Thursday, April 2, 2009

Hickory Tree Chorus Awarded Medal in Regional Competition


HICKORY TREE CHORUS AWARDED 25TH REGIONAL MEDAL
The Hickory Tree Chorus chapter of Sweet Adelines International (SAI) was awarded the bronze medal in SAI’s Greater New York Regional contest March 28, 2009 in Philadelphia, PA. It is the 25th Regional medal awarded the New Providence-based chorus of 54 women singers.

Under the guidance of Master Director Carolyn Schmidt of Gillette, the Hickory Tree Chorus achieved its highest-ever score, performing the ballad “If You Love Me” and the up-tune “Lulu’s Back In Town,” sung in four-part, a cappella harmony in the barbershop style, with choreography.

The chorus performs often in the area, including in its annual show, at community events and at private functions. Interested women singers are invited to attend a Wednesday evening rehearsal at 570 Central Avenue in New Providence. In February, the chorus welcomed five new members who were able to participate in the competition with the educational support of the chorus, which provided coaching to all members by an international champion SAI director.

Hickory Tree Chorus supports vocal music education in the community in many ways, including the offering of its annual $1,000 scholarship to a talented high school senior girl continuing her vocal music education. This year’s scholarship deadline is April 24.

Schmidt and Assistant Director Patricia Danner are also involved with the upcoming Festival of Harmony, a full-day a cappella workshop for young men and women held April 18 in Rahway (festivalofharmony.org).

Sweet Adelines International is a worldwide organization of women singers committed to advancing the musical art form of barbershop harmony through education and performance. For Hickory Tree Chorus membership, scholarship, and other information visit hickorytreechorus.org or e-mail info@hickorytreechorus.org

PHOTO BY: Jon B. Petersen