I write the words to share what my eyes see and my heart feels
Pictured here are members of the Genesee Valley Chorus all spruced up and tuned up prior to their 40th Anniversary Concert in 2016.
Many of the members shown here were Charter Members from the 1976 Chorus start-up directed by John Molinari. The chorus has met and performed every year since, even including some delays and the inconvenience of the 2022 Covid virus pandemic.
This year’s Chorus, initially under the direction of Andrea Harris, will meet each Tuesday from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at the Grace United Church on North Main Street in Wellsville, NY.
President Alison Dickinson discussed the upcoming semester at a brief meeting during the August 5th Picnic. She stated that “Andrea Harris will be our director. Rehearsals will start September 12 and the time will be from 6-8.” When asked to address the group at the picnic, Andrea informed the members that she was thrilled to start working with the chorus and was looking at new pieces of music to include with ones in our library. Norene Ferris will also be involved with the chorus, most notably as a director, but also working with Andrea and Dave Toot during the 2nd semester. Norene stated that she would like the chorus to perform at the Pioneer Days in Bolivar next June.
In years past the chorus has seen a progression of directors starting with former Wellsville Central School band and choral director John Molinari, followed by Jack Darr and David Dunbar.
More recently, including a whole host of directors during last season’s Covid challenged schedule, the directorship was shared by many including Carole Aldrich, normally the chorus accompanist but who also doubles as the director when needed, and who stepped in following the sad, and unexpected Christmas Eve passing of long-time director Norma Bartlett. Also serving stints as directors in 2022, and I apologize right now for any that my aging memory may overlook, were Joann Brown, Norene Ferris, Amanda Robbins, and Dave Toot.
The Chorus is open and welcoming to all and the only requirement is that you love music, and love to sing. Being a music professional is not a requirement for your being a part of this amazing group. The second half of the season will include the directorship, along with Andrea, of Norene Ferris and Dave Toot. Anyone interested is invited to join the group for an enjoyable evening of re-acquainting and singing at 6 PM tonight at the Grace United Church. In Wellsville.
