Arthur Murray came to Norman Thomas last night in the form of lovely (and glowing) Christine Oberc. Okay, so it wasn't dancing, but then there are those who say that today's dancing isn't dancing, either.
Following a really good warm-up by the ever-flexible Steve Davis and Maestro Ron, the BAC proceeded to turn Love Me Tender from words & notes into the beginnings of artistry. Joe had requested we be off the paper, and, with rare exceptions, we were, which made it possible to begin exploring the depths of this great ballad. Clearly there is much more to be had, and, as Joe pointed out, this will become a signature piece for the BAC.
Christine then took over and for the rest of the evening she took us through the choreo plan for the Elvis medley. The fact that she could take us all the way through in one evening and the response from the BAC in picking up and executing is a testament to her design. We worked right through the break, further proof of her teaching as well as the BAC's dedication to the process.
All in all, a great night. But then, it's the BAC, so of course it was great. As has been said, hard work is fun when progress is evident.
The evening ended on a bittersweet note when we said au revoir to Kevin Kehres, who's headed south. Yes Indeed gave us a fine rendition of their signature bathtub medley as a parting gesture. We'll miss Kevin in many ways, but we wish him well in this next chapter of his life.
BACmen, please make it a point to wear your name badge at each rehearsal. There are many of us who are not yet as well acquainted with each other as we might like, and those badges do serve a useful purpose. And if, perchance you should suffer temporary amnesia from the effect of all that harmony while traveling home, some kind soul might see your badge and take pity on you - you just never know!
Our risers are wonderful but they're beginning to show some age, and are in need of a 5,000-hr tune-up. A team of 4-6 guys in maybe two sessions of a half hour each is needed to check the condition of the fastenings and joints, tighten what's loose and maybe replace a nut or washer here and there. E-mail me privately jayers1@optonline.net if you can help out in this once-in-a while endeavor and we'll work out a plan.
This Wednesday, the BAC will meet in the cafeteria at Norman Thomas; the auditorium has been previously booked by another organization.
We don't call extra rehearsals often, and when we do, it's for a good reason. As we polish our music in anticipation of providing the highest quality entertainment in town, we need to spend one last night getting everything in synch. From here on out, it's show time. I dare say there's not a one of us, other than our section leaders (pillars of vocal knowledge and patience) who won't benefit, so please make every effort to be there.
Remember, the man who makes the chorus better is ME.
Jon