Jean-Marie offers a look at the year ahead

The end of summer always brings a little bit of sadness. I say good-bye to mornings in my garden, time at the lake with family, and reading till I fall asleep with a book on my face. But the sadness is tempered by anticipation for what the year has to offer. Thanks to a supportive board and a loyal membership, Magnolia Chorale has great things ahead.

The feature work on our December concert is Vivaldi Gloria. My dissertation centered on Vivaldi’s choral works and so I am excited to apply the knowledge that I gleaned. Even the opening octave theme brings back the memories of seeing and touching Vivaldi’s manuscripts. I have also planned that Roosevelt High School Choir will sing Vivaldi Gloria with the Roosevelt Orchestra. To extend our outreach, we are going to sing with the high schoolers, to boost their numbers. As a new choral program, they will grow by seeing the example set by seasoned performers who love to sing.

And talking about outreach, Magnolia Chorale is reaching out to high schoolers who may want to join the Chorale every week. We are offering scholarships, two free lessons, and hands-on experience of singing with adults who are continuing their life-long learning. If you know someone who would like an opportunity like this, please have them contact me.

In the spring, we are also venturing into new territory. Songs at an Exhibition will feature choir pieces that are snapshots of Seattle life: ocean, clams, traffic, coffee…We need artists who will represent this music through painting, sculpture, pottery, or drawings. The artists’ works will be displayed at the concert. This collaboration will need a liaison between the Chorale and the artist community. If you would be interested in taking on this role, please let me know.

So much news to share! Please spread the word about the Magnolia Chorale. Invite a friend to join. Invite high school singers to apply for a scholarship. Invite artists to join us for our spring concert. As always, I am looking forward to starting each week by making music with you. See you soon.

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