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Newspaper Review
Originally published in The Falmouth Enterprise on June 18, 2010.
Greater Falmouth Mostly All-Male Men's Chorus
By Marilyn J. Rowland
The Greater Falmouth Mostly All-Male Men's Chorus, directed by Brittany Haskell and accompanied by Olivann Hobbie, were in fine form for their two concerts last Saturday evening and Sunday afternoon, at St. Patrick's Church in Falmouth. The chorus was a delight from start to finish, offering a rich, warm, and deep interpretation of traditional songs, giving them a whole new character. Strong vocal harmonies and excellent use of dynamics added to the appeal.
The simply stated program, "Songs of America," offered a nicely chosen array of traditional standards ("The Star-Spangled Banner," "America," and "Yankee Doodle,") balanced by some less frequently heard treasures, such as "Tenting Tonight" and "I've Been Everywhere."
The concert started off strong with a spirited and harmonious rendition of the national anthem. Ms. Haskell introduced each song, providing a bit of information about each. Male voices were particularly evident in Irving Berlin's "Give Me Your Tired, Your Poor," evoking the welcoming spirit of the Statue of Liberty.
"Tenting Tonight," a Civil War song written by Walter Kittridge in 1863, a plaintive call for peace, was one of my favorites. Gently and wistfully sung, with a narrow dynamic range that was beautifully controlled and restrained, this soft statement of the sorrows of war was exceptionally compelling, and many in the audience seemed very moved by it.
A small group of singers (Marcy Lerner, Kate McHugh, Taryn Peterson, Charles Clarkin, Arden Edwards, Joyce Hosford, Henry Leeds, Dick Mongeau, Ed Finn, and Chris Polloni) came forth to sing "America," offering a different, lighter sound.
"The Battle Hymn of the Republic" provided some nice rhythmic effects from the supportive voices and a rousing ending.
A series of cowboy songs and lullabies, featuring Tonya Bishop, Arden Edwards, Henry Leeds, and Joe Ferreira on "Cowboy Lullaby," ended with a bright and cheery "Rise an' Shine," a vibrant African-American spiritual that the chorus sang with gusto.
The second half of the program began with an upbeat and cheerful medley of American folk songs: "Cindy," "Simple Gifts," and "Pick a Bale of Cotton." Next was a slow and heartfelt "Down in the Valley," with nicely separated, then blended, male and female voices.
The whole audience joined in for the sing-alongs "Oh Susannah," "Home on the Range," and a lively "Yankee Doodle."
"My Old Kentucky Home," arranged by John Yankee of the Falmouth Chorale, began with lovely solos by Tonya Bishop and Ann Devenish, as the chorus provided a humming background before joining in on the tune.
"Give My Regards to Broadway" was done by a small group, Ann Devenish, Marcy Lerner, Pamela Taft, Arden Edwards, John McEvoy, Carla Zavorskas, Henry Leeds, Dick Mongeau, Ed Finn, and Chris Polloni.
"I've Been Everywhere," with strong solos by James Crockett and Joe Ferreira, was lively and energetic, witty and entertaining, another strong favorite. The chorus did a great job with the tongue-twister lyrics detailing all the places visited. The audience responded with an enthusiastic standing ovation, and the chorus responded with an encore performance of "America the Beautiful," a wonderful arrangement for this chorus, which sets down a strong foundation by the basses and baritones, while the tenors soar above.
The GFMAMMC resumes rehearsals in September. New members are welcome, and those wishing to sing may find information at www.falmouthmenschorus.org.