Update at the request of director Mary-Hannah Klontz:
Welcome. This site provided information to chorus members during the tenure of Dr. Mark Whitmire. The official and current webpage for the NOVA Community Chorus is located at the Northern Virginia Community College, linked here: https://blogs.nvcc.edu/almusic/ensembles/chorus/
To View PDF Files:
Welcome. This site provides information to chorus members. The official webpage is located at the Northern Virginia Community College site.
Update
August 6th, 2022
Notice
August 11th, 2017
[Admin] As the administrator is not registered for the Fall 2017 semester of the chorus, the future status of this website is to be determined. Thank you for your understanding.
Summer Sings
July 24th, 2017
[Update July 24, 2017] Dear Choralis:
It was great to see so many of you last Tuesday at the Summer Sing, where we enjoyed a tour through Mozart’s Requiem and Rutter’s Gloria. We hope to see many of you at the next Summer Sing as well!
But please note–Gretchen has had an unexpected schedule change, and we will hold the next Summer Sing on a new date:
August 1 (no longer July 25): Maestra Kurhman will lead a sing-along of the Brahms Ein deutsches Requiem (in German), with Grace Cho, Keyboard Artist. Soloists are Danielle Talamantes, soprano and Kerry Wilkerson, baritone.
If you have shared the event flyer with any friends or posted it anywhere, we hope you’ll be able to replace it with the updated flyer attached to this e-mail.
The Summer Sing will begin at 7:00 pm and will be held at Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, 3022 Woodlawn Avenue in Falls Church, VA (corner of Rt. 50 and Woodlawn Avenue – easy parking).
Admission is $15 and score rental will be available for $5.
The Summer Sing will be followed by a short reception (sparkling cider and cookies) to make it easy to catch up with your Choralis friends or anyone you’ve brought along to the Sing.
We look forward to singing with you soon!
Click image for Flyer PDF
[Original July 17, 2017]
From Lori Wicks, forwarded by Holly Hayes Hambley:
This is to cordially invite you to attend a “Summer Sing” of the Mozart Requiem and John Rutter’s Gloria this coming Tuesday, at 7:00 pm at HT.
It has been organized by Choralis (the auditioned choir Rob and I sing with), and the pieces will be conducted by Choralis’ Artistic Director, Gretchen Kuhrmann. There will be professional soloists for the Mozart and piano accompaniment. The chorus is made up of anyone who wants to sing the pieces, and based on similar events in past summers, there will probably be 50-80 people there to sing.
The usual admission fee of $15 is being waived for HT choir members, so even if you just want to listen rather than sing, the price is certainly right! Just tell the box office team that you are a member of the HT choir, and you’ll be invited right in. If you do want to sing, the music can be rented at the door for $5. Afterwards there will be cookies/cider/coffee in the Narthex to provide a chance to chat.
And – there will be another Summer Sing at HT the following Tuesday, 7/25. This one will be of the Brahms Requiem. It will be sung in German, but it is a fabulous choral masterwork even to just listen to. Plus our soloists for the Brahms include Danielle Talamantes, who currently sings under contract to the Metropolitan Opera in NY. Her rendition of the main soprano solo in the Brahms is lovely and well worth trekking to HT to hear. Again, admission will be free for HT choristers.
The flyer below has the event information. Hope to see you there!
Lori
PS: As a fun sidenote, Gretchen Kuhrmann attended HT when she was growing up, until her family moved to Germany.
DrW’s Golf Trip
July 19th, 2017
Dear Singers- Thanks to all of you for the wonderful golf trip to the Greenbriar. My brother Matt has joined and we just dismissed our second round. We had such great fun. Here I am with gold legend Lee Trevino. Thanks again.
Yours (always) -DrW
Two Offerings
July 10th, 2017
From Dr. Whitmire: Dear Singers- I hope you are having a great summer. I am looking forward to seeing many of you this Fall in my two course offergings. I am sending this final message to everyone, so I avoid the risk of leaving someone out. Future info about these courses will be sent only to those singers taking the courses.
Yours (always) – DrW
Lessons (see schedule in e-mail)
9:30 am – 5:30 pm
Vocal Seminar 12:30- 2:30 pm
(see names in e-mail)
__one spot available__
Vocal Seminar (similar to Class Voice but each student sings their own songs and there is live accompaniment.
A vocal performance seminar where students perform songs and receive instruction on vocal technique, style, diction, expression and musicianship.
Saturdays (below) 12:30-2:30 pm
9/9; 9/23; 10/7; 10/21; 11/4; 11/18; 12/2; 12/16
limited to 12 students
8 meetings – $200 tuition (includes Chris Hagan’s fee)
Private Voice Lessons
8 lessons -$600
9/9; 9/23; 10/7; 10/21; 11/4; 11/18; 12/2; 12/16
6 spots available
Lesson times
9:30, 10:30 am, 11:30 am, 2:30 pm, 3:30 pm; 4:30 pm
Location: Virginia Episcopal Seminary (Seminary Rd at Quaker lane), Addison Bldg Rm 113
Next Semester
June 26th, 2017
From Chorister Peggy: If you are interested in singing in the nvcc Alexandria campus chorus next semester please contact professor Lisa Eckstein (who is also the band director) at
leckstein@nvcc.edu
I am no longer singing in the chorus and this email list has no official connection with NVCC.
Please advise if you want to remove your name from this list.
Reminder: Recital
June 17th, 2017
From Dr. Whitmire: Dear Singers-
I hope a group can come down on Wednesday (see below). Chris and David will make Igreat music and will be great to see you.
Yours(forever) – DrW
PS- If you are considering Vocal Seminar or voice lessons with me in the Fall (see my June 6 message) and haven’t let me know, please don’t wait too long. I am firming up plans.
Two Possible Offerings
June 6th, 2017
From Dr. Whitmire: Dear Singers,
I hope you are having a great summer. I am still reveling in your great singing at our final concert and reliving our fabulous party.
Many of you asked about the possibility of future study with me outside the college. I have given it serious thought and propose 2 possible offerings: Vocal Seminar and Private Voice Lessons.
Please look this over and let me know if it is of interest to you. If you have questions, please let me know.
Yours (always),
DrW
mwhitmire@doers.org 804-467-3039
PS- Please pass this along to anyone who might be interested.
Vocal Seminar (similar to Class Voice but each student sings their own songs and there is live accompaniment.
A vocal performance seminar where students perform songs and receive instruction on vocal technique, style, diction, expression and musicianship.
Saturdays (below) 12:30-2:30 pm
9/9; 9/23; 10/7; 10/21; 11/4; 11/18; 12/2; 12/16
8 meetings – $200 tuition (includes Chris Hagan’s fee)
Private Voice Lessons
8 lessons -$600
Saturdays (below)
9/9; 9/23; 10/7; 10/21; 11/4; 11/18; 12/2; 12/16
5 spots available
Lesson times
10:00 am, 11:00 am, 2:30 pm, 3:30 pm; 4:30 pm
Location: Virginia Episcopal Seminary (Seminary Rd at Quaker lane)
Hagan recital
May 30th, 2017
From Dr. Whitmire: Dear Singers,
On Wednesday, June 21, at 7:00 pm Christine and David Hagan will present a recital here at St. James’s. It would be great if some of you could come. Attached is a flyer (.pdf) and their program (.pdf). It is going to be fabulous!
Yours (forever) – DrW
Performance Videos
May 27th, 2017
Two performance videos have recently been posted. These links are also listed on the Performances Page at http://www.novachorus.org
Annual Chorus Benefit Concert
October 25, 2016:
Video: https://youtu.be/_8E7L7XE1ac
John Ireland: These things shall be
April 9, 2017:
Video: https://youtu.be/nIAvViasXkg
Sunday Night
May 26th, 2017
From Dr. Whitmire:
Dear Singers- This Sunday at 7:00 p.m. we are having our bi-annual Memorial Concert at St. James’s. If you are looking for a meaningful way to honor our veterans, this will be perfect. Music includes the Faure Requiem and Bach Cantata 106. Just to whet your appetite I have attached the Sanctus from last night’s rehearsal (.mp3). I’d love to see you.
Yours-DrW
P.S. The concert will be streamed live at Posted in Summer 2017 | Comments Off on Sunday Night
Pete
May 23rd, 2017
From Chorister Fred: This is Pete Vanden Bosch’s new Email address. Pete often stood next to me in the Bass section and always was right on key and tempo.
Pete – it was a pleasure to have sung while standing next to you and to talk about what my and your churches were doing now. Thanks!
On Wednesday, May 17, 2017 5:49 PM, Peter Vanden Bosch wrote:
Folks,
You’re the only NOVA Chorus members I’ve gleaned email addresses for in the last 3 years of singing — bad on me. I would tell some other members, but I’ll tell at least you that this chorus has been a delight, and I’m sorry to not be here as you transition to a new director, with all the challenges that entails.
I think we all came, or all stuck around, in response to Mark’s extraordinary directing, musicianship, and teaching. No one has helped me improve more in any length of time, either in my singing or in my teaching approaches. He has been the heart and soul of this chorus. I can’t say that often enough or with enough passion.
But I’m writing to make a plea. Please remember what a remarkable group you are even without Mark’s leadership. The choir members as a whole haven’t been terribly tight-knit, but those of us who have been around longer or who have been in some of Mark’s smaller classes have formed friendships and have exerted some great leadership. I really, really hope that continues and that you strong folks help this the choir find its new path.
It’s been a privilege to make music with each of you. Here’s my contact info, and I hope you won’t hesitate to get in touch if you’re ever around Portland.
—
Pete Vanden Bosch
[See email for contact information]
Summer Sings at CUMC
May 16th, 2017
From Chorister Bernie:
Washington Summer Sings!
June 6 & June 20
Sing the great choral masterpieces with professional soloists, distinguished conductors,
and outstanding accompanists
Tuesday, June 6, at 7:30pm – Mozart Requiem Conductor: Thomas Colohan
Pianist: Thomas Pandolfi
Tuesday, June 20, at 7:30pm – Brahms Requiem Conductor: Thomas Beveridge
Pianist: Todd Fickley
Suggested donation – $10 Scores available
Plenty of free parking – Metro Accessible
Clarendon United Methodist Church
606 North Irving Street
Arlington, VA 22201
Email: office@clarendonumc.org
Telephone: 703-527-8574
From Ray
May 15th, 2017
From Chorister Ray Lombardi:
In response to a couple of requests, I’m sending the gist of what I said at Mark’s farewell, recreating as best I remember, the ad-lib part
—–
In the Fall of 1986, I had just retired and was looking around for someplace to sing – having had a brief time with a small chorus in Paris.
Having no training and not knowing enough music to audition with anyone,, I stumbled upon a NOVA catalog which listed “MUSIC 137 Chorus”.
Said to myself – this course could teach me something about being in a chorus and maybe help me find one.
On the appointed night I turned up at the Tyler building (late) and knocked on the door. after a while the director (Cathy Price) answered – a little irritated.
I asked if this was the chorus room and she replied “are you a tenor or a bass?” I said I thought I was a bass and she said “Stand over there!”
and I’ve been standing over there for thirty-one years.
The next year, when Mark took over the group I observed that he was just a patient as Cathy had been, especially with neophytes.
From careful watching, I began to see the signs in Mark’s behavior which showed plainly when we in the chorus had gone too far and backing off was essential.
YOUR PATIENCE WAS USUALLY AMPLE
WHEN IT WASN’T, THE SIGNS THEY WERE SIMPLE.
OUR BEHAVIOR ABYSMAL, WOULD MAKE YOU LOOK DISMAL
AND THAT VEIN WOULD THROB IN YOUR TEMPLE.
FOR NOW, IT’S FAREWELL, DR. MARKIE
WITH A HO -A- DINKUM -LARKEE
YOU GAVE US ALL SUCH WONDERFUL STUFF
AND WE CAN’T THANK YOU ENOUGH.
Friday
May 15th, 2017
From Dr. Whitmire: Dear Singers-
Friday night was a wonderful night. Everything I had hoped it would be and more. My deepest thanks to all who played a part in organizing the party, and thanks to all who were able to attend. The speeches were beautiful. The photos were fabulous. I can’t count the times I heard, “He had hair?” My gifts (the golf trip, the cash, the engraved divot too, the framed “Mark my Words” and other items) were fantastic. The loveliest of all was the bag of personal notes from so many of you. I have just become to read them and, of course, they make me miss you already. I appreciate all the happy reminiscences of good times and great music.
Until we meet again, my love to you all – DrW
Mark, My Words
May 13th, 2017
From Chorister Bernie Cohen:
Mark, My Words
Click image for PDF
Thank You
May 5th, 2017
From Dr. Whitmire: Dear Singers,
What a perfect night. Thank you.
Seminar- We will have a normal class tomorrow. I can’t stay after for potluck, though you guys are welcome to stay.
Yours-DrW
Fifteenth Rehearsal Preview
May 2nd, 2017
From Dr. Whitmire: Welcome to our 15th and rehearsal.
This Friday 5/5 is our 7:30 pm Concert in Schlesinger. The call is 6:30 pm in the Choir Room (AT130).
The concert order is Jazz -Chorus-Intermission-Band
What an incredible year this has been! Can you believe how much music we have been privileged to sing?
Nachtlied, Robert Schumann
Miriam’s Song of Triumph, Franz Schubert
How Lovely is Thy Dwelling Place, Johannes Brahms
Gloria, Francis Poulenc
Earth is our Mother, Dave Brubeck
Water Nights, Eric Whitacre
Wade in the Water, Moses Hogan
Sicut cervus, Palestrina
Old American Songs (PS-This is the order)
The Boatman’s Dance
Long Time Ago
I bought me a cat
Simple Gifts
Zion’s Walls
Ching-A-Ring Chaw
At the River
Don’t dare miss our May 12 Celebration!
Yours-DrW
Fourteenth Rehearsal Preview
April 25th, 2017
From Dr. Whitmire:
Welcome to our 14th rehearsal of 2017.
Next Tuesday 5/2 is our Dress Rehearsal in Schlesinger
Next Friday 5/5 is our 7:30 pm Concert in Schlesinger. The call is 6:30 pm
in the Choir Room (AT130).
The concert order is Jazz Band-Chorus-Intermission-Band
A Flyer is attached. Spread the word about our concert.
What an incredible year this has been! Can you believe how much music we have been privileged to sing?
Nachtlied, Robert Schumann
Miriam’s Song of Triumph, Franz Schubert
How Lovely is Thy Dwelling Place, Johannes Brahms
Gloria, Francis Poulenc
Earth is our Mother, Dave Brubeck
Water Nights, Eric Whitacre
Wade in the Water, Moses Hogan
Sicut cervus, Palestrina
Old American Songs (PS-This is the order in which we’ll sing them)
The Boatman’s Dance
Long Time Ago
I bought me a cat
Simple Gifts
Zion’s Walls
Ching-A-Ring Chaw
At the River
Don’t dare miss our May 12 Celebration!
Yours-DrW
Click image for Flyer PDF
Thirteenth Rehearsal Preview
April 18th, 2017
From Dr. Whitmire: Welcome to our 13th rehearsal of 2017.
Please see the Roster for our May 5 Concert. Check the box that corresponds to the number of years you have been in the chorus.
After tonight we have only 1 rehearsal before our May 2 Dress Rehearsal. Please don’t be absent. We want to go out with a bang! Go here for the notes: http://parischoralsociety.free.fr/spring12.html
This Saturday 4/22 I see Women at 11:00 am.
Next Saturday 4/29 I see everyone (Full Rehearsal) at 11:00 am.
Don’t dare miss our May 12 Celebration!
Yours-DrW
Germany Trip
April 13th, 2017
From Dr. Whitmire: Dear Singers-
Several of you have expressed interest in the trip to Germany with composer/conductor Paul Leavitt. Attached are the trip details (.pdf). Looks really fun!
Yours-DrW
Out
April 13th, 2017
From Dr. Whitmire: Dear Singers –
The pollen has gotten the best of me. I do not feel well and have laryngitis and will not be in the weekend (Friday or Saturday).
May 5 program – I would like to ackowledge those singers who have been with me for 10, 20 and 30 years in the program on May 5. Please see the attched roster and let me know if you years of serivce is correct.
Have a wonderful weekend.
Yours-DrW
Free Concert
April 13th, 2017
From Chorister Annette: There is a free concert (no tickets, donations accepted), with chorus and orchestra, Friday, April 28, and Saturday, April 29, at 8 p.m. The program includes Paul Leavitt’s Cantata Emmanuel and Poulenc Gloria.
This is at Church of the Reformation, 212 East Capital Street, NE, Washington, DC (just behind the Supreme Court, convenient to Metro).
NOVA chorus members may recall singing another work by Leavitt, his Requiem, a couple of years ago, as well as the Poulenc work last winter.
Flyer attached (.pdf).
Twelfth Rehearsal Preview
April 11th, 2017
From Dr. Whitmire:
Welcome to our 12th rehearsal of 2017.
“Transcending All” I am still holding on to the wonderful, sublime musical experience that you created on Sunday at the Masonic Memorial singing These things shall be. I can’t remember being more moved by any music we have sung together.
Hard Bargain Farm on Saturday was a great event. Thanks to all who were able to participate. I particularly loved having so many children with us. They will make a difference long into the uture.
Please get any remaining ticket money to section leaders tonight.
Please see the Roster for our May 5 Concert. If you haven’t done so, check the box that corresponds to the number of years you have been in the chorus.
After tonight we have only 2 rehearsals before we sing Copland on May 5. Please don’t be absent. We want to go out with a bang! Go here for the notes: http://parischoralsociety.free.fr/spring12.html
The Chorale of the Friday Morning Music Club (Paul Leavitt, Director) is taking an October trip to Germany and Lithuania where they will be sing Paul Leavitt’s Requiem, which we performed two seasons back. If this trip is of interest, let me know and I’ll send you details
Don’t dare miss our May 12 Celebration!
Yours-DrW
Press: 29th Annual Potomac River Watershed Cleanup and World Water Day Concert
April 8th, 2017
World Water Day Concert
On Tuesday, March 21, the NOVA Community Chorus (Dr. Mark Whitmire, Director) presented A World Water Day Concert in Schlesinger Concert Hall. The event was co-sponsored by The Federal Water Quality Association, Water For People, and The Alice Ferguson Foundation, a local non-profit organization that focuses on cleaning up the Potomac River. In attendance were Dr. Scott Ralls (NVCC President), Mr. Rob Johnson (NVCC Director of Sustainability), and Michael Deane, former Associate Assistant Administrator for Water in the Environmental Protection Agency. The event featured water-themed music by NOVA Community Chorus, music students Margaret Bisulca and Riley Baisch, and music faculty member Christine Hagan. There was also a dance performance by the Metropolitan Youth Tap Ensemble. Original poems on the theme of water were read by poetry contest winners Martha Evans, Bernie Cohen, Conrado Muluc and Shannon Nelson. Winners were selected by a faculty panel from among more than thirty submissions by NVCC students
29th Annual Potomac River Watershed Cleanup
On Saturday, April 8th, thirty members of the chorus, friends and family and other NOVA students participated in the 29th Annual Potomac River Watershed Cleanup. They gathered to pick up trash and marine debris along the shoreline of the Potomac River at Hard Bargain Farm, located on the Maryland side of the Potomac, across from Mt. Vernon. Last year the Alice Ferguson Foundation, organizer of the cleanup, picked up over 950,000 pounds of trash from the river. These NVCC students picked up approximately 20 thirty-gallon bags of trash.
Click image for PDF