There are moments in life that are undeniably unique, inspirational, and memorable. Most of you are aware that I have been involved in a reunion choir comprised of students from my high school acapella choir between the years of 1961 and 1993. Those were the years (32 of them) that Donald B. Cowan directed the choral program at S. H. Rider High School in Wichita Falls, TX.
Through Facebook, a reunion began, and the seeds for singing together with our beloved director were planted. The vision became a reality. The Donald B. Cowan Legacy Choir performed in Wichita Falls, TX on June 25th and again this past Saturday evening, July 9th, at Bass Performance Hall in Ft. Worth, TX. Singers from across the country assembled once a month to rehearse and the final performance left us all exhilerated and inspired. I can only wish every person reading this has had, or will have, a red-letter day such as this in their own lives.
The commitment I made to serve Legacy Choir as president and tenor section leader has taken away from time I use for other ongoing responsibilities, but for me, this event was an opportunity to pay back a debt. I was given so much by my musical mentors during my formative years and this was my chance to show my appreciation.
I composed Prayer of St. Francis, an eight part piece that was premiered at both concerts. It was one of the greatest honors in my life to have such an amazing choir sing my composition - but even more of a blessed moment to know that those singing were my peers.
The review out today had this to say: "glorious in their delivery" - "resplendent" - "stunning" - "reverent and powerful"
Please take a moment to read the entire review in the Times Record News.
Once the CDs are available, I'll let you know. Expect Septemberish.
