssence never fails to impress me,” she says of the organization’s reach. Historical shifts favor With two children in junior high school, Traci is investing in the institutions in close alignment with their communities, and Traci Twin Cities community where she herself grew up, and where has watched VocalEssence actively cultivate the constituencies she can see the impact VocalEssence makes. “Vintage Voices, the it will need to thrive. “I love the fact that we continue to become program for creating choirs at senior centers, is very touching to chameleons attempting to keep our finger on the pulse of our me personally because my mother sang at one point with them diverse communities,” she says, “adapting to all the diferent at Wilder Community Center for Aging in Saint Paul,” she says. environments where people gather to sing.” “Seeing firsthand how much she loved singing really brought home the program’s benefits.”

AUDITION FOR THE VOCALESSENCE CHORUS AND ENSEMBLE SINGERS 2019-2020 SEASON CONCERTS Please visit vocalessence.org/audition to schedule your audition online.

Page 30 2018-2019 Season THANK YOU, VOCALESSENCE DONORS

James* and Jane Riley-Koll Sheridan O’Keefe Warren and Donna Beck THE ENDOWMENT Daniel and Constance Kunin Pam Matson Reierson and Gary Reierson Best Buy Foundation HONOR ROLL Libby Larsen and James Reece Vern Sutton Productivity, Inc., Greg and Lisa Buck Helmer* and Christine Larson Jennifer Vickerman City of Saint Paul Cultural STAR VocalEssence salutes the individ- Laura Jane Musser Fund Mike and Donna Wolsted Charles M. Denny, Jr. uals and corporate and private Mary Sue Lindsay* F. R. Bigelow Foundation foundations whose generosity and Jean and Kenneth Linwick Ecolab Foundation ± leadership sparked the creation Patricia Lund* David and Margene Fox of the Endowment Fund. This Herb and Corrine Lundberg CONTRIBUTOR’S Hellervik Fund of The Saint Paul Foundation permanent fund was established Thomas* and Patti* Maetzold CIRCLE The Hognander Foundation in 1987 and is now valued at $3.5 The MAHADH Fund of HRK Foundation Ossie Brooks James million. Its interest income provides Marbrook Foundation VocalEssence gratefully Jay and Rose Phillips Family Foundation ongoing support to VocalEssence. Kay and Mike McCarthy acknowledges all those who made Hubert Joly We welcome new contributions to Walt McCarthy and Clara Ueland gifts between July 1, 2017 and N. Judge* and Reatha Clark King Family Fund the Endowment Fund and extend Mancel* and Harriet* Mitchell February 5, 2019. Although we of The Minneapolis Foundation our deepest appreciation to the Peter and Judy Mitchelson make every efort to ensure that MAHADH Fund of HRK Foundation following for their generous gifts. William and Julie Moyer our Honor Roll list is accurate and Mardag Foundation Elizabeth Musser* complete, we are capable of error. The Mauriel Family Foundation Mrs. Fred C. Andersen* David E. and Judy L. Myers Please let us know if your name Alvin and Mary Agnes McQuinn Athwin Foundation Nash Foundation ± does not appear the way you Lois E. Quam and Arshad Mohammed Carol A. Barnett National Endowment for the Arts prefer so we may correct it in the Peravid Foundation Glen* and Marilyn Carlson Nelson Piper Jafray & Co. ± Alice Baver* next listing. Please call us at Alice Park Newman* Douglas and Mary Platt Ronald and Joyce Beauchane 612-547-1473 to make a correction. Jeanne and Richard Patterson The Saint Paul Foundation ± Warren and Donna Beck Thank you! Judson Bemis Fund of Donald* and Helen* Pellowe Sit Investment Associates Inc. The Minneapolis Foundation The Pine Wood Trust Stocks Family Fund of the Catholic Judy Blaseg and John Engelen Harry Piper Foundation ± Includes Matching Gift Community Foundation Charlie Boone* and Carol Heen Jill and Richard Ragatz Contributions Thomson Reuters William and Margee Bracken Burt Ross* + Includes In-Kind Donations The Wallin Foundation David Brink Shelly Ross* * In Remembrance Xcel Energy ± Lucile Brink Thomas and Lois Sando Wayne and Marilyn* Brock Michael and Shirley Santoro Gifts of $5,000-$9,999 Elise Brunelle and Jeremy Greef Sandra and Ivan* Schlof Albrecht Family Foundation Philip and Carolyn Brunelle Richard and Kit Schmoker ENSEMBLE CLUB Andersen Corporate Foundation Ann and David* Buran Ellen* and George J. Schulte Cliford and Nancy Anderson John* and Marion Etzwiler Shepherd Mary Ann Aufderheide Norman R. Carpenter Gifts of $25,000 and more Star Tribune/Cowles Media Company John and Sheila Bjorklund Cole Sewell Corporation Aroha Philanthropies Richard* and Vivian* Stuck Carlson Companies Inc. Claire Colliander and Greg Steenson Best Buy Co., Inc. Bill and Bryce* TenBroek Cathedral Heritage Foundation Colwell Industries Philip and Carolyn Brunelle Richard and Rosemary Thorsen Margaret Chutich and Penny Wheeler Kip and Kathy Colwell The Carlson Family Foundation ± Lynn and Carol Truesdell John and Cathy Farrell Community Credit Company Charles and Kathryn Cunningham Jim Ulland Wayne and Meg Gisslen Dr. Susan and Dick Crockett Family Foundation Ruth and David Waterbury Katherine Goodale Thomas Davies* The John and Ruth Huss Fund of Doris A. Welty-Bury* Mark and Denell Herreid Target Stores, Dayton’s and Mervyn’s by the The Saint Paul Foundation Dorene and Alan Wernke Hugh J. Andersen Foundation Dayton Hudson Foundation Jerome Foundation Carl A. Weyerhaeuser Trust Leland T. Lynch and Terry Saario Fund of The Ernest and Mary Dorn Lucy Rosenberry Jones Charitable Trust Frederick T. Weyerhaeuser Trust Minneapolis Foundation Dan Dressen Art and Martha* Kaemmer Fund of John Wheelihan Minnesota Historical Society Katherine and Eklund HRK Foundation E.M.* and Patricia* Whitacre William and Teri Popp Exxon Corporation Katherine B. Andersen Fund of The Saint Mrs. W. A. Wilson RBC Wealth Management Jack and Cathy Farrell Paul Foundation Bruce and JoAnn* Winslow George Reid* Robert B. Fering Ronald and Nicolai Lewis Karen and John Wolf Hervé and Jennifer Sarteau Gloria Freeman matched by Xcel Energy Sue Shepard and Don Helgeson General Mills Foundation Kay and Mike McCarthy Target Corporation Robert* and Katherine Goodale The McKnight Foundation Lynn and Carol Truesdell Marion Goward Medtronic Community Foundation ± PHILIP BRUNELLE Cody and Jacob Wolkowitz Susan and Barry Graceman Minnesota Monthly + Shelley Greenwood FOUNDER’S SOCIETY Minnesota State Arts Board Gifts of $2,500-$4,999 Jane D. and James L.* Hall Judy and Peter Mitchelson The Philip Brunelle Founder’s Soci- Aaron Copland Fund for Music, Inc. Margarette* and Charles Hann Alfred P. & Ann M. Moore ety recognizes those who make a Jim and Julie Bader Terrance* and Ruth* Hanold National Endowment for the Arts provision for VocalEssence in their matched by Ecolab David and Mim Hanson Glen* and Marilyn Carlson Nelson Baker Investments LLC + Ann G. Harding will or estate plans. The society is matched by Carlson Family Foundation Will and Margee Bracken Louise Hefelfinger* names in honor of our visionary and ExxonMobil Bremer Bank Lowell and Cay Shea Hellervik founder, Philip Brunelle, who every Philip and Katherine Nason Fund of The Bruce and Ann Christensen Jack and Linda Hoeschler day inspires the community to Saint Paul Foundation Dr. Susan and Dick Crockett The Hognander Foundation open their ears to new music from Sons of Norway Donald and Marion Hall HRK Foundation diverse cultures. Target Corporation Missy Staples Thompson and Gar Hargens A.D. (Bill)* and Betty* Hulings Thrivent Financial ± RJ and Eileen Heckman Douglas and Mary Jones Philip and Carolyn Brunelle Wenger Foundation Jack and Linda Hoeschler Fund of The Saint William* and Suzanne Joyce Ann Buran Margaret VB Wurtele Paul Foundation Arthur and Martha* Kaemmer Jon Cranney Douglas and Mary Jones Katherine B. Andersen Fund of Nicolai Lewis Gifts of $10,000-$24,999 Julia Kaemmer Fund of HRK Foundation The Saint Paul Foundation Mike McCarthy Ann and Gordon Getty Foundation Knox Foundation Garrison Keillor David and Linda Mona Anna M. Heilmaier Foundation

2018-2019 Season Page 31 Charlie and Anne Leck Joe and Cathy Kalkman Baillon Family Foundation, Inc. Joyce Schnobrich John and Nancy Lindahl matched by Anthem Foundation Michael Barone and Lise Schmidt Craig and Mariana Shulstad Philip and Madeleine Lowry Bert and Jane Kasiske Ronald and Joyce Beauchane Norma Jean Falink and Henry Smith Robert and Polly McCrea Family Fund of The Margaret V. and E. Robert* Kinney Jo Beld and Tim Delmont Brent Stahl and Ellen Engstrom Minneapolis Foundation Steven and Sarah Kumagai Larry Berger Charitable Fund LeAnn Stein and Jack Stamp David and Linda Mona Fund of The Don and Joann Leavenworth Tom Blanck and Linda Bjorklund Thomas H. Swain Minneapolis Foundation Robert L. Lee and Mary E. Schafner Blue Cross Blue Shield ± Bardyl and Anne Bell Tirana Nancy and Richard Nelson Jim and Norma Leslie Larry J. Brandts Brandee Tran New Music USA Edward* and Patricia Lindell Traci V. Bransford matched by UnitedHealth Group James and Sonja Odland Cotty Lowry and Laurie Jacobi matched by Stinson Leonard Street LLP Ben and Deb Vander Kooi matched by Thrivent Financial Judy Lund Christopher Brunelle and Serena Zabin David and Ruth Waterbury Paul and Abigail Pribbenow Joy MacArthur and Peter Buckholtz Dorene J. Bruns Elissa and Paul Weller Familia Robinson Foundation matched by Prudential Financial Steve and Karen Burger Wells Fargo Minnesota Cynthia Bittner and Randal Schreiner Jose Martin and Amy Adams Annabelle D. Bush Gary and Vicki Wyard Don Shelby John and Linda McCarty Jerome and Linda Carlson Zabin Charitable Fund at the G. Phillip and Michelle Shoultz, III Malcolm and Patricia* McDonald Mary Lou Judd Carpenter Boston Foundation Stinson Leonard Street LLP ± Paul and Lynne McDonough Paul and Mary Cederberg Jenny Wade Joyce and Richard McFarland Fund of Ted and Carol Cushmore Family Fund of matched by PiperJafray The Minneapolis Foundation The Minneapolis Foundation CHORUS CLUB Ellen Wells Helen Meyer and Bill Bieber Bill and Ruth Davini Alan and Dorene Wernke Patty and David Murphy Family Fund of Scott and Vivian Donaldson Gifts of $250-$499 The Minneapolis Foundation Dan Dressen and Elisabeth Comeaux Anonymous (4) Gifts of $1,000-$2,499 Betty Myers Steve and Judy Drobeck 3M Foundation ± Anonymous David E. and Judy L. Myers matched by Medtronic Timothy and Mary Adams Gary Aamodt and Celia Ellingson Nick Nash and Karen Lundholm Milt and Jana Edgren Peter and Mary Ellen Alden Accredited Investors Wealth Management matched by Nash Foundation Jim and Liza Ervin Andrew Alness Ameriprise Financial ± The Nash Foundation Hope Esparolini Douglas M. and Carole M. Baker Giving Fund Quentin Anderson Jerry and Andrea Nelson Caron and Floyd Farmer Paul Olson and Mark Baumgartner Nancy Azzam Laura and Pete Oberst Jack and Terry Forsythe Carol and Jef Belz Ann Barkelew and James O’Hagan Michael and Kathleen O’Keefe Paul and Mona Gerike Jef and Lindsey Bina Jane Baxter Kevin and Paula Phillippe Rick and Linda Glasgow Beth Bird Augsburg University Presbyterian Homes and Services David and Yvonne Grover Susan Bordson Madeline Betsch RBC Wealth Management H. Boyd Nelson, Inc. Patrick and Wendy Born Jim and Martha Bowen Pam Matson Reierson and Gary Reierson Dee and Wilfried Hein Brian and Claudia Boysen Norlin and Carole Boyum Remele Family Fund of matched by U.S. Bancorp Cheryl Brown Brainerd Lakes Area Community Foundation The Minneapolis Foundation John and Robin Helgen Diana Carlson Brandenburg Reetz Family Fund of The John and Barbara Rice Mary Heller Marty and Peggy Carlson Minneapolis Foundation Riverbridge Partners Tom and Christine Hermanson David and Wendy Coggins Paul and Jane Brunelle Schmitt Music Company Doug and Kerry Hoverson, Jack W. Cole David* and Ann Buran Estelle Quinn Sell Saint Thomas Academy Erin and David Cragg Ginny Buran and Dwayne Cody Fred and Gloria Sewell matched by Ameriprise Financial Bruce and Kathie Dormanen Bursch Travel Bill and Trinka Sharpe Kirsten Howe Dave Durenberger and Susan Foote Barbara Burwell Gale Sharpe Ben Jafray Kent and Katherine Eklund Jon and Susan Campbell Elizabeth Shipton Johnson & Johnson Family of Companies ± Ralph and Debbie Estes Janet Carpenter David and Ann Smith Nancy and Bill Jones Google Inc. ± Judith Garcia Galiana and Alberto Castillo Ruth Spiegel and Brad McNaught Patrick and Ana Kelly Tim Graham John and Joan Colwell Arturo Steely Glenn and Kartra Kohl Richard and Sandra Haines John and Kathryn Colwell Family Fund of Cherie Stofer Chuck and Jill Koosmann Roy and Leslie Hakala The Minneapolis Foundation Frank Stubbs and Tom Lee Christine Podas-Larson and Kent Larson Ken and Suanne Hallberg Consulado de Mexico en Saint Paul matched by Blue Cross Blue Shield David and Carolyn Levitt Dob and Janis Hardy Jon Cranney and Katherine Ferrand Susan Marie Swanson and Tom Hysell Jon and Lisa Lewis Bill and Helen Hartfiel Edward and Betsy Cussler Rabindra Tambyraja Tim and Louise Matson James and Kathryn Haymaker Nathaniel and Victoria Davis D. Jean Thomson David and Cassidy McCrea Burns Winifred B. Hed Cy and Paula DeCosse Fund of Travelers Foundation Michael and Rosanne Monten Curt and Karen Hofman The Minneapolis Foundation Twin Cities Opera Guild John Nuechterlein and Dan Munson Sally Jafray DEMDACO Walt McCarthy and Clara Ueland Myers Family Fund of Joe and Heidi Halvarson Ecolab Bill and Gail Van Brunt The Saint Paul Foundation matched by Medtronic Glenace Edwall and Joe Peschek Paul and Carolyn Verret Susan Nicol Lauren Johnson Eide Bailly LLP Joanne Von Blon Bruce and Diane Nimmer Matt Johnson ExxonMobil Foundation ± Andy and Katrina Wallmeyer Lowell and Sonja Noteboom Robert and Sigrid Johnson Brian and Ann Farrell Wells Fargo Foundation Minnesota John Orbison and Holly MacDonald Novelli Jurado and Michelle Eng Cathie Fischer Tom and Diane Wentz Joan B. Parsons Lloyd and Karen Kepple Ryan and Jenny French David K. Whitney Richard and Jeanne Patterson Stephan and Karen Kistler matched by Ameriprise Financial Dawn and Jef Wieland Jim and Donna Peter Karen Koentopf and Steve Coleman Penny Bond and Chuck Grimsrud Wilson and Gayle Graham Yates Prudential Financial Inc ± Laurel Lapore Dan Rooney and Lisa Guyer-Rooney Brad and Linda Quarderer Mark and Susan Larson David O. and Kristine Henderson Gifts of $500-$999 Sharon and Chuck Ritchie Tom and Margie Lundberg matched by Ameriprise Financial Anonymous (5) Steve Aggergaard and Lana Rosario Judy and Don Mackenzie Walter and Judith Hinck The Allen Family Fund Gary and Patty Sander Katryn Conlin and Ben Manning Bill Hodder Pete and Margie Ankeny Cheryl E. Roberts Saunders Ray and Elsie Martin Phil and Laura Holst Dominick Argento Scandia Foundation Jan Mattox Robert S. and Patricia A. Hoyt Anton E. Armstrong, D.M.A. John Scheef Bill and Judith McGrann Thomas Hunt and John Wheelihan Randall Sayers and Martha Arneson Patricia Maguire and Joel Schlachtenhaufen David and Karen Minge Jerry Johnson and Larry Montan Kay and Ron Bach Hal and Judy Schneebeck Judy Morgan

Page 32 2018-2019 Season Nick Mroczek Jennifer and Ivan Beres Pat Hoven Dan Fernelius and Taylor Putz Kristi Mueller Roy and Nadine Berg Bill and Julie Howard Fred Quirsfeld and Linda Campbell Elizabeth Murray Linda Bergherr Dr. Gordon* and Nita Howell The Rae Mackenzie Group Richard and Deborah O’Gara Family Fund of Jennifer Bevington Louise Huf James and Susan Ramlet The Minnesota Community Foundation Don and Anne Bice Penny Hunt Lois Rand Alan Onberg Steven and Pam Bjoraker David Hunter David and Judy Ranheim Marston Ronald Opel and Karen Newstrom Judy Blaseg and John Engelen Samuel Ingram Jack and Ede Rice Joseph and Clara Osowski Maria Jette and Lee Blaske Ward Jacobson and Stephanie Johnson Jerome and Patricia Rice Doug and Jean Parish James Bohn and Linda Zelig Draper and Molly Jafray Ted and Jennifer Risdall Nicholas Peter Phil Bratnober Adam and JoAnna Johnson Ray and Ruth Rivard Nathan Petersen-Kindem David and Shauna Brookins James P. Johnson Mark and Cindy Rodahl Jackie Prince Elise G. Brunelle and Jeremy Greef Josie R. Johnson Kim and Chris Rodel Jef Rabkin and Susan M. Scofield John Greely and Annette Bruscino Robert T. Johnson Carol Rosenbaum Sharon Radman Robert and Bridget Burke Ted and Amy Johnson David and Kathleen Rothenberger Paul Lohman and Janeen Rae Phyllis Byers matched by Ameriprise Financial Brian D. and Barbara Ruhl Marty and David Raymond Kelly Canter Janet Jones David and Patricia Runkle Bill and Barbara Read Oscar and Valerie Carlson Wade Jones Mel and Irene Sahyun Libby Larsen and James Reece Beth Cauwels and Tom Norton David and Dede Jorstad Kay and Peter Sammond Lisa Reed Andy and Robin Cerio Bill* and Suzanne Joyce Debra Samuelson John Haugen and Alicia Reeves Carolyn Clarke and Kevin Deegan Aileen and Kim Kasper Ann Schrooten and Dawn Wieczorek matched by Johnson & Johnson Janet Colliton Richard* and Connie Keller Kyle Schwartz Jay and Barbara Rothmeier David Colwell Jean Kennedy Mari and Michael Scott Sarah Lutman and Robert Rudolph Joanna Cortright Curtis and Elizabeth Kettler Robert and Virginia Seybold Margaret and Matthew Sabin Marcus and Joan Cox Jefrey and Julie Kimpton Josue Silva Coral Sampson Thomas Crampton John Klein and Maria Pastoor William and Marcelyn Smale Craig and Maureen Shaver Douglas and Sarah Crowther Nathan and Julia Knoll James Smith Monika Strom and Brien Slawik Delores and Derrick Dennard matched by Thrivent Financial Johanna Smith Sharon Smith-Akinsanya Darlene A. Diesch Robert and Rita Koehler Robert C. Smith Bill and Sara Stout Jim and Colleen Dockendorf Sid and Anita Konikof Nancy Solhaug David Stricker Ernest and Mary Dorn Ryan LaBoy Carol Christine Southward Glenda and Richard Struthers Dominick and Nancy Driano William Lackey and Trevor Sannes Carol Stahlhut Carter Vern Sutton Anita Duckor Ann Ladd Jason Stewart Parker and Albert Trostel Joseph and Lois West Dufy Paul A. Laederach Jim and Sharon Stoebner Emily Anne Staples Tuttle* Fund of the Richard Duncan Laurie Lang Gary and Barbara Strandemo Minnesota Community Foundation Amy Edgren Jeenee Lee Susan Stuart and David Nelson* U.S. Bancorp Foundation ± John and Ludmila Eklund Peter and Jane Leferts Ward Green and Sandra Swami Doug and Molly Van Metre Joseph Ellickson Diana J. Leland Delbert Swanson and Elizabeth Starbuck Jennifer Vickerman Jim and Renee Engebretson Melanie Lien Lisa Kapsner-Swift Philip and Jane Wade Jason and Jessica Etten Euan Lim Judy Takkunen Lynn Hilary Westrom Chris Farrell Jan and Charlie Lloyd Dale Talley Barbara C. White Gerald Foley Charles and Hertha Lutz Laura and Matt Tanner Milo Oien-Rochat and Katharine Wood John and Priscilla Folin Gustavo Mancilla Jack and Mary Taylor matched by 3M Rick and Katie Fournier Sally Martineau Amy Tebbe Lori Ann Fouts Jefrey Masco Ella Thayer Gifts of $100-$249 Samuel Fouts Shannon Mayer Kaye and Craig Thoeny Anonymous (8) Gloria Freeman Jack and Cindy Mayeron Mark Tierney Tom Achartz and Cindy Kalland Betty Friesen and Susan Mahle Thomas and Judith McClain Melander Joe and Amanda Timmer Akosua Addo Jennifer Funkhouser Ian and Joyce McIntosh Ertugrul and Karen Owen Tuzcu Adriana Alvarez Vlasek and Rick Ford Wayne and Kitty Garnett David A. Beccue and Mark J. McKone Roland and Xiomara Ugarte American Public Media Jacob and Joyce Gayle Velia Melrose Dale Ulrich and Julie Brunner Lucille H. Amis GIA Publications Inc. Minnesota Spokesman-Recorder United Technologies ± William* and Suzanne Ammerman Rachel Gibbons Maria Mitchell UnitedHealth Group ± Christian and Barbara Anderson Alison Gipp Patricia Mitchell Uptop Films David Toht and Rebecca Anderson Anne and Stan Glad Craig and Judy Moen John and Libby Utter Richard O. Anderson, MD Dr. Stanley M. and Luella G. Goldberg Bob and Mary Moncur William and Karen Van Schyndel Rolan E. Anderson Susan and Barry Graceman Jonathan and Martha Morgan Charles Vogel and Jane Ladky Steven Anderson and Jerald Graetz Sharon Murphy Garber Clifton and Bettye Ware Barbara Randolph-Anderson Robert J. Graham II Carolyn Nayematsu Jim Waters and Jackie Henning matched by LabCorp Jean Gray Fran and Patti* Neir Joe and Jennifer Weismann The Gabriel Foundation, Byron Egeland John and Jan Gray Donald and Gerda Nightingale John Westrom* Anthem Foundation ± Joel Grover and Amy Thorpe Paul and Liz Norton Ted and Nancy Weyerhaeuser Scott Appelwick and Ed Sootsman Gerardo Guerrero Gomez David Olson Hilary Wiek Kamran and Britt Ardakani Kristina M. Guifre matched by United Technologies Dr. Preston and Sharon Williams Linda Aronson Autumn Gurgel Joan Olson Richard Willits Robert Atendido Judith Hadler Sarah Olson Gregory Wilsey Kevin Bailey and Ken Kiefer Timothy C. Takach and Jocelyn Hagen Marri M. Oskam William and Judy Wise Thomas Barber Bill Halverson Sandra Overland RADM and Mrs. Ray C. Witter Carol Barnett Shannon Hart George Katherine Panciera Darin and Monica Zielsdorf Hazel and Carol A. Barnett William Heier matched by Google Inc. Michael and Sharon Bash Javier and Azalea Henao Bill Pederson Gifts up to $99 Mary K. Baumann and Will Hopkins Dr. John and Sarah Henrich Paul* and Virginia Pfeifer Anonymous (4) Bruce W. and Paula M. Becker David and Susan Henry Samantha Phillippe Richard and Sharon Aadalen Becca Bellman Arthur and Donna Hogenson Bert Pinsonneault Rose Adams Tesfa Wondemagegnehu and Michelle Bendett Paul Magnuson and Elaine Holmen Sally B. Polk Rick and Kristi Alberts

2018-2019 Season Page 33 Amanda Allen Elizabeth Dokken Frederick Kaemmer and Kate Tilney Patricia Okaya Richard and Cindy Alness Kate and Douglas Donaldson Raymond and Shirley Kaiser James and Judy Olson Laura Alpizar Christine Drotning Mary Kaphings Emily Olson de Alvarez Smile Suzanne Ducker Joan Kark Hillary Oppmann Christy Anderson David Dufresne Nicole Kaufman Lorri Otto Libby Anderson Alex Dybsky JW Keckley David Paese Jim and Debbie Andrews Ethel Dzubay Mary Kelley Brian and Julia Palmer Patricia Arntz Richard and Carol Eick Stephen Kemp Park Nicollet Foundation, Beth Warner Cynthia Balyk Mark and Chelli Esser Nancy Kent Deborah Pearson Bill and Krystal Banfield matched by Voya Financial Anika Kildegaard Eric and Christina Pederson Travis Banken Anna Marie Ettel Athena Kildegaard Tryg and Dee Pederson matched by Medtronic Connie Evingson Tim Killeen Robert and Sue Petzel Karen Barstad Barbara Feehan Jan and Tom Kilton James Phelps Mary Beamish Emily Feld Jan Kimes Jonathan Pinkerton and Julia Rice Stephen and Mary Belden Matt Ferguson Mary E. King Lisa Pomroy Jessica Belt Sandy Ferguson Marilyn Kirk Jonathan Posthuma Steve and Anita Beste Mary Lou Fleischhacker Ted and Jenny Kisner Lynn Purdue Jason and Ali Biatek Judith Florine Sandra Klapperich Shira Rabkin Richard and Kris Bjorklund Kathryn Foley Joy Klemp Wendy Rahn Barbara Blackstone matched by Medtronic Gillian Koch Jessica Raines Ann Carol Blom Sorum Bruce and Deb Folken Audrey Kramer Roxanne Ramirez Mark Blomquist Charlotte Forsythe Kathleen Krishnan Rita Meyer and Larry Rapp Carla Blumberg Roger Foster Erik Krohg Elisa Rasmussen Miriam Bock Yvonne Fox Randy and Lisa LaCombe Barbara Reale Jef Bowar Jon Fraatz and Ella Vincent Margaret B. LaFleur Shirley Reider and Dennis Lienke Christine Bownik-Meyer Rhonda Franklin Milton Larson Kathleen Richards Julia Braaten Karl Fredrickson Philip and Joann Larson Herbert and Joan Ringheim Tom and Kelleigh Brandt Eric and Andrea Fulcomer Tracy R. LaVere John and Barbara Risken Pamela and Steve Branlund David Gardiner Jan Leclair Joe and Susan Robinson Josh Brockbank Becky Gaunt Elaine H. Lee Kim Rose Henry Bromelkamp David Gilyard Henry and Miriam Lee Michael Rowan Sarah Brookner David Gindra Reagan Lee Douglas and Elizabeth Roy Jenaye Brown Nancy Goldstein Theodore and Kathryn Lee Gavin Berg and Joe Ruggiero Joe and Martha Brown Mary Jo Gothmann Ronald and Judy Libertus Susan Runge Tim and Haley Brunelle Roger Greenberg Stephen and Nancy Lindquist John Rupp Julie Brusen Kelly Grifn Marita and Brian Link Warren Salveson Terry Burford Curt and Elizabeth Gumbrell Brenda Lisenby Katie Sample Mike and Susan Burnett Carolina Gustafson Linda Lorenz Karen Sandberg Rhodessa Burt Theresa Guthrie Allan and Jackie Lotsberg Jeanne Schleh Three Square - Brian Burton Alex Halverson Meghan Lowe Peter Scholtz Marjorie Carlson Meghan Hanna Jo Ann Lucas Bill Schrickel Louise Carpentier Elaine Hanson AJ Lund Carl and Dana Schroeder Julie Carr Marylee Hardenbergh Charles Batko and Kathy Lundberg Gary Seim and Lee Pfannmuller Marjorie Carr Catherine Haselbauer Gary and Renee Macomber Anne Seltz Patricia Carver Kathy Hering Walker MacSwain Kathleen Shumway Kathie and Frank Cerra Rachel Hickok Paul and Beatrice Magee Scott and Katie Sisel Mary Anne Chalkley Ruth Hiland Gary and Susan Martland Jennifer Skinner Katie Channing Harrison Hintzsche Krista Mathews David Skodje Constance Chen and Patrick Johnson Sandra K. Hirsh Mary Lou Mathison Jef and Maxine Skold John Christiansen History Theatre Nicholas R. Mattsson Jefrery and Betty Skold David and Joan Ciminski Mark and Ellie Hodkinson Barbara McBurney Thomas and Kathryn Skold Garfield and Sharon Clark Thomas Hollenhorst Thomas and Barbara McClellan Shari Sloane Sandra Clasen Kristine Holmgren Wendy McCulley Hugh Smeltekop Lloyd Clausen Barb Holmstrom Bernard McGarrigle Connor Smith Allan Cloutier Susan Holt Cynthia McGill Don and Judy Smith Elizabeth Cogswell Kris Horton Anna George Meek and Matthew Gladue Schele Smith Ann Cohen and John Glasenapp Elizabeth Horvitz Kimberly D. Meisten Tracy Smith Ralph and Ruth Colby Rebecca Hovsepian Bob and Mary Mersky Paul and Pat Solstad Ryan Coopergard Jean Howell Faith Miller Angeline Sorenson Mark and Margaret Lammers Michael and Kristin Howlett Hannah Miller Kristina Rodel Sorum Bethany Cox Linda Hucke Marion Dwyer Miller Noelle Starr Lawrence Cramer Dr. Warren Huf Rebecca and Keith Modert Del Steckler Kent and Dee Ann Crossley Kendra Hyland Lisa Moncur Carolyn J. Steele Edward and Diane Curtiss Richard Jackson Walter and Virginia Moore Marilee Stevens Roger Cutler and Janet Poore Kathleen Jacobson Lynn Morgenthaler Judy Orr Stinson Paul Dalton Pamela Jakes Richard and Karol Morton William H. Stump Britta Dass Nicole James Gilchrist Michael Mulcahy Timothy Supol Jennica Date Lisa Jamieson Nancy Narigon Sharon Swiglo John Dell Judith Jaskowiak Jim and Merilu Narum James Talen Elizabeth Demario Allison Jensen Jesse Nelson Susan Tasa Terry and Susan* Diebold Sharon A. Johnson Sadie and Kyle Nelson John A. Taylor Carol Diemert Kim William Jones Laurits and Mary Ellen Nielsen Rosita Tendall Deborah Dille Ruth Jones Susan O. Nyhammer Dana Terres Dennis and Nickie Dillon Mary Adair and Gerald Jorgenson Andrea Oien Walfred and Priscilla Thoreen

Page 34 2018-2019 Season Caren Timmerman In memory of Barbara Benn In honor of Lori Ann Fouts In memory of Lee Johnston Katherine R. Tonn Eisinger Philip and Madeleine Lowry Sam Fouts Ann Buran Pamela Towle Mahoney Bill and Amanda Troolin In memory of Alan Berg In honor of Sam Fouts In memory of Bill Joyce Eileen M. Troseth Roy and Nadine Berg Lori Ann Fouts Suzanne Joyce Carol Uecker Justin and April Ueland In memory of Ernest Brandts In honor of Elvin and Ann Franklin, Jr. In honor of Dr. Art and Martha Kaemmer Adella Larry Brandts Rhonda Franklin Julia Kaemmer and Olivier Vrambout Margaret Vainio David Whitney Adam Van der Sluis In memory of Josie Braziel In memory of Kathy Gagnon Helen Ver Hoeven Delores and Derrick Dennard Maria Mitchell In memory of Martha H. Kaemmer Voya Financial ± Philip and Carolyn Brunelle Kate Vukodinovich In honor of Philip Brunelle In honor of Nancy Giford-Humphreys Ann Buran Michael Walsh Peter and Mary Ellen Alden Barbara Reale Jefrey Masco Daniel and Cassandra Warn Chris Brunelle and Serena Zabin David Whitney James Leslie and Lynnanne Warren Ralph and Debbie Estes In memory of Lauretta Graetz Jacob Watson David and Margene Fox Jerald Graetz In honor of Anika Kildegaard Stacey and Jef Wedding Lisa Rovick John and Jeanne Weingart In honor of Philip Brunelle and the 50th Year In honor of Ward Green Joe and Margaret Jane Weissenborn John and Joan Colwell Sandra Swami In memory of N. Judge King Ph.D. Robert Wetzler Reatha Clark King Carole Whitney and Craig Carlson In honor of Philip Brunelle and Maria Jette In memory of Grandma Bernice Allie Wigley Missy Thompson and Gar Hargens Kristine Holmgren In honor of Nikki Lewis John and Trudy Wilgers Madeline Betsch Lois Willand In honor of Philip Brunelle’s 75th Birthday In memory of Jane Dayton Hall Ellen Wells Anders Eckman and Aaron Williamson John and Joan Colwell Rick and Kristi Alberts matched by Ameriprise Financial Dan Dressen and Beth Comeaux Lucille Amis In memory of Audrey MacArthur Debra Winge Pat and Bob Hoyt Pete and Margie Ankeny Joy MacArthur Michael Winikof Susan and Herb Nyhammer Nancy Azzam Mary Wittenbreer Judy Orr Stinson Don and Anne Bice In honor of John Mauriel’s Birthday Dannika Wright Ann Buran Nancy Goldstein M. Wycof In honor of Tim Brunelle’s 50th Birthday Mike and Susan Burnett Jane Young Mary Ann Aufderheide Janet Carpenter In memory of Don Mellem Mary Young John and Joan Colwell Bruce and Deb Folken Scott and JoAnne Young In memory of David Buran Douglas and Sarah Crowther Janis Zeltins Ginny Buran and Dwayne Cody Yvonne Fox In honor of Lisa Moncur Daniel Zielske Peter and Kay Sammond Eric and Andrea Fulcomer Bob and Mary Moncur Clare Zupetz James and Kathryn Haymaker In memory of Ruth Burger Louise Huf In honor of Noah and Christian Nielsen Bob and Sig Johnson Janet Jones Laurits and Mary Ellen Nielsen Don and Joann Leavenworth SPECIAL TRIBUTES In memory of Shirley Campbell Mary Lou Mathison In memory of Miriam L. Parsons VocalEssence is honored by the Sue Shepard and Don Helgeson Wendy McCulley Janet Colliton many gifts received in memory, Bob and Mary Mersky appreciation, and celebration of In honor of Jennie and Richard Carlson Lorri Otto In honor of Bill Pederson friends and family. The following Sharon Smith-Akinsanya Brian and Julia Palmer Anonymous tributes were made between July Tryg and Dee Pederson 1, 2017 and February 5, 2019. If In memory of Norm Carpenter Sally Polk In memory of Mary Peterson Ann Buran Fred Quirsfeld and Linda Campbell Shirley Reider and Dennis Lienke you wish to make a gift in tribute, Jack and Ede Rice please call 612-547-1473. In honor of Laura Caviani Joyce Schnobrich In honor of Doug and Mary Platt Jo Ann Lucas Don and Judy Smith Sid and Anita Konikof In honor of the 50th Anniversary of Jean Thomson VocalEssence In honor of Tomie Conaway Emily Anne Tuttle In honor of Louise Quam Elise Brunelle and Jeremy Greef Sandra Klapperich Lois Quam and Arshad Mohammed Nick Nash and Karen Lundholm In memory of David Hanson In memory of Thurston H. Davini Philip and Carolyn Brunelle In memory of Joyce Byers Reed In honor of Ella and Ruby Anderson Bill and Ruth Davini Ann Buran William and Barbara Read Karen Barstad In memory of Dr. Stan Diesch In honor of Dave and Bev Heggen In memory of George Reid In memory of Muriel Anderson Darlene Diesch John and Robin Helgen Accredited Investors Wealth Management Rolan Anderson Ann Buran In honor of Ensemble Singers In honor of Don Helgeson and Kent and Dee Ann Crossley In honor of Mary Ann Aufderheide Ann Schrooten VocalEssence Anna Marie Ettel Sarah Lutman and Rob Rudolph Sue Shepard Christine Podas-Larson and Kent Larson In memory of Marion Etzwiler Ronald and Judy Libertus In honor of Ann Barkelew O’Hagan Carol Brandenburg In memory of Tom Heller Dominick and Nancy Driano Ann Buran In memory of Adrienne (Winky) Rice In honor of Matt Ferguson Dob and Janis Hardy In honor of Jo Beld Sandy Ferguson In memory of Dr. Gordon P. Howell Jon Fraatz and Ella Vincent John and Robin Helgen In honor of Rice In memory of Jerry Fischer Jonathan Pinkerton and Julia Rice Cathie Fischer In memory of Marcie Jacobson Scott and JoAnne Young

2018-2019 Season Page 35 In memory of Judith Ann (Freeman) Rodel In honor of LeAnn Stein In honor of VocalEssence Staf Herbert and Joan Ringheim Kim and Chris Rodel Jack Stamp Carolyn Brunelle Douglas and Elizabeth Roy The Saint Paul Foundation In memory of Linda Schaefer In memory of Ana Strandemo In honor of Katrina and Andy Wallmeyer’s John Scheef Carol Stahlhut Carter Gary and Barbara Strandemo Anniversary Jefrey and Betty Skold Cynthia Balyk Jef and Maxine Skold In honor of Heidi Schleif In honor of Gary Strandemo Thomas and Kathryn Skold Brenda Lisenby Barbara Strandemo In memory of John T. Westrom Shari Sloane Rose Adams Hugh Smeltekop In memory of June Scofield In memory of Len Takkunen Andersen Corporate Foundation Angeline Sorenson Susan Scofield Judy Takkunen Philip and Carolyn Brunelle Delbert Swanson and Elizabeth Starbuck Brian Burton Carol Uecker In honor of Mari Scott In honor of Dianne Thompson and Marjorie Carlson Paul and Carolyn Verret Steven and Pam Bjoraker Bill Hutchins John Dell Stacey and Jef Wedding Ann Barkelew and Jim O’Hagan Elizabeth Demario John and Jeanne Weingart In memory of Elizabeth Shelver Kate and Douglas Donaldson Lynn Westrom Joyce McIntosh In honor of Missy Thompson and Scott and Vivian Donaldson Mary Young Gar Hargens John and Jan Gray On behalf of G. Phillip Shoultz, III and Malcolm McDonald R. Jean Gray In memory of Scot Zimmerman Michelle Shoultz Elaine Hanson John and Sheila Bjorklund Cynthia and Daniel Kapke In honor of Nancy Thurber Hugh J. Andersen Foundation Amy Edgren Art Kaemmer In honor of G. Phillip Shoultz, III, Michelle and Laurie Lang Malachi Shoultz In memory of Emily Ann Mayer Staples Tuttle Philip and Joann Larson Brian and Claudia Boysen Malcolm McDonald Michael Mulcahy Nick Nash and Karen Lundholm In honor of Singers in Accord In memory of Tony Ver Hoeven Park Nicollet Foundation, Beth Warner Jan Leclair Helen Ver Hoeven Deborah O’Gara Lynn Purdue

Page 36 2018-2019 Season LET’S FILL THE HALL! Join those above! Just $25 sponsors a student’s seat at Orchestra Hall!

Seats can be sponsored at the VocalEssence table in the lobby today or online at vocalessence.org/donate

2018-2019 Season Page 37 Page 38 2018-2019 Season

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