Archive for the ‘Fall 2012’ Category

2013 Spring Semester

Saturday, December 22nd, 2012

Regular NOVAConnect registration for all 2013 Spring semester sessions is under way. Classes begin on Monday, January 14. The first chorus rehearsal is on Tuesday, January 15.

Chorus is MUS 137 001A (subject MUS, catalog number 137, section 001A).

For previous postings regarding Spring 2013, under Archives on the right-hand side of the page, click on “Spring 2013”

For archived Summer or Fall 2012 information, please see to the right-hand side of the page, also under Archives.

Reminder: Frequently Used Documents are always linked on the right side of the page:
Info for New Members (Great refresher for current members, too)
Dr. W’s Choral Singing Tips
Performance Guidance (includes concert dress guidelines)
Join the Chorus


Spring Music

Monday, December 17th, 2012

From Dr. Whitmire: Dear Singers- I hope this message finds you enjoying a wonderful holiday. Let’s all try to sustain the wonderful, transcendent sense of peace and joy that you created when we sang Sicut cervus on November 6.

Music for Spring Semester
-music for our 2/27 concert is in the campus bookstore.

-music for our 3/17-3/24 concert, Cantata Academica (B. Britten), is available at sheetmusicplus.com
I recommend this complete score, but since it is expensive ($44.00), I will make a choral part for those who cannot afford it.

-music for our 5/2-5/3 concerts will be selected from Opera Choruses, edited by John Rutter. It is available at sheetmusicplus.com. (Many of you already own this collection).

We will work on all this music for the beginning of the semester on January 15,  so be sure to have all your music by the first rehearsal on January 15.
Until then, I wish you
Peace-DrW


Performance Photos

Thursday, December 13th, 2012

Photos of the December 6 Winter Concert performance have been posted on Flickr:

http://flic.kr/s/aHsjDb8hLp


Performance Video

Monday, December 10th, 2012

A video of the Winter Concert performance has been posted to YouTube: http://youtu.be/r7BfOxOArxc


Rehearsal and Performance

Saturday, December 8th, 2012

From Dr. Whitmire: Dear Singers-
I look forward to seeing everyone today at 12:30 pm.
I need some able-bodied folks to to come at 12:10 to help me move the digital pianos back from Schlesinger. Let me know if you can help.
Please turn in you ticket money today. If you haven’t sold you tickets, there is still time-make some calls. Your friends and family don’t want to miss the Magnificat.
The call tomorrow is 2:00 pm at Bishop Ireton HS. Please be on time. On Thursday we had too many late arrivals.
There is no rehearsal on Tuesday, December 11.
This has been a wonderful semester. Next semester will be equally exciting and challenging, as you will see below (.pdf). We will celebrate Black History Month, the 100th Birthday of Benjamin Britten, and the 200th Birthdays of Giuseppe Verdi and Richard Wagner.


Performances

Friday, December 7th, 2012

From Dr. Whitmire: Dear Singers-
Last night was a highlight in all my years of directing the NOVA Community Chorus. Your commitment to the chorus and to that beautiful music were a wonderful gift to our audience and to me. Thank you.

One of our members, Jessi Calzado-Esponda, learned last night just before our concert that her mother, who is in the final days of her battle with cancer, has slipped into a coma. Jessi wants to go home to Cuba to be with her and a fund has been set up to help. Here is the link.

http://fundly.com/please-help-me-go-home

Now, back to Bach. I am so happy that we have two more opportunities to make music together in 2013. See you on

Saturday at 12:30 pm and Sunday at 2:00 pm.

Yours-DrW


Course Evaluations

Thursday, December 6th, 2012

From Dr. Whitmire: Dear Singers,
This semester I would like you to complete online evaluations in addition to written course evaluations that you will do tonight. Please participate. Send me a message when you have completed the online evaluation—put “evaluation competed ” in the subject line.

Go to  http://nveval.com

Instructions on the website will prompt you to log-in with your NOVA Student ID and then select your name from a randomized list to verify their identity. This verification is to ensure the integrity of the evaluation system, while assuring students that their name and ID number are not saved and their responses are anonymous.

If you have any trouble, contact Patti Thompson at pthompson@iotasolutions.com

Yours-DrW


Thursday Performance

Thursday, December 6th, 2012

From Dr. Whitmire: Dear Singers- I look forward to seeing you tonight at 6:30 pm in Schlesinger. Be sure to bring your music, including Hallelujah Chorus. You may not share music.
I had a couple who volunteered to help as ushers that had to bow out. If you have a friend or spouse who might help, let me know.
Please pick up a Course Evaluation Form as you enter. Fill it out at some time during the course of the evening and return it to your Section Leader.
Yours-DrW


Rehearsal

Tuesday, December 4th, 2012

Dear Singers-
I am listening to Magnificat right now. Your singing was awesome. The first movement is simply wonderful.
If you missed Sunday’s Concert for any reason, please contact me immediately.
Tonight we rehearse in Schlesinger at 7:30 pm. Please arrive by 7:20 pm so we can get started on time.
Yours-DrW


Performance Attire

Saturday, December 1st, 2012

[Reposting] Please review the concert performance attire guidelines as listed in the Performance Guidance (.pdf) document, always posted to the right.

Men’s Concert Dress
A tuxedo, white dress shirt or formal shirt with black bow tie, black shoes and socks. If you don’t own a tux and don’t wish to rent one, a black or dark blue suit is permitted in this chorus. You can often pick up used tuxedos at rental stores or secondhand locations.

Women’s Concert Dress
Dress Options
Floor length dresses or separates (top with floor length skirt or formal dress slacks)
Floor length means to the ankle/top of the shoe.

Color
Black matte finish

Neckline
Modest, unadorned “V” neckline. No ruffles, no flounces, no collar, no cleavage

Sleeves
Long sleeves or 3/4 sleeves

Footwear
Black shoes with black hosiery

Accessories
Jewelry should be unobtrusive–modest, not flashy.
[Purses should not be brought on stage. Options are to lock it in your car or in a room identified for such use at the performance venue. If you choose a skirt or slacks with pockets, you may be able to carry all you need there. If you are using a ring binder for your music, a pencil case clamped in with your music can hold keys, a comb and lipstick.]

The following are NOT be acceptable:
Slacks: Leggings, chinos, denim jeans, khaki-style, any pant that would expose the midriff
Fabrics: Velvet, satin/shiny fabrics, sheer/see-through fabrics like chiffon or lace, sequined fabrics, heavily patterned fabrics

Chorus members are encouraged to look at websites of vendors specializing in outfitting ensembles to get an idea of the overall look of formality we are trying to achieve. If you need to purchase garments to fit the profile, the following websites are just a few we looked at that have appropriate clothing choices. The profile is basic enough that you may be able to find “the right stuff” at a local department store. You may already own an outfit that fits the profile, or you may be able to borrow one from a friend or family member.
http://www.formalfashionsinc.com/
http://www.formalwear-outlet.com/


Eleventh Rehearsal Preview

Tuesday, November 27th, 2012

From Dr. Whitmire: Welcome to our 11th rehearsal of Fall 2012! Please sign in.

Tickets – I hope that each singer will sell five tickets at $10 each (Half price). Cash or checks to WMPA.

Flyers– Post them everywhere. Send them electronically to everyone you know.

Tonight is Music Majors Final Exam

Schedule
-Tues. 11/27 Music Majors Final Exam
-Sat. 12/1 Full Rehearsal            Please do not miss this rehearsal
-Sun. 12/2, 3:00 pm Concert, 2:00 pm Call, Epiphany     Note new call time
-Tues. 12/04, 7:30pm, Dress Rehearsal for 12/06 Concert, Schlesinger
-Thurs. 12/06, 7:30 pm Concert, 6:30 pm Call, Band/Chorus Concert, Schlesinger
-Sat. 12/8 Full Rehearsal
-Sunday 12/9, 3:00 pm Concert, 2:00 pm Call, with the WMPO, Bishop Ireton HS

Hallelujah Chorus
We will rehearse the Hallelujah Chorus tonight. If you do not own a Messiah score, please print the pdf I sent last week and bring to rehearsal. Here is a link to learning tracks: http://www.anselm.edu/abbey/choir/hallelujah.htm


Thanksgiving

Wednesday, November 21st, 2012

From Dr. Whitmire: Dear Singers-
-Thanks for a great rehearsal last night. We are on track for three great concerts!
-Please find time in the midst of the weekend festivities to work on your music. We are too close to lay off now.
-Be sure to invite your friends to our concerts. Our audience will be made of  people we bring.
Happy Thanksgiving!


Winter Concert Flyer

Tuesday, November 20th, 2012

From Dr. Whitmire: Here is a flyer for our December 6 Concert.

Click image for PDF


Tenth Rehearsal Preview

Tuesday, November 20th, 2012

From Dr. Whitmire: Welcome to our 10th rehearsal of Fall 2012! Please sign in.

Tickets – See your Section Leader. I hope that each singer will sell five tickets at $10 each (Half price). Cash or checks to WMPA.

Flyers
– Post them everywhere. Send them electronically to everyone you know.

Thanks to all who attended rehearsal with the orchestra on Sunday. The tempos that I took are the same as on the recording I gave you. Work with your recording.

Schedule
-Sat. 11/24 No Rehearsal
-Tues. 11/27 Music Majors Final Exam
-Sat. 12/1 Full Rehearsal             Please do not miss this rehearsal
-Sun. 12/2, 3:00 pm Concert, 1:30 pm Call, Epiphany
-Tues. 12/04, 7:30pm, Dress Rehearsal for 12/06 Concert, Schlesinger
-Thurs. 12/06, 7:30 pm Concert, 6:30 pm Call, Band/Chorus Concert, Schlesinger
-Sat. 12/8 Full Rehearsal
-Sunday 12/9, 3:00 pm Concert, 2:00 pm Call, with the WMPO, Bishop Ireton HS

Hallelujah Chorus
We will sing the Hallelujah  Chorus with the band at our 12/06 concert. A PDF is attached. If you do not own a Messiah score, please print it and bring to rehearsal. Here is a link to learning tracks: http://www.anselm.edu/abbey/choir/hallelujah.htm


Sunday Rehearsal

Friday, November 16th, 2012

Update: Woops! I look forward to seeing all of the women tomorrow at 12:30 pm.

From Dr. Whitmire: Dear Singers-

I have just learned that Sunday’s rehearsal with the orchestra has been moved to 6:00 pm due to activities at the school. I hope that you can attend.

I look forward to seeing all of the men tomorrow at 12:30 pm.

Yours-DrW


Ninth Rehearsal Preview

Tuesday, November 13th, 2012

From Dr. Whitmire: Welcome to our 9th rehearsal of Fall 2012! Please sign in.
Tickets – See your Section Leader. I hope that each singer will sell five tickets at $10 each (Half price). Cash or checks to WMPA.

Flyers– Post them everywhere. Send them electronically to everyone you know.

Magnificat flyer

Click image for .pdf

Rehearsal this Sunday
I will be rehearsing the Bach Magnificat with the orchestra this Sunday, November 18, at 5:00 pm, at Bishop Ireton High School. I would like it if as many singers as possible to attend. I would especially like my Music Majors to be present for this educational opportunity.

Schedule
-Sat. 11/17 Women
-Sun. 11/18 5:00 pm rehearsal with orchestra at Bishop Ireton HS ⏎ new entry
-Sat. 11/24 No Rehearsal
-Tues. 11/27 Music Majors Final Exam
-Sat. 12/1 Full Rehearsal
-Sun. 12/2, 3:00 pm Concert, 1:30 pm Call, Epiphany ⏎ note time change
-Tues. 12/04, 7:30pm, Dress Rehearsal for 12/06 Concert, Schlesinger
-Thurs. 12/06, 7:30 pm Concert, 6:30 pm Call, Band/Chorus Concert, Schlesinger
-Sat. 12/8 Full Rehearsal
-Sunday 12/9, 3:00 pm Concert, 2:00 pm Call, with the WMPO Bishop Ireton HS


Master Class

Tuesday, November 13th, 2012

From Dr. Whitmire: Dear Singers- There will be master class (.pdf) with Kim Allen Kluge and Claudia Chudacoff (conductor and concertmaster of the ASO) today, 2-4pm in 130.


Eighth Rehearsal Preview

Tuesday, November 6th, 2012

From Dr. Whitmire: Welcome to our 8th rehearsal of Fall 2012! Please sign in.
Thanks to all who attended our make-up rehearsal on Saturday.

Women’s Auditions for Suscepit Israel are tonight. I would especially like my Music Majors to audition.

Schedule Notes
I will be rehearsing the Bach Magnificat with the orchestra on Sunday, November 18, at 5:00 pm, at Bishop Ireton High School. I would like it if as many singers as possible to attend. I would especially like my Music Majors to be present for this educational opportunity.

Please Note: The call on December 2 at Epiphany is 1:30 pm. The concert (now billed as an informal concert – with tickets) is at 3:00 pm.

Schedule
-Sat. 11/10 Men
-Sat. 11/17 Women
-Sun. 11/18 5:00 pm rehearsal with orchestra at Bishop Ireton HS ⏎ new entry
-Sat. 11/24 No Rehearsal
-Tues. 11/27 Music Majors Final Exam
-Sat. 12/1 Full Rehearsal
-Sun. 12/2, 3:00 pm Concert, 1:30 pm Call, Epiphany ⏎ note time change
-Tues. 12/04, 7:30pm, Dress Rehearsal for 12/06 Concert, Schlesinger
-Thurs. 12/06, 7:30 pm Concert, 6:30 pm Call, Band/Chorus Concert, Schlesinger
-Sat. 12/8 Full Rehearsal
-Sunday 12/9, 3:00 pm Concert, 2:00 pm Call, with the WMPO Bishop Ireton HS


Friday

Thursday, November 1st, 2012

From Chorister Cindy:
I am not sure how to send an email out to the entire chorus, but I would like to propose a small group rehearsal this Friday from 2:30 to 3:30 in the Tyler building.  Can you please pass this message on for me?


Closed

Tuesday, October 30th, 2012

From Dr. Whitmire: Dear Singers-

As you may know, the college is closed, so we will not have rehearsal tonight.

I hope that many of you will get together in sections and small groups to work. I hope that all of you will spend at least two hours working on your music individually.

We will have a Full Rehearsal this Saturday, 12:30-1:45 pm. Please plan to attend. There is much to do


ALERT

Monday, October 29th, 2012

ALERT — Tues., Oct. 30, 2012 — NOVA Closed
All campuses and administrative offices are closed due to the weather Tues., Oct. 30. All day and evening classes & activities are cancelled.


Suscepit Israel

Monday, October 29th, 2012

From Dr. Whitmire: Dear Singers- I trust that this message finds all of you snuggled up to the fireplace with your headphones on and rehearsal CD playing. For women who intend to audition for Suscepit Israel, here is a recording (.mp3) to give you an idea of the sound I am looking for. Enjoy1
Sheet music (.pdf previously posted)


Update

Saturday, October 27th, 2012

From Dr. Whitmire: Dear Singers-

I will be rehearsing the Bach Magnificat with the orchestra on Sunday, November 18, at 5:00 pm, at Bishop Ireton High School. I would like it if as many singers as possible to attend. I would especially like my Music Majors to be present for this educational opportunity.

Men- We have rehearsal today at 12:30 pm.

Women- Auditions for Suscepit Israel will be this Tuesday after rehearsal.  I encourage my Music Majors to prepare and gain this audition experience. Your notes can be found at
http://www.cyberbass.com/Major_Works/Bach_J_S/bach_js_magnigficat.htm

Please note this time change:
The call on December 2 at Epiphany is 1:30 pm. The concert (now billed as an informal concert – with tickets) is at 3:00 pm.


Worksheets

Thursday, October 25th, 2012

The first worksheets for this semester were posted on August 26, 2012. Previous posts can always be located by scrolling in reverse chronological order, or by utilizing the search box to the right of the page.


Seventh Rehearsal Preview

Tuesday, October 23rd, 2012

From Dr. Whitmire: Welcome to our 7th rehearsal of Fall 2012! Please sign in.
Be sure to check out http://www.facebook.com/Music.At.NOVA

Women’s Auditions for Suscepit Israel will be next Tuesday. The music is attached. Kate will post it (.pdf) at www.novachorus.org. I will have a few copies for those who can’t print.

What a great Chorus! How can we reach our potential?
(1) Every member take personal responsibility for knowing your parts. Use your CD.
(2) Come to Saturday sections as often as you can
(3) Get together in small groups and practice
(4) Make every possible effort not to miss Tuesday rehearsals

Schedule

-Sat. 10/27 Men
-Sat. 11/3 No Rehearsal
-Sat. 11/10 Men
-Sat. 11/17 Women
-Sat. 11/24 No Rehearsal
-Sat. 12/1 Full Rehearsal
-Sun. 12/2, 2:00 pm, Dress Rehearsal for 12/9 concert, Church of the Epiphany
-Tues. 12/04, 7:30pm, Dress Rehearsal for 12/06 Concert, Schlesinger
-Thurs. 12/06, 7:30 pm concert, 6:30 pm call, Band/Chorus Concert, Schlesinger
-Sat. 12/8 Full Rehearsal
-Sunday 12/9, 3:00 pm concert, 2:00 pm call, with the WMPO Bishop Ireton HS