2007 AIC Show Best Ever

By Jay Giallombardo – Director of Music – AIC Chorus – Denver 2007 jgiallombardo@ccc.edu

Congratulations on one of the finest AIC shows ever. We all heard nothing but glowing comments on the fun, entertainment, and great singing of the AIC chorus of the show.

Music Man Medley was a hit. Kudos to a great effort by the chorus and “special” performers, quartets and soloists that did an outstanding job, particularly Jim Henry, in his role as Harold Hill, and for his coaching of the Rock Island performers and acting as advisor to me.

Thanks to Tim Waurick for the outstanding learning tools which were certainly a motivation to get these pieces “under our belts”. Thanks to the administration, Harlan Wilson and President Don Bagley, for their unwavering support in facilitating the AIC show effort. Thanks to the special Dave Kindinger – AIC events guy as well

 

The AIC quartets, once again, were the real heroes with outstanding performances from every quartet. Our goal was to increase the entertainment value of the show. And, we did just that. It was joy to watch each quartet performance as they knocked the audience out with great singing and superb entertainment. Kudos all around.

Classic Collection, in their 25th anniversary year, was outstanding. Their return was marked with nostalgia and warm feelings for a great champ that had a long and memorable history. It was wonderful to see them back together for this special occasion.

“That’s What Dreams Are For” was sung with particular quality and emotion as we welcomed the youthful, Vocal Spectrum into our midst. Although we have done this piece many times before, the AIC chorus brought a special freshness and understanding of the power of this piece in its long-standing tradition and ability to move, not only the audience, but us!

Finally, “All Nations Rise” was well-received, (some say a “triumph”), and a joy for me, personally, to have the chorus perform this new work. I wish to thank each of you for your kind words of praise and your efforts to learn the piece. The audience rewarded our debut performance and the entire show with an instant standing ovation. It was truly a cathartic moment as the curtain came down. Back stage I enjoyed the warm embrace of your heartfelt words, hugs and handshakes; I saw many with tears in their eyes, moved by the total experience. What a great organization and “brotherhood” we have and can enjoy in our lives.

There’s Always a Band, Kid

by Grady Kerr

In addition to and great arrangements and the top notch singing by the chorus we must also thank new AIC sound man Kenny Piercy who worked thru some rather challenging demands. The audience was able to concentrate on the performance and not be distracted by the lights or sound.  An added touch was the entertaining choreography provided by Geri Geis.  Yes, the AIC chorus actually learned moves after arriving on site and did them very well – maybe a first for the chorus?

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Report & Photos by Grady Kerr