2010 | 2011 Season

2010-2011 Season Sponsors WITNESS

Friday,André March 4, 2011 Thomas at 8 pm Orchestra Hall, Minneapolis Concert Conversation at 7 pm with Classical Minnesota Public Radio’s John Birge and special guest Dr. André J. Thomas

VocalEssence Chorus Sigrid Johnson, Philip Brunelle and André Thomas, conducting

The St. Olaf Choir Anton Armstrong and André Thomas, conducting

Combined High School Choruses André Thomas, conducting Central High School Concert Choir, Saint Paul Hastings High School Select Chorale, Hastings Washburn High School Miller Voices, Minneapolis

Combined Choruses André Thomas, conducting

Thanks for Special support of WITNESS VocalEssence Please Note 1900 Nicollet Avenue Minneapolis, Minnesota 55403 • This performance is being recorded — please help us keep the concert hall quiet. Take a 612-547-1451 www.vocalessence.org moment now to check that cell phones, paging devices and wristwatch alarms are turned off VocalEssence is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. before the concert begins. Thank you for your cooperation! Board of Directors David L. Mona, President • Recording devices and cameras are prohibited. No photography, video, or audio recording Kent E. Eklund, Ph.D., Vice President is allowed in the concert hall. Please refrain from tweeting, texting or checking email during Mike McCarthy, Treasurer the concert. Susan J. Crockett, Ph.D., Secretary Warren Beck Bruce W. Becker • Student and group discounts are available for most VocalEssence concerts. Half-price Jo Michelle Beld, Singer Liaison Philip Brunelle tickets are available to students (ages 6-18 and college) with a student ID. Groups of Uri Camarena 10 or more save 15% on tickets. Children under age 6 are not allowed at VocalEssence Kari E. Davis performances, except for select community and family concerts, including ¡Cantaré! and Steve Fox John Geelan Star of Wonder. Karen A. Humphrey Nicolai A. Lewis Jan McDaniel • Accessible seating is available at all of our concert venues. However, some of our facilities Kristen Hoeschler O’Brien do not have elevator access to the balcony level. Please make your needs known when you Paul Pribbenow, Ph.D. order tickets. Mary Ann Pulk Kathryn Roberts Don Shelby • You may return VocalEssence single concert tickets for resale up to 48 hours prior to Debra Sit Peter Spink a performance. No refunds or exchanges can be given; however, you will be sent a receipt for your tax-deductible contribution. (VocalEssence subscribers may call 612-371-5642 to request free ticket exchanges and lost ticket replacement.) Honorary Directors Dominick Argento James Earl Jones Dave Brubeck Garrison Keillor • Latecomers will be seated at appropriate pauses in the concert according to the William Bolcom Donald Mitchell conductor’s wishes. Please plan plenty of time for locating the concert venue and parking. Aaron Copland* Helmuth Rilling Håkan Hagegård John Rutter Or better yet, allow an extra hour and join us for Concert Conversations with the composers Louise Heffelfinger Peter Schickele and artists, held one hour before most concerts. Eskil Hemberg* Eric Whitacre Betty Hulings* *In remembrance • Programs and artists are subject to change without notice.

Artistic Staff Philip Brunelle, Artistic Director and Founder Sigrid Johnson, Associate Conductor Charles Kemper, Accompanist

Administrative Staff This activity is made possible in part by a grant provided by the Minnesota State Arts Board, through an Mary Ann Pulk, Managing Director appropriation by the Minnesota State Legislature from the Minnesota arts and cultural heritage fund Judy Blaseg, Development Consultant with money from the vote of the people of Minnesota on November 4, 2008, a grant from the Wells Fargo Malia Cole, Director of Marketing and Public Relations Foundation Minnesota, and a grant from the National Endowment for the Arts. Katryn Conlin, Communications Manager Laura Holst, Development and Marketing Associate Delta Air Lines, Inc. is the preferred airline of VocalEssence. Beth Korleski, Operations Intern Katelyn Larson, WITNESS Intern Kimberly Meisten, Director of Community Engagement Leadership support for the Meet The Composer’s MetLife Creative Connections program is generously provided by MetLife Foundation. Nick Peter, Director of Operations Additional support is provided by The Amphion Foundation, Argosy Foundation Contemporary Music Fund, BMI Foundation, Inc., Patricia Starks-Faggétt, Accounting Manager Mary Flagler Cary Charitable Trust, Aaron Copland Fund for Music, Inc., The William & Flora Hewlett Foundation, The James Irvine Katrina Vander Kooi, Associate Director of Development Foundation, Jerome Foundation, mediaThe foundation, National Endowment for the Arts, New York City Department of Cultural Elissa Weller, Education and Volunteer Manager Affairs, New York State Council on the Arts, Pennsylvania Council on the Arts and Virgil Thomson Foundation, Ltd.

page 2 2010 | 2011 Season Program Order Introduction

VocalEssence Chorus Spirituals constitute one of the largest Sigrid Johnson, Philip Brunelle and André Thomas, bodies of American song that have conducting survived to our time and are probably African Noel Deep River the best-known. It is, therefore, Peter, Go Ring Dem Bells appropriate that this year’s WITNESS I Open My Mouth theme be devoted to the spiritual and its Go Where I Send Thee legacy and uplifting quality that touches us all. When African people were forced The St. Olaf Choir to come to America as slaves in the Anton Armstrong and André Thomas, conducting 1600s, their former lifestyles faced upheaval. It was their musical Andrew Bourgoin, piano traditions, though greatly altered, that provided a semblance of Devin Orchard, Maggie Burke, Katie Burke, consistency in the midst of their new conditions. The result was: Karen Hopper, percussion the spiritual. Here’s a Pretty Little Baby Hold Fast to Dreams In West Africa music was a significant part of everyday life and Rockin’ Jerusalem The Kingdom the rhythm of work and community celebration created a shared My Good Lord’s Done Been Here music-making. In America spirituals came to express religious themes — both sorrow and joy, but always with a feeling of hope. By the time of Abraham Lincoln thousands of spirituals Intermission existed, passed down by oral tradition and therefore quick to adapt to the changing needs and dynamics of their creators.

Combined High School Choruses Spirituals have experienced several notable surges of popularity André Thomas, conducting since the end of slavery in America. During the Harlem Keep Your Lamps! Renaissance, spirituals thrived in the concert hall with such Barbara Allen renowned musicians as Paul Robeson, Roland Hayes and Swing Down, Chariot Marian Anderson. They also inspired writers such as Langston Walk in My Shoes I Couldn’t Hear Nobody Pray Hughes, Claude McKay and Zora Neale Hurston. During the Great Depression spirituals reached a larger audience by means of the radio, and then the Civil Rights Movement Combined Choruses of the 1950s and 1960s added a new momentum to these André Thomas, conducting songs with spirituals and gospel songs being given new lyrics Beautiful City reflecting the ideals of the time. For example, the anthem “We I Dream a World Shall Overcome” came out of a gospel hymn, “I’ll Overcome I Hear America Singing Someday,” as well as the spiritual “No More Auction Block for Me,” which predates the Civil War.

Whenever American choirs perform internationally there is always a request for spirituals, perhaps more than for any other kind of music. Spirituals possess the power to unite people across boundaries, expressing some of the most poignant of human emotions. It is in this spirit that we welcome Dr. André J. Thomas as our guest conductor, a man whose life’s work revolves around this music. And it is a joy to welcome all our visiting choirs as we share together in celebrating the beauty and power of the spiritual today.

2010 | 2011 Season page 3 Program Texts I Open My Mouth arr. André J. Thomas (1990) African Noel arr. André J. Thomas Done made my vow to the Lord. (1994) O, Lord, I’ll never turn back. Sing Noel, I shall go to see what the end is gonna be. Sing we all Noel. I open my mouth to the Lord, O come ye people, gather here to hear the news of And I won’t turn back. good cheer. I shall go to see what the end is gonna be. The King of kings, the Lamb of God is born today in Bethlehem. If you don’t believe that I’ve been redeemed, Just follow me down to Jordan’s stream, To see what the end is gonna be. Deep River arr. André J. Thomas (2002) Deep river, my home is over Jordan, Go Where I Send Thee arr. André J. Thomas Deep river, I want to cross over into campground. (1989) Children, go where I send thee. Oh, don’t you want to go to that gospel feast, How shall I send thee? That promised land where all is peace? I’m gonna send thee one by one. One for the little bitty baby. Two was for Paul and Silas. Peter, Go Ring Dem Bells arr. André J. Thomas Three was the Hebrew children. (2001) He was born in Bethlehem. Peter, go ring-a dem bells, Heard from heaven today! Four was the four that came knockin’ at the door. Oh sinner, why don’t you answer? Wonder where Mary has gone, Somebody’s knockin’ at your door. Heard from heaven today! I shall send thee five-by-five. Five for the Gospel preachers. Wonder where Martha has gone, I shall send thee six-by-six. Heard from heaven today! Six was the six that couldn’t get fixed. Good news! Seven went up to Heaven. Heard from heaven today. Eight was the eight that stood at the gate. Nine was the nine that got left behind! Wonder where’s Moses? Ten by ten ’cause ten was the ten commandments. Way down in Egypt Land, Tell Old Pharoah How shall I send thee? To let my people go. Go where I send thee. He was born in Bethlehem. Wonder where Daniel has gone? Heard from heaven today. Didn’t my Lord deliver Daniel Here’s a Pretty Little Baby arr. André J. Thomas And why not every man? (1997) Wonder where Elijah has gone? Here’s a pretty little baby! Elijah, Elijah Rock. Look in the manger! He’s gone where Daniel has gone, Behold, believe, and be baptized. Heard from heaven today. Wise men riding . . . Bright star shining . . . Name is Jesus . . . Behold, believe, and be baptized. page 4 2010 | 2011 Season Hold Fast to Dreams arr. André J. Thomas My Good Lord’s Done Been Here (2006) arr. André J. Thomas Hold fast to dreams, (2009) For if dreams die, My good Lord’s done been here! Life is a broken-winged bird Blessed my soul and gone away. That cannot fly. When I get to heaven and my work is done, Hold fast to dreams Going to sit down with Sister Mary and chatter with For when dreams go, the darling son. Life is a barren field frozen with snow. —Langston Hughes Going down to the river of Jordan one of these days. Going to sit at the welcome table and see my Savior’s face. Rockin’ Jerusalem arr. André J. Thomas Hold up the Baptist finger, (1986) Hold up the Baptist hand, When I get in the heavens, going to join the Baptist I hear rock-in in the land and ring-in dem bells! Band. I know Oh my Lord, There’s rock-in in the land and ring-in dem bells. I know archangels ring dem bells. Keep Your Lamps! arr. André J. Thomas Oh I hear dem ring-in for they are rock-in Jerusalem. (1982) Oh Mary, Oh Martha, Oh Mary ring dem bells! Keep your lamps trimmed and burning, I hear archangels a-ring-in dem bells! The time is drawing nigh. Children, don’t get weary ’til your work is done. Church getting higher, Jerusalem Christian, journey soon be over, Ring dem bells! The time is drawing nigh. Don’t you hear the bells a-ring-in, Don’t you hear dem ring-in dem bells! Barbara Allen arr. André J. Thomas (2005) The Kingdom arr. André J. Thomas (1991) In Scarlet town where I was born, Righteousness, peace, joy in the Holy Ghost, There was a fair maid dwellin’, That’s the Kingdom of God. Made every youth cry, “Well-a-day,” Don’t you want to be a part of the Kingdom? Her name was Barbara Allen. Come on ev’rybody! Oh, yes, there’s joy in the Kingdom! All in the merry month of May, Oh, yes, there’s peace in the Kingdom! When green the buds were swellin’, Oh, yes, there’s Love in the Kingdom! Young Jimmy Grove on his death-bed lay, Come on ev’rybody! For love of Barbara Allen. The earth is the Lord’s and the fullness therof. Then slowly, slowly, she came up, We are part of the earth, and it is part of us. And slowly she came nigh him The perfumed flowers are our sisters, And all she said when there she came, The deer, the horse, the great eagle, “Young man, I think you’re dyin’.” These are our brothers. When he was dead and laid in grave, All things are connected. Her heart was struck with sorrow. Rivers our brothers, earth our mother. “My true love died for me today The earth is the Lord’s. And I shall die tomorrow.” —Romans 14:17, adapted André J. Thomas (continued next page)

2010 | 2011 Season page 5 “Farewell,” she said, “Ye maidens all, If we’re willing to open our minds and our hearts, And shun the fault I fell in, Understanding each other has a place to start. Hence-forth take warning by the fall I’ll give you my shoes, wear yours as my part, Of cruel Barbara Allen.” Let’s step in each others’ shoes. —Traditional English Folksong Our differences don’t tear, But instead can be a strength we share. Tomorrow’s answers are waiting there, arr. André J. Thomas Swing Down, Chariot The day you walk in my shoes. (2003) Swing down chariot, stop and let me ride, Can you walk in mine? Rock me, Lord, calm and easy, Can you think as I do? I’ve got a home on the other side. Can you try being me just for a while? Come dare to walk in my shoes! Ezekiel went out in the middle of the field. —Neil Lorenz He saw an angel workin’ on a chariot wheel. He wasn’t particular about the chariot wheel. He just wanted to see how the chariot feels. I Couldn’t Hear Nobody Pray arr. André J. Thomas Ezekiel went down and he got on board. (2008) The chariot went a-bumpin’ on down that old road. Way down yonder, way down on my knees, He wasn’t quite particular ’bout the bumpin’ Way down yonder, I couldn’t hear nobody pray. of the road. Hallelujah, trouble’s over in the kingdom with my He just wanted to lay down his heavy load. Jesus. A sinner, he went out to the middle of a field. I couldn’t hear nobody pray. And then he started workin’ on a chariot wheel. He wasn’t so particular ‘bout workin’ on that wheel. He just wants to see how a chariot feels. Beautiful City arr. André J. Thomas (2006) Then an angel saw the sinner workin’ hard there Three gates in-a the east, in the field Three gates in-a the west, And said, “Hold on, believer, Ezekiel rides that wheel. Three gates in-a the north, The chariot will swing on down the old and bumpy Three gates in-a the south, road. Twelve gates to the city, Hallelu. The chariot’s the place to lay your heavy load.” My mother lives up in glory, I want to live there too. Walk In My Shoes arr. André J. Thomas My father lives up in glory, (2010) I want to live there too. When dreams you dream are different than mine, My sister lives up in glory, When anger remains from a different time, I want to live there too. When the path you choose is a stranger’s line, My brother lives up in glory, I’ll try to walk in your shoes. I want to live there too. When I don’t understand what you’re trying to say, The beautiful city of God! And don’t see what you see, try as I may, I want to be in that number, When things that you do are just not my way, The beautiful city of God! I’ll try to walk in your shoes. Twelve gates to the city, Hallelujah. Can you walk in mine, give them a trial? Can you think as I do, though it’s not your style? Can you try being me, just for a while? Come dare to walk in my shoes. page 6 2010 | 2011 Season I Dream a World arr. André J. Thomas (2002) In Memoriam I dream a world Dr. Billy Taylor Where no other man will scorn. (1921-2010) Where love will bless the earth VocalEssence would like to And peace its paths adorn. recognize the recent passing of jazz I dream a world legend Dr. Billy Taylor. Dr. Taylor first Where all will know sweet freedom’s way joined VocalEssence to perform Where greed no longer saps the soul Peaceful Warrior at Orchestra Hall in the 1998-1999 30th Anniversary Nor avarice blights our day. Season, and then again for our 2009 WITNESS Concert celebrating A world I dream where black or white, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Encompassing a rare combination of Whatever race you be, creativity, intelligence, vision, commitment and leadership, Dr. Will share the bounties of the earth Taylor was one of our most cherished national treasures. And every man is free. Playing the piano professionally since 1944, he got his start with Where wretchedness will hang its head Ben Webster’s Quartet on New York’s famed 52nd Street. He then And joy, like a pearl, served as the house pianist at Birdland, the legendary jazz club Attends the needs of all mankind. where he performed with such celebrated masters as Charlie Parker, Dizzy Gillespie and Miles Davis. Since the 1950s, Billy Taylor Of such I dream, I dream a world. led his own Trio and performed with the most influential jazz —Langston Hughes musicians of the twentieth century.

Dr. Taylor was not only an influential musician, but a highly I Hear America Singing arr. André J. Thomas regarded teacher as well, receiving his master’s degree and Ph.D. (1993) in music education from the University of Massachusetts at I hear America singing of its greatness, Amherst and serving as a Duke Ellington Fellow at Yale University. We will always be grateful for Dr. Taylor’s commitment to WITNESS I hear America singing strong. and VocalEssence, and will miss him deeply. I hear America singing of its beauty, I hear America singing today. Oh walk together, children, don’t you get weary. There’s a great camp meeting in the Promised Land. Sing together, children, don’t you get weary Shout together, children, don’t you get weary There’s a great camp meeting in the Promised Land. We’re going to sing of truth and love. Walk together, hand in hand together in peace. We’re going to sing and never tire. There’s a great camp meeting in the Promised Land.

2010 | 2011 Season page 7 Biographies Dr. André J. Thomas

Revered for his (B.A.), Northwestern University (M. M.), and the world-class settings University of Illinois (D.M.A). Florida State University of spirituals and honored him with the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. gospel music, Distinguished Service Award for his outstanding scholarly distinguished excellence and strong commitment to Dr. King’s ideals. composer, educator, and conductor Dr. André J. Thomas has Anton Armstrong set the gold standard for the performance Anton Armstrong is the Harry of African R. and Thora H. Tosdal Professor American spirituals of Music at St. Olaf College through his book, and Conductor of The St. Olaf Way Over in Beulah Choir, a position he assumed in Lan’, a practical, 1990. He came to this position heartfelt guide following ten years in Grand to understanding Rapids, Michigan where he spirituals and served on the faculty of Calvin performance practice. In the book, he explores the College and conducted the beginnings of the spiritual, its role in society, and its Campus Choir, the Calvin College Alumni Choir and the transition into art music. He also addresses issues of Grand Rapids Symphony Chorus. interpretation — text, diction, rhythm, and tempo. A graduate of St. Olaf College, Anton Armstrong earned André has also distinguished a master of music degree at the University of Illinois and himself as a composer/arranger a doctor of musical arts from Michigan State University. and his works are particularly He holds membership in several professional societies beloved by high school and including the American Choral Directors Association, college choirs. Hinshaw Music, Choristers Guild, Chorus America, and the International Mark Foster Music, Fitzsimmon Federation for Choral Music. He also serves as editor of Music, Lawson Gould, a multicultural choral series for Earthsongs Publications Earthsongs, and Heritage Music and co-editor of the revised St. Olaf Choral Series for publish his compositions and Augsburg Fortress Publishers. arrangements. Dr. Armstrong is widely recognized for his work in the He has been the guest area of youth and children’s choral music. He served for conductor of such distinguished over twenty years on the summer faculty of the American orchestras and choirs as the Birmingham (England) Boychoir School, Princeton, New Jersey. He is the Symphony Orchestra, the Berlin Radio Choir, the founding conductor of the Troubadours, 30-voice boys’ Netherlands Radio Choir, the Charlotte Symphony, ensemble of the Northfield Youth Choirs since 1991. He Tallahassee Symphony and the Chinese People’s currently serves as a member of the Board of Trustees Liberation Orchestra. He is also in demand as a choral of the American Boychoir School, the Board of Chorus adjudicator, clinician, and director of Honor/All-State America and the Board of Choristers Guild. In June 1998, Choirs throughout the United States, Europe, Asia, New he began his tenure as founding conductor of the Oregon Zealand and Australia. Bach Festival Stangeland Family Youth Choral Academy.

André is the Director of Choral Activities and Professor of Choral Music Education at Florida State University in Tallahassee. He earned degrees from Friends University page 8 2010 | 2011 Season The St. Olaf Choir Central High School Concert Choir

The St. Olaf Central High School, the largest public high school Choir, with 75 in Saint Paul, is a model for public education, serving mixed voices, is diverse populations. The student body is 33% European- the premiere American, 32% African-American, 29% Asian American, a cappella college 5% Hispanic American, and 1% Native American. Forty choir in the languages are spoken in students’ homes. United States. Conducted since Performing ensembles at Central include Concert Choir, 1990 by Anton Central Men, Central Women, Concert Band, Varsity Armstrong, The Band, and Orchestra. Co-curricular opportunities include St. Olaf Choir Central Singers, Minnesingers, Meistersingers, Orchestra, continues to Chamber Orchestra, and Jazz Band. develop the tradition that The Central High School Concert Choir has performed originated with Gabriel Fauré’s Requiem, Antonio Vivaldi’s Gloria and its founder, Brahms’s Nänie with the Central Orchestra. They have F. Melius collaborated with Kantorei, Oratorio Society, Minnesota Christiansen. Chorale’s Bridges Program, One Voice Mixed Choir, Two Rivers Chorale and The Singers. In November 2005, they Since its founding in 1912, The St. Olaf Choir has set a performed for the Minnesota ACDA fall convention. standard in the choral art, serving as a model for choirs In 2008, the Concert Choir performed at The St. Olaf of all levels. The ensemble’s annual tour brings its artistry College Choral Day. In 2008-2009 they participated in the and message to thousands of people across the nation and VocalEssence ¡Cantaré! program, working with Mexican around the world. The St. Olaf Choir has taken thirteen composer Jorge Cózatl. international tours and performed for capacity audiences in the major concert halls of Norway, France, South Korea, New Zealand, Australia, New York City, Washington, DC, Martha Graber Chicago, Los Angeles, Dallas, and the Twin Cities. Martha Graber has taught music for eleven years at Central High School. In addition to being an artistic force, The St. Olaf Choir She received her bachelor of music has a full calendar of events and a growing library of education from Illinois Wesleyan recordings. The choir’s mission is to provide music of University and her master of music the highest quality that lifts people’s hearts and spirits, in choral conducting from University incorporating a diversity of voices and cultural traditions of Minnesota, where she studied into the chorus of the Christian faith. Many people voice with Lawrence Weller and Emma Small. She has experience this message through the annual St. Olaf been a performing member of Thursday Musical and has Christmas Festival. But perhaps nowhere is the essence performed many recitals and solo performances, including more clearly proclaimed than in the work that has become appearances with Minnetonka Choral Society, Oratorio the choir’s signature piece, “Beautiful Savior.” Society, Macalester Festival Chorale and Minnesota Chorale. Martha is a member of Minnesota Music Educators Association (MMEA) and the American Choral Directors Association (ACDA). Martha currently serves as Standards and Repertoire Chair for Multi- Cultural and Ethnic Music for ACDA, and has published two articles in its journal, Star of the North. Her article titled “Cultural Awakenings” was also published in the North Central ACDA Journal and the ACDA Journal of California. 2010 | 2011 Season page 9 Hastings High School Select Chorale Washburn High School Miller Voices

Hastings High School has an enrollment of 1800 students Washburn High School, located in south Minneapolis, grades 9-12. The vocal music department has over 600 opened in 1925 with an enrollment of 1031 students, students singing in one or more of the nine choirs. Two grades 7-12. Even though the number of students enrolled of the four auditioned choirs — Bel Canto Singers and at Washburn remains close to 1000, the demographics Select Chorale — rehearse every day for 45 minutes while have changed significantly over the years. 50% of the the other two — Concert Choir and Women’s Chorus — student population is African-American, 30% European- the two non-auditioned choirs, also rehearse every other American, and 4% Hispanic. Three years ago the day. The choirs at Hasting High School are under the Minneapolis school district decided to make a “fresh start” direction of Kathleen Hanson, Tatum Mahlen and Lin at this diverse under-achieving high school. Principal Warren. Carol Markam-Cousins had the job of rebuilding the school from the ground up. One of her first decisions The 116-member Hastings High School Select Chorale was to invest in the arts. Today, academics, athletics and is comprised of juniors and seniors. This choir’s selection the arts are equally valued components of a Washburn is based on a premise of inclusion and enjoyment of the education and Washburn is an official International arts. Juniors and seniors that display a good work ethic Baccalaureate school. As a result, the choirs, including and a love of the arts are included in this ensemble. two mixed choirs and a treble choir, have seen tremendous These students are exposed to a wide variety of literature growth in the past three years. Musical theater, band, throughout the year as many prepare to sing in college orchestra, and jazz band are offered as curricular classes, ensembles. along with a variety of theater and visual arts courses. Last year the Washburn Miller Voices choral ensemble worked Lin Warren with composer-in-residence Diana Syrse Valdés through Lin Warren has taught vocal music the VocalEssence ¡Cantaré! program. for 27 years at Hastings High School. He received a bachelor of music from Nancy Lee Hastings College, Hastings, Nebraska Director Nancy Lee was hired as part of the fresh start and a master of arts in music from the initiative. Before coming to Washburn she spent eight University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire. years at Minneapolis-Southwest High School. Other In l988 he received the Outstanding teaching experiences include Villa Victoria Academy in Young Choral Director Award from the Minnesota Trenton, NJ; Milwaukee Public Schools, WI; and Prior chapter of American Choral Directors Association. In Lake High School, MN. Nancy received her bachelor’s 1989 was selected as “Teacher of the Year” and in 2009 degree from Luther College and will finish a master of he was selected “Employee of the Year” for the Hastings music education from Boston University this spring. Her Public School System. His choirs have been selected to choirs have performed at the regional MENC conference appear at the Minnesota Music Educators Association and Minnesota Opera’s “Viva Verdi” concert, and have Convention, the American Choral Director Association of toured Chicago, Nashville, Boston and New York. Since Minnesota Convention, the Divisional Music Educators 2007, she has taught the secondary choral methods course National Conference Convention and the 2010 Choral at St. Olaf College. She sits on the Hennepin Theatre Arts Finale. He has held many positions in the American Trust’s SpotLight advisory committee and serves on Choral Directors Association. He served as assistant numerous committees with Minneapolis Public Schools. convention chair for the 2005 American Choral Directors Association national convention in Los Angeles and is currently the assistant convention chair for the 2011 American Choral Directors national convention to be held in Chicago.

page 10 2010 | 2011 Season it’s alive

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2010 | 2011 Season page 11 WITNESS Artist Workshops and IFP-MN Partnership

This year, VocalEssence embarked on an exciting partnership with IFP-Minnesota to produce a video The WITNESS School Program about the WITNESS School Program and Young People’s Concerts. In February and March 2011, Washburn The WITNESS School Program is an exciting High School students filmed three opportunity for students and teachers to learn select artist school workshops, choir more about the past and present contributions rehearsals, and the Young People’s African Americans have made to the fine arts. Concert on March 2nd. Many of these The 2010-2011 WITNESS School Program has students are also performing on the explored the impact and influence spirituals have concert, which gives them the unique had on American culture. The program has three perspective of being a performer as components: Artist Workshops, Teacher Resources, well as a filmmaker in the project. The resulting video will be available and Young People’s Concerts. through the VocalEssence website at WITNESS Artist Workshops www.vocalessence.org. Our WITNESS partner schools host two visits from These are photographs from the a WITNESS Teaching Artist who interacts with filming at St. Helena Catholic School students for a 50-minute class period. This year, the in Minneapolis, where Teaching Artists Teaching Artists have explored an artistic discipline T. Mychael Rambo and Anita Ruth using the American Spiritual as a framework. worked with an eighth grade music Depending on the artist, workshop activities may class. During their visits, T. Mychael include composing a song; expressing a poem and Anita explored the heart of the through movement; or painting a mural about hope African American spirituals that gave and courage. VocalEssence provides workshops free birth to the great river of American of charge to all partner schools. popular music. After experiencing the connective flow of these genres, Teacher Resources students created and recorded their Participating teachers attend a half-day orientation own songs in tribute to the enslaved seminar, which includes an introduction to the Africans and their fight for freedom. VocalEssence WITNESS School Program, an We are grateful to Deacon Warner, overview of the VocalEssence Teacher Resource Youth Coordinator at IFP-MN Guide, the opportunity to engage with WITNESS and Nancy Lee, Choir Director of Teaching Artists and strategies on incorporating Washburn High School for their WITNESS materials in the school curricula. work on this project, and as well as WITNESS Young People’s Concerts the following participating student filmmakers from Washburn High Three 50-minute concerts designed to engage School: students in the music of American Spirituals occurred for over 5000 students March 2 and Mikala Ferguson 3. Special Guest Dr. André Thomas led the Miranda Harincar VocalEssence chorus and special guest choirs in Tianna Jones singing what some have called “America’s greatest art Patricia Thao form.” Chris Todd Dre Ransom For more information, contact Kimberly Meisten at [email protected] or 612-547-1456. Photos: Stephen Maturen page 12 2010 | 2011 Season WITNESS Artist Workshops and IFP-MN Partnership

St. Helena Catholic School in Minneapolis with WITNESS Teaching Artists T. Mychael Rambo and Anita Ruth

2010 | 2011 Season page 13 2010-2011 WITNESS Teaching Artists Ta-coumba Aiken: Visual Artist Danielle Daniel: Storyteller, Writer • Applies his artistry to public projects including • Uses storytelling to help students build reading murals in public spaces, tiles adorning a fireplace and critical thinking skills, enhance writing, in the Minneapolis Central Library and an stimulate creativity and imagination and to teach installation at the Chicago and Lake Metro Transit character education. Station. • 19 years of classroom experience. • Has created set designs for theaters in • Author of the children’s book The Ghost of Old Minnesota and California. Man Willie. • Serves on boards for Minneapolis Arts • Often accompanied by guitarist Alphonse Commission and Intermedia Arts and advisor to Bolden. cities of Saint Paul and Minneapolis. Kelechi Jaavaid: Writer, Poet, Comic Timothy Berry: Vocalist, Composer, Percussionist • Worked in the Minneapolis Public Schools as an • Eclectic performances include his Afro-Latin educator, mentor and tutor. band, Soul Drums, Grammy Award Winner • Has performed as a poet, comic and spoken Larnelle Harris, Leigh Morris Chorale, Minnesota word artist for the National Association of Black State University Repertory Dance Theater and Journalists, First Avenue, Acadia Theater, Acme Robert Robinson. Comedy Club and various comedy venues. • 2009 Essentially Choral Competition winner • He has also performed poetry in Ghana, West for emerging American Composers sponsored Africa. by VocalEssence and the American Composers Forum. • Teaches vocal and classroom music and High School Kantorei Rose McGee, M.Ed: Storyteller, Poet Chorus in Hopkins School District. • Storyteller, poet and playwright who authored Kumbayah...The Juneteenth Story. • Featured in national and local TV and print ads Patricia Brown: Dance Instructor, Choreographer as model and actor. • African-based movement styles. • Owns Deep Roots Gourmet Desserts. • Schools (K-12), organizations and theater • B.S., Lane College in Jackson, TN; Master’s of companies including: Pillsbury House, Penumbra, Education Degree with Specialization in Creative Stepping Stone, Children’s, and In the Heart of Arts in Learning, Lesley University, Cambridge, the Beast Puppet and Mask Theatres. MA. • Teaches at Macalester College and the University of Minnesota where she was awarded the 2004 College of Continuing Education Louis Porter II: Memoirist, Poet, Journalist Distinguished Teaching Award and the 2007 • Has performed with several theater companies Century Council Diverse Community Award. and conducted workshops and classes in a variety of settings from elementary school through college age. Ginger Commodore: Singer, Songwriter, Actress • His short story “Reminders” won Ebony • Has sung with The Sounds of Blackness, Twin Magazine’s Gertrude Johnson Williams Literary Cities Gospel Ensemble, the JD Steele Singers, Award. Women Who Cook, and Moore by Four. • Awarded a fellowship to attend “American • Acting/singing credits include Death In Literary History in a New Key” in Salzburg, Austria. The Family (Minnesota Opera), Black Nativity (Penumbra), Black Belts (Mixed Blood), Stamping, Shouting & Singing Home (Children’s Theatre T. Mychael Rambo: Musician Company), and Smokey Joe’s Cafe (Hey City • Emmy Award winning actor, vocalist and arts Theatre). educator. • Affiliate Professor, Theatre Arts and Dance Department at the University of Minnesota. Beverly Cottman: Storyteller, Performance Artist • Artist in residence in theatre, creative dramatic • Known as “Auntie Beverly,” she uses storytelling and creative writing. and other artistic disciplines to educate and • Dedicated arts activist, volunteer and inspire audiences about history, culture and community organizer. heritage. • Recipient of the Ordway’s 2010 Sally Award in • Combines tales of the African Diaspora with Arts Education and 2010 Minnesota Black Music Award. participatory activities to impart knowledge, explore cultural history and teach positive values.

page 14 2010 | 2011 Season Anita Ruth: Musician In Memory of Joe Carter (1949-2006) • Co-presents with T. Mychael Rambo. • Directed music for over 200 shows in the Twin Cities Area. As WITNESS focuses on the legacy of • 8 years at Children’s Theater Company in both spirituals, VocalEssence would like to recognize theatrical and educational capacities. Joe Carter, celebrated Minnesota performer, educator, and traveling humanitarian who took the African American spiritual to audiences around the world, from Novosibirsk to Nigeria. WITNESS Teaching Artist Louis Porter II provides the following tribute: Roxane Wallace-Patterson: Dancer, Choreographer Grateful • BA in Philosophy with Ethnic Studies minor, University of California at Berkeley. Joe • 2004 named “Best Dancer” by City Pages. we still hear • 2006 wrote, choreographed, directed and your voice produced “Evolution of a Soul Sista.” booming, brave and beautiful • 2007 “REvolutionary Soul Sistas” presented by singing spirituals across the globe Red Eye Theater. on the grandest stages of the land • 2008 named a McKnight Fellow in Dance. that was wonderful of course but perhaps even grander was the way the children listened when you sang and when you talked about the 2010-2011 WITNESS Partner Schools spirituals you loved so much as you gave them Alice Smith Elementary Partnership Academy Anoka Middle School Pilgrim Lutheran School a forgotten history Bancroft Elementary PYC Arts & Technology High filled in the gaps Birch Grove Elementary School made them Blessed Trinity Catholic School Ramsey International School see/feel/understand Boys Totem Town Richfield High School later, in an interview Brooklyn Center High School Rockford Elementary you helped the so-called Carondelet Catholic School Sanford Middle School grown-ups Diamond Path Elementary Sheridan Arts Magnet understand, too Evergreen Park Elementary St. Helena Catholic School you said it so they could School St. John’s Catholic School FAIR School Crystal St. Mark’s Catholic School get it FAIR School Downtown St. Peter Claver Catholic School of slaves you said: Franklin Music Magnet St. Peter’s Catholic School “in the midst of all of the most horrible pain, Glen Lake Elementary Stonebridge Community School some of these powerful individuals lived Hancock-Hamline Elementary Trinity School at River Ridge transcendent, shining lives” Highland Elementary Twin Cities Academy and more people began to Jenny Lind Elementary Valley View Elementary get it Lake Harriet Upper Campus WISE Charter School if they still didn’t Lincoln Elementary School for World Cultures School get it the Arts L. H. Tanglen Elementary School you let forth that Lyndale Community School voice and we all understood Lynwood Monroe A+ Elementary and were Maplewood Middle School blessed Nativity of Our Lord School —Louis Porter II North Park Elementary Northern Lights Community School

2010 | 2011 Season page 15 Special Thanks VocalEssence presents fifth annual “Reatha Clark King Award” to Sharon Sayles Belton Anton Armstrong Augsburg College Bruce Becker TheReatha Clark King Award for John Birge, Minnesota Public Radio Excellence and Youth Motivation Dennis Blubaugh, Musical Resources through the Cultural Arts was Education Advisory Committee developed by VocalEssence to honor Rob Estrine those who provide the resources to Debbie Hagberg help organizations come closer to their Della Harr Teri Larson vision, and those who are in the field Fellowship Missionary Baptist Church empowering youth through direct James Burroughs contact, making a way for young people Rose McGee to be as successful as they can be. Kevin Middlebrook Sanford Moore At today’s concert, Sharon Sayles Rev. Dwight Seawood Belton (pictured) will be honored General Mills with the Reatha Clark King Award. Artist Ta-Coumba Aiken has Susan J. Crockett, Ph.D. created a one-of-a-kind painting which will be presented to her as Sandy Stelflug a memento of the award. Hastings High School Mike Johnson Lin Warren Sharon Sayles Belton’s career has been forged on a lifetime Bob Hulteen, Metro Lutheran dedicated to public service and creating public-private Lorenz Corporation opportunities. In 1993, Sayles Belton was the first African Kris Kopf American and the first woman to be elected mayor of Minneapolis Geoff Lorenz in the city’s 140-year history. She is a senior fellow at the Hubert Larry Pugh Humphrey Institute at the University of Minnesota and is a Jared Wolfgang nationally recognized expert on public safety, neighborhood Rohan Preston, StarTribune livability and economic development. She is currently vice Keith Timmons, Doubletree Hotel president of Community Relations and Government Affairs for Unisys Judy K. Bornetun Thomson Reuters, where she focuses on key issues that impact the Dan Browning legal businesses of Thomson Reuters as well as its customers and Deacon Warner, IFP-MN employees. Washburn High School Nancy Lee “We recognize Sharon Sayles Belton for her work with Carol Markham-Cousins neighborhood revitalization. Her work as co-founder of the Westminster Presbyterian Church Harriet Tubman Shelter for Battered Women and the National Roberta Whittington, Hinshaw Music Coalition Against Sexual Assault is invaluable. In addition, she was instrumental in getting the City of Minneapolis to support the World Choral Symposium held here in 2002. We were especially Thanks for special support of WITNESS grateful to have had her serve on the board of VocalEssence from Charles Denny 2002 to 2008,” said VocalEssence Artistic Director Philip Brunelle. Janice Marturano & Peter Thompson Walt McCarthy & Clara Ueland Past winners of the Reatha Clark King Award for Excellence and Ben Manning Youth Motivation through the Cultural Arts are Ossie Brooks James, principal of Lyndale Community School in Minneapolis; Patricia Harvey, former superintendent of Saint Paul Public Schools; Minnesota Supreme Court Justice Alan C. Page and Diane Sims Page, co-founders of the Page Education Foundation; and Laysha Ward, President of Community Relations and the Target Foundation. page 16 2010 | 2011 Season VocalEssence Chorus Soprano Kate Speer Laura J. Nelson Bass AnnaLisa Anderson LeAnn Stein Jamie Ohrt Steven Blank Barbara Anderson Annika Lister Stroope Anne Pionkowski Cameron Boman Erin Anhut Jean Thompson Brandee Polson Kevin Borgendale Mary Baremore Jennifer Vickerman Andrea Roeger Phil Davis Sarah L. Bassett Jennifer E. Wallis Diane Schroeder Elwyn A. Fraser Jr. Dana Brinton Sharon Williams Lily Vasquez Andrew Gaylord Rachel Daddio Elizabeth Vogel Reid Henderson Judy Drobeck Alto Anna Wieser John R. Henrich Kaia Ellis Jo Michelle Beld Michael Knoll Karen Esbjornson Shannon Berns Tenor Benjamin Kucera Joanna Rinn Fulton Anne-Marie Black Steve Aggergaard Philip Lowry Kristina M. Guiffre Jessica Brooks Scott Berger Milo Oien-Rochat Elizabeth Jefferson Patty Campbell Rick Cedergren David Olson Sharanya Johnson Sarah Fincham Lloyd Clausen Jonathan Pinkerton Jan Kilton Elizabeth M. Foss Gustav Gedatus Steve Rosas Stacey Kilton Anne K. Gleeman Tim Griffin Brian D. Ruhl Kartra Kohl Whitney Hanson Kevin Hansen Jorge L. Salvatierra Merilu Narum Dee Hein Ross Janke William B. Smale Sarah Jane Nichols Kirkja Janson Phillip Livers Christopher Thompson Mary Palazzolo-Rudquist Jennifer Kisner R. Craig Shulstad Michael Winikoff Christina Pederson Siri Kristenson Bryan Oliver Smith Rebecca Poppke Heather McDougall Daniel V. Sola Ann M. Sather Amreitha R. Miller Matthew Tollefsrud Allison Schulz Rebecca Modert Tor Tuseth Sandra Shallcross Kristi Mueller

The St. Olaf Choir Anton Armstrong, conductor ALTO I *Joseph Kemper, Portland, Ore. Caleb Eboch, Fairfax, Va. B.J. Johnson, manager Jessica Ballard, Los Angeles, Calif. James Ribe, West Chicago, Ill. Will Esch, Stillwater, Minn. Cassandra Bogh, Coralville, Iowa Bryan Wells, Cambridge, Minn. Isaac Lewis-O’Connor, Kira Fenstermacher, Dayton, Ohio Lawrence, Kan. SOPRANO I Johanna Hilfiker, Holtville, Calif. TENOR II Ian McPherson, Westminster, Colo. Kathryn Baber, Phoenix, Ariz. Katharine Jenks, Greenlawn, N.Y. Danny Dahlquist, Sioux Falls, S.D. Chris Mode, Edina, Minn. Susan Boyle, Marquette, Mich. *Elizabeth Kerstein, Russell Draeger, Owatonna, Minn. Benjamin Simmons, Sheboygan, Wis. Maggie Burk, Lawrence, Kan. Rancho Palos Verdes, Calif. Sam Engelsgjerd, Sartell, Minn. Samuel Willodson, Mankato, Minn. Kata Calahan, Edina, Minn. Laura Kyle, St. Paul, Minn. Ben Henschel, Minnetonka, Minn. Anna Christofaro, Plymouth, Minn. Kristin Sandness, Export, Pa. Aaron Holmgren, Willmar, Minn. *Denotes section leader Rachel Dahlen, Northfield, Minn. Becca Tobin, Greenfield, Minn. Will Mclean, Duluth, Minn. Annie Deering, University Place, Wash. Sara Zieglmeier, Rothschild, Wis. Zachary J. Schwalbach, Hudson, Wis. Heather Eikenbary, Waupaca, Wis. Martin Shedd, Ashburnham, Mass. Erin Thieszen, Lake City, Iowa ALTO II Marin Werdahl, Chaska, Minn. Amanda Balgaard, St. Louis Park, Minn. BASS I ST. OLAF DEPARTMENT OF MUSIC Maren Beckman, Shorewood, Minn. Scott Hansen, Lee’s Summit, Mo. Alison Feldt, chair SOPRANO II Caitlin Block, Appleton, Wis. Paul Henderson, Glenview, Ill. Andrew Hisey, vice-chair Stephanie Abbas, Worthing, S.D. Sarah Dean, Flower Mound, Texas Jeremy Krahn, Manitoba, Canada Katie Burk, Lawrence, Kan. Kelsey Fahy, Gig Harbor, Wash. James Leavell, St. Cloud, Minn. OFFICE OF MUSIC ORGANIZATIONS Iselin Donaldson, Northfield, Minn. Karen Hopper, Longmont, Colo. Cody Miller, Fairview, N.C. B.J. Johnson, manager Meg Granum, Athens, Ga. Siri Jorstad, Golden Valley, Minn. Devin Orchard, Hastings, Minn. Terra Widdifield, assistant manager * Katelyn Larson, Stillwater, Minn. Jenny LaRoy, Minnetonka, Minn. Zachary Rygiel, Largo, Fla. Kevin Stocks, marketing specialist Elizabeth Rollins, Denver, Colo. Eliza Snortland, Fargo, N.D. *Stanford Scriven, Beaverton, Ore. Miranda Bryan, assistant to music Anna Shevik, White Bear Lake, Minn. Khashiar Shahbazi, Union, Ohio organizations Lynnette Simpson, Louisville, Ky. TENOR I Tim Wells, administrative assistant Kate Swee, Oakland, Calif. Riley Bruce, Wichita, Kan. BASS II Mary Davis, performance librarian/mechanical Coraine Tate, Columbus, Ga. Phinehas Bynum, Salt Lake City, Utah Jordan Boucher, Overland Park, Kan. rights administrator Gus Connelly, New Brighton, Minn. Andrew Bourgoin, Conway, Ark. Nathan Dougherty, Lakewood, Colo. Timothy Brendler, Seaside Park, N.J. Devin Hair, Prosper, Texas Mark Donlin, Andover, Minn.

2010 | 2011 Season page 17 VocalEssence Last fall, VocalEssence released a VocalEssence Chorus new Christmas CD, Behold This The VocalEssence Chorus is an In 2010-2011 VocalEssence Heavenly Night, on the Clarion label. exceptional group of talented, celebrates its 42nd season as a Previous Clarion releases include The committed singers from many walks unique choral music organization, Songs We Sang — Favorite American of life: doctors, lawyers, nurses, distinguished by its innovative Folksongs and the world premiere educators, homemakers, business exploration of music for voices recording of The World Beloved: people, and others. Most have college and instruments. Every year, A Bluegrass Mass. VocalEssence level or higher training in classical VocalEssence presents an engaging has also recorded The WITNESS music and voice. Chorus auditions collection of concerts featuring the Collection, a series of four compact are held every spring, and returning 130-voice VocalEssence Chorus, the discs of music by African American members of the Chorus re-audition 32-voice Ensemble Singers, guest composers and artists. The Chorus every two years. soloists, and instrumentalists. The & Ensemble Singers are featured on organization has enjoyed tremendous three CDs with Garrison Keillor: success with world, United States, Over the River & Through the Woods; Philip Brunelle and Midwest premieres; famous Hymn to Potatoes (and other choral guest artists; commissions of new masterpieces from A Prairie Home Philip Brunelle, works; and a reputation for surprise. Companion); and their newest artistic director concert recording, Gratitude, Gravy and founder of In addition to championing & Garrison. VocalEssence, is lesser-known works of the past, an internationally VocalEssence has an unwavering VocalEssence was founded in renowned conductor, choral commitment to today’s composers, 1969 as the Plymouth Music scholar and performer. Believing resulting in more than 130 world Series, an arts outreach program of that listeners and musicians alike premieres. The organization has Plymouth Congregational Church must experience a variety of music, received the ASCAP/Chorus in Minneapolis. In the very first he works enthusiastically—and America Award for adventurous season, Aaron Copland came to tirelessly—to expand audiences for programming of contemporary conduct a program of his own choral rarely heard works of the past as well music an unprecedented five times. music—the first time he had ever as worthwhile music of the present. VocalEssence has been honored been asked to do so! In May of 2002, His conducting engagements have with more Chorus America the organization changed its name to taken him across the United States, awards than any other ensemble VocalEssence, recognizing its status South America and Europe. Recently nationwide, including the once-in- as one of the nation’s most innovative he has conducted the Saint Paul an-organizational-lifetime Margaret ensembles and capturing the essence Chamber Orchestra, the New York Hillis Achievement Award for of its mission to explore music for Philharmonic and the Berkshire Choral Excellence. the human voice, from the spoken Choral Festival. word to choral singing. page 18 2010 | 2011 Season Chorus photo: krivit photography; Philip Brunelle Photo: Ann Marsden Over the past decade Philip of Norwegian music in the United on Choral Music in Copenhagen; has been deeply involved with States. In January 2010, Philip was in 2011, she will be featured in the the International Federation of honored with a “Local Legend” award Ninth World Symposium to be held Choral Music (IFCM). He served at the 20th annual Dr. Martin Luther in Argentina. as president of the Sixth World King Jr. Holiday Breakfast. Symposium on Choral Music, Sigrid is active in the American held in Minneapolis (2002), on the Sigrid Johnson Choral Director’s Association, Artistic Committee for the Eighth the Music Educator’s National Symposium, held in Denmark (2008), As the associate Conference, the International and is currently active in planning conductor of Federation for Choral Music, and the Ninth Symposium, to be held in VocalEssence, Sigrid Chorus America. Argentina in 2011. In 2009 he was Johnson provides elected Vice President/Treasurer of invaluable input Charles Kemper the IFCM Board. on repertoire decisions, choral blend and balance, and in the audition Charles Kemper, In 2006, Philip served as artistic process. Her unique ways of working pianist, has taught director for the NEA initiative, to achieve excellence in choral blend at St. Olaf College, American Masterpieces: Choral Music. and intonation have garnered her Northwestern He serves on the boards of Chorus great praise. College and Bethel America and Musica, and previously University, and is currently organist served on the St. Olaf College Board Sigrid is a member of the voice and for Calvary Baptist Church in of Regents. He is also in his 42nd choral faculty of St. Olaf College Roseville, MN. A native of Houston, year as Organist-Choirmaster at in Northfield, Minnesota, and the Texas, Charles made his debut with Plymouth Congregational Church. conductor of the Manitou Singers, the Houston Symphony at the age of St. Olaf ’s 100-voice first-year Among his many awards are 17, playing Rachmaninoff ’s Second women’s chorus. Sigrid Johnson honorary doctorates from St. Olaf Piano Concerto. He has earned maintains an active schedule as a College, Gustavus Adolphus College, several degrees in piano performance, guest conductor and clinician at St. John’s University and United including a doctor of musical arts choral festivals, workshops and Theological Seminary. Chorus degree from Yale University. He all-state music festivals across the America honored Philip with its most has appeared as a soloist with the country. She is known internationally prestigious award, the Michael Korn New Haven Symphony, University for her work with musicians at all Founder’s Award for Development of Houston Orchestra, Yale levels, having conducted workshops of the Choral Art, and he has also Philharmonia, and the Jacksonville in Australia, the Netherlands, been recognized with the F. Melius Symphony. Charles has been the Sweden and Finland. In August 2008, Christiansen Lifetime Achievement VocalEssence staff accompanist since she was one of the featured lecturers Award by the Minnesota chapter 1993. for the Eighth World Symposium of the American Choral Directors Association, its highest honor. In December 2005, Philip was invested as an Honorary Member of the Order of the British Empire in recognition for his service as an “ambassador for the United Kingdom within the music world.” The American Composers Forum named Philip Brunelle “2007 Champion of New Music” and in December 2007 he was invested as a Commander of the Royal Norwegian Order of Merit for his promotion 2010 | 2011 Season page 19 Donor Spotlight: Jo Beld, Chorus Member, Singer Liaison to the VocalEssence Board

A life-long choral singer has a VocalEssence reaches more than 7,000 treasure of musical memories. students, adults and seniors each year But for Jo Beld it is the through its education programs and special period in her life with outreach activities. WITNESS celebrated its VocalEssence that is filled 20th year in 2010, and ¡Cantaré!, its newest with not only the fondest initiative, had a successful second year. Beld, remembrances but also with along with the entire chorus, performed the powerful emotional alongside these choirs at the ¡Cantaré! impacts that VocalEssence Community Concert last May at the has on all those that it has Basilica of Saint Mary. “It was an amazing touched. A singer since experience,” said Beld. “We connected “My husband and 2002, Beld today also serves as the Chorus with not only local students, but also with I make it a top Representative on its Board of Directors. Mexican music and culture.” priority to contribute to VocalEssence. Through her active participation in Like many who sing in the internationally The scope of new both the chorus’s musical brilliance and renowned group, Beld began choral singing work every year, the organizational governance, she has seen in grade school and high school. Her church consistent innovation VocalEssence live up to its mission at many choir, “where you got to sing with and through the years that levels. But it’s “the relational power” of this learn from the adults,” was also another big Philip Brunelle brings prominent Twin Cities arts organization influence in her ongoing engagement with to VocalEssence, that ultimately inspires her, even though choral music. She describes choral music and the extensive involvement in schools she can happily recall many of her most in general as a wonderful vehicle “to help make it unique among favorite pieces through the years, from the one feel, reflect and connect with others.” It all other arts groups.” 2004 program featuring African-American is no wonder — or maybe it is — that she —Jo Beld composer Undine Smith Moore to Handel’s devotes more than 20 hours each month oratorio Israel in Egypt, performed with The to the organization as both a singer and Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra. a board member, and she also makes a generous financial contribution to sustaining “Every choir strives to have a relational VocalEssence. It is a time and monetary experience with its audience, but commitment that she — and her spouse VocalEssence really works to engage and Tim Delmont, a Political Science professor connect all the time with everyone involved,” at St. Olaf — eagerly make despite the she reflects. “The chorus members strive sacrifices required to do both. to connect with both their conductor and the music — and sometimes you can even “My husband and I make it a top priority connect with the composer back in time. As to contribute to VocalEssence,” Beld singers we try to connect with each other says, “even with all the other wonderful through singing, and as individuals we can organizations this arts-rich area provides. even connect with God through the choral The scope of new work every year and the experience.” consistent innovation through the years that Philip Brunelle brings to VocalEssence “But then you have this further engagement make it unique among all these other arts in the broader community,” she adds. “The groups. And when you look at the extensive educational component — like the more involvement in schools, teaching the recent ¡Cantaré! events in the spring of intrinsic value of music — and the number 2010 — really speaks to the heart of what of people it touches annually — it readily VocalEssence does.” stands apart from the rest.” page 20 2010 | 2011 Season The Endowment Jack & Linda Hoeschler The Honor Roll Janice L. Marturano & Peter D. John Geelan & Megan Feeney HRK Foundation Thompson matched by Piper Jaffray A.D. (Bill)* & Betty* Hulings Ann & Gordon Getty Foundation Honor Roll The Honor Roll acknowledges matched by General Mills Douglas & Mary Jones Walt McCarthy & Clara Ueland Tor & Sunny Hansen contributions received from July 1, William & Suzanne Joyce Medtronic Foundation± Hello Viking+ 2009 to February 17, 2011. VocalEssence salutes the individuals and Arthur & Martha Kaemmer Glen & Marilyn Carlson Nelson Jack & Linda Hoeschler Fund of The corporate and private foundations whose Garrison Keillor Saint Paul Foundation Although we make every effort to matched by ExxonMobil generosity and leadership sparked the James & Jane Riley-Koll Philip & Katherine Nason Fund of The Thomas Hunt & John Wheelihan ensure that our Honor Roll list is creation of the Endowment Fund. This Daniel & Constance Kunin Saint Paul Foundation Doug & Mary Jones accurate and complete, we are capable permanent fund was established in 1987 James Reece & Libby Larsen Piper Family Fund of The Minneapolis Bill & Suzanne Joyce of error. Please let us know if your name and is now valued at $2.3 million. Its Helmer* & Christine Larson Foundation Thorsten & Petra Kirschke does not appear the way you prefer so interest income provides ongoing support Mary Sue Lindsay* Debra Sit & Peter Berge Don & Joann Leavenworth we may correct it in the next program to VocalEssence. We welcome new Jean & Kenneth Linwick Vern Sutton Ronald & Nicolai Lewis listing. Call 612-547-1473 to make a contributions to the Endowment Fund Patricia Lund* Travelers Foundation correction. Thank you! matched by Xcel Energy and extend our deepest appreciation to Herb & Corrine Lundberg Wenger Foundation Jan McDaniel & Tom Cummings the following for their generous gifts. Thomas* & Patti* Maetzold Xcel Energy± Mexico Tourism Board ± Includes Matching Gift Contributions The MAHADH Fund of HRK Foundation David & Linda Mona + Includes In-Kind Donations Mrs. Fred C. Andersen* Marbrook Foundation Terry G. & Kristen H. O’Brien * In Remembrance Athwin Foundation Kay & Mike McCarthy Gifts of $5,000-$9,999 Paul Olson & Mark Baumgartner Carol A. Barnett Walt McCarthy & Clara Ueland Doug & Jean Parish Augsburg College Alice Baver* Mancel & Harriet* Mitchell ENSEMBLE CLUB Douglas & Mary Platt John & Sheila Bjorklund Ronald & Joyce Beauchane William & Julie Moyer Paul & Abigail Pribbenow Tim & Eileen Bradley Warren & Donna Beck Elizabeth Musser* Gifts of $25,000 & more RBC Foundation USA Dr. Susan J. & Richard Crockett Ruth Spiegel & Brad McNaught Judson Bemis Fund of The Minneapolis Nash Foundation Katherine B. Andersen Fund of The matched by General Mills Thomson Reuters± Foundation National Endowment for the Arts Saint Paul Foundation Matthew Entenza & Lois Quam Tunheim Partners Judy Blaseg & John Engelen Glen & Marilyn Carlson Nelson Philip & Carolyn Brunelle matched by General Mills U.S. Bank± Charlie Boone & Carol Heen Alice Park Newman* Bush Foundation ExxonMobil Foundation± Unisys+ William & Margee Bracken Jeanne & Richard Patterson Curtis L. Carlson Family Foundation± John & Cathy Farrell David Brink Donald* & Helen* Pellowe General Mills Foundation± Robert & Katherine Goodale Lucile Brink The Pine Wood Trust Louise Heffelfinger Ruth Hanold* Gifts of $1,000-$2,499 Wayne & Marilyn Brock Harry Piper Foundation Jerome Foundation The Hognander Foundation & Joe Elise Brunelle & Jeremy Greeff Jill & Richard Ragatz Art & Martha Kaemmer Fund of HRK Hognander Elmer L. & Eleanor J. Andersen Philip & Carolyn Brunelle Burt Ross* Foundation The Hubbard Broadcasting Foundation Foundation Ann & David Buran Shelly Ross* MAHADH Fund of HRK Foundation Garrison Keillor & Jenny Lind Nilsson Kevin L. Bailey Norman R. Carpenter Thomas & Lois Sando Kay & Mike McCarthy Knox Foundation Elise G. Brunelle & Jeremy Greeff Cole Sewell Corporation Michael & Shirley Santoro The McKnight Foundation Libby Larsen & James Reece Jo Beld & Tim Delmont Claire Colliander & Greg Steenson Sandra & Ivan* Schloff The Minneapolis Foundation The Mauriel Family Foundation Cheryl Bethune Colwell Industries Richard & Kit Schmoker Minnesota Monthly+ Judy & Peter Mitchelson Goeta Goetz Bird Community Credit Company Ellen* & George J. Schulte Minnesota State Arts Board Robert Muschewske & Leaetta Hough Lynn Bowe & Charles Kuivinen Thomas Davies* John & Marion Etzwiler Shepherd National Endowment for the Arts Mrs. John H. Myers Roma Calatayud & Thomas Stocks Target Stores, Dayton’s and Mervyn’s by Star Tribune/Cowles Media Company The Saint Paul Foundation± Peravid Foundation Thomas & Nicky Carpenter the Dayton Hudson Foundation Richard & Vivian Stuck Sit Investment Associates Inc. Piper Jaffray± Rick & Jan Cohen Ernest & Mary Dorn Bill & Bryce TenBroek Target Foundation Mary Ann Pulk Jack & Ann Cole Dan Dressen Richard & Rosemary Thorsen Winston* & Maxine Wallin, The Wallin R C Lilly Foundation John & Joan Colwell Katherine & Kent Eklund Lynn & Carol Truesdell Foundation George Reid Katryn Conlin Exxon Corporation Jim Ulland Leland T. Lynch & Terry Saario Fund of Deric Craig & Margaret deJonge Jack & Cathy Farrell Ruth & David Waterbury The Minneapolis Foundation Jon Cranney & Katherine Ferrand Robert B. Fering Doris A. Welty-Bury* Gifts of $10,000-$24,999 Peter Spink David P. & Katherine Crosby Gloria Freeman Carl A. Weyerhaeuser Trust Kathy & Jack Tunheim Kathy & Charles Cunningham 3M Foundation Robert & Katherine Goodale Frederick T. Weyerhaeuser Trust Alan & Dorene Wernke Melissa Dalluhn+ The Aaron Copland Fund for Music, Inc. Marion Goward John Wheelihan Mike & Donna Wolsted Data Recognition Corporation Athwin Foundation Shelley Greenwood E.M.* & Patricia* Whitacre Linda Zelig & Jim Bohn Vincent & Martha Driessen Barbro Osher Pro Suecia Foundation Jane D. & James L.* Hall Mrs. W. A. Wilson Milt & Jana Edgren Carol A. Barnett Terrance* & Ruth* Hanold Bruce & JoAnn* Winslow Kent & Katherine Eklund Warren & Donna Beck David & Mim Hanson Karen & John Wolff Gifts of $2,500-$4,999 Beau & Christie Farrell Best Buy Children’s Foundation Ann G. Harding Peter & Patricia Frechette Judy Blaseg & John Engelen Albrecht Family Foundation Louise Heffelfinger Fredrikson & Byron, P.A. Jerome & Linda Carlson Aronson & Associates, P.A.+ Emily Bourne Grigsby Delta Air Lines, Inc.+ Baker Associates+ Charles & Margarette Hann Charles M. Denny, Jr. & Carol E. Will & Margee Bracken David & Mim Hanson Denny Fund of The Minneapolis Uri & Melissa Camarena Dennis & Jan Himan Foundation Cargill, Inc. Walter & Judith Hinck Ecolab Foundation Casa Travel, Inc.+ Joe & Nancy Holmberg Hellervik Fund of The Saint Paul Cy & Paula DeCosse Fund of The Anne & Rich Hovland Foundation Minneapolis Foundation Pat & Bob Hoyt Lucy R. Jones Dave Durenberger & Susan Foote Karen & Charles Humphrey N. Judge & Reatha Clark King Jerry & Cathie Fischer David & Lea Joergenson Family Fund of The Minneapolis Steve Fox & Connie Fladeland Foundation Gayle Fuguitt & Thomas Veitch Continued on next page

± Includes Matching Gift Contributions + Includes In-Kind Donations * In Remembrance 2010 | 2011 Season page 21 Gifts of $1,000-$2,499 Norman R. & Janet Carpenter Jennifer Vickerman Doug & Kerry Hoverson, Saint Thomas Andra Adolfson Continued from previous page Cookie Coleman & Bob Hest matched by Thrivent Financial Academy William & Suzanne Ammerman Kip & Kathy Colwell Weber Shandwick AnnaLisa Anderson Jerry Johnson matched by Ameriprise Tom & Ellie Crosby Jr. Paul & Elissa Weller Financial Joyce L. Anderson Daniel & Constance Kunin Ed & Betsy Cussler Jeffrey & Wendy Wenger Dankey Gordon & Nita Howell Leif Anderson Robert Lee & Mary Schaffner Dan Dressen & Beth Comeaux John Westrom James Jenkins & Dolores Lenore Richard O. Anderson, MD Philip & Madeleine Lowry El Burrito Mercado Zabin Charitable Fund at the Boston Carrie & Louis Lambert Rolan & Muriel Anderson David & Peggy Lucas The Foley Companies & the Ringer Foundation Diana J. Leland Carole Arwidson Robert & Polly McCrea Family Zelle Hofmann Voelbel & Mason LLP J. Thomas & Helen Lockhart Darlene Arwidson Joyce & Richard McFarland Fund of The Ryan & Jenny French Bob & Jan Lubar Carol Barnett & John Tartaglia Minneapolis Foundation Sarah Lutman & Robert Rudolph Paul & Mona Gerike CHORUS CLUB Jennifer Bauer Sara Gross Methner & David Methner Douglas & Mary Kay Geston John & Caroline MacWherter William & Debbie Begin Joseph & Jane Micallef Ray & Elsie Martin GiveMN.org Match Gifts of $250-$499 Vera Benzel Alfred P. (Fred) & Ann Moore Bush Foundation Char & Paul Mason Steven & Pam Bjoraker David & Judy Myers McKnight Foundation Jones Adkins & Julie Brown Jan Mattox Karen Bohn & Gary Surdel Fran & Patti Neir Minneapolis Foundation Meredith B. Alden Malcolm & Patricia McDonald Andy & Linda Boss Susan Nicol Saint Paul Foundation Peter & Mary Ellen Alden Mary Bigelow McMillan Lucile Adams Brink Alice M. O’Brien Foundation Jane Dayton Hall Richard & Jane Allen Kimberly Meisten Dana & Patrick Brinton Lawrence M. & Elizabeth Ann Frank & Jayne Harris Quentin & Mary Anderson Brock Metzger Marilyn Bryant O’Shaughnessy Charitable Income Gordon* & Wini Hed Anton E. Armstrong, D.M.A. Gene & Gloria Mickelson Ellis & Jane Bullock Trust David O. & Kristine Henderson Kay & Ronald Bach Carolyn J. Mitchell Steve & Karen Burger Nancy Jessen Otis Phil & Laura Holst Michael Barone Margie Nelson Dorothea Burns Joan B. Parsons Thelma Hunter Greg Becker Karen Newstrom Russ Bursch & Lee Mauk Richard & Jeanne Patterson John & Ruth Huss Madeline Betsch David O’Fallon Nancy Carlson Paul & Virginia Pfeiffer Independent Pension Consultants, Ltd. Don & Carol Birkeland Dan Pederson Richard & Mari Carlson Karen & Donald Powers Robert & Sigrid Johnson Steve Blank matched by Thrivent Financial Joel Carver James & Susan Ramlet Michael & Bonnie Jorgensen Blue Cross Blue Shield± Gloria Perez Yvonne Cheek John & Kirsten Rice Jan & Tom Kilton Norlin & Carol Boyum Nicholas Peter Elizabeth Childs & Todd Larson Kathryn Roberts & Jim Hiniker Jeffrey & Melanie Kjellberg Carol Brandenburg Jonathan Pinkerton & Julia Rice Gary & Diane Clark Michael & Laura Robinson Michael Knoll Jan & Ellen Breyer Curtis & Shirley Ramlet Rusty & Burt Cohen John & Lois Rogers Glenn & Kartra Kohl Marney Brooks Lisa Reed Malia & Bryan Cole Raymond & Leola Schreurs Chuck & Jill Koosmann Christopher Brunelle & Serena Zabin Gary & Pam Reierson Nancy Conboy Gale Sharpe Fredrik & Farida Korallus Kevin & Susan Burke Scott & Joanne Reinertson Susan G. Crawford Sue Shepard & Don Helgeson Mark & Susan Larson Annabelle Bush Russell C. Richards Jan Cronquist & Lee Toman Craig & Mariana Shulstad Charlie & Anne Leck Oscar & Valerie Carlson Ric & Johanna Robles Sam Cutter-Wilson matched by General Mills Edward & Patricia Lindell Mary Lou Judd Carpenter Brian D. & Barbara Ruhl Richard & Nancy Dana Wayne Simons & Al Muma Jan & Charlie Lloyd Camille Carteng Margaret & Matthew Sabin Bill & Ruth Davini LeAnn Stein & Jack Stamp Paul Lohman Chosy Family Fund of The Minneapolis Manuel Santana Phil Davis Susan Marie Swanson & Tom Hysell Steve Lund Foundation Ann Sather & Jeff Stone Fabiola Diaz Bill & Bryce TenBroek Tom & Margie Lundberg Judith A. Christensen Barney* & Patty Saunders Ernest & Mary Dorn Debra Teske Ben Manning David & Wendy Coggins JC & Ann Savage Margaret E. Durham Richard T. Thomson Dennis & Gail Mathisen David Colwell Aida Schaefer Anders Eckman Lynn & Carol Truesdell Hubert & Midge McCloy Frank & Meg Connolly Paul & Camille Schroeder Stephen Eckman Wells Fargo Foundation Minnesota Jonathan & Martha Morgan Marcus & Joan Cox Ann Schrooten & Dawn Wieczorek Eric Ellingsen Dobson & Jane West Scott & Nicole Muschewske Kent & Dee Ann Crossley Mari & Michael Scott Jim & Renee Engebretson Dr. Preston & Sharon Williams Lowell & Sonja Noteboom Alex & Leslie Cruz Estelle Quinn Sell Mark Epsky & Mary Jane Melendez Roger & Shari Wilsey John Nuechterlein Ted & Carol Cushmore Patricia Starks-Faggétt Karen Esbjornson Angus & Margaret Wurtele Alan Onberg Annika Lister Stroope & Jeremy A. West John & Kristin Farrell Wilson & Gayle Graham Yates matched by General Mills Dr. & Mrs. Ahmad Orandi John & Joy Davis Dana Swindler & Greg Walsh Mary Ann Finegan Charles & Julie Zelle Francisco & Maria Peschard Steve & Judy Drobeck Michael & Christine Tattersfield Mark Flaten Joan Dunbar-Plauda & Owen Plauda Len & Susan Druskin Joe & Jean Thompson Gerald T. Flom Gifts of $500-$999 Rich & Nancy Power Linda Eckman Dan & Judy Titcomb Brendan Foote Jerry & Kathleen Erickson Parker & Albert Trostel Anonymous Arnold & Lois Rholl matched by Ameriprise Marion Etzwiler & John Shepherd Katrina Vander Kooi Steve Aggergaard & Lana Rosario Mark & Becky Roloff Financial Caron & Floyd Farmer Andrea Villanueva Ted Forbes Ameriprise Financial Gift Matching Fred & Gloria Sewell Diane Crooks Fernald George & Gloria Wallace Pat & Lynn Galbraith Program± Joyce Sharp Gerald Foley Steve & Kathryn Waters James Gertmenian & Susan King Ernie & Marcy Andberg Nancy Speer & Jim Shaver Mark Forgey David & Karin Wendt Jim & Susan Goes Mary Baremore & Roberta Cordano Charles Stanhope Franklin National Bank John & Joy Wetzel Diane Gorder Ann Barkelew & Jim O’Hagan Evelyn T. Struthers Gloria Freeman John & Sylvia Winkelman Lauretta & Jere Graetz Ron & Joyce Beauchane Frank Stubbs & Tom Lee Bill Gamble & Anne Labovitz RADM & Mrs. Ray C. Witter Kathleen Grammer Bruce W. & Paula M. Becker matched by Blue Cross Blue Gus Gedatus & Lucien Justin Linda Wren Kristina Guiffre Carol & Jeff Belz Shield Richard & Vivian Stuck Ray & Marcia Giske Larry & Katherine Youngblood Jonathan Gusdal & Sonja Hagander Cam & Bonnie Blodgett Larry & Thalia Taylor Rodolfo Gutierrez Roger Hale & Nor Hall Penny Bond & Chuck Grimsrud Bill & Pam Telleen Judith K. Healey Gifts of $100-$249 Ken & Suanne Hallberg Thomas & Barbara Brown John H. Sandbo & D. Jean Thomson H. Thomas & Mary Heller Elinor Hands Paul & Jane Brunelle Thrivent Financial for Lutherans± John & Sarah Henrich Anonymous John Harens Tim Brunelle & Jennifer Iwanicki Gedney & Emily Anne Tuttle James & LaVonne Herbert Mary Adair & Gerald Jorgenson Bil & Karen Hawks David & Ann Buran Ben & Deb Vander Kooi Rick & Bev Heydinger matched by General Mills page 22 2010 | 2011 Season ± Includes Matching Gift Contributions + Includes In-Kind Donations * In Remembrance Dee & Wilfried Hein Lois Rand matched by U.S. Bank John & Barbara Rice Alfred & Susan Henderson Keith Rodli & Katharine Grant John & Constance Henderson David & Patricia Runkle Barbara Hoese Dan Rutman Richard P. Hoffman* Coral Sampson & David Spiegel Pat Hoven Thomas Sando Bill Hueg & Hella Mears Earl S. & Barbara Flanagan Sanford Teresa Iglesias-Solomon Fund of The Minneapolis Intersource Interpretation & Translation Foundation Services LLC+ Paul & Diane Schroeder Harry & Lila Jacob Susan T. Schuster Steve & Susan Jasinski Leon O. Shaw Brent & Carmen Johnson matched by IBM Corporation Mark Johnson Mark & Jennifer Sheffert Ted & Amy Johnson Stan & Lucy Shepard matched by Ameriprise Financial Lawrence Siegel Vivian & Mary Jones Jim & Carol Simonson Rohland Thomssen & Mary Kaul Ann Perry Slosser Karen Lovgren Kennedy William & Marcelyn Smale matched by Thomson Reuters Don & Judy Smith Anthony Kiorpes & Farrel Rich Robert C. Smith VocalEssence is proud to announce that it has 100% donor support from its staff! Natalia Kojanova & Igor Kozhanov Nan Snyder Back row: Katryn Conlin, Nick Peter, Kimberly D. Meisten, Philip Brunelle, Malia Cole, Elissa Weller, Katrina Vander Kooi. Paul & Barbara Laederach Randy & Joan Snyder Front Row: Patricia Starks-Faggétt, Sigrid Johnson, Mary Ann Pulk, Laura Holst. (Not pictured: Charles Kemper.) Iris M. Larson Daniel Sola & Lucie Paynick Stephen & Marilyn Lawrence Carol Southward Scott Berger Annie Gleeman Mark & Karen Lehner Elaine Leonard Gordon & Dee Sprenger Shannon Berns matched by Quality Bicycle Russel & Alice Leighton Lori Lewis Jordan Sramek Tim & Pat Bethke Products Peter & Sallie Lilienthal Betty Jeanne Lillehei Brent Stahl Jill & Jason Bisping Santiago Gomez Mont Marita & Brian Link Ken & Jean Linwick Arturo Steely Anne-Marie & Bryan Black Charles Gray Patricia Lund* Calvin & Christine Litsey Judy Orr Stinson Jose Blanco Daniel Greco Charles & Hertha Lutz Anne E. Lowe John & Marcia Stout Hannah Bolt & Levi Comstock Robert & Amy Griffin Joy MacArthur & Sarah Cohn Thomas & Marilyn Madison Alice Strobel Kevin J. Borgendale Tim & Joanne Griffin Gary & Renee Macomber Maureen Mashek William H. Stump Jean Marie Brizendine Angela Grundstad Yang Madsen Betty & Boyd Mast Wayne & Judith Swisher Randy & Pam Brown Andrew & Angel Hackett Nicholas Mattsson H. G. McNeely Jr. Judy Takkunen Emily Bruce Janet Hanafin Heather McDougall & David Haukaas Avery & Margaret Merriman Jesse & Natalie Tejeda Dorene J. Bruns Kevin E. Hansen Anna George Meek & Matt Gladue Russ & Jan Michaletz Josiah Telschow Richard Buchholz & Brad Momsen Whitney & Gary Hanson Karla Miller Joseph & Joy Michel Kenneth & Barbara Tiede Terry Burford Dob & Janis Hardy Marion Dwyer Miller Paul & Barbara Mikelson Helen Ver Hoeven Russell Burris Dennis Hauck Minnesota Wire & Cable Co. John Milton & Maureen Acosta Joanne Von Blon Brenda Bush Phebe Saunders Haugen Rebecca & Keith Modert Minnesota International Center Mary S. Vujovich Patty Campbell Doug Heinzen & Le Anne Eickhof Eileen Moran Elaine Mitchell Jennifer Wallis Marjorie Carr John & Robin Helgen Pamela Narveson Craig & Judy Moen Lorin Walter Richard & Marcia Carthaus Reid Henderson Tom Nazziola David E. & Mary Jo Monson Clifton & Bettye Ware Rick & Sarah Cedergren David Henry Laura J. Nelson Michael & Rosanne Monten David & Ruth Waterbury Larry Christiansen Marilyn Hill John & Kirstin Nesbitt Shirley Moore Steven Wells & Jane Scallen David & Joan Ciminski Warren & Marian Hoffman Jeremy & Sarah Nichols Earl & Lois Mosiman Ted & Nancy Weyerhaeuser Richard W. & Jean Illsley Clarke Merv & Marlou Hough Steve Odland Kristi Mueller Carl & Barbara White Lloyd Clausen Emma Hovel Brian & Shelley Ohnsorg Elizabeth Murray Gary & Karen Wilkerson Johanna Cohn David Hoyt Jamie Ohrt Karla & Peter Myers Patricia Williams Marion Colliander matched by Ameriprise Financial Milo Oien-Rochat Jane & James Mylrea W. Maurine Wilson Christina Connelly Ross Janke Joe Okell Jim & Merilu Narum Michael Winikoff Mark & Geralyn Conty Kirkja Janson Glad & Baiba Olinger Nick Nash & Karen Lundholm John & Julie Worden Joe & Roxanne Cruz Marc & Elizabeth Jefferson Dorothy & Bob Ollmann Judy Nelson Philip & Anne Worrell Karen Dahlen Dean Jensen Colleen Olson Pete & Franci Nelson Gary & Joan Wynia Alfred & Therese Danner-House Ben & Kasey Johnson James & Judy Olson Alice Park Newman* Max & Suzanne Zarling Kari E. Davis James P. Johnson Joseph & Clara Osowski Donald & Gerda Nightingale Ann H. Zelle Harriett Dayton Sharanya Johnson Katherine Panciera Craig & Beth Olson Louise Ziegler Claudia Delgado Andrew Kane Emily Paulson David Olson Kevin & Kaia Ellis Holly Kellar John Paulson & Coreen Nordling Marston Ronald Opel Gifts up to $99 Geneva Eschweiler William Kempe Eric & Christina Pederson Thomas Osborn Mark & Sarah Fincham Charles & Kristin Kemper Matthew Perkins Marri Oskam Anonymous Elizabeth Foss Stacey Kilton David Peterson Bill & Rita Parenteau Akosua Addo David & Margene Fox Bill & Jan Kimes Anne Pionkowski Stephen & Patty Paulus Christian & Barbara Anderson Elwyn Alexander Fraser Junior Jenny Kisner Brandee Polson William Pederson Roger & Margaret Anderson Nelson T. French Sandra Klapperich Rebecca Poppke William & Carolyn Penny BAE Systems± Andrew Gaylord Rachel Knutzen Virginia Puzak Daniel & Nancy Peterson Sarah L. Bassett Ruth Gaylord Siri Kristenson Quality Bicycle Products± Lucinda Pratt William & Frances Belford Ben & Alanna Kucera Brad & Linda Quarderer Roy & Nadine Berg Theodore & Kathryn Lee Continued on next page 2010 | 2011 Season page 23 Gifts up to $99 Kate Sattler Curt & Louise Speller Elizabeth Vogel Continued from previous page Dr. Milan & Rev. Carolyn Schmidt Jo-Anne Stately The Voices of Vienna Sandra Schoenecker Evelyn Swanson & Marjorie Ramgren Judith Wachholz Kristy Quinones Allison Schulz Christopher Thompson Kathleen Watson Kathleen Richards John Schweitzer & Lea Plonty Walfred & Priscilla Thoreen Robert Wetzler John & Barbara Risken Harry & Neonila Searles Anita Tillemans Douglas & Carolyn White Andrea Roeger Joe Selvaggio Karen Toebe Carole Whitney Steve Rosas Sandra Shallcross Paul & Ruth Ann Tuseth Alex & Marguerite Wilson Mort & Rosemarie Ryweck Philip & Theresa Sievers Tor & Jaime Tuseth Bruce Winslow Mike & Myrianthi Salovich Kalley Sikich Jim Van Houghton Richard Yague Jorge L. Salvatierra Barbara Souther Ellen & James Van Iwaarden Greg & Cynthia Youtz Roy & Shirley Sather Kate Speer Holly Vang Daniel Zillmann

Special Tributes In remembrance of F. Dixon Conlin, M.D. In honor of the marriage of Bob Muschewske & In honor of Maren Sather Stone Katryn Conlin Leaetta Hough Ann Sather & Jeff Stone VocalEssence is honored by the many gifts Richard & Vivian Stuck Pat & Lynn Galbraith received in remembrance, appreciation and In honor of Barbara Tiede’s birthday celebration of friends and family. The following In remembrance of JoAlta Danner Geidel In honor of Kristen Hoeschler O’Brien David & Ruth Waterbury tributes were made from July 1, 2009 to February Philip & Carolyn Brunelle Dan Rutman In remembrance of Winston Wallin 17, 2011. If you wish to make a gift in tribute, David & Ann Buran Jane Dayton Hall please call 612-547-1473. John & Joan Colwell In honor of Paul D. Olson Alfred & Therese Danner-House Mark L. Baumgartner In honor of John T. Westrom In remembrance of Phyllis Anderson Friday Club In remembrance of John C. Parsons, Jr. Emily Grigsby Gloria Freeman Richard & Vivian Stuck Joan Parsons In remembrance of Jane Elizabeth Whitmore In remembrance of Fran Aspnes In remembrance of Elsie H. Goetz In remembrance of Ronald Kevin Rommereim Sigrid & Robert Johnson David & Ann Buran Goeta Goetz Bird Sigrid & Robert Johnson John & Joan Colwell In remembrance of Ruth E. Hanold In remembrance of Richard Siegel In remembrance of Richard W. Atwood Jane Dayton Hall David & Ann Buran Jane Dayton Hall In honor of Tom Lee In celebration of the marriage of LeAnn Stein & In honor of Philip Brunelle Susan T. Schuster and your team at Blue Cross Jack Stamp Rick & Jan Cohen In honor of Nicolai Lewis Sigrid & Robert Johnson In honor of Philip Brunelle’s birthday James & Ellen Van Iwaarden In remembrance of Belva M. Stevenson Carolyn Brunelle In remembrance of Lois B. Mosiman Sigrid & Robert Johnson John & Joan Colwell Jane Dayton Hall

Simone Perrin

Philip T. Mychael Brunelle Rambo Sunday, may 1, 2011 at6pm the dakota jazz club, minneapolis, minnesota VocalEssence presents an eclectic musical soirée featuring Bradley Greenwald, Maria Jette, Simone Perrin and T. Mychael Rambo with Philip Brunelle at the piano. You never know what will happen when this bunch gets together, but you won’t want to miss the fun! Maria Jette Tickets: $125 & $100* (includes light supper) RSVP: www.vocalessence.org/cabaret or 612-547-1473 Bradley *All proceeds benefit VocalEssence Community Engagement Programs. WITNESS teaching artists and ¡Cantaré! composers Greenwald make 200 classroom visits each school year, reaching more than 7,000 students throughout the metropolitan area. page 24 2010 | 2011 Season