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.

Comments   

#9 Julie 2011-07-21 07:18
Wow, Ricky! So glad you got to be a part of this event. It is so true that there are teachers who leave such an impression on us. It sounds like Mr. Cowan was a true inspiration to so many. And, I've got to tell you, you just do soooo many cool things!
#8 Connie Ryle Neumann 2011-07-14 21:10
What a privilege to have met you this past year in the Donald B. Cowan Legacy Choir reunion project. Your 'St. Francis' piece is still the daily background music in my head as I wake and work throughout the day. Thank you for sharing your time and gifts with us, your fellow ACappers, who love and admire Mr. Cowan. Thank you for creating a piece of music that honors him and the Lord so beautifully. Now I will sing AND sew thinking of you!
#7 Marcie Lusareta 2011-07-14 08:31
Ricky,
I know I've told you this a lot, but I loved singing St. Francis! It moved my soul and focus to God more than any piece we sang. I so enjoyed being a part of Legacy with you. Thank you.
#6 Kay Senn 2011-07-12 18:39
Ricky, Thank you for all you did to help make these concerts happen. They were awesome and we love your song. My daughter, Colleen, has had a life changing experience by being a part of the choir. God Bless you
#5 Eileen Onder 2011-07-12 18:39
Wow Ricky, Awsome!! Wish I could have been in the audience.
#4 Karen Garth 2011-07-12 15:24
I wish I could have been there, but I am looking forward to the CD as the next best thing!
#3 Leigha 2011-07-12 12:23
I was a member of this choir [censored]-Cowa n ('95 and '96), but I had the opportunity to be taught by him as a freshman, and was in the last Girls' Choir he chose before he left. How I wish that I could have been apart of something so grand!

I'm also an avid knitter and quilter, so finding an alum that is a designer and quilter is amazing. Excellent work!
#2 jojo 2011-07-11 21:16
Ricky, is there a way to pre-order the new music video so it will just automatically be mailed when it is available?
#1 Debbie Denton 2011-07-11 10:01
Ricky, Coby, Faye, and I were moved beyond belief. It truly was a "God Thing". Words can't describe the experience, you had to be there. I loved St Francis but knew it would be great. I will never hear Little Drummer Boy and be as moved as I was Sat night. Shalom

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