The new SLCA blog is ready! Please update your bookmarks to the new address:
slchoralartists.blogspot.com
Thank you!
Thursday, December 11, 2008
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
Construction Dust
The SLCA blog is undergoing some changes right now, so please be patient if there are very few posts for a little while. It will all be worth it in the end. :)
Thank you!
Thank you!
Monday, November 17, 2008
Season tickets
Did you think that just because the first concert of the season is over you can no longer buy season tickets?
Well, think again! You may now purchase partial-season tickets! Get three great concerts for one great price!
You may buy this package for $39 (adult) or $26 (students/seniors 60+). Look for a half-season package after the December concert.
Well, think again! You may now purchase partial-season tickets! Get three great concerts for one great price!
You may buy this package for $39 (adult) or $26 (students/seniors 60+). Look for a half-season package after the December concert.
Sunday, November 16, 2008
Hodie tickets
Just a reminder that tickets for the "Hodie" concert are available on consignment.
When you sign up for consignment tickets, you will be given an envelope with a standard number of tickets in it. You also have the option to check out more, so don't feel restricted. But please don't take 90 if you know you're only going to sell three--that gives us a false sense of how ticket sales are going.
In the meantime, you should know that we are doing quite well selling tickets for this concert. We've already sold around 300, and we're still several weeks away. Keep up the good work and let's plan for a full house!
When you sign up for consignment tickets, you will be given an envelope with a standard number of tickets in it. You also have the option to check out more, so don't feel restricted. But please don't take 90 if you know you're only going to sell three--that gives us a false sense of how ticket sales are going.
In the meantime, you should know that we are doing quite well selling tickets for this concert. We've already sold around 300, and we're still several weeks away. Keep up the good work and let's plan for a full house!
Sunday, October 19, 2008
Review of Multicultural Concert
We got reviewed in Sunday's Salt Lake Tribune. Link to the entire story here, or keep reading below for a few highlights.
"Brady Allred's efforts to share world music during the Salt Lake Choral Artists' "Multicultural Celebration" at Libby Gardner Hall Saturday night were met with enthusiastic approval.
"The Chamber Choir . . . demonstrated secure vocal technique, clear diction and centered pitch. Allred allowed his singers ample expressive freedom, and the group's shared musical vision gave the performance unity throughout.
"The [Concert Choir] sang five movements from [Fanshawe's] 'African Sanctus' and three selections from 'Pacific Song.' . . . [a] well-honed performance.
"The evening's most appealing selections were a Taiwanese song, 'Diu Diu Dang Ah,' that mimicked the sounds of a train journey and Aboriginal Australian music, 'Past Life Melodies,' that utilized overtone or throat singing to fascinating effect.
"Jane Fjeldsted led the women's chorus in delicate and expressive music . . . Associate conductor Aimee Frederick directed the Concert Choir in lush and detailed music."
Well done, everyone!
"Brady Allred's efforts to share world music during the Salt Lake Choral Artists' "Multicultural Celebration" at Libby Gardner Hall Saturday night were met with enthusiastic approval.
"The Chamber Choir . . . demonstrated secure vocal technique, clear diction and centered pitch. Allred allowed his singers ample expressive freedom, and the group's shared musical vision gave the performance unity throughout.
"The [Concert Choir] sang five movements from [Fanshawe's] 'African Sanctus' and three selections from 'Pacific Song.' . . . [a] well-honed performance.
"The evening's most appealing selections were a Taiwanese song, 'Diu Diu Dang Ah,' that mimicked the sounds of a train journey and Aboriginal Australian music, 'Past Life Melodies,' that utilized overtone or throat singing to fascinating effect.
"Jane Fjeldsted led the women's chorus in delicate and expressive music . . . Associate conductor Aimee Frederick directed the Concert Choir in lush and detailed music."
Well done, everyone!
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
Sunday, September 28, 2008
SLCA Cookbook
Don't forget to copy down some of your favorite recipes for use in the Salt Lake Choral Artists Cookbook!
Carolyn Bristol and Leslie Anderson, who are spearheading this project, have asked that we either email our recipes to them or take them to a Tuesday night rehearsal. They've been collecting recipes all September and have asked that we have everything turned into them sometime this month.
That means you only have one more Tuesday night rehearsal--September 30--to hand in your recipes! Make sure to do it--this will certainly be a great cookbook with everyone's participation!
Carolyn Bristol and Leslie Anderson, who are spearheading this project, have asked that we either email our recipes to them or take them to a Tuesday night rehearsal. They've been collecting recipes all September and have asked that we have everything turned into them sometime this month.
That means you only have one more Tuesday night rehearsal--September 30--to hand in your recipes! Make sure to do it--this will certainly be a great cookbook with everyone's participation!
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Consignment Tickets
As was started last year with Elijah, you can now check out tickets to sell to your family members, friends, co-workers, casual acquaintances, taxi drivers, and enemies.
Should you like to carry around a bundle of tickets, please come to any Tuesday night rehearsal early to speak with Becky Workman. She'll happily sign you out as many or as few tickets as you'd like. All this means is that she has your name and how many tickets you've taken. You do not have to pay for the tickets at this time. You can then sell them, and bring the money and any unsold tickets back to Becky before the concert.
Let me repeat: you do not have to pay for the tickets you take--unless you don't return them. Otherwise, it's free for you, and a great way to sell tickets. Honestly, it's much easier to commit people to come to a concert when you actually have physical tickets they can buy. I've gotten people to come to concerts this way when before they have just said "maybe."
Check out some tickets, and let's sell out the house for our season opener!
Should you like to carry around a bundle of tickets, please come to any Tuesday night rehearsal early to speak with Becky Workman. She'll happily sign you out as many or as few tickets as you'd like. All this means is that she has your name and how many tickets you've taken. You do not have to pay for the tickets at this time. You can then sell them, and bring the money and any unsold tickets back to Becky before the concert.
Let me repeat: you do not have to pay for the tickets you take--unless you don't return them. Otherwise, it's free for you, and a great way to sell tickets. Honestly, it's much easier to commit people to come to a concert when you actually have physical tickets they can buy. I've gotten people to come to concerts this way when before they have just said "maybe."
Check out some tickets, and let's sell out the house for our season opener!
Thursday, September 18, 2008
Fun concert this weekend
Since we all belong to a great choir, and great choirs should support other great choirs, I thought you all might be interested to know that the University of Utah's choral department has its first concert this weekend. Here's the information:
Choral Showcase
featuring the University Singers, Acappella Choir, and Women's Choir
Saturday, September 20, 7:30
Libby Gardner Concert Hall
Tickets are $7.00 general, $3.00 student and may be purchased at the door or online through kingsburyhall.org. Your best bet, though--and the one that will save you the extra handling fee--is to buy the tickets directly from a choir member. There are several (myself included) in SLCA, so you shouldn't have any trouble finding someone to sell you a ticket.
This concert promises to be fun for everyone. Hope to see you there!
Choral Showcase
featuring the University Singers, Acappella Choir, and Women's Choir
Saturday, September 20, 7:30
Libby Gardner Concert Hall
Tickets are $7.00 general, $3.00 student and may be purchased at the door or online through kingsburyhall.org. Your best bet, though--and the one that will save you the extra handling fee--is to buy the tickets directly from a choir member. There are several (myself included) in SLCA, so you shouldn't have any trouble finding someone to sell you a ticket.
This concert promises to be fun for everyone. Hope to see you there!
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
Waltzing Matilda
If you, like me, were confused (and amused) by the Australian slang in "Waltzing Matlida," be confused no longer! Here are the answers to your un-asked questions:
A swagman is basically a nomad--a man wandering looking for work. His swag is his bedroll and belongings.
A billabong is a lake.
A jumbuck is a sheep. Go figure.
A billy is a can used for boiling water.
A tucker bag is a bag used for carrying food. Tucker, then, is food.
Troopers and thoroughbred you can probably figure out: police officers and a horse.
The term squatter is used the same as we use it in America--someone using land they don't legally have rights to use.
And lest you think Waltzing Matlida is actually a waltz--to waltz actually means to travel around and learn new skills and Matilda is simply a nickname for the swagman's bundle. Some people say that these men did actually dance with their bundles, but that's disputed.
Anyway, with all of these terms explained, you should be able to figure out that this song is about a man who was camping by a lake making tea, when a sheep wandered by. He grabbed it and stuck it into his bag. But then a squatter comes by, claiming to own the sheep. He's brought the police. Refusing to be taken in, the wandering worker decides to drown himself in the lake and haunt the site instead.
All clear? :)
A swagman is basically a nomad--a man wandering looking for work. His swag is his bedroll and belongings.
A billabong is a lake.
A jumbuck is a sheep. Go figure.
A billy is a can used for boiling water.
A tucker bag is a bag used for carrying food. Tucker, then, is food.
Troopers and thoroughbred you can probably figure out: police officers and a horse.
The term squatter is used the same as we use it in America--someone using land they don't legally have rights to use.
And lest you think Waltzing Matlida is actually a waltz--to waltz actually means to travel around and learn new skills and Matilda is simply a nickname for the swagman's bundle. Some people say that these men did actually dance with their bundles, but that's disputed.
Anyway, with all of these terms explained, you should be able to figure out that this song is about a man who was camping by a lake making tea, when a sheep wandered by. He grabbed it and stuck it into his bag. But then a squatter comes by, claiming to own the sheep. He's brought the police. Refusing to be taken in, the wandering worker decides to drown himself in the lake and haunt the site instead.
All clear? :)
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
Tuition Update
There was a slight error in the tuition information given out last week. The adjusted rates are as follows:
Regular member: no change ($200 payable as $70, $70, and $60)
Married couples: $350 (payable as $125, $125, and $100)
Full-time student: $150 (three increments of $50)
Sorry for the mix-up!
Regular member: no change ($200 payable as $70, $70, and $60)
Married couples: $350 (payable as $125, $125, and $100)
Full-time student: $150 (three increments of $50)
Sorry for the mix-up!
Monday, September 1, 2008
Farewell to the Clarks
Christine Clark and her husband David are moving away, and everyone involved with SLCA would like to wish them good luck and a fond farewell.
In case you didn't know, David Clark was chairman of the board before Alicia, and Christine has been our managing director for several years. Both of them did a lot of great work for SLCA.
Thank you very much for all your hard work and dedication, Christine and David! You will be missed, but we wish you the best of luck in your future endeavors.
In case you didn't know, David Clark was chairman of the board before Alicia, and Christine has been our managing director for several years. Both of them did a lot of great work for SLCA.
Thank you very much for all your hard work and dedication, Christine and David! You will be missed, but we wish you the best of luck in your future endeavors.
Monday, August 25, 2008
And we're back!
The first meeting for SLCA's 2008-2009 season is tomorrow from 7:00-9:30 in the choir room at Olympus High.
This meeting is for ALL MEMBERS. If you have not yet paid your first installment of tuition, please bring it tomorrow if you would like to receive music tomorrow night. Otherwise, the first payment is due at the first regular rehearsal on September 2.
See you there!
This meeting is for ALL MEMBERS. If you have not yet paid your first installment of tuition, please bring it tomorrow if you would like to receive music tomorrow night. Otherwise, the first payment is due at the first regular rehearsal on September 2.
See you there!
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Thank you, Kerrin!
The Summer Choral Institute ended last weekend with a performance of the Requiems of John Rutter and Gabriel Faure. This last session concluded a summer full of music including everything from Broadway favorites to opera choruses to folk music.
There were many people involved in making SCI work this year who deserve thanks--volunteers at the registration desk and helping with refreshments, pianists, guest soloists, and more--but we need to give a huge thank you to Kerrin Gates, who is the SCI director. Kerrin worked ridiculously hard on this program for months, and without her hard work SCI would not have been the success it was.
Thank you for a great summer of singing, Kerrin! And thank you to everyone who participated and/or helped in any way. We look forward to next year!
There were many people involved in making SCI work this year who deserve thanks--volunteers at the registration desk and helping with refreshments, pianists, guest soloists, and more--but we need to give a huge thank you to Kerrin Gates, who is the SCI director. Kerrin worked ridiculously hard on this program for months, and without her hard work SCI would not have been the success it was.
Thank you for a great summer of singing, Kerrin! And thank you to everyone who participated and/or helped in any way. We look forward to next year!
Two weeks and counting!
The beginning of our 2008-2009 season is only two weeks away!
That's right, the first meeting for all members, whether new or returning, is on August 26 from 7:00-9:30 at Olympus High School. Don't miss it!
Our upcoming season is full of a great variety of music:
October: Multicultural music
December: Vaughan Williams' "Hodie"
February: Eastern European music
May: Navajo Oratorio
For more details about these concerts, visit our homepage, and start spreading the word now! It's sure to be a great year.
See you in two weeks!
That's right, the first meeting for all members, whether new or returning, is on August 26 from 7:00-9:30 at Olympus High School. Don't miss it!
Our upcoming season is full of a great variety of music:
October: Multicultural music
December: Vaughan Williams' "Hodie"
February: Eastern European music
May: Navajo Oratorio
For more details about these concerts, visit our homepage, and start spreading the word now! It's sure to be a great year.
See you in two weeks!
Sunday, August 3, 2008
Vocal Assessments
If you have not yet signed up for a vocal assessment time and you are planning on returning in the fall, contact Judy Prawitt as soon as possible to schedule a time before the season starts. This is something every choir member must participate in, so make sure you get signed up.
Also, if you are not planning on returning, contact Judy to let her know. If you know someone who is not returning, let them know they need to contact Judy as well.
Thank you for helping us keep our rosters current and our choir running smoothly!
Also, if you are not planning on returning, contact Judy to let her know. If you know someone who is not returning, let them know they need to contact Judy as well.
Thank you for helping us keep our rosters current and our choir running smoothly!
Friday, July 25, 2008
SCI Final Sessions
It's hard to believe another summer has almost gone by, and with it, the second annual Summer Choral Institute is coming to a close. If you haven't attended a session yet, you have two more chances, so sign up and go!
Session 3, Peace and Paradise: Requiems by Faure and Rutter, runs August 7-9. This is the last full length session that ends in a concert, so if you want to perform in Libby this summer, make sure to sign up for this session.
The last part of Session 4, the Choral Masterworks session that has been running all summer, is on August 5 and will focus on several different opera choruses. I've seen the music for this session, and it looks like it will be tons of fun!
Don't let the summer pass you by without participating in at least one session of SCI. It's well worth the time and money. You won't be sorry if you go!
Session 3, Peace and Paradise: Requiems by Faure and Rutter, runs August 7-9. This is the last full length session that ends in a concert, so if you want to perform in Libby this summer, make sure to sign up for this session.
The last part of Session 4, the Choral Masterworks session that has been running all summer, is on August 5 and will focus on several different opera choruses. I've seen the music for this session, and it looks like it will be tons of fun!
Don't let the summer pass you by without participating in at least one session of SCI. It's well worth the time and money. You won't be sorry if you go!
Sunday, July 20, 2008
Officers' Retreat
Just a reminder that the next meeting for choir officers and section managers is Saturday, August 2, from 9:00-Noon at the same location as the meeting in May (the LDS chapel just east of the institute building on the U campus).
Please make sure to RSVP to Becky Workman by this Saturday, July 26.
See you there!
Please make sure to RSVP to Becky Workman by this Saturday, July 26.
See you there!
Friday, July 18, 2008
SLCA fan page
In addition to our group on Facebook, introduced in this post, SLCA now has an official fan page. View it here.
You don't have to be a Facebook member to view the page, but you do to post items or become a fan. It's easy and free!
On the page, you'll find a short bio of the choir, a link to our homepage, and a few sound clips from our concerts. It's a great way to expand our community outreach and reach potential patrons. Check it out!
You don't have to be a Facebook member to view the page, but you do to post items or become a fan. It's easy and free!
On the page, you'll find a short bio of the choir, a link to our homepage, and a few sound clips from our concerts. It's a great way to expand our community outreach and reach potential patrons. Check it out!
Thursday, July 10, 2008
What to do with your holiday weekend
Planning ahead for the 24th of July? Maybe looking to get out of town? Also wanting to get a jump start on next season? Of course!
The Phoenix Symphony is performing Enemy Slayer: A Navajo Oratorio at the Colorado Music Festival in Boulder, Colorado on July 24 and 25. You might recall that we are slated to perform this work in May to close out our 2008-2009 season. If you have the time and the means, it might be worth making the trip to Boulder to begin getting a feeling for this brand new piece.
Details about the festival can be found on the Colorado Music Festival homepage. Believe it or not, their performance is only two weeks away, so start planning now if this is something you want to do. In any case, have a safe and happy holiday weekend!
The Phoenix Symphony is performing Enemy Slayer: A Navajo Oratorio at the Colorado Music Festival in Boulder, Colorado on July 24 and 25. You might recall that we are slated to perform this work in May to close out our 2008-2009 season. If you have the time and the means, it might be worth making the trip to Boulder to begin getting a feeling for this brand new piece.
Details about the festival can be found on the Colorado Music Festival homepage. Believe it or not, their performance is only two weeks away, so start planning now if this is something you want to do. In any case, have a safe and happy holiday weekend!
Monday, June 30, 2008
SCI Session 2 and more!
SESSION 2
Don't forget to sign up for Session 2 of this year's Summer Choral Institute! The session, Folk Music from Around the World, runs July 10-13. This is a session particularly recommended for families, and those interested can also have their children (grades 3-8) participate in a day camp run by the Madeleine Choir School throughout the entire week.
Participants in this session will also have the opportunity to sing at Spanish Mass at the Cathedral of the Madeleine on Sunday, July 13. Just a personal note: I've had the opportunity to sing at Mass a couple of times, and it is a really neat experience. You should take advantage of this opportunity!
CONDUCTING WORKSHOP
The same week as this session, July 7-12, Dr. Allred is running a Choral Conducting Workshop. Registration for this workshop includes a registration for Session 2, so if you've always wanted to learn to conduct better, sign up for a great experience. This is a workshop for conductors at all levels, so whether you're a professional choir director, a ward choir director, or just someone interested in choral directing, this session is for you.
SESSION 4
Finally, the next two chunks of Session 4 are closing in. On July 8, the sing-through will focus on Haydn's "Lord Nelson Mass," and on July 15, Poulenc's "Gloria" and Durufle's "Requiem." All of these pieces are well worth your time, so if you can fit any of this in your schedule, you absolutely should.
And tell your friends!
Don't forget to sign up for Session 2 of this year's Summer Choral Institute! The session, Folk Music from Around the World, runs July 10-13. This is a session particularly recommended for families, and those interested can also have their children (grades 3-8) participate in a day camp run by the Madeleine Choir School throughout the entire week.
Participants in this session will also have the opportunity to sing at Spanish Mass at the Cathedral of the Madeleine on Sunday, July 13. Just a personal note: I've had the opportunity to sing at Mass a couple of times, and it is a really neat experience. You should take advantage of this opportunity!
CONDUCTING WORKSHOP
The same week as this session, July 7-12, Dr. Allred is running a Choral Conducting Workshop. Registration for this workshop includes a registration for Session 2, so if you've always wanted to learn to conduct better, sign up for a great experience. This is a workshop for conductors at all levels, so whether you're a professional choir director, a ward choir director, or just someone interested in choral directing, this session is for you.
SESSION 4
Finally, the next two chunks of Session 4 are closing in. On July 8, the sing-through will focus on Haydn's "Lord Nelson Mass," and on July 15, Poulenc's "Gloria" and Durufle's "Requiem." All of these pieces are well worth your time, so if you can fit any of this in your schedule, you absolutely should.
And tell your friends!
Sunday, June 1, 2008
SCI beginning soon
The beginning of the Summer Choral Institute is just days away!
Don't forget that this Thursday, June 5, is the deadline to register for Session 1 (Lullaby of Broadway) and Session 4 (Choral Masterworks). You can still register at the door, but be prepared to pay an extra fee.
Session 4 begins on Tuesday, June 10. The first meeting of the Choral Masterworks session will focus on Orff's Carmina Burana, so if you were a member of SLCA last fall, grab your score and sign up! If you weren't a member, never fear--you can buy a score when you register.
And just a heads up: early registration for Session 2 (Folk Music from Around the World) also ends on June 10, so make sure to register for that while you're attending Session 4!
Session 1 also begins next week, on Thursday, June 12. This session, focusing on showtunes, promises to be tons of fun, so make sure you get your registration in! You won't want to miss it.
Don't forget that this Thursday, June 5, is the deadline to register for Session 1 (Lullaby of Broadway) and Session 4 (Choral Masterworks). You can still register at the door, but be prepared to pay an extra fee.
Session 4 begins on Tuesday, June 10. The first meeting of the Choral Masterworks session will focus on Orff's Carmina Burana, so if you were a member of SLCA last fall, grab your score and sign up! If you weren't a member, never fear--you can buy a score when you register.
And just a heads up: early registration for Session 2 (Folk Music from Around the World) also ends on June 10, so make sure to register for that while you're attending Session 4!
Session 1 also begins next week, on Thursday, June 12. This session, focusing on showtunes, promises to be tons of fun, so make sure you get your registration in! You won't want to miss it.
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
Success!
Thanks very much to Jan for putting together the closing banquet tonight. It was a great way to close out a successful season! I enjoyed myself this year and I hope you all did as well.
If you're worried about keeping yourself singing over the summer, have no fear! Even though the official season is over, there are still plenty of SLCA events to keep you busy throughout the next few months. I'll do my best to keep updating the blog with information about SCI sessions as they arise, and anything else that might be of interest, so keep checking in!
Thanks again, and I'll see you all in the fall!
If you're worried about keeping yourself singing over the summer, have no fear! Even though the official season is over, there are still plenty of SLCA events to keep you busy throughout the next few months. I'll do my best to keep updating the blog with information about SCI sessions as they arise, and anything else that might be of interest, so keep checking in!
Thanks again, and I'll see you all in the fall!
Sunday, May 11, 2008
Vocal Assessments
In case you forgot or missed the announcement, sign-ups for the Vocal Assessments were available at the concert last night. If you didn't sign up, I'm betting they'll also be at the banquet on Tuesday (but don't quote me on that). If they're not, or they are and you still forget to sign up, you should probably contact Judy Prawitt as soon as you can to get yourself on the list.
According to Judy, Chamber Choir members should sign up for the slots late in the summer, and all other members should sign up whenever else they can. Dr. Allred requests that as much as possible, we try to sign up in clusters, so he doesn't have, say, only one person on one night, or one person and then an hour break before the next.
Above all, don't be scared! Dr. Allred promises not to injure you.
According to Judy, Chamber Choir members should sign up for the slots late in the summer, and all other members should sign up whenever else they can. Dr. Allred requests that as much as possible, we try to sign up in clusters, so he doesn't have, say, only one person on one night, or one person and then an hour break before the next.
Above all, don't be scared! Dr. Allred promises not to injure you.
Sunday, May 4, 2008
Upcoming Schedule
There are a number of things to be aware of for the next couple of weeks--please make sure you've noted them on your calendar!
Rehearsal from 7:00-10:00 in Libby Gardner Hall.
Also, today is the last day to RSVP and pay for the closing banquet.
Dress rehearsal from 7:00-10:00 in Libby Gardner Hall.
Concert at 7:30 in Libby Gardner Hall. Call is at 6:00 sharp! Be there dressed and ready to go. You may choose whether or not you want to use a black folder or just carry your score separately.
Deadline for Early Registration for Sessions 1 and 4 of the Summer Choral Institute.
Closing banquet at 7:00 at the Old Meeting House (4120 South Highland Drive).
- Tuesday, May 6
Rehearsal from 7:00-10:00 in Libby Gardner Hall.
Also, today is the last day to RSVP and pay for the closing banquet.
- Friday, May 9
Dress rehearsal from 7:00-10:00 in Libby Gardner Hall.
- Saturday, May 10
Concert at 7:30 in Libby Gardner Hall. Call is at 6:00 sharp! Be there dressed and ready to go. You may choose whether or not you want to use a black folder or just carry your score separately.
- Monday, May 12
Deadline for Early Registration for Sessions 1 and 4 of the Summer Choral Institute.
- Tuesday, May 13
Closing banquet at 7:00 at the Old Meeting House (4120 South Highland Drive).
Elijah news release
Today's Deseret News ran a press release about Elijah. A couple of highlights:
"Since Brady Allred became director, the Salt Lake Choral Artists have broadened their musical horizons significantly beyond what one would expect from a community organization.
"The ensemble has performed several large-scale works over the past few years, and it will add to its repertoire this weekend when it sings Felix Mendelssohn's 1846 oratorio 'Elijah' on Saturday in Libby Gardner Concert Hall. . . .
"And 'Elijah' certainly owes a great deal to the baroque. 'There is a strong Bach influence in it,' Allred said. 'It contains so much counterpoint and fugal writing, you have to know which parts to articulate. You have to know when a part is important and when it's not.'"
Read the whole thing here.
"Since Brady Allred became director, the Salt Lake Choral Artists have broadened their musical horizons significantly beyond what one would expect from a community organization.
"The ensemble has performed several large-scale works over the past few years, and it will add to its repertoire this weekend when it sings Felix Mendelssohn's 1846 oratorio 'Elijah' on Saturday in Libby Gardner Concert Hall. . . .
"And 'Elijah' certainly owes a great deal to the baroque. 'There is a strong Bach influence in it,' Allred said. 'It contains so much counterpoint and fugal writing, you have to know which parts to articulate. You have to know when a part is important and when it's not.'"
Read the whole thing here.
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Choir retreat
Just a reminder for choir officers and anyone else who signed up that retreat is this Saturday, May 3, from 9:00-12:00. We'll be talking about the future of the choir, working on plans for next year, and basically discussing everything. All very politely, of course. :)
We'll be at the LDS meetinghouse located at 1928 East Campus Drive at the U of U. There will be a continental breakfast at 8:30 and lunch at noon.
If you are planning on attending and have not yet RSVP'd to Jan, please do so immediately!
We'll be at the LDS meetinghouse located at 1928 East Campus Drive at the U of U. There will be a continental breakfast at 8:30 and lunch at noon.
If you are planning on attending and have not yet RSVP'd to Jan, please do so immediately!
Monday, April 21, 2008
We're technologically savvy.
We're so up-to-date here at SLCA: we have a Facebook group. One more way to get the news out about our events to people who might not otherwise hear about them.
Check it out!
Check it out!
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
SCI early registration dates
The beginning of the Summer Choral Institute is closer than you think! The early registration date for sessions one and four is looming.
Session 1, The Lullaby of Broadway, runs June 12-14. Session 4, the Choral Masterworks session, begins June 10.
Register by May 12 to guarantee receipt of music before the sessions begin and to receive practice CDs. Remember, you can register online, print out a registration form to mail in, or use one of our wonderful brochures.
If you register after the early deadline, you can still get in, but you might not get your music until you come. The regular registration deadline for these sessions is June 5. Also, if you choose to, you can register at the door, but be prepared to add ten dollars to your total.
Hope to see you there!
Session 1, The Lullaby of Broadway, runs June 12-14. Session 4, the Choral Masterworks session, begins June 10.
Register by May 12 to guarantee receipt of music before the sessions begin and to receive practice CDs. Remember, you can register online, print out a registration form to mail in, or use one of our wonderful brochures.
If you register after the early deadline, you can still get in, but you might not get your music until you come. The regular registration deadline for these sessions is June 5. Also, if you choose to, you can register at the door, but be prepared to add ten dollars to your total.
Hope to see you there!
Sunday, April 13, 2008
Online RSVP Available
Hooray! The online RSVP and payment for the closing banquet is now up and running. You'll have to log in to the members only part of our website, then click the link for the banquet. After that, just follow the directions! It's as easy as pie. (Even though pie really isn't that easy, unless you buy Marie Callender's frozen pies, but that's a completely different topic.) Umm, easier than pie.
Alternatively, you can still RSVP and pay in person. See the previous post on this topic for details.
Either way, you need to RSVP and pay by May 6th.
Thanks for getting this working, Steve!
Alternatively, you can still RSVP and pay in person. See the previous post on this topic for details.
Either way, you need to RSVP and pay by May 6th.
Thanks for getting this working, Steve!
Sunday, April 6, 2008
Upcoming Events
Some upcoming community events you may be interested in attending:
The Madeleine Arts Festival begins its impressive and diverse lineup of concerts today with the German quintet called Calmus Ensemble. Included in the festival is a performance of Monteverdi's Vespers performed by the University of Utah choral ensembles, soloists, and an orchestra.
All concerts are on Sundays at 8:00 at the Cathedral. A complete schedule can be found here.
This Saturday, April 12, the University of Utah choral ensembles will also be performing the Vespers at Libby Gardner Concert Hall. For more information, including ticketing information, go here.
The Madeleine Arts Festival begins its impressive and diverse lineup of concerts today with the German quintet called Calmus Ensemble. Included in the festival is a performance of Monteverdi's Vespers performed by the University of Utah choral ensembles, soloists, and an orchestra.
All concerts are on Sundays at 8:00 at the Cathedral. A complete schedule can be found here.
This Saturday, April 12, the University of Utah choral ensembles will also be performing the Vespers at Libby Gardner Concert Hall. For more information, including ticketing information, go here.
Friday, April 4, 2008
Closing Banquet RSVPs
I know some of you were wondering about RSVPing and paying for the closing event on May 13. Steve is working on getting the online RSVP/pay site working via our website, but after getting all the SCI stuff online, he deserves a bit of a break.
In the meantime, you may pay Debra Cope at rehearsal, and RSVP directly to Jan using the email address she printed on the invitations that were handed out last week.
If you didn't get an invitation, it goes something like this:
The Officers of
Salt Lake Choral Artists
cordially invite you to attend the
Member Appreciation Dinner
Tuesday, May 13, 2008 - 7:00 pm
The Old Meeting House
4120 South Highland Drive
Salt Lake City, Utah
Dinner is $12 and for choir members only. Kindly RSVP and pay online by May 6th at www.saltlakechoralartists.org and click on the Membership link or RSVP to Jan Smith at janice underscore w underscore smith at msn dot com by May 6th. Vegetarian meal available upon request.
In the meantime, you may pay Debra Cope at rehearsal, and RSVP directly to Jan using the email address she printed on the invitations that were handed out last week.
If you didn't get an invitation, it goes something like this:
The Officers of
Salt Lake Choral Artists
cordially invite you to attend the
Member Appreciation Dinner
Tuesday, May 13, 2008 - 7:00 pm
The Old Meeting House
4120 South Highland Drive
Salt Lake City, Utah
Dinner is $12 and for choir members only. Kindly RSVP and pay online by May 6th at www.saltlakechoralartists.org and click on the Membership link or RSVP to Jan Smith at janice underscore w underscore smith at msn dot com by May 6th. Vegetarian meal available upon request.
Thursday, April 3, 2008
SCI registration open!
Hooray! Thanks to Steve Witt, our webmaster, registration for the Summer Choral Institute is now available online!
Go to our homepage and click the "Summer Choral Institute 2008" link to get there. Or, if you must save yourself the extra click, just go right here.
According to the April newsletter, choir members will probably be getting some kind of discount code, so if you want to hold off on registering, do so. But don't hold off on sending the registration info to everyone you know and as many strangers as possible!
It looks to be a great summer of singing!
Go to our homepage and click the "Summer Choral Institute 2008" link to get there. Or, if you must save yourself the extra click, just go right here.
According to the April newsletter, choir members will probably be getting some kind of discount code, so if you want to hold off on registering, do so. But don't hold off on sending the registration info to everyone you know and as many strangers as possible!
It looks to be a great summer of singing!
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
Sell those tickets!
Our concert isn't until the beginning of May, which gives us plenty of time to sell every seat in the hall. Remember, as members of the choir we're eligible for tickets at a discount! The prices for Elijah are as follows:
General: $14.50 (regularly $18.75)
Student: $9.50 (regularly $12.75)
You can buy them online through our website or before rehearsal on Tuesdays.
You can also now take out tickets on consignment, meaning that you can take a chunk of tickets without paying for them and sell them, then bring the money back to choir. Don't lose the unsold tickets--you'll need to return them as well, or the choir mafia will come after you. Of course, this won't be a problem as I'm sure none of you will have any unsold tickets.
Also, remember that Jo has offered a prize to the section that sells the most tickets! This is generally a non-partisan blog, but allow me to cheer on the Altos!
General: $14.50 (regularly $18.75)
Student: $9.50 (regularly $12.75)
You can buy them online through our website or before rehearsal on Tuesdays.
You can also now take out tickets on consignment, meaning that you can take a chunk of tickets without paying for them and sell them, then bring the money back to choir. Don't lose the unsold tickets--you'll need to return them as well, or the choir mafia will come after you. Of course, this won't be a problem as I'm sure none of you will have any unsold tickets.
Also, remember that Jo has offered a prize to the section that sells the most tickets! This is generally a non-partisan blog, but allow me to cheer on the Altos!
Wednesday, March 5, 2008
Chamber Choir Recording
The long-postponed recording session is finally happening.
Where: Libby Gardner Hall
When: This Saturday, March 8, from 12:00-4:00
What: Bring your Songs and Sonnets and Birthday Madrigals.
Don't forget!
When we're done, take a dinner break, and then come on back to the hall for the University Singers concert that night at 7:30. Hooray for supporting other organizations!
Where: Libby Gardner Hall
When: This Saturday, March 8, from 12:00-4:00
What: Bring your Songs and Sonnets and Birthday Madrigals.
Don't forget!
When we're done, take a dinner break, and then come on back to the hall for the University Singers concert that night at 7:30. Hooray for supporting other organizations!
Tuesday, March 4, 2008
We have a newsletter!
A big thank you goes out to Jan Smith who has put together a monthly SLCA newsletter! The first edition came out today, and it was stellar.
It includes highlights from the Tribune article, information about SLCA's past, present, and future, a member spotlight, and more!
If you didn't receive the email with the newsletter attached, please contact Jan at janice underscore w underscore smith at msn dot com, or Judy Prawitt (email on website) to let them know. They want to make sure everyone gets this marvelous piece of communication. And you don't want to miss out!
Thanks, Jan! We look forward to new issues!
It includes highlights from the Tribune article, information about SLCA's past, present, and future, a member spotlight, and more!
If you didn't receive the email with the newsletter attached, please contact Jan at janice underscore w underscore smith at msn dot com, or Judy Prawitt (email on website) to let them know. They want to make sure everyone gets this marvelous piece of communication. And you don't want to miss out!
Thanks, Jan! We look forward to new issues!
Monday, February 25, 2008
Dr. Allred in the Trib
Once again our fearless leader has made the news. There's a great article in Sunday's Salt Lake Tribune (February 24). Here's the link:
Chorus of praise for easygoing Allred
Some highlights:
"If conductors are supposed to be high-strung, volatile egotists, Brady Allred isn't living up to the standard.
"No one minds. The University of Utah's affable director of choral activities is defying other expectations - and his success is being noticed.
"In Utah, Allred is known for directing top-notch concerts and recordings with his university groups; effectively mentoring a new generation of choral conducting students; and raising the profile of the Salt Lake Choral Artists, a respected community choral organization. . . .
"Robert Walzel, director of the U.'s School of Music, said the two things that impress him most about Allred are the conductor's high degree of musicianship and his ability to motivate students. 'He has a gift for being able to blend work on fundamentals of singing in with whatever repertoire he is doing, and it's absolutely seamless,' Walzel said. 'He develops concepts of singing that allow choirs to learn new material quickly and at a high artistic level.'"
Read the rest at the link (before they archive it!). We're lucky to have him!
Chorus of praise for easygoing Allred
Some highlights:
"If conductors are supposed to be high-strung, volatile egotists, Brady Allred isn't living up to the standard.
"No one minds. The University of Utah's affable director of choral activities is defying other expectations - and his success is being noticed.
"In Utah, Allred is known for directing top-notch concerts and recordings with his university groups; effectively mentoring a new generation of choral conducting students; and raising the profile of the Salt Lake Choral Artists, a respected community choral organization. . . .
"Robert Walzel, director of the U.'s School of Music, said the two things that impress him most about Allred are the conductor's high degree of musicianship and his ability to motivate students. 'He has a gift for being able to blend work on fundamentals of singing in with whatever repertoire he is doing, and it's absolutely seamless,' Walzel said. 'He develops concepts of singing that allow choirs to learn new material quickly and at a high artistic level.'"
Read the rest at the link (before they archive it!). We're lucky to have him!
Thursday, February 21, 2008
Optional Rehearsal and Location Change
Here's some announcements from this week's rehearsal, in case you've forgotten or weren't there.
First, this Saturday, February 23, there is an optional rehearsal from 8:00-10:00 AM at Murray High School. They'll be singing some of the jazz repertoire we just performed, so if you want, grab your music and go make a friend (and potential audience member!).
On Tuesday, February 26, rehearsal will be at Murray High School. There is an early rehearsal that day from 3:30-5:00 (jazz rep) if you can make it. Otherwise, plan to be there at 7:00 ready to rehearse Elijah. Chamber Choir members should arrive at 6:30, in concert dress, ready to perform some of the jazz repertoire with Murray High.
Next Tuesday we'll be back at Olympus High.
All clear?
First, this Saturday, February 23, there is an optional rehearsal from 8:00-10:00 AM at Murray High School. They'll be singing some of the jazz repertoire we just performed, so if you want, grab your music and go make a friend (and potential audience member!).
On Tuesday, February 26, rehearsal will be at Murray High School. There is an early rehearsal that day from 3:30-5:00 (jazz rep) if you can make it. Otherwise, plan to be there at 7:00 ready to rehearse Elijah. Chamber Choir members should arrive at 6:30, in concert dress, ready to perform some of the jazz repertoire with Murray High.
Next Tuesday we'll be back at Olympus High.
All clear?
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
No Recording
The recording listed as "possible" on the schedule for Saturday, February 16 from 9:00-1:00 has been cancelled. Rest your voices for the concert that night. Or better yet, use the time to call everyone you know and invite them to come!
Friday, February 8, 2008
Concert Week Schedule
Our concert is this coming Saturday, February 16. In case you've misplaced your schedule and are unsure of the rehearsals this week, here's the info you should know:
Watch this space for any updated information between now and then, and tell your friends! This concert will be great!
- Tuesday, February 12
- Wednesday, February 13
- Friday, February 15
- Saturday, February 16
Watch this space for any updated information between now and then, and tell your friends! This concert will be great!
Tuesday, February 5, 2008
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
Ticket Sales
Good news! Tickets for the jazz concert will be made available at Tuesday night rehearsals beginning this coming week, February 5. The member discount is as follows:
General: $12 (regularly $15.75)
Student: $8 (regularly $10.75)
If you would like to buy tickets at rehearsal, please come between 6:30 and 7:00 so as to avoid the rush during break. No tickets will be sold once rehearsal begins. Make checks payable to Salt Lake Choral Artists.
Tickets can also still be purchased online via the website.
This is shaping up to be a great concert, so let's fill the hall!
General: $12 (regularly $15.75)
Student: $8 (regularly $10.75)
If you would like to buy tickets at rehearsal, please come between 6:30 and 7:00 so as to avoid the rush during break. No tickets will be sold once rehearsal begins. Make checks payable to Salt Lake Choral Artists.
Tickets can also still be purchased online via the website.
This is shaping up to be a great concert, so let's fill the hall!
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
Chamber Rehearsal
There's a Chamber Choir rehearsal this Wednesday from 7:00-9:00 at Olympus High. Drive safely! The roads (and stairways) can be treacherous.
P.S. Name the reference and get a cookie!
P.P.S. Just kidding about the cookie.
P.S. Name the reference and get a cookie!
P.P.S. Just kidding about the cookie.
Monday, January 21, 2008
Chamber Choir Rehearsal
Don't forget that there is a rehearsal this Wednesday night from 7:00-9:00 at Olympus High School for Chamber Choir members.
Thursday, January 17, 2008
No Recording
In case you missed the announcement at the end of this week's rehearsal, there is no recording session for the Chamber Choir on Monday, January 21.
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
What's a kirtle, anyway?
Let's face it. We weren't born in the 16th century and some Shakespearean language can be a little confusing. Archaic words and odd spellings can make it hard to understand exactly what you're singing about.
Maybe this will help.
Live with me and be my love
A kirtle is one of these. It's just the outermost layer of clothing. Myrtle is a variety of plant with shiny green leaves and often flowers. So, the line "A cap of flowers, and a kirtle embroidered all with leaves of myrtle" simply describes an embroidered piece of clothing.
Philomel refers to Philomela, who was the victim of some rather nasty Greek events which led to her losing her tongue and being turned into either a swallow or a nightingale, depending on the version of the myth you read. What exactly is meant by the line "And Philomel becometh dumb; the rest complains of cares to come" seems to be up to debate. Anyone have any interpretations?
(Incidentally, though Shearing attributes this text to Shakespeare, it's actually by one of his contemporaries, Christopher Marlowe (with a little bit by Sir Walter Raleigh in the "Birthday Madrigals" text). Rutter gets it right. If, however, you want to argue that Marlowe or Raleigh was Shakespeare...well, that's a whole other discussion.)
When daffodils begin to peer
According to The Riverside Shakespeare, pugging means thieving. This makes sense in the line "Doth set my pugging tooth an edge, for a quart of ale is a dish for a king" when you consider that this song is pretty much all about giving into your passions.
Spring/When daisies pied
In case you were wondering just exactly why the cuckoo is mocking married men, here's the short answer: cuckoos, along with many, many other things, were symbols of cuckoldry.
There's of course a lot of other stuff going on in these pieces, which can be discovered based on the poetry itself and, in the case of the Shakespearean texts, the context of the plays from which they come. For those of you that see this and think, "Ugh, I've never liked Shakespeare," don't worry---there won't be a test and you don't have to write an essay.
Maybe this will help.
Live with me and be my love
A kirtle is one of these. It's just the outermost layer of clothing. Myrtle is a variety of plant with shiny green leaves and often flowers. So, the line "A cap of flowers, and a kirtle embroidered all with leaves of myrtle" simply describes an embroidered piece of clothing.
Philomel refers to Philomela, who was the victim of some rather nasty Greek events which led to her losing her tongue and being turned into either a swallow or a nightingale, depending on the version of the myth you read. What exactly is meant by the line "And Philomel becometh dumb; the rest complains of cares to come" seems to be up to debate. Anyone have any interpretations?
(Incidentally, though Shearing attributes this text to Shakespeare, it's actually by one of his contemporaries, Christopher Marlowe (with a little bit by Sir Walter Raleigh in the "Birthday Madrigals" text). Rutter gets it right. If, however, you want to argue that Marlowe or Raleigh was Shakespeare...well, that's a whole other discussion.)
When daffodils begin to peer
According to The Riverside Shakespeare, pugging means thieving. This makes sense in the line "Doth set my pugging tooth an edge, for a quart of ale is a dish for a king" when you consider that this song is pretty much all about giving into your passions.
Spring/When daisies pied
In case you were wondering just exactly why the cuckoo is mocking married men, here's the short answer: cuckoos, along with many, many other things, were symbols of cuckoldry.
There's of course a lot of other stuff going on in these pieces, which can be discovered based on the poetry itself and, in the case of the Shakespearean texts, the context of the plays from which they come. For those of you that see this and think, "Ugh, I've never liked Shakespeare," don't worry---there won't be a test and you don't have to write an essay.
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
Welcome Back!
Welcome back to the second half of our 2007-2008 season! Just a few reminders:
Rehearsals
Please be on time! It's disruptive for everyone if you have to climb over a bunch of people to get to the one empty seat in the back row. It's also hard to pick up any music you might be missing. Plus, if you're late, you won't get your massage!
Music
Everyone should now have copies of "Songs and Sonnets" by George Shearing, "Elijah" by Mendelssohn, and a photocopy of "No Words" by Rob Landes. Chamber Choir members should also have "Birthday Madrigals" by John Rutter. If you are missing any music, please talk to the librarians before or after rehearsal, or during the break. The librarians won't be passing out any music once rehearsal has begun.
Please bring all music to rehearsals, including "Elijah."
Concert Dates
Our first concert is not too far away: Saturday, February 16. This is the jazz concert, so make sure to be working on this music outside of rehearsal if you need to.
And tell your friends! This is going to be a fun concert that people won't want to miss.
With that business out of the way, here's some fun stuff:
Dr. Allred in the News
If you missed last week's rehearsal, you may not know that in The Salt Lake Tribune on December 29, Dr. Allred was named on a list of "Utah's top 25 cultural power brokers." The article reads, "In less than five years as director of choral studies at the University of Utah, Allred has led his U. of U. Singers to two international championships. His leadership of the Salt Lake Choral Artists has been similarly ambitious, and this year's inaugural edition of his Summer Choral Institute drew more than 1,000 singing enthusiasts to the U. campus."
Way to go, Dr. Allred!
Rehearsals
Please be on time! It's disruptive for everyone if you have to climb over a bunch of people to get to the one empty seat in the back row. It's also hard to pick up any music you might be missing. Plus, if you're late, you won't get your massage!
Music
Everyone should now have copies of "Songs and Sonnets" by George Shearing, "Elijah" by Mendelssohn, and a photocopy of "No Words" by Rob Landes. Chamber Choir members should also have "Birthday Madrigals" by John Rutter. If you are missing any music, please talk to the librarians before or after rehearsal, or during the break. The librarians won't be passing out any music once rehearsal has begun.
Please bring all music to rehearsals, including "Elijah."
Concert Dates
Our first concert is not too far away: Saturday, February 16. This is the jazz concert, so make sure to be working on this music outside of rehearsal if you need to.
And tell your friends! This is going to be a fun concert that people won't want to miss.
With that business out of the way, here's some fun stuff:
Dr. Allred in the News
If you missed last week's rehearsal, you may not know that in The Salt Lake Tribune on December 29, Dr. Allred was named on a list of "Utah's top 25 cultural power brokers." The article reads, "In less than five years as director of choral studies at the University of Utah, Allred has led his U. of U. Singers to two international championships. His leadership of the Salt Lake Choral Artists has been similarly ambitious, and this year's inaugural edition of his Summer Choral Institute drew more than 1,000 singing enthusiasts to the U. campus."
Way to go, Dr. Allred!
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