Message to Membership – November 2, 2023

Message from the Music Director

Dear Chorale,

What an absolute JOY to return to our beloved Messiah this past Monday! I dare say that may have been the best first rehearsal on that material I have ever been part of – Bravi tutti! It will be a few weeks before we return to that, so be sure to continue to brush up on your own. The majority of your focus now needs to be on Bach Magnificat, which we will dive into next week. Much like the Handel, knowing the notes and basic rhythms is your responsibility so that in our rehearsals we can mold it and shape it. One online rehearsal aid for you to use is www.Cyberbass.org If you have not utilized this website before, they have an extensive catalogue of major works, which allow you to not only listen to your part, but at different speeds. Here is a link to the Bach Magnificat page.

https://www.cyberbass.org/Major_Works/Bach_J_S/bach_js_magnigficat.htm

Thanks in advance for your preparation!

I do want to acknowledge the amazing work (and fun!) from last weekend’s Halloween concert with the HSO and guest conductor, Wayne du Maine. Thank you for the preparation and flexibility you afforded it. It is always great to share the stage with our primary musical partner, but even more so when it is in the magnificent Mortensen Hall.

Jack

Message from the Executive Director

Dear Hartford Chorale,

I want to take a moment to say congratulations on a spectacular and spooky performance last weekend! I heard many positive comments and as an audience member, I can confirm that you all sounded lovely.

Special thanks to the Social Committee for all the hard work and wonderful spread provided at last rehearsal! And shout out to everyone who dressed in costume on Monday — everyone looked amazing!

If you have any questions about anything feel free to reach out! Otherwise, have a fantastic weekend and I will see you all on Monday!

Emily

Message from the Membership Committee

Hi Friends,

It’s so wonderful to be back together and singing.  I just wanted to let you all know that we had 16 people out for the first rehearsal of the Christmas concert, most of them due to illness.  The concert only allows for 2 absences per member, and none during production week, so I want to encourage you all to be very careful in caring for your health, and I want to encourage you to hold on to at least one of those absences in case you become unexpectedly ill between now and the concert.  I also want to remind you that if you do find yourself sick and unable to attend a rehearsal or unable to attend for any reason, please contact your Administrative Section Lead as soon as possible to let us know what’s going on.  You can find his or her email on the Contacts section of the Member website.  And, if you find yourself up against that dreaded third absence, let us know anyway so that we can discuss the situation with the Music Director.

Stay safe and healthy!

Steve Cottle

VP Membership