April 1, 2006 |
Volume 2006 Issue # 10A |
"The time has come," the Walrus said
Rob Mance accepted by Ryder University, Princeton, NJ.
Westminster Choir College claims him!
It was a message that came like a bolt out of the blue. We knew that it was coming someday, but we didn’t think that it would be today.
This announcement is received with truly mixed emotion. We are losing a great director, but he is embarking on a great adventure that will make him into an even more fantastic director.
We offer sincerest congratulations to Rob Mance, and wish him every success in his studies. We have learned a great deal from Rob, and I hope that we have been able to provide him with a laboratory to try out some ideas.
Here is the email letter he sent to the members of the Greater Montreal Chapter’s Island City Chorus and to the West Island Chorus of Sweet Adeline’s International.
Dear Friends,
As most of you are aware, I'm in the final stages of completing my B. Mus degree from McGill. This past year, I have spent a considerable amount of time applying to several different programs or positions, some in Montreal and some elsewhere.
I have just been informed that I have been accepted to the Master's Program in Choral Conducting at Westminster Choir College of Ryder University in Princeton, New Jersey, beginning fall of 2006. This has taken me completely by surprise. Westminster has one of the best programs and best faculties in the continent. They receive many, many applications to their program. Few are invited for auditions and normally only about 4-8 are accepted on any given year. As such, I am very excited by this news.
Unfortunately, the commute from New Jersey to Monday and Wednesday night rehearsals is going to be a problem! Therefore, I am providing notice that I will be retiring from both choruses effective August 20, 2006.
Leaving will not be easy for me. I have lived my entire life in Montreal. I am also a great fan of both choruses. I feel as if both choruses are currently doing better than we have ever done before. I truly wish I could continue with both groups forever. However, the reality of the situation is that two barbershop chorus jobs will never buy a house and a car.
I truly want to see both choruses continue with the forward momentum that we have built together. Over the coming months, I will assist in any way possible to ensure that the growth we have started continues to bloom.
Thank you so much for awarding me the opportunity to work with some of the best people I have ever met. I also thank you for giving me some of the most wonderful moments of my life. Lastly, I thank you for your support over the years. I would not have been able to apply to a place like Westminster without all that you have taught me. I look forward to hearing about your many future successes. I also look forward to our up-coming shows and competitions.
Thanks again for the opportunity.
Cheers,
Practice is something we do at home, every day, between rehearsals!
Rehearsal is where we reinforce what we have been practising every day!
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Hubert Brossoit, President |
Murray Phillips, Editor (514) 626-1781 |
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