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"Summertime and the Livin' is Easy" - to paraphrase the lyrics of the brilliant American lyricist Ira Gershwin. Summer, when many of our choruses take "time off" to vacation, to rest, to reunite with families around the country and the world. Some would say, "the last thing I want to do is sing for the next three months!" However, many of our fine directors refuse to cave-in to these sentiments. One of the reasons the International Board meets twice a year is to share ideas, formally and informally, to strengthen our internal chorus structure as fine musical performers. I would share with you some of their summer projects.
- Many choruses participate in SUMMER PARK CONCERTS...what better sound than the blend of male chorus voices to bring a crowd out?
- Always in demand is the singing of the NATIONAL ANTHEMS at summer sporting events...and half-time entertaining.
- Some choruses prepare PRE SEASON PACKETS of music for the members to work on over the summer months.
- Choruses will meet for a relaxed rehearsal just to sing and keep their voices exercised.
- Sight reading clinics held to sing NEW MUSIC the director is looking at for the next season. Not all may be able to attend but it encourages interaction with the chorus MUSIC COMMITTEE and director.
- Publish the dates and times of your SUMMER BOARD MEETINGS. This valuable tool can encourage involvement and can be done on simple postcards. What better way to let the membership see the internal workings of their chorus B.O.D.? (Web Manager Note: How about publishing these items on the web site, Highlights, AMCA Calendar TOO!!!!!)
- Participate in local SUMMER FESTIVALS...most towns have something going on during the summer months. This can be a terrific recruitment tool for your chorus!!!
- Plan a FALL RETREAT to do a dry run of the fall/Christmas music selections prior to resuming the regularly scheduled start up of the season. Some get together for a summer BBQ and liquid refreshments.
These thoughts are random but all valid to the continued success of our choruses. Communicate with each other through the summer months and design a "WELCOME BACK LETTER" to announce your 2002-2003 season culminating with your anticipated attendance at the 2003 INTERNATIONAL SING in Lansing Michigan. There is a fantastic site on the AMCA web page that welcomes your attention to the RESERVATIONS section - many choruses have already made their commitment - it's not too early!
HAVE A GR-R-R-R-REAT SUMMER - and remember, a singing voice is a terrible thing to waste!
Sincerely,
Norm
Norm Goodling, AMCA International President
Feedback to Norm via direct email - n.goodling@att.net
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