Newsletter of The Houston Symphony Chorus Vol. 1 No. 1 October 1989

From The Editor by Sally I. Evans Welcome to Volume 1, Number 1 of The Houston Symphony Chorus newsletter, SING OUT . The purpose of this quarterly pubUcation is to help us get to know each other and to provide information about chorus life. You can expect anything from who had a baby to how to get the most from rehearsal. Some of it will be interesting; some, humor ous; some, "good for you," as your mother used to say. But don't expect it to tackle issues in only two or four pages every three months. If you are interested in knowing more about a particular subject that affects the chorus, or if you have news about your own or another member's activities that might inter est everyone, tell me or one of our Chorus Presents Awards four reporters, or put a note in the newsletter envelope on the chorus In September 1989, The Houston Tony Vasquez (Tl) and J. Warren bulletin board. Be sure to include Symphony Chorus presented service Thompson (Bl). In the 15-ycar your section along with your name. award pins to 30 members. These category were Mary Nepveux (82), Each issue will be distributed at awards are gjven annually to Augusta Levine (82), Antoinette rehearsal, with copies mailed to recognize outstanding attendance Boecker (Al), Nancy Hawley (A2) singers who are on leave. The at rehearsal and performances. and John Grady (Tl). The fmi editor's and the reporters' time is Because of chorus staff changes, the category of 20-year pin recipients donated. Printing and production September ceremony marked the included Carol Carthel (82), expenses are provided by the first awards in three years. Lynda Sparks (A2), Phil Crichlun symphony as a part of the chorus (Tl) and Peter Peropoulos (Tl). manager's budget. Those receiving five-year pins In the next few weeks, we plan were Barbara Bush (82), Beverly Recognized for service beyond to conduct a survey to generate Ladnier (S2), Carolyn McShan these categories were Bill Cum statistical information about chorus (82), Joan Mercado (81), Melanie berland (Bl), 24 years; Lee Stevens member background for use in Minton (81), Dorothy Scbaettle (82), 32 years; and Earle Jensen charts and graphs and as story ideas. (81), Jane Thompson (82), Calvin (A2) for 36 years of membership. Let me know if there is something Fuller (T2), Gene Lasater (T2), Also recognized were outgoing that interests you, so we can try to Tony Sessions (Tl), Joseph Singer section leaders Sally Evans (81), include it. (T2), Chuck Izzo (B2) and David Pamella Lyons (82), Lynda Sparks Remember, my job is to put the Knoll (B2). Receiving 10-year pins (A2), David Nussmann (Tl), newsletter together; yours is to were Ann Janzen Caito (SI), Zelda Calvin Fuller (T2), Warren provide feedback, so we can produce Dvoretzlg' (Al), Nancy McClain Thompson (Bl) and Bill Goddard a publication you want to read. I'm (A2), Dianne Stine (Al), Ann Wade (B2). Arthur Heitzmann (Bl) served looking forward to your help in Tubb (Al), James Carazola (Tl), as photographer for the ceremony. SINGlmg]OUT. A Message from the Director INTRODUCING... Hausmann Appoints Section Leaders Building a great performance sensitive to his gestures, which sents the way it is lo be performed. requires a quality rehearsal show mood, rhythm, tempo, This includes adjustments of the Director Charles Hausmann has experience, one which strives to dynamics, articulation and phrase rhythm, dynamics, tempo, articula appointed new sections leaders, who unify vocal and musical concepts. shape. This saves words and tion, diction, pitch, tone color also will sit on the Chorus Council. To achieve these concepts, each allows for more singing during and phrasing, Section leaders serve as liaison to singer should practice six important the rehearsal. the chorus manager, help to contact PRACTICE means concentration "guide words" during choral members when rehearsal times or LISTEN to the ensemble while on vocal technique as it applies to rehearsals. Since these are basic locations change, listen for vocal you sing. Be sensitive to pitch, musical style. At each repetition of to our continued success, I felt it problems and monitor absences. In blend, balance, diction, articulation a passage, one must strive to appropriate that they be reviewed addition to returning section leader and phrasing, allowing your voice correct problems and achieve certain in this, the premiere issue of Lee Ann Penick (Al), the new ones to contribute to the desired vocal vocal and musical goals. Never our newsletter. In future issues, I are Dorothy Schaettle (SI), Jan will discuss the basic concepts and musical goals. A musician's repeat mindlessly. intelligence lies in the way he uses Russell (S2), Carolyn Regan which transform a group of (A2), Harry Pettit (Tl), Alexton people who sing together into an his ears. FEEL the motion and emotion created by your "feelingful re Malloiy (T2), Stephen Jumes (Bl) artistic ensemble. MARK your music with appropri sponsiveness" to the score. This is Jo Davenport and David Knoll (B2). Knoll pre WATCH the conductor at all ate shorthand. You are editing the based on an inner feeling of viously was an at-large Chorus times. Empathize with and be music so that it more closely repre- rhythm, melodic and harmonic mo Council member. tion, and mood. If it is not in the mind, it will not be in the voice. {Editor's note: We're taking The symphony was looking for COMMUNICATE by projecting someone just like Jo to help it grow Section Notes the appropriate mood and drama this opportunity to begin introducing from a single PC to the current 22 through tone color and facial symphony staff members whose work Congratulations to skinny Virginia Ufelong ambition Dec. 10, when he supports the chorus.) PCs, one minicomputer and laser Prudence (Al), who- lost 70+ sings King Kaspar in Amahl and the and postural expressiveness. printers. The staff uses primarily Do Volunteers Get Paid? Allow "created reality" to replace pounds... Margaret Miller (A2) and Night Visitors at First Congregational word processing, a data base and "actual reality". husband Kipp on the Sept. 30 Church, with former member Computer Services Assistant Lotus 1-2-3, with Jo handling the birth of son Robert Blake... Maria — Charles S. Hausmann Maggie Tucker directing and Jay Josephine (Jo) Santos Davenport desktop publishing. Jo's recent (771^ following was excerpted from Farah (S2) and husband George on Karahan (Tl) and former member designed and typeset this newsletter projects include the orchestra con Ralph Black's The Best of Black the Oct. 11 birth of son Gregory Bob Wilbur in the cast. Gary Navy as well as the chorus calendar tract and calendar books, Houston Notes, published by theAmerican Christopher (the baby we were (Bl) will sing King Balthazar in book. As part of Business Affairs, Symphony League membership Symphony Orchestra League. After afraid would be born on stage the College of the Mainland roster, Houston Symphony Society reading this article, I thought that, during the Beethoven Ninth)... Jay Jo installs and maintains all Arena Theater's Amahl. software related to the symphony's board directory, flyers and inserts with a couple of word changes the Karahan (Tl) and Christin Anne Jacqui Brodeur (S2), Keith Dixon personal computers (PCs) and for programs, and lots of in\dtations information could also apply to Kaeppel, who wed Oct. 28 at First SING OUT 615 Louisiana printers. But her primary job is for fund raising functions. chorus members, who give up so Congregational Church (ask Jay (T2), Monique Haverkorn (SI) and Houston, TX 77002 leaching other staff members lo use much of their valuable time to about the music!). Sally Hecker (S2) sing with the 713/224-3247 or 713/660-7990 Houston Gilbert & Sulhvan Society. the computers and software and Jo is Spanish/English bilingual, make wonderful music. Jon Miller (T2) and Janene Tuesday Musical Club treasurer SING OUT is published quarterly in Sep troubleshooting when someone can't primarily because she hails from —Marilyn Dyess, Chorus Manager) BostHick (Al) will be soloists in a tember, December, March and June by make the computer do what he or Puerto Rico and didn't learn Joan Mercado (SI) serves as central The Houston Symphony Chorus. Messiah presentation directed by area docent trainer for The Hous she thinks it should do. English until her family moved to one of Charles Hausmann's students. ton Symphony. While her daugh Chorus Manager: Marilyn Dyess the United States during World War He didn't really like volunteers, and Joy Jonstone (A2) and Ann Mussel- Editor: Sally I. Evans II. She and her husband, Stan, met showed it. He obviously had no ter attended a scientific conference, Design: Jo Davenport Jo has worked with The Houston man (SI) earned places in the Carol Carthel (S2) enjoyed Symphony since September 1985. It on a blind date, married after less respect for them and placed all 24-member chorus of Houston orchestral and organ music in Reporters: Bernard Fields, was her foray into the work-for-pay than three months, and will be the blame for the orchestra's Grand Opera's Julius Caesar. Ann David Nussmann, Becky Rogers, world after 20 plus years spent celebrating 29 years together this varied problems at their door. Vienna and Villach, Austria. Claire Sanders and Judy Hurt (Al) will solo Nov. 9 Claire Sanders (SI) owns and rearing her son, Mark. An RN December. When she isn't at her "You really can't depend on or with the Mcxico City combined directs Curtain Call Kids, a musical Content ideas, information and com with a BS degree in nursing, Jo computer, Jo relaxes by gardening at chestra volunteers because they ments may be sent to the editor, her new home in The Woodlands. don't get paid." This was said by symphonies for the international theater workshop in which children c/o The Houston Symphony Chorus wanted a change. So when her son celebration of Citibank's 60lh write and perform their own office or directly to P.O. Box 56644, left for college, she returned to an acquaintance of mine, who also anniversary gala in Mexico City con musicals. Shows are scheduled at Houston, TX 77256; given to any re school for an Associate Degree in happens to be a fool. I did not porter; or left In the newsletter folder on argue with him. You should never ducted by Jorge Velasco. Dave Bammel and Oak Creek Elementary the HSC bulletin board in Jor?^Hall. Computer Science. Nussmann (Tl) gets to fulfill a Schools and the Oaks Academy. Volunteers (continued) argue with a fool-people may not 2.They are given the opportunity 8.Through intimate association be able to distinguish which one of to serve art, the noblest of with the inner workings of the you is the fool! endeavors. orchestra, volunteers gain valuable knowledge of the His inane remark shocked me into 3.They have the privilege of music-making process. Per trying to delineate that special truth establishing policy. formances become more signifi I have always known: Volunteers cant and pleasurable. are paid. Take a look at how 4.They receive the bountiful Webster's Dictionary defines volun gratitude of conductor, board, 9.They gain a nice warm place in teer: "One who enters into or guild, musicians, manager and the sun. Ah-h-h, we all need offers oneself for any service on committee chairmen. that! Recognition is a perfectly one's own free will." reasonable and just motivation 5.They gain the coveted respect of for serving. Nothing is said about there being not only the symphony family a lack of compensation. but also the community. 10.Volunteers gain self respect, gratification for a job well How are orchestra {chorus] volun 6.They are gjven the wonderful done, and the knowledge that teers paid? opportunity to work closely with "without my effort, art is not musicians, the music director possible. I am part of the l.They are rewarded by having a and guest artists. creative process." No reward fine orchestra [chorus]. could be greater. 7. They become special people with special privileges...and enjoy that unique opportunity to discuss art with great artists.

The Houston Symphony Chorus 615 Louisiana Street Houston, Texas 77002 ^ ;/>w u - /7«rr//7

Newsletter of The Houston Symphony Chorus Vol. 1, No. 2 December 1989

Brave Souls Set Sights On Reading Music Better by David Nale With the haunting strains of "one - two, major second, one - three, major t^d" wafting through the air, the warm-up time t^gjns in the HSC Sight-reading Class. Although nearly 30 simed up for the class, only sue soim lived through this experience—and walked out knowing more than when they walked in. Starting in October, we met for six 45-mmute sessions from 6:30 to 7:15 on Tuesday evenings prior to the HSC rehearsal. The class was Alexton Mallory, Carolyn Rogan and Stephen James. Not pictured, Harry Petiit. (I think) ably lead by my^lf and covered ground which was review for some and news to others. New Section Leaders Boast While the primary stress was on identifying and correctly sin^g Strong Musical Backgrounds intervcJs (which sounds like a pretty sleep-inducing way to spend three Section leaders are supposed to include Music Man, South Pacific, quarters of an hour, but, trust me, listen for vocal problems as well as Oklahoma, Little Shop of Horrors, it was not half bad!) in the contend: communicate schedule changes, so Bye Bye Birdie and 42nd Street. of simple melodies, we also covered they should have strong and varied In answer to the question, the structure of major and minor musical backgrounds. Bernie Fields "What do you see as your biggest scales, the chromatic scale and helped compile the following pro challenge as a new section leader?", rhythmic problems. files. (Look for more next issue.) Steve responded that he would like Right up there on the "things to improve the chorus by making it this class least likes to do" list was Stephen James (Bl) more organized. In particular, he the melodic dictation, where I would sing a melody and the class would Stephen James, a member of sights improving the communication of markings and directions from the have the opportunity to write it the HSC since 1985, has lived in down wth stunning accuracy. Well, Houston eight years. He is a native conductors to the chorus. actually, some of them did pretty of Pewee Valley, KY. Steve at well after about the fifth time tended the University of Louisville Harry Pettit (Tl) through... and earned a degree in chemical Harry Pettit joined the HSC in engineering. After graduation, he I know what the reader is 1987, just in time for Gunther thinking right now; he is thinking to went to work for Exxon in Baton Schuller's "Power Within Us." himself "Self, how could I get to be Rouge, LA, prior to his transfer Amazingly enough, he decided to part of this uplifting time?" And to Houston. stay for the chorus' more traditional the unfortunate answer is, "You He is a former member of the works. can't", because the tearful farewell Baton Rouge Choral Society and Harry started singing in the was said at the last session on Nov. has sung since 1983 with the Bay Marietta (OH) College Community 14. Rest assured, thou^ that there Area Chorus. Besides his active Chorus as a high school student and are those among you wnose reading role in choral music, Steve is an continued as he sought his business skills have been enhanced. accomplished pianist and accompa degree at the college. He also Participants included Philip nist. Since 1985, he has played piano helped start the mixed chorus at Crichton (T2), R<^er Cutler (Bl), (and sung and danced) for summer Marietta College. Chuck Izzo (B2), Beverly Ladnier musicals at College of the Mainland (S2), Lee Ann Penick (Al) and in Texas City. His show credits (continued on page 4) Carolyn Rogan (A2). INTRODUCING... From the Editor

GET READY FOR HEITOR VILLA-LOBOS Pam Lyons Help! We need to hear from you. Grab a pen and write down tidbits Pamella Lyons, a second soprano about yourself or your friends or (We yAll be performing Villa-Lobos' At the age of 18 he started arts. Despite his lack of formal who can sing almost anything but your enemies. Give them to a Choros No. 10 in March with Muhai on a trip around Brazil. As he education, he was made advisor bass, recently became the Houston reporter or put them in the newslet Tang conducting.) traveled he wrote down and studied to the government on music Symphony Chorus librarian. ter envelope. When new music arrives, the li "I do not believe in music as folk and popular music. He education. He revamped the Also, we'd like to have any brarian verifies that all music culture, or education, or even as a returned to Rio at the age of 25 to music curricula in primary and story ideas. For example,Reporter ordered was received. She then device for amusement or for quiet study composition and cello but technical schools, promoted concerts Bemie Fields suggested we profile numbers each copy and stamps each ing the nerves, but as something found himself ill-suited to the in outlying villages and devised a the new section leaders—and with the HSC stamp, preparing the more potent, mystical, and pro regimentation of formal schooling. program to save popular music. promptly interviewed Stephen James music for distribution. found in its effect. Music has this He decided to study on his own and In 1944 he made the first of for this issue. Arthur Heitzmann has She also maintains the inven power to communicate, to heal, and supported himself by playing the many trips to the United States. As offered to write about remembered tory, so that we know how many to ennoble, when it is made a part cello in cafes and cinemas. his later music was non-controver performances and conductors from copies of each work are available of man's life and consciousness. I After obtaining financial support sial, it was easily accepted by unad- the chorus' past. and so that duplicate music isn't do not know what the word inspi from patrons, he moved to Paris venturous audiences. The intellec SING OUT is your newsletter. ration means, I create music out where he lived from 1923 to tually elite dismissed it as being ordered. What do you want to read? of necessity, biological necessity. 1930. In this artistically sophisti ge£u-ed down to popular tastes. "The biggest headache in this cated climate he found his work job," Pam says, "is trying to collect currently is a member of the Christ I write because I cannot help it. Villa-Lobos is reputed to Church Cathedral choir. promoted great interest among the have written over two thousand music after a concert series is I follow no style or fashion. My In Pam's nonsinging life, she is intellectual elite. compositions. Many of them were, completed...and hassling people artistic creed is la liberte absolue. a commercial insurance marketer License, Car and Smile He returned to Brazil in however, experimental. when they don't return it." When I write, it is according to the with Ted W. Allen & Associates. Put You In Driver's Seat style of Villa-Lobos." This state 1930 to fmd under way a na Excerptedfrom LISTEN TO THE MUSIC Pam began singing with the She offices in the Galleria area. ment by Brazilian composer Heitor tional movement to promote the by Jonathan D. Kramer HSC in FaU 1974. Originally, she The Houston Symphony needs driv sang first soprano, but "my voice Pam and her sister Jeannine are Villa-Lobos (1887-1959) may be ers to meet guest conductors and teacher at the time said I wasn't [a about to become part of the two- taken as his personal aesthetic. mortgage group. They have put artists at the airport (which usually At a very young age Villa- first soprano.]" Section Notes ^ their Pasadena home up for sale means Intercontinental). Lobos began to study the cello, A singer in school and church and will close Dec. 15 on their This on going need is usually which remained his primary instru On December 1, Mary Gahr (Al) David Knoll (B2) and former choirs since the third grade, Pam dream house, a three-bedroom place filled by staff personnel. But during ment, He liked different kinds of relinquished her post as librarian. member Cary Cobb. She gave six of the best years of on 1-1/2 acres, also in Pasadena. heavily scheduled times, such as music-music he heard on the First-time Messiah singers this her life to keeping our music year include Kathy Hutchison "The place must have belonged Christmas and the Mostly Mozart streets, improvisations and dances straight—and numerous forgetful We're Right on Pitch Festival, the staff seeks additional played by amateur musicians in (S2), and Bill Hutchison (B2). to a deer hunter," says Pam, "be chorus members as well. Pamela cause there's a barbecue building or volunteers. If you, Rio de Janeiro nightclubs, and yes, Is true pitch as tough to find as true Lyons (S2) has consented to smoke house just behind the potting 1. are interested in helping, Bach's compositions. These vastly tackle the never ending sign'em love? A syndicated column in the 2. can carry on a conversation Sing Ckjt HOUSTON POST reported the shed. different styles were combined into out/sign'em in/track'em down/ 615 Louisiana following information about singers. "The only major work we'll with a talented stranger, and Villa-Lobos' own unique style. keep'em straight librarian's job. Houston, TX 77002 3. drive safely enough that the 713/224-3247 or 713/660-7990 "How long can a good singer have to do is clean out the 1/4-acre Our deepest sympathy goes to artist arrives in one piece, Philip Crichton (T2), whose sister stay on pitch? Researchers ran tests lily pond; build a greenhouse for the Sing Out is published quarterly in Sep to find that out. A tenth of a orchid collection; put in a couple of preferably without experiencing died Oct. 13. tember, December. March and June by heart failure, Congratulations to Becky The Houston Symphony Chorus. second was about all. Similar tests pet doors for our dog and cat. We Symphony Chorus Elects call Thelma Hunt, Artist Ser\^ces Rogers (Al), who will finally on recordings indicated a renowned have even picked out the sight for Coordinator, at the symphony of AMarge Council Members graduate Dec. 15 with a degree in Chorus Manager; Marilyn Dyess violinist was only on true pitch an orchard." Editor: Sally I. Evans about 40 percent of the time." fice, 224-4240 between 9:00 a.m. finance from Texas A&M... Design: Jo Davenport If Pam has one piece of advice At elections in the Fall, chorus Kathleen (Barnes, A2) and Joe But as the author noted, "con for chorus members, it's "mark your and 5:00 p.m. weekdays. members elected at-large representa Klingshirn, on the Nov. 3 birth of Reporters: Bernard Relds, stant true pitch does not necessarily scores in pencil only!" daughter Jennifer Frances...William David Nussmann. Becky Rogers, make good music." tives to the Chorus Council. They Claire Sanders will serve along with the appointed Cheadle (B2) and Lucy Fros!^ who became engaged after the HSC section leaders. Staff also partici Content ideas, Information and com Oops, We're Sorry! European Tour and married Nov. ments may be sent to the editor, Quote of the Week pates on the council as nonvoting c/o The Houston Symphony Chorus 11. Music was provided by Becky Jacqueline Brodeur (S2) was hon participants. New at-Iarge council Momberger (SI), Emily Standish office or directly to P.O. Box 56644, "The reason sin takes on such color is because we're always moving members are Nell Ely (SI), Betsy Houston, TX 77256; given to any re ored at the awards ceremony for (SI), Lee Ann Penick (Al), porter; or left in the newsletter folder on to and from it."~CharIes Hausmann Weber (Al), Bernie Fields (B2) her 30 years with the HSC. Her Yvette Hartley (Al), David Lang- the HSC bulletin board in Jones Hall. name was inadvertently dropped (It should be noted, he was discussing a portion of the Messiah.) and Harry Rogers (B2). staff (Tl), Bernard Fields (B2), from the story in our last issue. Section Leaders (continued from page 1) Like many singers, he has long Carolyn's varied musical back Alex is assistant principal at been involved in church music. ground includes studying piano from Sutton Elementary, a HISD school Currently, he sings at Lakewood age five through college, playing in the Sharpstown area. For the United Methodist. His solo work timpani and glockenspiel in the high past 13 years he has been in charge focuses on weddings and funerals. school band, and singing in the a of both instruction coordination and Harry holds a MBA from the cappella chorus at Abilene Christian discipline. He holds a masters in University of Louisville, KY. A University, where she majored in elementary administration from manufacturers representative, he business and minored in music. A Texas Southern University, but his sells printed circuit boards,flexible major musical challenge was the... undergraduate degree from Tus- circuitry, temperature sensors and pismo recital she prepared in kegee Institute (now University), related products, primarily to high school. AL, is in commercial industries. ori^al equipment manufacturers. "A few years ago I played in a "When I was in high school," He has hved in Houston for rock band for about three years," reports Alex, "I heard the Tuskegee 8-1/2 years. she reports. "It opened up a whole Institute choir imder William L. "My biggest challenge" Harry new world!" Dawson's direction and wanted to states, "is getting to know all the Born in Amarillo, Carolyn sing with them." But the music members. I see my function as one grew up in Alvin and moved to school closed, so Alex majored in communication, of providing a con Houston to work after completing commercial industries and tailoring. duit both ways, from the singers to her education. She also worked "But my wife kept telling me the organization and from the or as a secretary in Saudi Arabia, that elementary schools needed ganization to the singers." where she married her now-ex more men, so I passed the exams, husband and had the first of her Carolyn Rogan (A2) closed the tailor shop, and switched two children. Carolya Rogan spends her days careers in 1959," Alex says. as administrative assistant to the Alexton Malloiy (T2) Alex has sung in numerous en chairman of the board of Wainoco Even though Alexton Mallory sembles. He was a soloist at Good Oil Corp. But this Certified Profes has been with the HSC just over Hope Baptist Church, then switched sional Secretary and MENSA two years, he is a native Houstonian. to directmg, which he gave up three member "enjoy(s) the HSC the most "I've been here all my life, except years ago. of anything I have ever done in mu for college and for military service As a section leader, Alex sic." She joined the chorus in during World War II," states Alex, wants to make sure "I don't January 1986 and considers it an "So I don't know why it took me so either offend or intimidate any honor to be chosen section leader. long to get involved with the HSC." section member."

The Houston Symphony Chorus 615 Louisiana Street Houston, Texas 77002 Newsletter of The Houston Symphony Chorus Vol. 1, No. 3 March 1990

ESCHENBACH DISCUSSES PAIRING REQUIEMS

The Brahms and Stravinsky offer two aspects of expressing requiem thoughts and feelings, according to Maestro Christoph Eschenbach, Houston Symphony music director. He was interviewed by Sing Out in February. Brahms approached the text from a Lutherian standpoint; Stravinsky, from the Russian Orthodox. However, both can be considered nondogmatic. photo by Arthur Heitzmaim "The musical language of the (I. to r.) David Knoll, Lee Ann Penick, John Gra^fy (not pictured Jan Russell) Stravinsky is spare, rigid, even ascetical...very esoteric and pure," Eschenbach said. "But the Brahms New Section Leaders Work is full of warmth. It approaches the requiem thought from the hiunani- Toward Cohesive Ensemble tarian side; it speaks as a human (The following is Part JI of the article life be a good example to others", being to the people." about new section leaders.) shines through in her efforts to keep "Besides," he quipped, "the her section informed and to present works fit well together on a pro Lee Ann Penick (Al) a happy outlook toward the singers gram, with the Brahms at one around her. hour and the Stravinsky at barely The always-cheerful Lee Ann 20 minutes." Penick took over as first alto David Knoll (B2) Eschenbach noted that the section leader just four months works speak two different languages before the director appointed new Attorney David Knoll may be best and express two ways of ap section heads. She has been part of known among HSC members as a proaching personal feeling. So the HSC since Fall 1987. former at-large representative to the they require two different ap Lee Ann sang for three years chorus council. Now in his sbcth proaches by the singer. with the Austin Civic Chorus, six season, he drafted the fund-raising "Though the Stravinsky is years with the Sanctuary Choir of "prospectus" for the chorus' 1989 more rigid and less obvious First Baptist Church/Austin and six European trip. emotionally," he stated, "it has a years with a special group named He comes from a musical family very tense emotional aspect, not so Cantomas. Cantomas is Spanish with strong German roots. At one free as the Brahms. The Brahms is for "we sing." Additionally, she time, there was even a family band. adventurous, showing a metamor studied voice for four years. David "plays at" piano and guitar, phosis of the human being and As manager/health care services but considers himself primarily a offering consolation that life after for Prudential, Lee Ann installs and singer. Growing up in a Pennsylva death won't be so terrible." manages preferred provider organi nia church with a strong liturgical "The performer, with total con zations (known as PPOs) m five tradition, David developed his love viction, must identify his whole Texas cities. for classical and liturgical music. system with the emotionality of the Lee Ann's theme, "Let your He sang in the Georgetown (continued on page 3) (continued on page 3) Section Leaders (continued from page 1)

Section Notes Glee Club under Paul Chandler Mary Marsellina in the Marriage of So he called for an audition, moved Hume (music critic for the Wash Figaro and Agnes Gootch in down on a Saturday, auditioned on ington Post). Mame. What does she most want to Simday, and showed up for Tuesday accomplish as section leader? "I Houston Mayor Kathryn Whitmire December 19 birth of son Mi Assistcuit Director Holly Kooken Currently, David sings in the night rehearsal. He has sung with called Catherine Valadez (S2) to chael, formally William Michael will conduct her graduate recital Holy Spirit Episcopal Church choir. want to be a liaison between the the HSC ever since—except for the perform the National Anthem and Cotsworth...to Emily Standish (SI) April 26. Holly also received He was a founding director of the council and the section and have year he spent in West Africa. America, the Beautiful for the and Fritz Blunck, who will finally the first $1,500 graduate scholar Houston Oratorio Society. the feelings of section members Pecten International (a Shell January 2 inauguration at Wortham marry March 24. Emily is a direct ship given by M.D. Anderson Can David's biggest challenge now expressed," Jan says. "Chorus subsidiary) sent John to Douala, Center. The mayor had heard descendant of Miles Standish of cer Center for students between is to learn everybody's name. members need a way to express Cameroon, in 1981. After much Catherine sing at the National Thanksgiving fame. 21 and 35 years old who were "Section leaders should be their feelings and be heard." inquiry, he discovered a community Hispanic Female Judges Conference. Gary Navy (Bl) is on leave to pediatric cancer patients. Funds called section servants," he says. To Jan would like the chorus to have chorus, led by the music director of more fun, perhaps a party or two Jon Miller (Tl) and Joy Jon- student teach and take graduate come from Christmas card sales. David, that means "being there the largest French high school stone (A2) signed Houston Grand classes in Dallas. In checking with long-time HSC to help the director and the chorus with families involved. "Part of the outside of Europe. unity of a choral group comes Opera contracts for Sampson and In medical news, Rex Johnson members about details in his first manager with administrative details" "Singing with the group opened DeUlah. Jon also will sing in (T2) is back at his job as senior article on past HSC performances, and "helping the chorus achieve its &om knowing, even liking, the doors in the community that never Madame Butterfly. director, sales & leasing for The Arthur Heitzman (Bl) and Jacque objectives as an ensemble." person next you," states Jan. "It's would have been open to me other Pat York (S2), an elementary Woodland Corporation after a Brodeur (S2) discovered they had not scientific, but I think you sing wise," reports John. "The toughest school music teacher and a new heart attack and by-pass surgery. performed the Brahms Requiem Jan Russell (S2) better when you know something thing was that rehearsals were member, placed second in Metro- He'll rejoin the chorus this sum together in 1958. Arthur's Choral about the people around you." conducted entirely in French!" poUtan Opera regional auditions in mer. Lynda Sparks (A2) is under Society of Cliffside Park, NJ, and Jan Russell is a music major who When Shell "downsized", John took 1969 and has sung more than going chemotherapy, but is Jacque's New Haven, CT. Chorale currently confines her music to John Grady (Tl) early retirement. Now he works 30 Houston Grand Opera perform already back at rehearsals. joined Robert Shaw's Collegiate singing. She joined the HSC in with Tony Vazquez (Tl) at Septem John Grady experienced deja vu ber Enterprises, an international oil ances from 1970-78. But at McNeese In section leader news, Dorothy Chorale at St. John the Divine Fall 1977, when she returned to her State University m Lake Charles, Schaettle (SI) is on leave, as she Church in New York City. native Texas (though not to her when Charles Hausmann asked him and gas trading firm. LA, she was better known as a juggles her pregnancy, a new house High schoolers Charles Single Port Arthur home) after several to serve as section leader. John had He sang professionally for two classmate of Jan Russell (S2 section and a heavy job schedule. Mean ton (Bl), Rayne Woo (B2) and years in Louisiana. served in that position for the seasons in light opera on the leader). They even shared a while, Harry Pettit (Tl) has re Barton Garmon (B2) were chosen "I was homesick for Texas," Jan entire tenor section back in the late Louisville/Detroit/Cleveland circuit. "Then I decided I was more voice teacher. signed because he is taking a new for all-state choir. says. "Besides, music was starting 1970s, before taking temporary Congratulations to Mudafar job in Florida. John Grady will Clalr Sandei^ (SI) has been to get shoved under the rug in the leave to work oversezis. interested in eating regularly," John and Rachel El-Saleh (Al) on the take over as Tl section leader. appointed music director of the public schools in Lake Charles." Singing with the Midland Sym says bitingly. Prior to that, he sang Jacques C. Shure Religious School, Jan holds bachelor's and phony Chorus, under Dr. Lara with the Louisville (KY) Chorus. Jewish Community North. master's degrees in music education Hoggard, an arranger for Fred John's message to his section is from McNeese State University, Waring, John knew about the HSC to "attend all rehearsals; I'm Plan Your Schedules Now Lake Charles, LA. She taught choir before moving to Houston in 1975. allergic to making telephone calls." Sing Out for nine years at the junior high Prospective member auditions are Eschenbach will conduct 615 Louisiana level. "I'm one of the five people in scheduled for May 4 and 5. If you Houston, TX 77002 women's and boys' choruses in the the country who likes junior high know of qualified candidates, urge 713/224-3247 or 713/660-7990 Mahler Symphony No. 3 on Sep age kids," reports Jan. them to contact Chorus Manager Sing Out is published quarterly in Sep tember 15,16 and 17. February 23, She gave up teaching music to Marilyn Dyess during April. Those 24 and 25 will bring Ravel's tember, December, March and June by The Houston Symphony Chorus. teach eighth grade U.S. history in Maestro (continued from page I) selected will sing both summer Daphnis and Chloe. The final the Aldine School District and and regular season concerts. Chorus Manager: Marilyn Dyess chorus program will be the Mozart serve as history department music and what it has to say piece in concert. Planners are still undecided Requiem May 4, 5 and 6. Editor: Sally I. Evans Design: Jo Davenport chairman at her school. "I got intellectually," declared Eschenbach. "For the singer, this is the right about the exact format for July 4 at Wayland has chosen selections into a much saner line of work," "Then he can convince the listener music to discover his neighbor and Miller Theatre. But the word is out Reporters: Bernard Relds. from Rodgers and Hammerstein laughs Jan. and can overwhelm him with the build the chorus community," that our Saturday, July 21 concert for January 11, 12 and 13. David Nussmann, Becky Rogers, Claire Sanders Jan's musical experience in message...embrace him with the Eschenbach said. "This piece is so in Jones Hall will be Mozart's Mass Five performances of the cludes "enough piano to leam message and give him the fragile for singing together in the in C Minor. Spirit of Christmas, December 13- Content ideas, information and com notes," plus stints as rehearsal feeling of the great adventure." right expression that one must be Looking toward the 1990-91 16, will repeat the 1988 show. ments may be sent to the editor, c/o The Houston Symphony Chorus soloist for the Lake Charles com The Brahms Requiem is an Es aware of, and sort out, what is going season, we will sing three concert Messiah concerts are planned for office or directly to P.O. Box 56644, munity Messiah chorus and director chenbach favorite. In Europe, it is on around him." series with Christoph Eschenbach, a December 21 and 22 in Jones Houston, TX 77256; given to any re of the Lake Charles elementary considered "a nice little piece for a "I see this concert as a step pops concert with Newton Wayland, Hall and December 23 at First porter; or left in the newsletter folder on the HSC bulletin board in Jones Hall. honor choir. In college she sang program." But Eschenbach plans forward in ensemble building for and the traditional Christmas shows. Methodist Church. Bloody Mary in South Pacific, to take the time to develop the the chorus," he deaeed. PerformancesRemembered; ABOUT THE REQUIEMS Stokowski and Brahms' by Charles S. Hausmann by Arthur Heitzmann The unique pairing of the word "human" for the word "Ger tion expressed by the text. Conse "Welcome to Huge and Outstanding in the bass and tenor sections. Deanna Durbm (One Hundred Men Brahms and Stravinsky Requiems man" in the title. quently, this will help give an inner Choral Force!" headed an article in None of the other 20 or so names and a Girl) and Mickey Mouse, demonstrates a stark contrast in The composition provided a intensity and convincmg delivery. the Houston Symphony Orchestra in Bass 1 and 2 appear as current who tagged at his coat tails in the musical styles, while allowing us to model for a new outpouring of The work took many years to program, April 4 and 5, 1960. The members. However, besides myself, be^joning of "Fantasia". Stokow experience music that represents a works that were highly personalized germinate, with principal effort "major choral work" was the first Earle Jensen (A2) and Lee Stevens ski became the prototype of what stylistic turning point in each statements, within the broad between February 1865 and August HSO performance of Brahms' A (S2) sang that first performance. the uninitiated considered a sym composer's output. For Brahms, scope of romantic musical style, at a 1866. The work was conceived during a very sad period in the German Requiem. It was the Considerably more currently phony conductor; he was Mr. the Requiem established his time when there was an extreme composer's life. Many feel the farewell concert of Music Direc active orchestra members played Classical Music. prominence as a composer, while proliferation of choral singing. deaths of Robert Schumann, friend tor Leopold StokowskL the 1960 performance. Raphael After the final Requiem per fully realizing the musical style The symmetrical balance can and champion of his music, and his The chorus was to be 165 Fliegel, principal second violin, was formance, he spoke to the audi that we associate with him. For be seen in the similarity of voices combining the Houston concertmaster for many years to ence, encoura^g the dty to Stravinsky, the Requiem Canticles movements 1 and 7 (message of own mother prompted concentrated work on the Requiem. Chorale (Alfred Urback, director) come. Violinists Elena Diaz and continue its interest in bringing represents his transformation to a consolation); 2 and 6 (the "dance of The official premiere took place and the University of Houston Dorothe Robinson and Bassist the best music to its citizens. At new compositional style, the serial death" and the vision of the last on Good Friday, April 10, 1868, with Concert Choir (Dr. Merrills Lewis, William J. Black stiU complement the time, concerts were held in the or 12-tone method. judgment); 3 and 5 (solo move Brahms himself conducting at the director). The actual performing the string sections. Byron Hester Music Hall connected to the In the Requiem^ Johannes ments); and the gentle 4, which cathedral in Bremen. Many group numbered about 120, still has remained principal flute, with Coliseum, where the livestock provides a focal point for the Brahms (1833-1897) developed a leading musicians came to hear the considered huge at the time and Barbara Hester in the oboe section. shows were held. Stokowski encour musical style characterized as entire work. very much in the grand manner Richard Pickar still holds princi aged building a new home for the lyrical vsdth harmonic and rhyth Chief among other aspects of new work. Subsequently, a new preferred by Maestro Stokowski. pal clarinet chair, and Don Slo- symphony, "one without the smell of the style is the sincere musical movement was added: the soprano mic intensity and romanticism, solo movement, which became the Hubert Roussell, reviewing for comb is now E-flat clarinet. the bulls!" If nothing else, it while maintaining a classical representation of the text which the Houston Pasty was skeptical Trumpeter James Austin appears planted the seed which became Brahms infuses mto every line. fifth movement and was dedicated to symmetry. His approach to the memory of his mother. about such a large ensemble frequently in the augmented Jones Hall. music has been termed neoclassi Even the very structured, formal achieving "the flexibility and orchestra. Stokowski never tired in his fugues are strong statements of the In the Requiem Canticles, Igor cal and generally understated, in Stravinsky (1882-1971) contributed variety of tonal expression—and It was interesting for all of us efforts to "improve". His direct contrast to the overstated ex texts they represent. The challenge more especially the precision and to experience the Stokowski enthusiastic cooperation with sound travagances of other composers of to the singer is the constant need to a new style which he felt was the delicacy of verbal articulation." mystique. Here was a controver engineers was well known; he to understand the mood and emo "hope of present and future the period. (continued on page 6) However, he went on to report sial, batonless conductor whose continued to record up to the time This German Requiem is that "the choral forces of this pro main intent seemed to be to create of his death in 1977 at age 95. unique in that it represents a duction distinguished themselves sound for sound's sake, taking He had signed a five-year contract nonliturgical approach to the H'ayland Music. Inc. fully and sang with inspiring effect," whatever liberties he felt necessary 2970 Hidden Valley Lane with London/Decca that year! traditional text and theological Santa Barbara. CA. 93I0S (805) 969-93SS even though he could not deter to accomplish this. He might significance of requiem composi reseat the orchestra or change in- mine what language was being sung! tions up to this point. Its greatest January 23, 1990 He knew the Hungarian stnmientation and even rhythms, City Relaxes Parking Rules distinction from the traditional text bass. Desire Ligeti, was singing such as the distinctive drum beats in Houston Symphony Chorus is that the work is addressed to intelligible German. But the his recording of Carmina Burana The City of Houston has Houston Symphony the living. The biblical texts 615 Louisiana St. American soprano, Saramae with the Houston "Forces". changed its parking policies, Houston, TX 77002 making available 600 additional chosen are poetical or philosophi Endich, who "has a lovely voice," How does one approach even a curb spaces for weeknight and cal rather than doctrinal or Dear Folks, and the chorus lost the spirit of rehearsal with such a legend? With weekend parking downtown. dogmatic. Nowhere, for example, is Thank you for your wonderful contribution to "The Night They her solo by not articulating the awe! However, with his charm and there heard the terror of the dies Invented Champagne". I have listened to the tape made for certainty for achieving his intended broadcast, and you sound great. If you're interested. I would text. It was German; the "No Parking Any Time" zones in irae, of a last judgment. When the recommend listening to the broadcast, so you can hear how well translation was printed in the results, he got what he wanted. In a 36-block area of downtown will apocalyptic surfaces in the work, it you sang. playbill-sized program, crowding the chorus we knew this when he read "No Parking 7 am-6 pm is one of ecstasy, not horror. My only regret is that I didn't get a chance to see the four out the usual listing of orchestra changed modest p or pp and / to Monday thru Friday, Tow Away "Loverly" men in action: I understand they were superb. Zone". Free parking is still Also, it leaves out central members. Names of choral ppppp and j5595^ in some places-like Christian ideals; there is no refer It's always a pleasure to conduct the Orchestra, it was a members did not appear in pro the very beginning of the Requiem! available on streets in the down triple pleasure this time because of our three wonderful town area after 6 pm Monday ence to Christ at all. However, the soloists, and your excellent work. I look forward to working grams for some time. Not the least of the elements through Saturday and all day on fact that the work is nonsectarian with you again, perhaps this summer, and definitely next year. which set him apart was his flowing Keep s(w)inging! HSC membership lists show Sunday at parking meters and gives it a universality. We know white mane and aquiline profile, considerable turnover during the after 7 pm in truck zones. that Brahms wanted to substitute the Yours, 1959-60 season (my first), especially made famous in movies with

on Wayland Requiems (continued from page 5) generations of composers". Al Eventually, stimulated by the music controversial. though not his first work using the of Anton Webem, a Schoenberg Although quite different in 12-tOQe or serial composition disciple, he turned his full attention concept and style from the Brahms, method, the Canticles are highly to this style. Stravinsky's work also represents a representative of this technique. For Requiem Canticles, a turning point in compositions for In serialized compositions the work cast in eight short sections, chorus and orchestra. A sincer elements—pitches, durations, articu Stravinsky chose the litur^cal texts ity of expression, contributing a lation, dynamics and others-of a of the Catholic requiem. He pre warmth in vocal tone, is still re "set" are ordered precomposition- ferred the Latin language because, quired. ally. Most often only one dimension with it, he was able to gain a Requiem Canticles was com is serialized. With pitch serializa degree of impersonality. posed from 1965-66 (exactly 100 tion, pitches are ordered in any Serialization often results in a years after the composition of succession that does not repeat a jagged melodic contour. This tech Brahms' Requiem) and received its note. The "set," as the pitch nique, along with the absence of first performance October 8, 1968, sequence is called, can be re strong tonal centers, contributes at Princeton University with Robert peated, segmented, transposed, to the difficulty in learning the Craft conducting. turned upside down, stated back work. Our approach is to dis wards, and stated upside down and cover pitch relationship between :ore for Poswrity backwards simultaneously. voice and instrumental parts and to Stravinsky, considered one increase fluency in producing Didn't §et everything you wanted for Chnstmas? Treat yourselfl of the most influential Twenti intervals without benefit of har eth Century composers, em monic grounding. Have, your own"Messiah score ployed many compositional styles In addition to melodic and har leather,bound,'with your n^e and prior to adopting the serial tech monic compleaties, the work also Ithe title imprinted in gold letter- nique. His various styles have contains a driving rhythmic force, 'in^' . been labeled folklorism, barba most evident in the prelude. This Call Holi>[ Kboken at 271-9500. • rism, neodassidsm, new-medieval mbced meter, variable pulse prelude She has prices^' which will vary de- ism and earlier ties to romanticism. is similar in style to many of the !pending on the total number of , At first, he rejected serialism as composer's earlier works and is 'scores, ^e're topmjg to,\kecp ']^; established by Arnold Schoenberg. what made Stravinsl^s music so 5'price aibiind '

The Houston Symphony Chorus 615 Louisiana Street Houston, Texas 77002 Newsletter of The Houston Symphony Chorus Vol. 1, No. 4 June 1990 Houston Symphony/University Name New Assistant Director For Chorus by Charles Hausmann Two years ago, we began a joint with a master of music degree in type of program has long been program with the University of choral conducting. essential to a conductor's develop Houston. At that time, Holly As principal assistant, Holly ment. Working with and observing Kooken was named assistant worked closely with me in the a great orchestra, or in our case, a director of The Houston Symphony preparation and performance of great chorus, allows a conductor to Chorus and principal graduate many of the masterworks in the more fully develop his or her craft. assistant in the choral program at choral repertoire. This kind of Since this joint appointment has the university. relationship operates much like the proved successful, and carries great Holly fulfilled her duties in both classic approach to music training responsibility and prestige, we are of these areas in an exemplary way, of the past, where musicians now ready to move to the next contributing greatly to our per served a tenure as an apprentice, phase. formances and to the university giving them an opportimity to This Spring, the School of Music choral program. As most of you specialize in some aspect of their at the University of Houston was know. Holly graduated this Spring art. In the field of conducting, this granted a new doctoral program in performance and conducting. Pro grams such as this attract the very finest musician/scholars, many of whom then serve in assistant roles to their principal professors. The symphony/university joint choral appointment will now be awarded at the doctoral level. I am very pleased to announce that Betsy Weber has been admitted to the university's doctoral program in choral conducting and has been appointed HSC assistant director and UH principal graduate assistant in choral conducting. As most of you know, Betsy has (I. 10 r.) Nanneae Magill, James Canhel, Stephen James, Robert Grigsby, Menthola Stevenson been a chorus member for the past two seasons. CHORUS PRESENTS 1990 AWARDS She has already served as a con ducting assistant for rehearsals and At the final concert of the 1989-90 Menthola Stevenson (82) sectionals and as rehearsal accompa season. The Houston Symphony received her 15-year pin. Those nist. She is a highly respected Chorus presented service award awarded five-year pins were James musician and conductor, having pins to five members. Two Carthel (T2), Robert Grigsby (Bl), served as director of the choral additional members will receive their Stephen James (61) and Nannette program at Memorial High pins at the first rehearsal in the Magill (A2). School and director of the Spring Fall. The awards recognize out Five-year members to be recog Branch Boys and Spring Branch standing attendance at rehearsals nized in the Fall are Janene Bost- Girls Choirs. and performances. wick (Al) and Bruce Haufler (B2). (continued on page 3) INTRODUCING .. Betsy Weber

ECTION l^OTES When the chorus reconvenes in The program at UH was approved -r3 s late August, a new assistant this spring. director will be helping with re For someone who has been hearsals. Mary Elizabeth Weber, "waiting to do this a long, long Congratulations to . . . Cyndie (SI) part of HCC's effort to develop to Houston. The Revels celebrate better known to us as Betsy, has time," what is her ultimate goal? and David (Tl) LangstafT on a chamber ensemble program at the the changing seasons using tradi been appointed to the joint Betsy wants to teach at the college the March 19 birth of son Thomas central campus. Nancy BrufTet tional song, dance and theater. position of HSC assistant direc- level. She likes the academic Stoddard . . . Rose (Al) and Grant (SI) hit three high Es to earn a Under the artistic direction of tor/UH principal graduate assistant atmosphere and finds joy in (Tl) Bue on the April 30 birth spot in the Houston Grand Opera Jack Langstaff, Cambridge, MA, vacated by Holly Kooken upon learning and sharing that knowledge of son Edward Joseph ... chorus for next season. the Revels are already active in graduation. (See Symphony/UH with others. Dorothy Schaettle (SI) and hus Michael Tomatz (B2) just Boston, San Francisco, Philadelphia, Betsy used to be the choral di band Bob on the May 20 birth of graduated from the University of Name, Page 1.) New York and Washington, DC, Betsy decided some time rector at Memorial High School, but son Karl Bernard ... Dick JefTers Houston with a BA in political where annual performances are seen stopped teaching when daughter, (Bl) on new grandson Evan Mi ago to earn another degree. science and plans to attend the by thousands. Emily, was born m August 1988. chael, bom April 27 to David Evan University of Texas law school. She considered an MBA and a law Several HSC members from the "I was ready to move on, and Sandee Jeffers. Betty Anne Schauer (S2) attended degree, then decided her real love Judith Carmen Studio will perform and the timing was perfect," Betsy Best wishes to ... Charles the Spoleto Festival in Charleston, July 13 and 15 in the seventh was music. But no one in Houston admitted. "Now this opportunity has York Phiiharmonic and the Philadel (Chuck) Izzo (B2) and wife Donna SC, where daughter Betsy, who just Trinity Summer Opera Theater, offered a doctorate in choral con come along at the right time." It is phia orchestras. She also has on the June 1 celebration of their received her masters degree from sponsored by Trinity Episcopal ducting. With her husband's law 25th wedding anniversary . , . John Westminster Choir College, sang Church since 1982. Emily Standish practice firmly embedded here, and important to her not to cheat Emily, observed a number of conductors Brokaw (B2), who married Melody with the festival's resident chorus. Blunck (SI), Janene Bostwick (A2), her own frustration level increasing, so Betsy plans to take the full seven and orchestras. Murren on March 17 at Church in Former HSC soprano and Houston Jennifer Giese (A2), Yvette Hartley Betsy considered commuting. So she years to complete the program. The Another strength is a lot of the City in the Heights. Symphony director of development (Al), Jon Miller (Tl), Gayle interviewed at University of Texas UH program is 60 hours credit in enthusiasm. She loves the sym Debbie Coyle (S2), a legal as Holly Sai^eant now serves as Renfroe (SI) and Catherine Valadez and at Louisiana State University. "a piu-e performance degree". phonic choral literature and likes sistant, now sings with Country associate dean, Kennedy School of (S2) will perform scenes from She actually accepted a fellow What does Betsy bring to the the people m the chorus. "That was a surprise to me!" Justice, a country/western band of Government at Harvard. Gilbert & Sullivan's The Mikado ship at Northwestern University in HSC? One trait is a degree of lawyers. Phil Smith (Bl), who Zelda Dvoretzky (Al) received and Verdi's La Traviata plus the Illinois. It offered free study with experience ("which a lot of people Betsy stated. "I joined looking generally writes popular songs, is rave reviews for her role as Bubble complete English version of any music courses she wanted to in the chorus have"), having sung forward to doing the repertoire stretching himself to compose for a in Crossing Delancey. The play was Puccini's Sister Angelica. take. "The commuter bit didn't re with about half a dozen choral and to singing under Eshenbach's gospel group ("Is heavenly hash a part of the third annual Jewish Keith Dixon (T2) has been ally work," Betsy said. "That's groups. She served as accompanist leadership. It didn't enter my gospel term?"). Theatre Festival at the Jewish accepted by the Robert Shaw when I started talking to Charles at Westminster Choir College, which thinking that I would form friend Phil Crichton (T2) has been Community Center, Institute in Souillac, France. The (Hausmarm) about a doctorate." provides the chorus for the New ships and become so fond of so awarded a foundation scholarship SiJka Lamotte (S2), our resident group will spend three weeks in July many people in the group." To to study voice and participate in a German coach, has moved to preparing and singing an all-Bach Betsy, the relationships add to the double quartet next year at Hous Boston, where husband Henry has program for performance. New Ass't (continued from page 1) development of an ensemble. ton Community College. This is been transferred to study at MIT. In her new position with the Jay Karahao (Tl) arranged Sing Out HSC, what does Betsy ask of the for a group of 24 HSC and HGO 615 Louisiana Betsy holds an undergraduate singers? "I would ask for greater singers to perform one sacred work Houston, TX 77002 713/224-3247 or 713/660-7990 degree from the University of North commitment. Not to say that they and one operatic piece at a friend's aren't committing a great deal, June 9 wedding. HSC singers Sing Out is published quarterly in Sep Texas and a masters degree in because they are. But some of us Mark included Jay, Emily Standish Blunck tember, December, March and June by music education from Westminster (SI), Jim Carazola (Tl), Sally The Houston Symphony Chorus. Choir College. could have better attendance. Some Your could improve our vocal production; Evans (SI), Bernie Fields (B2), Joy Chorus Manager: Mariiyn Dyess Her duties will include assisting some, our musical skills; some, our Calendar! Jonstone (A2), Pam Lyons (S2), Editor; Sally I, Evans in all aspects of the musical prepa Nannette Magill (A2), Larry Patton Design: Jo Davenport ration of the chorus, including preparation. If everyone improved a (T2), Becky Rogers (Al), Harry Photographer: Arthur Heitzman rehearsals and sectional conduct little bit in each area, this would be Rogers (B2) Warren Thompson Reporters; Bernard Relds, ing. At the university, she will be an astounding chorus!" Fall rehearsals begin August 14 for (Bl) and Mike Withers (Bl). Holly David Nussmann, Becky Rogers, assistant conductor of the UH women, who will sing the Mahler Kooken (SI) directed. Ciaire Sanders Concert Chorale and will assist in IN MEMORIAM No. 3 in mid-September. Men will David LangstafT (Tl) and Content ideas, information and com the overall program. start rehearsing a few weeks later. David Knoll (B2) are organizing ments may be sent to the editor, Lucy Brown, 80 died June 23, c/o The Houston Symphony Chorus I know that you will enjoy 1990. She was a longtime Check with the chorus line (224- Revels Houston, a new nonprofit office or directly to P.O. Box 56644, working with Betsy in this new member of the Chorus (Al) 3247) or your section leader anytime corporation which will bring the Houston, TX 77256; given to any re- newsletter folder on capacity and that she will contribute until 1985. the HSC bulletin board In Jones Hall. you are unsure of time or location. Christmas, Spring and Sea Revels greatly to the program. Holly Kooken, Charles Hausmarm Female Conductors Seek Chorus Sponsors Director to Conference Giamorous, Comfortable Shoes

At the April 21, 1990, meeting of Members of Chorus America For years, male conductors have the HSC Chorus Council, council include well-established and been wearing tuxedos and tails and members approved a request from newly organized ensembles of all capes. But as more and more women Marilyn Dyess, chorus manager, to types, as well as conductors, music take the podium to conduct major pay part of the cost of sending Dr. directors, managers and board symphony orchestras, they find Charles Hausmann to the annual members, professional singers, themselves having to create a new Chorus America conference. The teachers, students, and music-related fashion etiquette. Houston Symphony Society agreed organizations." When Gisele Ben-Dor, resident to pay for air travel and per diem, Most of the major symphony conductor of The Houston Symphony, thereby asking the chorus to pay for choruses are members of this asked a tailor to fit her for the pops, registration and hotel. organization, previously known as Christmas and occasional subscrip From Dr. Hausmann's report the Association for Professional tions concerts she leads, he designed (which will be published in the Fall Vocal Ensembles. Our membership two classic ensembles. Some like newsletter), you'll discover how is nonvoting (because we have no tuxedo dresses or a different gown for beneficial it was for him to be able paid singers) and is renewed annu each type of music. to meet one-on-one with his peers. ally by the Symphony Society. Writer Greta Beigel reports that, He came back refreshed and excited The organization also provides regardless of their attire, when it about sharing his ideas during the funding through grants to member comes to shoes, they all put comfort next season. organizations who perform Ameri first. One conductor sticks with an "Chorus America is a national, can composers' choral works which old pair; one likes flats; and one nonprofit service organization have had three or fewer perform would just as soon wear Reeboks. created to promote the professional ances since their premieres. Margaret Hillis does exactly that quality and growth of vocal en Chorus America is an advocate when conducting her Chicago Sym sembles, to stimulate the develop for all high-quality vocal ensembles, phony Chorus. The black Reeboks ment of enhanced remuneration for for example, calling for supporting (shades of Becky Momberger, SI) singers, and to encourage greater letters to congressmen regarding the coordinate with a black full-length appreciation and enjoyment of vocal National Endowment for the Arts. gown with beads on the cuffs and music by all segments of American (Many performing groups would neck. She used to weeu* a pair of society. not be able to exist without brown Adidas, she says, until that NEA funding.) critic ... (Excerpted from ihe Lot Angetef Times)

The HouyroN Symphony-Chorus 615 Louisiana Street Houston, Texas 77002 ; sz

Newsletter of The Houston Symphony Chorus Vol. 2, No. 1 September 1990

Two Earn Awards

Janene Bostwick (Al) and Nell BIy (SI) received their five-year service awards during the September 4 and August 28 rehearsals, respectively. In addition to sin^g with the chorus, both have also served on the chorus coimcil. Janene formerly was Alto I section leader. At the end of last season, Nell was elected to a two-year term as a council member at large. The chorus presents service awards at five-year intervals to members who have attended re Nancy Philips Becky Rogers hearsals regularly and have sung the majority of concerts each season. Summer concerts count as "make Chorus Fills Council Spots up" for singers who were forced by business or personal reasons to miss A section leader has been appointed on the council. In her fourth season a regular season concert series. The and an at-large member elected to with the HSC, she also sings at years need not be consecutive. fill openings on the chorus council. Lakewood United Methodist Church First sopranos have been with and in the Compaq Computer out a section leader for nearly a Chorus, which Harry founded. year. Now, native Houstonian Nancy Twelve years of piano lessons help Philips has agreed to serve a two- in her musical endeavors. year term. While she represents all mem Sing Out reporter Beclg' Rogers bers at council meetings, Becky also (Al) was elected to fill the at-large can help in another way. "I lived in position vacated by Betsy Weber, Germany as an exchange student," our new assistant director. (Staff she said, "and I'm willi^ to tutor members serve the council as any chorus member who's having information resources.) trouble with German." She claims Nancy holds a bachelor's degree her other languages, French and in music performance from West Spanish, are rusty. [Editor's note: minster Choir College. A "late Her American seems to be in Jeanene Bostwick blooming" singer, she worked for six good shape]. years after high school. A voice Becky returned to college after teacher suggested she return to 10 years working. She earned a BBA school and major in music. in ^ance from Texas A&M and Nancy sang with the HSC from now is a commercial real estate ap January 1982 until August 1985, praiser. "That means 1 figure out when she left for college. She how much an office building, returned to the chorus last fall. warehouse or piece of commercial Additionally, she performs as soloist land is worth," she reports. and in the choir at Park Place Call on Nancy, Becky or any Baptist Church. other council member when you Trained as a legal secretary, she have questions, concerns or recom is currently job hunting for some mendations for chorus operations. thing with "more reasonable hours". Nell BIy Becky joins husband Harry (B2) Director Reports on Chorus America Meeting Section Notes From June 6-10, thanks to chorus This year, the HSC submitted a A change in HSC auditions and symphony support, HSC director proposal for a grant to support the stemmed from ideas exchanged Charles Hausmann participated in assistant director, in the hopes of among the various directors. They discussed ways to become more Congratulations to Kurt and Gillian OASIS, a service and information Congratulations to . . . Kevin the 1990 Chorus America Confer upgrading to a full doctoral fellow Mayer (A2) on the July 5 birth of system for adults over the age of 60. Williams (Bl), who has been tapped ence in St. Paul, MN. ship. Ciu-rently, the stipend covers efficient in the audition process son Benjamin Allen, who weighed in Joan Mercado (SI) was nomi for the Marine Corps Band. A Chorus America is a service or 7.5 hours per week each for the vwthout sacrificing quality controls. at 8#, 13 oz. . . to Janene Bostwick nated for the 1990 Mayor's Award French horn major at the University ganization of professional vocal en positions of chorus assistant director Charles chose to incorporate Marga (Al), who directs Albright Middle for Outstanding Volunteer Service. of Houston, Kevin has to report to sembles. HSC is a (nonvoting) and Charles's graduate assistant. ret HUlis's method of auditioning School Orchestra, recently named In June, she was chairman of volun California by October 15. associate member because we have A brainstorming session on mar two singers at once. Now, anyone the Texas Junior High Honor teers for the Ima Hogg Young Betsy Fanner (former SI and no paid singers. keting choral music offered mforma- auditioning first sees Betsy Weber Orchestra by the Texas Music Artists Audition, sponsored by the symphony staffer) and Scott Turling The annual conference gives tion about public service announce for sightreading and ear testing. Educators Association (TMEA). Houston Symphony League for ton became engaged on Labor Day conductors, managers and board ments (PSAs) and newspaper cover Those who pass that portion vocal The orchestra will give a concert musicians ages 19 to 27. weekend and will marry in March members an opportunity to discuss age. One chorus produces videos of ize and perform their solo works for February 8, 1991, at the TMEA The Houston Chapter of 1991. Betsy handles public relations current and recurring issues facing the group singing works commis Charles. This new structure should convention in San Antonio. Choristers Guild, of which Melanie for a Fort Worth hospital, but will professional, symphony and inde sioned for a particular concert or help keep auditions on schedule. HSC accompanist Scott Minton (SI) is 1990 treasurer, move to Santa Barbara, CA, after pendent choruses throughout the season. The videos are distributed to Next year's conference wll Holzhouser earned rave reviews hosted its fall workshop September the wedding in Arlington, TX. United States and Canada. local television stations. Another include sessions specifically for July 28, when he was featured in 28-29 for chiu-ch musicians. Melanie When Paula Spiegel (A2) isn't In past years, we have sent our chorus conducts singing press confer symphony chorus directors and the Mozart and More Festival was also co-coordinator for the singing, she tutors foreign students chorus managers, Marilyn Dyess and ences in the newsrooms of their managers. Charles has been asked Concerto Marathon as soloist in the fiesta dinner, a fundraiser for the in English literature through Hous Sherry Terry. local daily newspapers; they rarely to suggest at least two topics for Mozart Concerto-Rondo in D for guild's spring choir festivals. ton Community College's Special Topics of interest to our chorus fail to get coverage. discussion and to organize how they Piano and Orchestra, Laurie Hayes (Al) is organizing Services Division. were covered in conference sessions The various directors also should be presented to the group. Tony Sessions (Tl) was selected the entertainment and all the stages A big thanks to librarian Para and in private discussions with other discussed choosing smaller en "In no other setting can I meet for the choir at Congregation Beth for the "America Sings" festival, Lyons (S2) for master-minding the chorus directors, including Chicago's sembles from the larger choral unit. with colleagues from throughout America to address issues of vital Israel for High Holy Days during April 26-27, 1991, at the San Jacinto rescue of our music and to Joan Margaret Hillis, who conducted a They aU agreed that choosing one importance to symphonic chorus," September. Battlegrounds. The festival will bring Mercado (SI) for her help in clinic for us six years ago. singer over another can create Rachel El-Saleh (Al) missed together school and community cleaning up the chorus library during One topic was that of independ morale problems. One solves the Charles explains. "Thank you for the Mahler concerts l^cause her chou-s throughout the South to raise ent concerts. San Francisco gives problem by varying the smaller the opportunity to participate in this the broken pipe crises at Jones Hall. important conference!" husband surprised her with a funds for homeless children. Each Pam even talked her sister Jeannine two or three each season, after groups, so many singers have the weekend vacation in Los Angeles. choir will perform singly and with into schlepping boxes. many years of "growing" its audi opportimity to participate. One For about 10 years, Pam Cra the massed choir. The Texas gather Congratulations to . . . Pete and ence. Pittsburgh's Mendelssohn ignores potential morale problems HSC Adds Singers mer (Al) sang in opera theater in ing follows the April 1989 Washing and autocratically chooses. Some Ellen Oetinger (A2) on the August 4 Chorus, Milwaukee and Cleveland For 1990-91 Season Germany. On the other hand, Tom ton, DC, festival, which joined birth of 6# 14 oz., 20-inch long son also perform independently on choruses have a permanent paid Pearson (B2) just earned a place in together in concert more than 15,000 Philip Baxter. occasion. "Most find their biggest core, a chamber choir chosen the Houston Grand Opera chorus young people. through stringent auditions. For Auditions in July and in August problem is funding the orchestra," added 30 singers to HSC ranks. for Faust. New director of the Baytown stated Charles, "and most use a ^ example, Chicago has a 50-singer Lynda Sparks (A2) just finished Sing Out professional core. An idea consid New sopranos include (SI) Jill Community Chorus is Holly Kooken 615 Louisiana pickup orchestra [rather than their another 14-dayround of chemother GiUies, Rhonda Hall, Paula Homer, (SI and former assistant director of Houston, TX 77002 city's symphony]." ered, but not currently done, is to apy and is still in good spirits. She the Houston Symphony Chorus). She 713/224-3247or 713/660-7990 rank the singers and choose small Barbara Jennings, Pamela Magnu- National Endowment for the son and Virg^a Weiler; (S2) Susan and husband Harold spent their is preparing the group for a Novem Arts (NEA) funding was of particu ensembles from the top "chairs," vacation in cool Colorado. ber 18 concert of Vivaldi's Gloria Sing Out is published quarterly in Sep the way orchestras function. D'Albergo, Joan Fereday, Diane tember, December, March and June by lar interest to the HSC director. Osbome, Carol Riddle, Christine Virginia Weiler (SI), fresh from and for two performances with the The Houston Symphony Chorus. Salem College, Winston-Salem, NC, Baytown Symphony. Villanueva and Susan Whyman. serves as assistant to the Houston Christina (Tina) Bennett (Al), Chorus Manager; Marilyn Dyess Altos are (Al) Christina Ben Symphony director of marketing and a classically trained organist, serves Editor; Sally I. Evans nett, Karen Cooper, Orchard Corl, Design; Jo Davenport development. A harpist with degrees as music coordinator at St. Maximil Senior Citizens to Hear HSC in Special Concert Pamela Cramer,Luclair Kilgore and Photographer: Arthur Heitzman in art management and music, she ian Kolbe Catholic Community, after This year marks the eleventh annual So a new and fresh approach was Wendy Ostein; (A2) Sheri Auty and will study with principal harpist two years at St. Michael's Episcopal Reporters; Bernard Relds, performance of JOY OF MUSIC, a taken to entice citizens to this Shuli Teague. David Nussmann, Becky Ftogers, Tenors include (Tl) Michael Paula Page. Church. concert for senior citizens and special free concert. First Baptist Claire Sanders Ammons, Joe Gregory and Bill On September 6, Dick JefTers Our loss is Milwaukee's gain. disabled children and adults. It Church in Houston volunteered its Scheifley; (T2) Keith Case and (Bl) began teaching, throu^ Houston Symphony Orchestra Content ideas, information and com began as a Christmas concert and sanctuary as a site for the perform OASIS, a seniors ukelele band, Manager Tom Fay (T2) leaves ments may be sent to the editor, was performed at the Shamrock ance, and the targeted ^oups were Stephen Striby. which meets in Fole/s basement October 13 to begin his new posi c/o The Houston Symphony Chorus expanded to include senior citizens. New basses are (Bl) George office or directly to P.O. Box 56644, Hilton Hotel for many years. from 11 a.m. until noon weekly until tion as director of major gifts for It became apparent that the October 27, 1990, begins par Harrison and John Marshall; (B2) Houston, TX 77256; given to any re ticipation for the chorus in this John Bond and David Cappolino. November 15. The band will per the University of Wisconsin-Milwau porter; or left in the nev^sletter folder on Christmas season was not the ideal Mark Standridge (Bl) returns after form then for all OASIS members. kee. He'll be fundraising for the the HSC bulletin board in Jones Hall. time to hold this event, and the worthy event, which is endowed by Dick iso teaches Spanish for schools of nursing and engineering. Shamrock was about to be closed. The Southwestern Bell Foundation. a couple of seasons on leave. [NTRODUCING ... Don Jackson

Move the equipment. Set up chairs foot truck for a Sunday night and stands. Put the shell up; take it concert in The Woodlands, down. Strike the set. Do it again and go through it all again for and again and again. a Monday evening concert in Did Don Jackson really know Jones HsJl. what he was getting himself into Don also starts the when Al Urbach hired him 24 concert, signaling the concert seasons ago to be the Houston master to tune Symphony's stage manager? and sending word for the Urbach, then personnel man conductor to make his way to ager, also founded the Houston the stage. Even such deta^ Symphony Chorale (now Chorus). as blinking the lights for He hired Don to oversee a three-to audiences to return to their lO-person crew that moves all seats after intermission do not needed equipment, no matter where escape Don's attention. the orchestra plays. In October, Don and That includes setting up chairs personnel manager Jim Photo by Eric Aifciter and stands as well as any special Hewitt will fly east to check equipment, percussion, pianos, harp, out theaters for the symphony's "When I started in 1%7," Don and "whatever else a concert March tour. "We'll clock travel recalls, "the symphony was led by requires." Don sets the lighting and times, as well as distances from Sir John Barbirolli and worked 32 checks the temperature, so the musi airports to hotels and concert halls weeks per year. The schedule in cians can be as comfortable as in New York, New Jersey, Pennsyl creased to 36 weeks, then 42. Since possible and play their best. vania and Washington, DC," reports Andre Previn's stint as music direc A big part of Jones Hall per Don. No detail is too small to tor, the orchestra has been con formances is putting up and taking consider. tracted for a full 52-week season." down the shell and the risers. For During the summer, when the Asked about the singers, Don example, in September, Don and his season is a bit slower, Don and his said he considers the chorus 'Very crew set for the Saturday night sym crew design and build road cases for professional" and reports his goal phony gala. Then they had to strike the instruments to protect them for this season is "to work on the the set, load everything in a full 45- when traveling. purse box situation."

The Houston Symphony Chorus 615 Louisiana Street Houston, Texas 77002 kg

Newsletter of The Houston Symphony Chorus VoL 2, No. 3 March 1991

From the Editor Performances Remembered: by Sally I. Evans, APR BarbiroIN and Ravel's Daphnis et Chloe This issue of Sing Out contains a by Arthur Hertzman survey form. Several chorus members have expressed an interest in know Reputedly Ravel's greatest Creative egos aside, what a ing more about us as individuals and composition, Daphnis et Chloe was magnificent collaboration of genius as a group. constructed "on a very strict tonal this turned out to be! Ravel ... We are asking each of you to plan." He referred to it as a sym- Diaghilev ... Nijinsky to dance complete a form and return it to me phonie chcneographique. Daphnis . . . and Chagal to "paint" within two weeks. It almost did not survive the the sealery! It could have h^pened In addition, Marilyn, Mike, Bill many clashes with impressario (Hily in Paris in 1912 ~ a product of and I could use some help with your Diaghilev and choreographer Michel the Impressionistic period. newsletter. Fokine, and after several years, While Daphnis is rarely per Gathering the information is a Ravel decided to abandon the formed as a t^let, the two suites constant job. Here's how you can project He offered its completion Ravel extracted (abstracted?) from help: Jot down any tidbits of and full credit to his friend, com the complete woik frequently ^pear information about yourself or your poser Louis Aubert Fwtunately for without voices on major symphony fellow chorus members that you posterity, Aubert refused, saying, IMX>grams. Nine perfonnances of The think might interest others. Write "This work, like no other, belongs to Houston SymphcMiy Chorus with The down story ideas for articles you you! You have no right to give it up Houston Symphony are listed, nnost woukl like to see in your quarterly to anyone, let al

Arthur Heitzman (Bl) has joined Frederick (A2), Chuck Izzo (B2), Spanish education. the Houston Community College David Knoll (B2), Cynthia Such a life! Patrice Reed (A2) Basically, who are we? This short questionnaire will give us some information. When you have tiimed it in to Chamber Singers fw its April 24-25 Langstaff (SI), David LangstafT spent a week in February skiing in concerts of music from madrigals to (Tl), Nancy Philips (SI), Carolyn Sally Evans, mark Uirough your name on tiie appropriate roster. The more complete our survey participation the Sun Valley, ID. more accurate a picture we'll have of who we are. • Kem to P.D.Q. Bach. Rogan (A2) and Anne At the wid of March, Holly Chris Villanueva (S2) accom Schauer (S2). Joan Mercado (SI) panied the cello and viola solos and Kooken (SI) will attend a conduct will serve as rehearsal accompanist ensembles from Strack Intermediate ing worksh(^ in Miami Beach, FL, Joan's daughter, Renita, was School for the February 2 contest. sponsored by the Conductors Guild. married in a civil ceremony to She also was chosen to accompany Woiks to be inepared include Dieter Heinzl in Numberg, Germany all the strings fix)m Wunderlich Beethoven, Coriolan Overture; on February 7. The war curtailed Please Print. Return completed form by April 16, 1991. Brahms, Symphony No. 5; Middle School for the instrumental Joan's plans to be there, but she*ll contest Tchaikovsky, Symphony No. 6; certainly be present at their church Like a tornado, Jacqui Brodeur Stravinsky, Firebird Suite, and wedding April 13. (S2) took a whirlwind trip to Los How long have you sung with HSC?_ Pistons, Symphony No. 3. Cyndie Langstaff sang the Angeles January 18-21 to see Section? The growing Baytown Commu adult lead in the Post Oak Andrew Lloyd Webber's Phantom of Do you sing with any other ensemble?. If so, which (Hie(s)? nity Chorus, which Holly directs, (MontessOTi) School's opera. the Opera. She met the CHiginal has set its Spring concert (and ice Meanwhile, David LangstafT was Phantom, Michael Crawford, who Do you sing with a church/synagogue choir?_ cream social) for April 14 at 2:30 iwomoted to executive vice president If so, which (Mie(s)? p.m. in Baytown. Entitled Mostly graciously gave Jacqui his auto of Space Industries. graph and photo. Are you a paid church/synagogue soloist, choir member or choir director?. Bernstein, the program will include On February 19 Bill (B2) and medleys of West Side Story and Gillian Mayer (A2) spent the Kathy (S2) Hutchison celebrated Fall singing Cavellaria Rusticana What is your educational background? Porgy Ji Bess plus other tunes. their silver wedding anniversary. Holly also will sing a Bernstein- and I Pagliacci with the Houston They met in the University of Texas Grand Opera Chorus. Look for her composed sok). Afterthought. Longhom Band; Kathy played in the Siting programs of Le Nozze Returning chorister Marvin clarinet and Bill played French di Figaro and Cosi fan tuiti. Do you hold a music degree? Livesay (Bl), already possessing a hom. Currently, Bill plays first MBA and having worked in ac In mem(M7 of David Nale, who chair French hom for the Brazoport accompanied both auditions and the Do you teach musK? Privately? School?. counting since 1972, has decided to Symphony. chuck the world of business and chorus on occasion, HSC has Congratulations to. . .Virginia contributed $50 to the David Nale Do you currently study voice?. Instrument? return to school to obtain an MD He Prudence (Al) who just bought her is enrc^ed at UHAI^lear Lake, taking Youth Choir Scholarship fund at first house. It's in Westbury, and First Methodist Church/Houston. Do you play an instrument? If so, which (»e(s)?. lab sciences he managed to avoid as she ck)sed on February 28. an undergraduate and expects to New member Ann Candler (Si) Do/did you play in a band or orchestra? When?, enter UTMBAjalveston in the Fall. will ^pear April 26 - May 26 in Now 44, he h<^)es—with luck—to the A.D. PlayCTs' production of What kind of w(Mk do you do? Sing Out enter jxactice by the age of 50. Namia, a musical version of C.S. 615 Louieiana What are your hobbies (besides singing with HSC!)?. Congratulations to. . .Claire Lewis' The Lion, the Witch and the Houston, TX 77002 Sanders (SI) and Warren Willett, Wardrobe. 713/224-3247 Of 713/660-7090 What do you do for recreation? who married on February 16. They On Fetwuary 19, chorus teach at the same school, where Stng Out is pubUshed quarterly in manager Marilyn Dyess spoke to the September. December, Pyfarch vxj Jur>e What kinds of music do you prefer to sing? to hear? to play? Warren is also band director. Also Tuesday Musical Club about the by The Houston Symphony Chorus. to Tiffany Becker, daughto* of chcMus, its history, membership What is your age range? Marital status? Children and/or grandchildren? How many? Sally Hecker (S2), who will guidelines and the inner workings of Chonjs Manager: ktarityn Oyees marry Dan Morris on March 16 in Editor: Satty I. Evans, APR her job. Joan Mercado lead the In which state/country were you bom?. did you grow up?. Washington state. Tiffany is a meeting and sang with the Tuesday Design: Jo Davenport former member of the ch^s. Musical Club Chorus. Reporters: BiN Cheadte, Mhe Withers How long have you lived in the Houstcxi area?. Revels/Houston is well on its Dick Jeffers (Bl on leave) way toward beccMning one of the started night school at the University Content ideas, information and com How far do you drive to attend HSC rehearsals (at Jones Hall)?. city's primary family entertainment ments may be sent to the editor, of Houstm in the postbaccalaureate c/o The Houston Symphony Chorus ^)ectacles. HSC members who program to get certified for teaching o#6ce or rtrectJy to P.O. Box 56644, What else would you like to know about our chorus? (We'll do additional surveys from time to time.) earned a place in the Revels chcmis Spanish and history in middle and Houston, TX 77256; gtven to any include B«n Berry (B2), Emily high school. He'll also be taking reporter; or left in the newsletter Blunck (SI), Philip Crichton (Tl), graduate courses in Spanish for a Wder on Ihe HSC bulletin board In Mark Dalton (B2), Catherine masters degree in either Spanish or Jor>e6 HaH. Name: Performances Remembered (continued) chorus as he watched from the pit recording of Suite No. 2 in 1983 equivalent to any cadenza in a This did work and produced a with the Houston forces at First concerto, ending in a low register mystical, omnipresent sound which Baptist Church as a Vanguard which must be completed by the held the audience ^Ubound. Other Audiophile Recording. The excessive alto flute. than a flipped baton landing on one bass heaviness and limitation to the Only whOT the performance singer's head, the performance second suite have kept it out of the has been experience can one realize melded into a magical aliveness. list of contend^s. its emotional impact and the reasons In a rare stage ^)eech, Sir John Truly, Ravel's brilliance in why it is considered Ravel's "great announced it as the best of many orchestration calls forth virtuosity est". To be on stage in the chorus performances he had conducted from all sections of the orchestra, adding to the orchestral fabric is a throughout the wald. Ann Holmes' including a battery of p^cussion "trip" not to be forgotten. review for the Houston Chronicle with wind machine. The flute solo is called it a . sizzling climax (to the 1963 symphony season). . . this October 18, 1990 thrilling music urging and tumbling, glittering with musical play of lights: Sally I. Evans, APR impressionism at its most sensuous Post Office Box 56644 Houstc», TX 77256 and seductive." As Bill Cumberland rememb^s, Dear Sally: Daphnis et Chloe was performed at Thank you foryour recent letter and the copies of SingOut. It was a pleasure for Jeanne the opening ceremony of Jones Hall, and me to go tnrou^ the various items listed. Atove all, it was good to see old friends mentitmed among the personnel, sudi as Lee Stevens, Lynda Sparks, Phil Crichton, Peter which Earle Jensen's records confirm Peropoulos, Bill Cumberland, E^le Jensen, Art Heitzman ana Jaa^ Brodeur, and the was in 1966. It has since been extensive article on Don Jackson. It brought back many memories of those times, go^ repeated-, under conductors Foster, singing, and experiences with truly great conductors of the time Inbal, Commissiona (twice) and We will appreciate receivingfuture copies of Sing Out. Please give our very best to Charles Dutoit in 1984. everybody. Dutoit's 1980 recording with Sincerdy, the Montreal Symphony Chorus and Orchestra has been a landmark CD, ushering in the digital age of Alfred Uibadi recording. Commissiona made a (Editor's Note: Al's address is 514 North 18, Grand Junction, CO 81501)

tlllf The Houston Symphony Chorus 615 L OUISIANA S TREET Newsletter of The Houston Symphony Chorus Vol. 3. No. 1 September 1991 Singers Really Earn Service Award Pins At the end of each season, the chorus recognizes those who have contributed faithfully over time. This '••'tlf'Jf.K'rw year, pins were presented at the after-concert Tex-Mex party held May 5 at Ninfa's downtown. Zelda Dvoretzky (A!) and Bill Goddard (B2) earned 15-year pins. They are part of a select group who have survived reauditions and multiple music directors for more than 15 seasons. A service award went to Joe Laughlin (T2) for singing 10 years with the chorus. The highest turnover is within the first five years, so the five-year pin is the first service award HSC offers. Earning that award were Bob Alban (Bl), Sally Evans (SI), Richard Field (Tl), Eileen Gandin (SI), Clarice Gatlin (SI), i Johanna Stanton (S2), Doris Direcior Charles Hausmann (second from lefi) presented service pins to (1 w r) Zelda Dvoretzky, Hayhurst (S2), and Carolyn Sally Evans, Bob Alban , Joe Laughlin, Clarice Gatlin, Carolyn Rogan, Eileen Gandin, Richard Rogan (A2). Field, Johanna Stanton and Bill Goddard. Antoinette Boecker Seeks Challenge With State Department

"I work for the challenge and the Seeking the chance to learn a wasn't chosen. One day, she received opportunity to learn something new," little more, she took the Foreign a call from a law firm investigating said Antoinette Boecker (Al). Service examination. bias against women during the mid- Starting June 10, "something new" "This started back in 1984, 1980s. The successful setdement of became the Foreign Service. After because I was curious as to whether the case gave Antoinette another 18 20 years at Texas Southern Univer or not I could pass the test," Anto months of eligibility. When the State sity, Antoinette has joined the U.S. inette said. "When I did, then I Department called, she quickly made Department of Stale. started to look carefully at what the the decision. At TSU, she taught English. Stale Department could offer. Now she is training for four to When she "began to hear echos of "It had always been a long shot. eight months in Washington, DC. my own voice in the classroom," she One has to go through testing and But the next time we hear from her, grabbed the opportunity to go into extensive security checks. Then the look for a foreign stamp. administration. Antoinette served as name is posted on the approved list assistant to the president, then in for 18 months, until a position fundraising and grant applications. opens." (Language proficiency helps, Deadlines Finally, she settled in the office of too; Anloineile spe^s German.) Deadline for both "Sections" academic affairs, moving up to vice "When I took the test in 1984, I information and feature articles president. didn't know the strategy: to gel a for the next issue of S'lng Out is "Gradually, I realized that I had good place on the list, you take the November 15. Publication is done as much as I could at the exam several limes. I was on scheduled for mid-December. university," she revealed, "and I vacation in Costa Rica, and the The summer issue of Sing Out knew I wasn't likely to move higher embassy people mentioned it." was not published. in the administration. During her first eligibility, she Varied 91-92 Season Features Works from Verdi to Porter Chorus Holds Its Version Of Rocky Horror Show

The 1991-92 Houston Symphony Exxon Christmas Pops: "The Stories 1869, shortly after the Deutsches What do you remember about various chorus memb^s? Well, season features choral works to of Christmas" and the traditional Requiem, for alto soloist, men's Becky Rogers (Al), Rachel El-Saleh (Al) and Assistant Director please both singer and audience. Messiah. chorus and orchestra. Set to a text Betsy Weber developed warped memories of your friends and The first concert, October 5, 6 The Pops concert on December by German poet and dramatist fellow singers, which they vented at the May 5 end-of-season party and 7, will raise 120 voices in selec 11 (Conoco employees concert), and Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, the and awards ceremony. tions by Handel and Stravinsky. December 13-16 will feature 120 Rhapsodic offers poignant, lyric Thanks to organizer Bill Cheadle (B2), who with Tina Bennett Nicholas McGegan will conduct. HSC singers and members of the melodies woven with men's choral (Al), Emily Blunck (SI), Jacque Brodeur (S2), Debbie Coyle (S2), In 1727 Handel wrote four University of Houston Chamber textures. Joan Fereday (S2), and Virginia Weiler (SI), arranged the food, anthems for the coronation of Singers in traditional carols and The same program—without the drinks and entertainment. George n. The chorus will perform classic holiday songs. The conductor recording session—will use the full Zadok, the Priest and Let Thy Hand has not been announced. chorus in Brahms' Schicksalslied Be Strengthened. Both are "multi- Christopher Seaman will again (Song of Destiny), Op. 54. Brahms (clockwise from right) movement works set dramatically in direct 100 HSC voices in three composed a powerful setting of a "Too Many Irons in the Fire" Award: to DavidKnoll (B2), Joan Mercado typical Handelian style," according performances of Handel's Messiah poem by Friedrich Holderlin for (SI) and Cyndie and DavidLangstaff.. . ."We'd Like Another Round, Please" to Director Charles Hausmann. December 20-21 and December 22 at four-part chorus and orchestra. The Award; Margaret Miller(A2), who surprised the entirechorus one rehearsal evening Composed in 1930 for the First Methodist Church/Houston. Last three sections of the work present with homemade chocolate chip cookies. . . Victor Cosla, Coco Chanel, Guy fiftieth anniversary of the founding year, he conducted from the harpsi varied moods, from heavenly bliss Laroche Award: to wardrobe mistress Earle Jensen (A2), without whom we would of the Boston Symphony Orchestra, chord. and divine repose to an agitated be wearing gaudy earrings, sequined belts, wing-tip shirts and diamond drops. . ."I Igor Stravinsky's Symphonic des The full chorus will return for picture of humanity on earth. Wouldn't Have This Job for Anything" Award: Marilyn Dyess, choms manager. . Psaumes (Symphony of Psalms) has the February 29 and March 1-2 Musical characteristics range from .7 am the Only One Who Knows When to Stand Up During the Messiah" Award: become one of the most important concerts of Felix Mendelssohn's melodious choral phrases to tumultu Roger Culler (Bl), who alone stood up correctly during a December performance choral/orchestral works of the twenti Elijah with renowned choral ous orchestral writing. ofHandel's Messiah when an unnamed assistanl director "screwed up". . ."Roger eth century. The three connected specialist Robert Shaw. This biblical Rabbit" Award: Rachel El-Salehand Margaret Miller. The Elite Gold LevelAward The season finale will be went to Cyndie (SJ) and David Langstaff (Tl)for obvious reasons. . ."Cords of movements (prelude, fugue and oratorio, considered one of Men Giuseppe Verdi's Requiem, last introduction, and allegro) are sung to Steel" Awards: Annette Roesner (SI) and Melissa Bailey (A2), who sing all day al delssohn's greatest achievements, performed by the HSC in 1988. the University of Houston and all night with the Houston Symphony Chorus. Also, Latin texts from Psalms 38, 39 and uses a variety of forms and textures Composed in memory of Italian "Patty Girl's" Award for their activities in Corpus Christi and "Best Decorated 150. The orchestration includes two in 43 separate vocal numbers. writer Alessandro Manzoni, the Motel Room" Award for the decor in their room of which management required pianos, but omits clarinets, violins "The abundance of tuneful Requiem is one of Verdi's greatest removal. .. "Cutest Guy":David Barndollar (Bl). . . For getting us where we're and violas. writing demands technical virtuosity and most popular compositions. It supposed to be, when we're supposed to be, the "Little General N^lean" Award: At the November 7, 9 and 10 from a large symphonic chorus," is filled with dramatic musical im Warren Thompson, operations manager. . . Pops concert. University of Houston Hausman reports. agery, expressive melodies, and singers plus 40 HSC members will The work also requires four colorful choral/orchestral textures. perform "A Salute to Cole Porter," major soloists, several incidental solo "Because of Verdi's skill at writing (not pictured) conducted by Newton Wayland, singers, and orchestra. for voices, the work is a singer's principal Pops conductor. The staged The Men's Chorus will take delight!" exclaims Hausmann. program will feature arrangements of What are they wearing under their grass skiis?" center stage March 21-23 in the Music Director Christoph Award: Bob Alban (Bl). Mark Dalton (B2). Arthur HeUzman classic tunes from one of America's Alto Rhapsody, Op. 53 by Johannes Eschenbach will conduct both the (Bl) and John Marshall (Bl), who enlivened last season's great song writers. Brahms. The men also will record March and the May concert series. performance of "Honey Bun". .. "Cutest Girl": Ramona December offers a range of the work on March 24. This mini Alms (S2). .. "Artsy Fartsy" Award: t-shirt mogul Laurie programs, with a repeat of the 1989 ature masterpiece was composed in Hayes (Al). .. "You Ought to Go Into the Catering Sing Out Business" Award: Chris Villareal (S2 ), Becky Rogers and 615 Louisiana Betty Anne Schauer (S2). who put on a magnificent spread • f. Houston, TX 77002 30% al last year's chorus party. .."Van HeusenlArrow Award: 713/224-3247 or 713/660-7990 Chuck hzo (B2), who has worn the same shirt toorchestra Sing Outis published quarterly in Sep dress rehearsals for the lastmillion years. .. Best Excuse 26%- Chorus tember. December. March and June by for Missing a Perfomiance" Award: Harry Rogers (B2). for Members The Houston Symphony Chorus. mnning his car into the side ofa tnjck. .. The "Magic 20% Fingers" Award: Scott Holshauser. .. "I've Stuck Itto the Age Chorus Manager: Marilyn Dyess Best of Them" Award: Dr. Barbara Bush (S2). . . Survey Editor: Sally I. Evans, APR The "PerpetualMotion" Award: 16*- Design: Josephine S. Davenport Director Charles Hausmann. With Results this award goesan endowed chair Reporters: Bill Cheadle, Mike Withers scholarship to the Katie Gibbs 10%- (96 responded) Content ideas, information and comments Secretarial School for the may be sent to the editor. meticulous notes Charles c/o The Houston Symphony Chorus look from Maestro Eschenbach office or directly to P.O. Box 56644, during the orchestra rehearsal of Houston. TX 77256; given to any r^ the Mozart Requiem. 0% A porter; or left in the newsletter folder on SOs 408 30s 20« under 21 not sure the HSC bulletin board in Jones Hall. HSC Members' Ages Section Notes

For her professional achievements Bill Cheadle (B2) on the April 10 program is looking for volunteers to and her work on behalf of the birth of 8 lb. 8 oz. son William Hart give puppet and instrument presenta American Business Women's Atchison Cheadle. . .to Sally Evans tions in the schools. Call Ginny Association and its scholarship (S2), who was selected for Who's Garrett at 224-4240. program, Christine Hollinden (Al) Who in Public Relations. Last year, John Marshall (Bl) spent the was named 1991 Woman of the Year she was chosen for Who's Who in summer around the pool, recuperating by the Houston Skyline Chapter/ Women Executives. from another year of teaching junior ABWA. Her name was submitted Bill Cumberland (Bl) has high music. in statewide competition. joined the volunteers at Houston Gilbert & Sullian Society's Christi, new director of market Taping for the Blind. He reads Mikado production sold out two ing and communications for KPMG newspapers and various magazines performances in July. Jacque Peal Marwick, will establish a on a sub-band radio frequency for Brodeur (B2) and Roger Cutler marketing program for this Big the reading handicapped and books (Bl) sang with the group. accounting firm. requested by those who have diffi Sally Hecker (S2) sang for the culty reading because of a handicap. Air Force memorial service, Sunday, Editor Sally Evans also reads for It's audition time in Houston April 7, at Ellington Air Force Base. HTB, and Margaret Miller (A2) The Tuesday Musical Club is The President's plane and helicopter did, until she discovered two chil looking for women to sing with its were there, but he was in hiding! dren took all her time. chorus. Rehearsals are Tuesdays at Our sympathy to ... the family The Houston Symphony was noon at First Presbyterian Church/ of long-time chorus member Lynda lucky to have Barbara Bush (Al) as Houston, and child care is provided. Sparks (A2), who passed away this its physician for the recent, success Call Barb^a Buckner at 464-9874. summer after a lenghty illness. She ful Japan tour. She received a On September 13-15, Revels served as alto section leader and lengthy—and favorable—mention in Houston will audition singers for chorus council member for many a report from Houston Post music the Christmas Revels program, years. critic Carl Cunningham. December 6 and 8. Call 863-8070 Benjamin Berry (B2) was pro Joan Mercado (S2) spent part for a time. David (Tl) and Cyndie moted to professor of history at of the summer in Germany with her (SI) LangstafT and David Knoll Prairie View A&M University. daughter. At home, Joan reports that (B2) founded the group last year as Congratulations to . . . Lucy and The Houston Symphony docents part of the national Revels, Inc.

H|S*

The Houston Symphony Chorus 615 Louisiana Street Houston, T exas 77002 Newsletter of The Houston Symphony Chorus Vol. 3, No. 2 December 1991

Paul Saiamunovich Conducts Fall Clinic for HSC

"As singers, our greatest joy is to end result from the beginning of a types of performances, listen to share what we do." That's how Paul clinic. I last prepared the Elijah quality music, or view art exhibits. Saiamunovich opened his September many years ago. Today, we came "We need to make concerts so 7, 1991, interview with Sing Out close to the best." appealing," he admonished, "that editor Sally I. Evans, APR. He had Saiamunovich expressed concern audiences will tell others." Because just completed a two-day clinic for about the lack of culture in the of the Saiamunovich clinic, we of the HSC. United States, saying that too few the Houston Symphony Chorus are The purpose of a choral clinic, people attend concerts or other better prepared to do just that. Saiamunovich stated, is to share broader insights into how to develop Six New Section Leaders Appointed; choral technique and to offer a fresh approach to the specific works being Two Council Representatives Elected studied. "I share insights on what I've done, in the hope that it helps others," he said. "Also, an outsider sometimes can hear or see some thing a chorus's regular director has missed [by being too close]." Each conductor has his or her own approach to a clinic; Salamu- novich's is line and tonal work. "I want to help singers produce the ultimate version of what the com poser intended," he said. For the HSC clinic, Saiamu novich worked specifically "to build the vocal mechanism to get the tone that will depict the drama of the text" in Mendelssohn's Elijah and "to make the text artistically true". Why does he conduct clinics? Section leaders Laurie Winckel, John Council members at-large Mark Dalton and "Music becomes brand new to me Marshall and Jennifer Giese Annette Roesner when sharing with those I've never For the 1991-92 season, Director met before," he offered. "I feel to rehearsals and are open to the Charles Hausmann has appointed six entire chorus. renewed." new section leaders to replace those He especially enjoys clinics for At-large members represent professional choruses. "There's a whose terms expired. Also, in fall the entire chorus, but all council elections, the chorus chose two new members are charged with helping vocal limitation to a younger or college chorus," reported Saiamu at-large council members. the chorus function smoothly and The Chorus Council comprises novich. "With a professional chorus with administering dues money eight section leaders and four at- wisely. Bill Cumberland (Bl), the like this one, I can almost hear the large council members, with chorus current treasurer, prepares an staff as nonvoting participants. updated financial statement of Newsletter Deadlines Members serve two-year terms, but chorus funds whenever the council several resignations have helped meets and posts on the chorus Features: February 15 stagger terms of office. bulletin board at Jones Hall. Section Notes: February 19 Chorus Manager Marilyn Dyess A section leader's primaiy FAX: 713/663-6542 conducts the meetings, which are responsibilities are 1) to listen for usually scheduled at 6:15 p.m. prior vocal problems within the section, Continued on page 2 Section Leaders (contd) Section Leaders (contd) 2) to provide music markings to was on the Historical Homes Tour soloist competition. Laurie Hayes Winckel, Alto 1 Dalton (B2) brings to the council singing the Beethoven Ninth concert members absent from a rehearsal, in December. Being a teacher has allowed a concern for the HSC as an in Miller Theatre. He started singing and 3) to communicate schedule John to become a summer so- Laurie Hayes Winckel is in her fifth ensemble and as the choms of the with the choms that summer, but changes. Paula Homer, Soprano 2 journer, but he has no intention of year of teaching music and her Houston Symphony. didn't actually audition until the fall. becoming a ski bum. fourth year with the HSC. The Outside of the choms, Mark Mark has been studying with Jennifer Giese, Alto 2 SI Paula Homer was asked to be S2 He wants to be an assistant Austin native earned a bachelor of handles too-complicated-to-explain HoUy Kooken Wostel (SI) and section leader in just her second principal, with the long-term goal of music from Southwest Texas State "computer stuff for IBM on the practicing his sightreading. "I had Jennifer Giese, a 20-year chorus year with the choms, but she brings becoming a school district's music University and serves as assistant Space Station project. never sung many of the works member, is a founding member of excellent musical background. She supervisor or fine arts coordinator. choir director at Westfield High His musical background is we've done," said Mark, "so my the new Houston Chamber Singers. holds both a bachelors in music and School. Her choir won the "Honor "checkered. We didn't have much sightreading has realfy improved." Bom in Elgin, TX and reared a masters in choral conducting from Larry Patton, Tenor 2 Choir" award at the Texas Music opportunity for music at home, and in Dallas, she received her bache Sam Houston State University. Educators Association competition I never considered music until high Annette Roesner, At-large lors degree from the University of After teaching elementaiy music A 20-year Galvestonian, Larry last year. school. Then his family moved from Texas at Arlington, where she sang in the Northshore/Channelview area Patton is director of the Music She organized two of the four upstate New York to New Jersey, Also in her fourth season, Annette with the Longhom Singers. During and choir at Galena Park High Department and professor of music "America Sings" music festivals in and a friend introduced him to Roesner (SI) is a senior at the 10 years at Shell, she met computer School, Paula became choir director at Galveston College, as well as Houston and Chicago (the others are Wagnerian and Italian operas. University of Houston and sings with ^stems consultant Robert Giese. at Aldine Nimitz High School. She is choir director at First Presbyterian in New York and l^s Angeles). Mark's new-found enthusiasm the UH Chamber Singers. Just one Their relationship resulted not only also music director at Sacred Heart Church/ Galveston. He holds a Laurie's challenge was to solicit and led him to join his school men's year of education classes will com in marriage, but also, in 1982, the Catholic Church in Crosby. bachelor of music from Trinity schedule school choirs in these chorus, then to audition for Prince plete her degree in music education. formation of G-Tech, a computer For balance, she writes University, master of music from benefits for the homeless. ton High School's award-winning In December, she gave her systems design and software countiy-&-western music and is a Texas Christian University and Many of us own her hand- senior chorus. Whenever possible, senior recital, with works in Italian, company specializing in energy member of the Nashville Songwriters doctorate in education from Nova painted t-shirts and sweatshirts. But he would sneak across the street to German and English. applications. Jennifer is president; Association. (FL) University. she also enjoys traveling and biking. listen in Westminster Choir College. Annette is the eldest of five Robert, VP; and they do business in Paula is impressed with "how Recently, Larry organized and Wed just a few weeks, Laurie and After attending Gettysburg siblings, four girls with the lone boy 48 states and worldwide. the chorus takes on the character of directed a "centennial chorus," husband Chas postponed their (PA) College, marrying wife Laurie in the middle. Her primary hobby-apart from each conductor we sing under." comprising faculty, administrators Hawaiian honeymoon until summer. in 1975, and taking a 15-year hiatus Returning council members singing—is ham radio operation. Impressive too, is her cat, and students of Galveston's UT from organized music, Mark at include Arthur Heitzman (Bl) and She and Robert spend several hours Scarlet O'Hair, who conducted Medical School, to celebrate the Mark Dalton, At-large tended an HSC performance. He Beclg^ Rogers (Al), at-large, and each week conversing with folks herself with pride in the Houston school's 100th year. As president, bumped into Charles Hausmann Nanc^ Philips (SI) and John Grady around the world using their Charity Cat Show. he will coordinate the 1992 Texas Now in his fourth season, Mark backstage and by summer, was (Tl), section leaders. "rather sophisticated" equipment. Junior College Choral Festival. Neither of his daughters Mike Gilbert, Bass 2 John Marshall, Bass 1 majored in music but his wife, Maureen, is executive director of Section Ti Mike Gilbert, in his fifth year with Big-city Houston is populated by Galveston's 1894 Opera House. y the chorus, grew up in LaMarque, folks from small-town Texas. Take TX, and earned a bachelors in John Marshall. Bora in Hondo and Pam (S2) and Jim (Bl) Wilhite were and Chas Winckel eloped that night Melissa Bailey (A2) received music at Texas A&I, masters of reared in Mesquite, he earned a Continued on page 3 instead of waiting for their planned her Bachelor of Music Education music education from the University featured soloists with the London bachelors in secondary education Festival Orchestra, Ross Pople March 14, 1992, wedding. from the University of Houston in of Houston, masters of education (music emphasis) at East Texas December. Sing Out conducting, in the Haydn SU Nicho If you haven't ah-eady heard, from UH/Clear Lake, and doctorate Baptist College in Marshall. Eileen Gandin (SI) and Scott Hol- Revels/Houston presented in education from UH. He is 615 Louisiana las Mass. The LFO presented the He taught music at Marshall Houston, TX 77002 work on October 30 at St. Luke's shouser, HSC accompanist and HSO an enchanting Christmas Revels Galveston Ball High School choir Junior High while completing a 713/224-3247 or 713/660-7990 principal keyboardist, married on December 6 and 8. HSC members director and serves as interim music United Methodist Church as part of masters in education administration its Cathedral Classics, a "Festival of January 1, 1992. who performed included Ben Berry director at First Baptist Church/ at SFA University, then moved to Sing Outis published quarterly in (B2), Chuck Izzo (B2), David Knoll September, December, March and June Music in Cathedrals" which features William (Woody) Waters (Bl) Galveston. the Houston area^where he is choir by The Houston Symphony Chorus. the orchestra plus international and is the proud owner of his first home, (B2), Cindy Langstaff (SI), David In his 10 years there, he has director at Kingwood Middle School resident soloists. This was the only a house in the Heights. When not Langstaff (Tl), Nancy Philips (SI), taken his choirs to Norway, Japan, and a soloist at First Methodist Chorus Manager: Marilyn Dyess Carolyn Rogan (A2), Vii^nia choral concert on the orchestra's singing. Woody is a corporate Mexico City and Washington, DC. Church/Houston. Until May, he Editor; Saiiy I. Evans, APR Weller (SI), and former members Design: Josephine S. Davenport U.S./Latin American tour. attorney for Texaco. Mike is president of the East served as choir director of Wngwood At its fall concert on November Emily Standish BlunckjBeverly End Historical District, a board Congratulations to. . .David Christian Church. Reporters: Mike Withers 17, the Baytown Community Chorus Ladnier and Phil Crichton. Joan member of the Galveston Historical In 1989, his Kingwood school and Cathy Frederick (A2) on the November 18 birth of son Andrew performed Schubert's Mass in G with Mercado (S2) served as rehearsal Foundation, on the program selec choir won the "Outstanding Show Content ideas, information and string quartet and organ. Conductor accompanist and costumer. tion committee of the 1894 Opera Choir" at the Sandy Lake Festival in comments may be sent to the editor, Scott. . .former member Patrick c/o The Houston Symphony Chorus ' Fleming, who will be married in Holly Kooken Wostal (SI) reports Our deepest sympathy to Bill House and active in Dickens on the the Dallas Metroplex. Most recently, office or directly to P.O. Box 56644 that the group grew by 15 members Cheadle (B2), Bettye Anne Schauer Strand. 15 of his students made all-region Rochester, NY, on August 10. Houston, TX 77256; given to any re Laurie Hayes (Al) claims she this season, and the concert was a (S2) and Annette Roesner (SI), who His home, decorated with choir. John himself reached the porter; or left in the newsletter folder on smashing success. Ask her about all recently lost their fathers. stained glass Mike makes himself, semifinals in the five-area NATS nieHSC bulletin board in Jones Hail. had good reason to miss the Octo ber 25 Cole Porter rehearsal. She her knockout dress! Shaw Was Here Before by Arthur Heitzman

With mounting excitement and When Shaw came to Houston for But it set the dramatic atmos many hours of rehearsal for the the Beethoven Missa performance phere, as he went on to convey Mendelssohn Elijah performance, given on June 5,1971, the concert Beethoven's mastery in depicting to be conducted by the legendary was to be over and beyond the the crucifbiion of Christ. I shall Robert Shaw, chorus members completed symphony subscription never forget him saying that the should know this is not Shaw's first series. According to other chorus hammering of the nails was written performance with the Houston members at the time, the concert into the orchestral fiber at one point Symphony and Chorus. He was here was a last minute arrangement. The he ho{>ed to emphasize. 20 years ago to conduct Beethoven's chorus had received scores only two Everyone became entranced with Missa Solemnis and almoststayed months earlier and had not sung the the deep spirituality this man felt and as conductor of the symphony! work previously. was sharing with us. It was as if the At that time Shaw had no perma We scrambled into section "force" had entered the soul of each nent post. Some years earlier he had rehearsals and frustrating sessions, person in that hushed room. left the Cleveland Orchestra, which trying to make music out ofwhat What had not occurred at the he served for 11 years as associate turned out to be a difficult work to be rehearsals came alive at the perform conductor under the renowned prepared for a very meticulous con ance: a truly spiritual experience in George Szell. ductor. It wasn't working. We felt as music conducted by a man who not TTie Atlanta Symphony had an though we were never so ill prepared only mastered the techniques of opening, as did Houston, and Shaw and under pressure. choral and orchestral writing, but decided on Atlanta. He has since Things didn't seem to get much who also probed the depths of their recorded many of the major choral better after Shaw took over the meanings and the messages locked works with the Atlanta forces on the rehearsals. So just before orchestra in the scores to be revealed only by Telarc label. rehearsal, Shaw invited the Chorale, those who have found the key. Just when it seems that Shaw has as it was known then, to meet in the Perhaps Shaw's early preparation committed all such works to recorded Red Room of Jones Hall. (Maybe he to enter the ministry, as well as his history, along comes Elijah. It is being was hoping to call it off?.) background in philosophy, is still part "revised" by Robert Shaw, "tried out" As we filled the cramped space, of his makeup. Along the way,his in Houston and recorded in Atlanta. sitting on tables, stairway and floor, experiences with the Collegiate Another near miss. What is there this quiet master of choruses started Chorale (whichbecame the Robert about this recognized dean of choral talking in a peaceful, philosophical Shaw Chorale) in New York, helped conductors which record reviewers vein. Someone remembers him imprint the clean interpretations for and critics invariably label "highly reading a poem; no one remembers which Shaw is known. recommended"? what it was.

The Houston Symphony Chorus 615 Louisiana Street Houston, Texas 77002 Newsletter of The Houston Symphony Chorus Vol. 3, No. 3 May 1992

Long Waits, Multiple Takes Mark Chorus Men's Recording Session An Observation by Michael Withers

The evening of March 24 was not just another Tuesday night for the men of the Houston Symphony Chorus. To be sure, we had our rehearsal (could aTuesdaypass withoutone?), butwecherish it as the night that we, the symphony orchestra and Dunja Vejzovic recorded the BrahmsAlto Rhapsody for Virgin Qassics. There had been, after all, 32 years of discographic silence for the men since Leopold Stokowski and Carmina Burana. The evening began routinely enough, as we assembled in our assigned rehearsal seats, albeit this time at 6:00 p.m. and at the Wortham Center's rehearsal room. After 30 minutes of warm-ups, The men arvdously await their turn to sing inside the Wortham Theatre. musical "clean-ups" and mounting anticipation, Director Charles Hausmann led us to the Brown Theatre, where the sound engineers and orchestra were preparing their arts for our collaboration for posterity. The air had been so thick that it muted, to my ears anyway, any questions MarieDaltonmay have voiced to Charles. In any event, the air was thick and we hung onto every last word Charles spoke. We sat quietly in four theater rows about 30 feet from the stage as the engineers made final positioning adjustments to the 10 micro phones that loomed, figuratively speaking, from tall stands between us and the rear ofthe orchestra. These engineers, Preston Smith and Steve Bamett (unwittingly I'm sure) gave us a sense that only we musicians could stand in the way ofperfection, when they instructed the cellists and bass players to move chairs just three or four inches back for a betterblend. Eachis a trained and practicing musician, and Jim Hewitt, operations manager, told me how impressed the orches Inside the recording booth are, left to right, Douglas tra as a whole is with their recording talents. Last year, they "engi Merilait, Christoph Eschenbach, CharlesHausmann, neered" the first of the Houston Symphony/Christoph Eschenbach and Steve Barnett. Brahmsseries offerings.Symphony No. 1, to be released this summer. Smith reinforced my suspicion of his God-like aural omniscience when, after our first trial run, he said, "Good blend, but I hear two or three voices sticking through" in a low, amplified voice that came down upon us from a darkened somewhereaboveand behind us. I,andother chorusmen withconsciences,just knew he wastalkingabout us only. These words, and the still thick air, made it difficult for us to loosen up and sing in a Brahmsian way. After several takes, most ofthem short ones, Charles stepped up and wisely told us to loosen up, since we were sounding increasingly strident and sterile in our obsession to blend. That helped a lot. Ms. Vejzovicsang facingus fora change,andthreevideo monitors showed usMaestroEschenbach's faceand hands, less one dimension. Toward the end ofthe session. Maestro Eschenbach led us through at least eight takes of the ending phrase, "MeinHerz,"and,like ourearlierSunday performance, one take was"sans Z". Arthur Heitzman, having seen Eschenbachconduct a few such finishes in Wagner's Parsifalthe month before, astutelyobserved that the maestro often Continued on page 2 —Qa/*tion Mfltp^—• \~m—~\

Congratulations to...Amy and Scott Congratulations to... Deborah and Sigmund Rombeiig, the chorus Vernon (Tl)on the March25 birthof Deal (Al),whomarriedMattTrueon sang selections firom Desert Song, theirfirstchild.AmberShannon,9-1/ March 7. Had she hyphenated her Student Prince, Mile. Modiste, New 2 lbs. and 21 inches. name, she could have become Moon and the Fortune Teller. Annette Roesner's (SI) father, Deborah True-Deal! Nancy Bratic (S2) has been Raymond E. Roesner, who died in Nancy Philips (SI) has been ap named to the board ofWesley Com December, was honored April 21 at pointed to serve a two-year term on munity Center,a United Way agency. the Aggie Muster. the Westminster Choir College Betty Anne Schauer's (S2) A hearty **well done'*to members Alumni Council. daughter, Elizabeth,hasbeenawarded who performed individuallyorin the Inmid-Apiil, Ann Chandler(S1) a full assistantship next year and will quaitetforElijahperfonnances: Paula performed as the Rose Seller in the conductthe Women's Qiorus. She is Blackmon (Al), Richard Clark production ofOliver! at Miller Out currently working on a doctorate in (Tl),MarilynDyess(Al),JudyHurt doorTheatre. She also cantors forSt choral conducting at the University (Al),CyndieLangstaff(SI), Nancy Anne Catholic Church. ofQncinnati. Philips(S1),JohnMarshall(B1) and Joe White (B1) is gathering sig Scott Vernon (Tl). natures to get H. Ross Perot on the Recording Session Congratulations to... Heather November ballot in Texas. (continuedfrom page 1) Brown (SI), who will marry Gary JoanHarwoodFereday(S1) has prefers these "fade out" finishes. Isenhower on July 11 in Dallas. She started a new advertising agency, Over three hours and 25 takes teaches middle school music; he will Downs-Harwood, Inc., in addition to later, we were finished. I was com graduate in May to teach science. her current position as marketing co- forted that our best moments would, oidinatorofShelteringArms, aUnited with patienteditingoverthenextsev- Bells of Spring Branch Way agency dedicated to enatding eral months, become a "worthy the elderly to live with dignity and Have you seen the S3-bell carillon in whole". Vn&AltoRhapsody, together independence. the new bell tower at the comer of miiiSymphonyNo.3, is scheduledfor Ifyou are a SigmaAlphaIota, the Wiltand Westview in SpringBranch? release by next January. I know for Houston Alumni Chapter would like The bells, castin Holland, were dedi certain it will be every bit worth my to invite you to become active. Call cated in December. Gene Lasater money, as it was my time. Arline Lasater at 682-5533. (T2) is the carilloneur, playing from The Baytown Conmiunity Cho Sing Out 11:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. daily and rus, under the direction of Holly 615 Louisiana again from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. Occa Kooken Wostal (SI), presented Op Houston, TX 77002 sionally, Arline Lasater (S2) plays erettas ofthe Silver Age on April 26 also, joining Gene for duets. Sing Outis published quarterlyby at 2:30p.m. at the Baytown Commu If you would like to see the con The Houston Symphony Chorus. nity Center, 2407 MarketStreet Fea sole and play the bells, call Gene at Chorus Manager: Marilyn Dyess turing the music of Victor Herbert 682-5533 for an appointment Editor: Sally I. Evans. APR Design: Adrienne Dyess Name of the Game, in Texas, That is Reporter: Mike Withers SympathizewithRobert andJenniferGiese(A2). Since 1982, they have owned Ideas,information, andcommentsmay andoperated acomputer consulting firm called G-Tech Corporation. Butsince be sent to the editor, c/o The Houston the Texas Lottery announced the hiring of GTECH Corporation (formeriy SymphonyChorusoffice or directlyto GamingSystems Corp.) as the state's lottery operator*, the Gieses have been P.O. Box 56644, Houston. TX 77256; inundated with letters, faxes and phone calls intended for the other company. given to a reporter, or left in the news G-Techhelpslarge oil companies with mailing and computergraphics, letterfolder on the HSC bulletin board in Jones Hall. databases, geological applications andwelltesting. Everyone knowsworking for oneselfhas its elementofchance, but the Gieses*business has nothing to do Deadlines: Features. May 20; with the new Texas lottery! Section Notes. May 22