Beginning a Chorus, beginning a blog, beginning a job. I have been thinking a lot about beginnings recently.
BEGINNING A CHORUS: A few days ago I talked with Michael Cohrs, the founder of the Gateway Men’s Chorus. He said that our Chorus began recruiting members by posting signs in the bars and holding a meeting at the local Metropolitan Community Church. From simple steps great journeys begin. 25 years later the Gateway Men’s Chorus is a cultural institution in St. Louis, performing to hundreds and hundreds of people every year.
BEGINNING A BLOG: What is there to say? I hope there is much, but we shall see. I intend to post blogs twice a month or so, letting the world know what we are up to at the GMC, letting the GMC know what I am up to, just generally being in touch and reaching out. I will be publicizing big events we’ve got going on, as well as ruminating on programming and challenges. As a not-for-profit arts organization we know about challenges. But exciting things are happening at the GMC: a 25th anniversary year, looking forward to GALA next summer, and beginning the dance with a new Artistic Director: me!
BEGINNING A JOB: My predecessor left the group in fine musical shape, and with high expectations of itself: not a bad position to start from. I have the music for our December concert selected, and am well on my way to setting our March program as well. I have already been rehearsing with our four section leaders, recording our rehearsal tracks for the first concert cycle. We laughed long, hard and often as the ideas flowed for how to present certain numbers. I have written some new pieces that will be premiered at the next couple of concerts. I have been chomping at the bit ready to begin, and have been nervous and a little relieved that the beginning was still a little way off. Beginnings are hard… and exciting!
Al Fischer
Artistic Director
Gateway Men’s Chorus
All will be well. Just excuse me if, at times, I call your ‘cheesiness’ into question. LOL
But I am SO happy we have you. And I have total confidence even if you do demand ‘cheesiness’. I’m with you 100%
Let me be the first to congratulate you on your new blog, and your new position as Artistic Director. I am looking forward to working with you not only as a singing member of the GMC but also as a member of the Board of Directors. Good Luck my friend! I paln on enjoying this long journey with you!
Al,
I know you will take the Chorus to the next level; I have the utmost respect for you and your musical talents. I am confident that it is going to be a great experience for you, the membership and most importantly, the audience!
I can’t wait to hear your pieces Al!
Congratulations! As an old-timer, er uh… long time singer, with every transition we have moved forward.and grown. I know we will continue that growth. You led us to GALA 4 years ago in Miami, I am looking forward to your leadership in Denver at GALA 2012.
I couldn’t be more pleased that you were handed the reigns and will be leading us forward. Let’s continue to have fun and bring interesting, exciting, and thoughtful shows to our audiences.