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Music Committee
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Committee Purpose: |
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Chairperson: |
Cori Thurlow |
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Members: |
Bettina Turner, Anne Spraker, Joan Carroll, Anne Comeau, and Bill Heenehan |
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e-Mail Contact: |
Cori Thurlow |
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Meeting Schedule |
Monthly - dates posted three to four weeks in advance; 12:00 noon in the Lower Meetinghouse |
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Annual Reports: |
2002 - 2003 Annual Report
2001 - 2002 Annual Report 2000 - 2001 Annual Report 1999 - 2000 Annual Report 1998 - 1999 Annual Report |
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Minutes: |
MINUTES of 9/9/2007 PRESENT: Bettina Turner, Chair, Frances Burmeister, Music Director, Claudia Keyian, Youth Choirs, Joan Carroll, Betsy Hazen, Cori Thurlow, Bill Heenehan, Lark Madden, Christina Sillari, Ministerial Intern, and Anne Spraker, Secretary The meeting came to order at 12:00pm. Approving the minutes was deferred to the next meeting. Christina Sillari, the new ministerial intern, was welcomed as an ex officio member of the committee. The committee discussed how to proceed with the music program's mission objectives, and decided to hold a working session Tuesday, Sept. 18 at 7:00pm to develop priorities and goals for all of the objectives. Claudia reported that a large number of Young Church choir members moved up to the Teen Choir this year and are successfully blending in; the Young Church choir now has 12 or so members. An accompanist is still needed for these choirs, so Claudia will ask for a volunteer in an announcement at a Sunday service, and Bettina will create a flyer to distribute to young musicians at the high school who might consider community service. Frances reported that rehearsals have begun for the Bach Magnificat, scheduled for October 28, and that a replacement has been found for the soloist who had to cancel. The Messiah Sing, scheduled for November 25, will be conducted this year by Joel Cohen, who will donate his time. The placement of singers and instrumentalists for this fundraiser will be in keeping with the fire regulations. Sally Foskett has agreed to handle publicity arrangements for the Candlelight Chorale performances. The committee then discussed the Columbus Day yard sale, and voted unanimously to seek permission from the Parish Committee to hold this fundraiser again. Also, a Valentine's fundraiser featuring champagne and desserts is planned for Feb. 10 to benefit the Candlelight series. Bettina reported that the plan to move the Steinway piano into the sanctuary was approved by the Building Committee. The committee voted unanimously to resubmit to the Parish Committee the proposal to 1) alter two front pews to accommodate the Steinway presently housed in the Parish Hall, and 2) consider future fundraising for a better piano. Several requests to the Building Committee still need action; Bill will bring them to the attention of the Parish Committee. The next meeting will be held Oct. 14 at 12:00pm. The meeting adjourned at 2:10pm. Respectfully submitted, Anne Spraker, Secretary MINUTES of 8/5/2007 PRESENT: Bettina Turner, Chair, Frances Burmeister, Music Director, Joan Carroll, Betsy Hazen, Cori Thurlow. Bill Heenehan, Harold Babcock, Minister, and Anne Spraker, Secretary The meeting came to order at 4:20pm. The minutes were amended and approved. Bill presented priorities, goals, and action steps relating to one of the music program's mission objectives: Increase diversity of musical expression. The committee discussed this, made some suggestions, and approved of the process he described. Bettina will write a notice for the Steeple Weekly sharing with the congregation some of the committee's work relating to the church-wide vision and mission process. Frances distributed the projected income and expenses for the Bach Magnificat scheduled for October 28. Although not all monies needed to cover expenses are presently in hand, the gap is small and likely to be covered, so the committee voted unanimously to approve the plan. It was noted that the funds need to be in hand by the day before the concert, at which time the checks for the musicians are written. In a separate vote the committee decided that further Candlelight concerts, other than the Candlelight Service, Dec. 23, would not be scheduled until there is further progress with the music program's vision and mission process. The committee then discussed the Messiah Sing fundraiser, which has not raised much money for the Candlelight series for two years, but with reduced publicity costs this might improve. The committee voted 6 in favor, 1 opposed, to hold the Messiah Sing on Nov. 25, the Sunday after Thanksgiving. Frances announced that a choir member has volunteered to organize a Valentine's Day fundraiser to benefit the Candlelight series. Dates for the coming year's Music Committee meetings will be as follows: Sept. 9, Oct. 14, Nov. 4, Dec. 2, Jan. 6, Feb. 3, March 2, April 13, May 18, and June 8. An accompanist for the Youth choir is needed; Bettina will put a notice in the Steeple Weekly to inform the congregation of this volunteer opportunity. The next meeting will be held Sept. 9 at 12:00pm. The meeting adjourned at 7:45pm. Respectfully submitted, Anne Spraker, Secretary Meeting Minutes -- 5/20/2007 PRESENT: Bettina Turner, Chair, Frances Burmeister, Music Director, Betsy Hazen, John Mercer, Church Administrator, Bill Heenehan, Anne Spraker, and Joan Carroll The meeting began at 12:05, with a revision of the April 7 meeting's minutes, and acceptance of the April 18 minutes. The committee discussed the results of a survey that Bill Heenehan, Bettina Turner, and Frances Burmeister had constructed, and Frances and John Mercer distributed, regarding the range of compensation offered to section leaders in other churches. The survey indicated that our section leaders put in more hours and are paid less per hour than the median. Bill Heenehan moved, and Joan Carroll seconded, a motion to have the Music Committee Chair return to the Human Resources Committee to recommend that they move towards fair compensation for the section leaders by offering not just the proffered 3.3% increase, but 50% of the amount needed to bring the section leaders up to the median compensation indicated by the survey, that amount to be adjusted as the survey results are finalized. The motion passed unanimously. Frances reported that $1750 was raised during the recent Walk for Music fundraiser. Those funds may be spent on new chairs, music, or other supplies. The new plan for the placement of a piano in the front of the sanctuary was mentioned to the Building Committee; Bettina will present the plan at their next meeting. Frances presented a request for a salary review vis a vis the UUA and AGO guidelines for fair compensation, then left the meeting to allow the committee to discuss the request. After discussion, the committee voted unanimously to request the Human Resources Committee to review the salary and benefits of both the FRS music staff members relative to the AGO guidelines, with attention paid to the staff members' level of education and professional qualifications. The committee will meet next on Sunday, June 3 at 12:00pm. Respectfully submitted, Anne Spraker, Secretary Meeting Minutes -- 4/18/2007 PRESENT: Bettina Turner, Chair, Frances Burmeister, Music Director, Claudia Keyian, Director of Youth Choirs, Betsy Hazen, Harold Babcock, Minister, John Mercer, Church Administrator, Bill Heenehan, and Anne Spraker The meeting began at 6:30 p.m. in the sanctuary, so the committee could see the structural issues related to the keeping the aisles clear in future performances to comply with the fire code. Several options were proposed for keeping instrumentalists clear of the aisles. Then the committee considered how to place a small grand piano in two of the front pews for use during performances, jazz vespers, and worship services. The committee reconvened downstairs to discuss the proposals. Concern was expressed about making physical and aesthetic changes to the interior of an historic structure, so any alterations to the pews for the piano would need to be kept to a minimum and be reversible. The committee voted unanimously to take the proposal through the process of approval -- to the Building Committee, the Parish Committee, and then to the church members in a parish meeting. A cardboard template of the piano could be placed in the pews to illustrate how it would look, thus helping everyone make an informed decision. Frances presented a plan to perform the Faure Requiem on June 10; the plan included costs and participating soloists. The concert will be supported by money that is presently available in the Candlelight concert revolving account. The committee also approved a $20 singers fee for participating in the concert. Candlelight choir members will be asked to contribute to and assist with a Memorial Day yard sale, Sunday, May 27, 12:00 to 5:00, and Monday, May 28, 10:00 to 5:00, proceeds of which will go towards funding future performances. The committee will meet next on Sunday, May 20 at 12:00 p.m. The meeting adjourned at 7:30 p.m. Respectfully submitted, Anne Spraker Meeting Minutes -- April 7, 2007 Present: Frances Burmeister, Claudia Keyian, Betsy Hazen, Bettina Turner, Cori Thurlow, Joan Carroll, Bill Heenehan 1. The Music Committee welcomed Betsy Hazen as its newest member. 2. Choir room improvements: Frances, Cori and Betsy have researched prices and possibilities for five hanging fixtures for the choir room They will make the final selection to be submitted to the Building Committee. 3. The Organ Study Task Force has not met yet. Another consultants evaluation is still due. 4. The Music Committees plan to move the grand piano into the back of the sanctuary permanently will not be possible, as it calls for moving the grand piano into the center aisle to be played . The city fire inspector has visited the church and informed us that any objects that obstruct the aisles in the sanctuary put us in violation of the fire code. This calls in question not just this particular plan but also any future concerts or services that call for musicians or instruments in the aisles. The Music Committee will discuss this further at a future meeting. 5. Canvass Update: Bill H. informed us that the annual pledge drive is close to reaching its goal, but is not expected to exceed the goal. This means that extra monies for budget goals beyond the level budget will not be available. 6. Frances reviewed the most recent Candlelight concert of the Dvorak "Stabat Mater". The total cost was about $ 7,300.00. This includes an unexpected $ 591.00 in plane fare for the bass soloist who stepped in at the last minute. The bass soloist also , through Frances, requested to be paid $ 1,000.00. All soloists were paid $ 250.00, and he had originally agreed to that same fee also. The committee turned down his request. The income from the concert stands at about 2,700.00 to date, with more checks still expected to come in. 7. Frances proposed her plan for performing the Bach "Magnificat" on June 10 as part of the Candlelight Series. The concert would cost $ 5,000.00. The Candlelight revolving fund holds about $ 2,000.00 after all expenses and costs from the last concert are reconciled. She proposed to cover the cost through choristers' fees, voluntary contributions and the yard sale to be held on Memorial Day. She found a guarantor for the yard sale to guarantee up to $ 2,000.00 should the profit fall below that. The committee discussed her proposal, stating that that our goal is to build up the revolving fund and have the needed funds in hand before the start of the rehearsal cycle. So far, we have often relied on fundraising to be done during the rehearsal cycle and several of the committee members have expressed their discomfort with this system over the past year. Bill H. asked for a vote whether to go forward with the "Magnificat, and the committee members, with one abstention, voted 'no'. Frances was asked to explore an alternative plan that would only require funds that are currently available in the revolving fund. 8. Our next meeting date on May 6 conflicts with another event that staff has to attend. Rescheduling will be done by e-mail. Respectfully submitted, Bettina Turner (substituting for Anne Spraker) MUSIC COMMITTEE MINUTES - 2/4/2007 PRESENT: Bettina Turner, Chair, Frances Burmeister, Music Director, Claudia Keyian, Director of Youth Choirs, Cori Thurlow, Joan Carroll, John Mercer, Church Administrator, Bill Heenehan, and Anne Spraker The meeting was brought to order at 12:10. Amendments were offered to the minutes. New Business: The Human Resources Committee has suggested that the pay raise for the tenor and bass section leaders should be no higher than the percentage given to other staff members. The Music Committee had voted at the last meeting to approve an increase in pay for current section leaders, from $300 to $400 per month, shifting funds from the Candlelight and supply line items to cover the cost. The Committee concluded that Bettina and Frances should survey comparable UU and other churches to determine the current range of compensation, substitution policies, and contracts used for the section leaders of other churches. This information will then be shared with the Human Resources Committee. The Committee reviewed the success of the Christmas Candlelight concert, noting that many people expressed satisfaction with the pacing, selections, and length of the program. Next year Claudia would like a carol sung between the youth choir and teen choir presentations to allow more time to move the choirs into place. Frances suggested having the ushers make any announcements before the music and service begins. Details of the plans to store the Steinway in back of the sanctuary were discussed by Bettina, Frances and Jon Steeves, chair of the Building Committee recently. Negotiations continue. The Parish Committee has formed an ad hoc Organ Task Force, including Frances and Bill as representatives from the Music Committee. The Task Force will determine maintenance or rebuilding needs for the organ with the help of outside consultants and will submit possible plans to meet them. The goal is to accomplish this by the end of the current church year. Claudia has invited youth choir parents to a colloquium on Sunday, March 11. Bill noted that the next phase of the vision and mission process is a Saturday morning workshop, 8:30 am to 12:00 pm, for each committee. The Music Committee chose Feb. 17 and March 17 from the available dates for participating in this workshop. Frances reported that the fund for the April 1 Dvorak concert approaches $2,500 between the sign-up fee for the singers and other contributions, making it possible to hire extra players for accompaniment. The Committee discussed the future of the Candlelight concert series. Frances stated that the concerts succeed in introducing new people to the church and choir; they have served to recruit new choir members and give the church visibility within the community. Continuing to schedule concerts regularly maintains interest and participation for both the choir and the audience. Concert dates and fundraising events are settling into a predictable calendar. The committee will meet next on Sunday, March 4 at 12:00pm. The meeting adjourned at 1:30pm. Respectfully submitted, Anne Spraker MUSIC COMMITTEE MINUTES -- 1/21/2007 PRESENT: Bettina Turner, Chair, Frances Burmeister, Claudia Keyian, Anne Comeau, Cori Thurlow, Joan Carroll, John Mercer, Bill Heenehan, and Anne Spraker The meeting was brought to order at 12:20. The Committee welcomed Bettina Turner as its new chair. New Business: The Music Committee agreed to meet at noon on every first Sunday of every month, through June. No meetings in July or August. The Committee discussed next year's budget and examined future program expansion possibilities should additional funding become available. These included amounts for instrument maintenance, increased pay for section leaders, new alto and soprano section leaders, instrumentalists and sheet music for the Candlelight concert, and professional development for both the adult and youth choir directors. After discussing the priorities for the music program, the Committee voted to approve an increase in pay for current section leaders, from $300 to $400 per month, shifting funds from the Candlelight and supply line items to cover the cost. The Committee also voted to approve the addition of an alto section leader as a high priority for future program expansion. The committee agreed to meet next on Sunday, February 4 at 12:00pm. The meeting adjourned at 1:35pm. Respectfully submitted, Anne Spraker MUSIC COMMITTEE MINUTES -- 10/1/2006 Present: Cori Thurlow, Chair, Frances Burmeister, Claudia Keyian, Bettina Turner, and Anne Spraker The meeting was brought to order at 12:15. The minutes from the previous meeting were amended and approved. New Business: The youth choirs are off to a good start. First-graders have been successfully included in the Young Church choir, and the size and strength of the Teen Choir remains steady, despite the loss of a large group of seniors from last year. Bettina reported progress on the proposal to the Parish Committee to house the Steinway piano in the sanctuary. The Building Committee has been asked by the Parish Committee to formulate a plan for altering the pews to accommodate the piano. Music Director's Report: The Mozart Requiem concert, Oct. 29, has complete financial backing. Proceeds from the Columbus Day yard sale will fund the musicians. Publicity has been prepared and sent to newspapers and radios; flyers and posters are designed and ready. Sunday afternoon rehearsals for Candlelight begin Nov. 5; Candlelight will be Dec. 17. The committee resumed discussion of streamlining its decision-making and trimming the length of its meetings by forming ad hoc or standing subcommittees that would be task-oriented. Subcommittees that would be formed might include Youth choirs, Adult choir, Candlelight choir, Jazz vespers, Wilson concert series, Organ and Pianos, Music budget, Publicity, etc. The subcommittees would report to the Music Committee. The committee agreed to meet next on Oct. 22. The meeting adjourned at 1:30. Respectfully submitted, Anne Spraker FRS MUSIC COMMITTEE MINUTES 6/15/2006 PRESENT: Cori Thurlow, Chair, Frances Burmeister, Anne Comeau, Joan Carroll, Sue Creed, Bettina Turner, Harold Babcock, and Anne Spraker The meeting was brought to order at 6:15. The minutes from the previous meeting were read and approved. New Business: Cori reported that the Worship Committee asked if the Music Committee would like to be responsible for a service next year. The committee agreed that Nov. 26 would not work, due to the Messiah Sing that evening, but other dates in January or February are a possibility. Anne Comeau asked the committee to consider a policy of allowing children free admission to the concerts. There was general agreement that this would encourage family attendance. Music Director's Report: Frances submitted a detailed report of the year's activities. She told the committee that she will be on vacation during Yankee Homecoming; Cori will ask the Parish Committee to cover the cost of a substitute organist. The committee discussed how to proceed on the request to remove a back pew in order to store the Steinway piano in the church, making it available for services and concerts without the cost of moving and retuning. Harold recommended getting congregational approval for this change; to begin this process; Bettina will write a letter to the Parish Committee. The issue of applause during services was discussed, in part because the congregation spontaneously applauded some, but not all, children who participated in Youth Sunday. Cori will talk to Julie, Vicky, and Mike about putting a note in the order of service to remind people to hold their applause during church services. After this year's concerts and fundraisers, $2,784 remains in the revolving account. The committee decided to spend $1300 raised by the Walk for Music on music stands and chairs, and dedicate the remainder towards a fall performance of the Mozart Requiem. If additional money is raised, we will hire instrumentalists, otherwise the choir will be accompanied by the organ. A subcommittee was formed (Anne Spraker and Frances Burmeister) to plan sound reduction measures for the choir room. The committee agreed to meet next on Aug. 28 at Bettina's home; 7:00pm for hors d'oeuvres and socializing, 7:30 business meeting. The first rehearsal of the Mozart will be Aug. 31, rehearsal for the first church service on Sept. 7, and Sept. 10 will be opening Sunday. The meeting adjourned at 7:30. Respectfully submitted, Anne Spraker FRS MUSIC COMMITTEE MINUTES 4/29/2006 PRESENT: Cori Thurlow, Chair, Frances Burmeister, Claudia Keyian, Anne Comeau, Joan Carroll, Sue Creed, Bettina Turner, John Mercer, and Anne Spraker The meeting was brought to order at 11:15. The minutes from the previous meeting were read and corrected. The minutes were then approved as amended. Old Business: The committee discussed plans for the celebration of Claudia's tenth anniversary as the Young Church Choir Director at the FRSUU. It was decided to schedule it for the first Sunday in October. The committee then discussed the repair of the electric pianos. Every committee member now has the report from Barbara Owen on the organ and its current repair needs. Gratitude for her input was widely expressed. Cori reported that the Memorial Day weekend yard sale was approved. Committee members will organize and price items on Saturday, and put up posters. On Sunday, set up tables before church, and bring up the items from storage after church. The yard sale will begin Sunday at 12:00, and Monday at 9:00. If the weather is bad, we have permission to use the lower meetinghouse for the sale. New Business: Cori reported that the budget was passed at full funding levels as the result of a follow-up effort by the canvas committee members yielding a successful conclusion to the pledge drive. She will prepare an annual report to be submitted to the Parish Council, with highlights of the music program's past year and plans for the future. The next meeting will be June 15 at 6:00pm. The meeting adjourned at 12:15. Respectfully submitted, Anne Spraker FRS MUSIC COMMITTEE MINUTES 4/23/2006 PRESENT: Cori Thurlow, Frances Burmeister, Joan Carroll, Sue Creed, Bettina Turner, and Anne Spraker The meeting was brought to order at 12:15. The minutes from the previous meeting were corrected. The minutes were then approved as amended. Old Business: The committee discussed the condition of the pianos. The Steinway piano was moved back to the Parish Hall after the Rossini concert and tuned. It may be more cost-effective to store the Steinway at the back of the church so it doesn't have to be professionally moved and tuned when needed for a performance in the church; Cori will ask the Building Committee to consider altering a back pew near the main entrance to house the piano when not in use. A problem with one of the electric pianos was reported by Claudia; the committee agreed that trading parts (keyboards, cables, amps) between the two electric pianos might help in finding a solution. The committee received copies of Barbara Owen's report on the present condition of the organ, and recommendations for repairs. All members will receive copies and discuss the report at the next full meeting. The Walk for Music was announced before the service by Max Russell, who pledged to match the total of all contributions to this fundraiser. Choir members will collect pledges this week; those walking in Boston on April 30 will be Frances, Cori, Sue, and Judy Grohe. A member of the congregation who designs websites as a profession, is considering maintaining the FRSUU website. New Business: The committee discussed plans for the celebration of Claudia's tenth anniversary as the Director of Youth Choirs at the FRSUU. The committee then discussed holding a Memorial Day yard sale to raise money for the June 11 Mozart concert. We will collect the donated items downstairs after May 21, price them on the Saturday of Memorial Day weekend, start the sale Sunday after church, and continue it on Monday. Cori will ask the Parish Committee for permission to hold the sale, arrange for a notice requesting donations in the Steeple Weekly, and ask Vicki where it would be possible to store the donations. Music Director's Report: Frances let the committee know that she will not be able to be present for the service on May 21, due to her son's wedding, and again in July during Yankee Homecoming. Cori will contact the RE committee to see if they would need a substitute organist for the Young Church Choir's service that day. The Rossini concert went well and was well received, with over 100 in the audience. Costs and donations balanced at about $900. Many thanks to Forrest Speck and Max Russell for moving the harmonium, and to the Hampton Falls Church for lending it to us. Thanks also to Sue Creed for setting up the risers, Mark Snelling for tuning, David Turner and Barbara Owen for ushering, and Anne Spraker for setting up the reception. Plans for the June 11 Mozart concert were presented, including a tentative program. Although Jayne West, the soprano soloist, has agreed to sing gratis, about $2,000 will be needed for the seven instrumentalists. Publicity in newspapers and on radio stations will be important. A successful Memorial Day yard sale is necessary to support this event. The committee then discussed the advantages and disadvantages of having the Candlelight Choir become an independent tax-exempt organization, mainly for the purpose of obtaining grants. The sponsors of the Wilson concert series are also facing this decision. The jazz vespers is doing very well. It will continue through May and June, at 7:00pm on the first Wednesday of the month. They also would like assistance with publicity. A budget meeting is scheduled for April 29, 2006 at 11:00. The meeting adjourned at 2:05. Respectfully submitted, Anne Spraker FRS MUSIC COMMITTEE MINUTES - 3/19/2006 PRESENT: Cori Thurlow, Frances Burmeister, Claudia Keyian, Joan Carroll, Sue Creed, Bettina Turner, John Mercer, and Anne Spraker The meeting was brought to order at 12:12. The minutes from the previous meeting were corrected. The minutes were then approved as amended. Old business: Frances reported that the Laura Coombs Hills artwork that had been donated to the choir fundraising event was sold for $300, and the money deposited in the account that funds the tenor section leader. Bettina reported that the old maroon choir robes were donated to and gladly received by the Newburyport High School, Middle School, and the Amesbury Playhouse. It was asked whether there was a response yet to the maintenenance requests made in Bettina's Jan. 17 letter. John M. indicated that there had been a positive response from Ed Anderson, and that he will ask Ed to send news to the music committee regarding how they intend to proceed. Then the committee discussed how to proceed with the organ renovation project. Frances thought she heard increased noise from the bellows today, and that the cost of repairing the bellows leathers could reach $20,000, and unfortunately may have to be repeated when the entire organ refit takes place. It was the sense of the committee that we need to get the project rolling. Minor repairs before that will have to be made as needed. John agreed to give the technical information from the consultants to Barbara Owen and ask if she would like to contribute her expertise and influence to the organ renovation project. The committee then will need to select a subcommittee and plan how best to present the project and its costs to the congregation, as well as to outside funding sources. The idea of a Choir Recognition Sunday was discussed again. The youth choirs will be recognized on May 21. Claudia described an all-music service run by the choirs at a different church, called Choir Sunday, which was very nice, but lots of work. Frances suggested Sunday, April 2, as a good day to recognize the choir and promote the Rossini concert that evening. John M. will discuss this possibility with Harold B., and if approved, John will notify Bettina to write it up for the Steeple Weekly. A key has been given to Neal F. for access to the building for his voice lessons. The committee discussed developing a website for music events. John emphasized the importance of regularly updating the content. We agreed that given the amount of work it takes to adequately notify the media of upcoming events, a publicity relations person acting on behalf of all church programs would be ideal. Youth Choirs Director's Report: There are now sixteen in Young Church Choir (up from ten), and over 20 in the Teen Choir. One of the parents brought to Claudia's attention a peer acceptance problem, and Claudia described how she handled the situation by encouraging the choir members to care for each other and make all feel welcome and included. At one point the Teen Choir needed a similar pep talk about being sensitive to others, not making disparaging remarks, and being grateful in general. On April 30 the choirs will do "Swinging with the Saints." Cori commended Claudia for her work with the choirs, pointing out how important they are for continued youth participation and attendance. By wisely scheduling the rehearsal early enough to allow time afterwards for socializing and hot chocolate before the service, Claudia contributes to the teens positive feelings for choir and church. Music Director's Report: Frances solicited opinions on how best to handle choir members showing up late for rehearsal and Sunday service. Given the volunteer nature of the choir, encouraging the simple courtesy of being on time, and linking punctuality with any perks were the chief suggestions. The fundraiser, Walk for Music, is scheduled for 2:00 on April 30 this year. Frances asked the committee's help in promoting the event and getting pledges. John M. noted how successful Frances was in encouraging choir members to canvas for the annual pledge drive. The Steinway piano will be moved from the Parish Hall to the Sanctuary for the Rossini rehearsals and performance April 2. It will be tuned after each move. Frances presented a report of anticipated expenses and projected income for the Rossini concert. All looks well, and the more publicity the better. For the next concert, Frances has lined up the soprano, Jayne West, to sing with the choir in a Mozart concert June 11. The next meeting is scheduled for April 23, 2006 at 12:00. The meeting adjourned at 1:45. Respectfully submitted, Anne Spraker MUSIC COMMITTEE MINUTES - 1/29/2006 PRESENT: Cori Thurlow, Frances Burmeister, Claudia Keyian, Anne Comeau, Joan Carroll, Sue Creed, Bettina Turner, John Mercer, and Anne Spraker The meeting was brought to order at 12:10. The minutes from the previous meeting were corrected. The minutes were then approved as amended. Old business: The committee looked over drafts of the music program budget sheets that will be presented to the finance committee. Then past correspondence was reviewed to make sure those who volunteered to write letters had done so. Bettina Turner sent a letter to the Building Committee about choir room maintenance, and also sent thanks and flowers to Barbara Owen for her help with organ repairs. Sue Creed sent thanks to Edson Worden, Anne Spraker sent thanks to Mike Dorsey and Max Russell. Joan Carroll contributed a draft of a letter to be sent to the Human Resources subcommittee on behalf of the entire music committee, a copy of which will be placed in the Music Director's file as well. The committee discussed how best to sell the Laura Coombs Hills artwork that had been donated. Then the committee discussed how to proceed with the organ repair project. It was suggested that we give the technical information from the consultants to Barbara Owen and ask if she would like to contribute her expertise. New business: The spring concert will be held April 2, the Candlelight Choir performing the Rossini Messa Solenne. Rehearsals will begin Thursday, Feb. 22, after the regular choir rehearsal. We discussed developing a website for music events and activities. John Mercer suggested sending information to him with directions as to how we would like it added to the FRSUU website. We should look at the website and gather design ideas; Sue Creed will ask Hannah to contribute photographs. The committee approved Neal Ferreira's request to teach voice lessons, using the piano and room in the Parish Hall as space is available. He must work with the UU scheduling calendar, and will need keys. John Mercer will present this to the Parish Committee. Report of the Youth Choirs Director: Claudia presented the current status of our youth choirs, and addressed the logistics of including youth choirs from the other local churches in the Martin Luther King Day service. Music Director's Report: Frances requested permission to discard or donate the old maroon choir robes. Bettina volunteered to wash one to see if they could be laundered instead of dry cleaned. She will ask if the public school music or theater programs would be interested in the robes. The Martin Luther King Day service was a success, with seven guest singers from other church choirs joining us and enjoying the experience. Frances presented a report of expenses and discussed the continuing effort to recruit new choir members, the arrival of new hymnals for the choir loft, and the need for more music stands. The meeting adjourned at 1:30. The next meeting was tentatively scheduled for Feb. 26, 2006 at 12:00. Respectfully submitted, Anne Spraker FRS MUSIC COMMITTEE MINUTES 1/8/2006 PRESENT: Bettina Turner, Cori Thurlow, Frances Burmeister, Claudia Keyian, Anne Comeau, Joan Carroll, Sue Creed, Harold Babcock, John Mercer, Anne Spraker The meeting was brought to order at 12:11. With the previous chair's resignation, Bettina Turner acted as chair for the meeting, and brought the meeting to order. The minutes from the previous meeting were corrected. The thanks expressed in the Music Director's previous report need to be written and sent to the appropriate people. Bettina will see if this was already done, and will contact Anne Spraker to do so if not. It was noted that Neal Fereirra must send a letter to the Parish Committee requesting permission to use the Parish Hall for voice lessons. The minutes were then approved as amended. New business: Replacing the Chair of the Music Committee was the first order of business. John Mercer explained the constitutional requirements and process for Parish Committee approval of the next Chair. The committee unanimously approved Cori Thurlow as the new Chair. Old business: The committee discussed committee procedures and meeting frequency. The letters sent from the Chair of the Parish Committee to the Music Director were reviewed. Several spoke in support of the Music Director and expressed regret that several procedural problems had led to the need to correct and retract what had been written. As the committee discussed this, several points were made: a dialogue between those involved should have occurred early in the proceedings, fact-finding needed to be more complete, and the full Music and Parish committees should have been included in the process. There was general agreement that despite good intentions, more care needed to have been taken to differentiate between acting as an individual and acting in an official capacity. It was observed that changes in the music program have outpaced the comfort level of some in the congregation, and have also revealed the need to clarify several budgetary and hiring procedures. Harold addressed the concerns of the Parish Committee regarding the second section leader position, and there was further discussion of what constitutes a temporary position versus a 1099 employee, and the possible overlap of the two. The committee discussed balancing the music program's new ideas and attendant costs with the needs of other services and programs supported by the church. The committee then discussed communication patterns -- how best to use email and meeting time for policy, organization, and decision-making. John described a point of email etiquette which requires all people mentioned in an email to be cc'd. In the event a decision is needed before the next committee meeting, the email pattern used by the Parish Committee was described by Bettina: any policy question is sent to the Chair, who then may send it to the entire committee for comment, tally the responses, and report back to the entire committee. Several committee members spoke in favor of sending a letter to the Parish Committee in support of the Music Director. A subcommittee was formed and directed to compose a letter that will be reviewed and approved by the full Music Committee and then sent to the Human Resources subcommittee of the Parish Committee. Report of the Youth Choirs Director: Claudia welcomed the new member of the Music Committee, Anne Comeau, who, with one child in the Youth Choir and one in the Teen Choir, can represent a parent's point of view, as well as that of a non-choir church member. Claudia then discussed several safety issues that arose in the Candlelight Service: tackling steps to the risers and steep staircases in robes, and coping with the limited performance space in the front of the church. The committee discussed the past request to take out front pews, the difficulty of making changes to a historically significant church interior, and the cost of carpentry and carpeting. Cori volunteered to write a letter to the Building Committee and Parish Committee about maintenance needs in the choir room (paint, window shades that work, light switches at the top and bottom of the staircases) and possible alterations to the front of the church. Before the meeting, the Music Director had delivered a comprehensive report, covering all aspects fo the Music Program for the first half of the church year. Among the many important parts of this report was a call to get budgeting for 2006 - 2007 started. The committee decided there was insufficient time to discuss the budget, and agreed to meet Jan. 16 at 9:00 a.m. in the lower Meetinghouse conference room to continue to plan the Music program budget. The next regular meeting will be held Jan. 29, 2006 at 12:00. The meeting adjourned at 2:15. Respectfully submitted, Anne Spraker, Secretary Amended U.U. MUSIC COMMITTEE MINUTES 11/13/2005 PRESENT: Anita Wright, Chair, Frances Burmeister, Claudia Keyian, Joan Carroll, Bettina Turner, Sue Creed, Cori Thurlow, and Anne Spraker The meeting was brought to order at 12:04. The minutes from the previous meeting were approved. Report of the Youth Choirs Director: Claudia reported that all is going well. She shared a proposal by Julie and one of the parents to have Young Church Choir rehearse during Sunday school time occasionally in order to familiarize the other children with the choir and encourage them to participate in choir. They will try this in January. Young church choir will sing in church next Sunday, Nov. 20. Music Director's Report: Many thanks to Max Russell who donated time and materials, built more risers, and installed a parabolic mirror in the choir loft. We have a better choral sound because of his efforts. Thanks to Mike Dorsey who made the Vierne and Messiah flyers. Glad to have Neal on board officially. May he teach voice here? A couple of choir members want to study with him. The committee discussed this and decided that the hours that the Upper Parish Hall is heated and available for use for lessons first needs to be ascertained, then Neal needs to send a written request to the Parish Committee for permission to use the facility for the lessons. The Jazz Vespers group is asking for additional people to highlight as soloist, special guest, whatever. The committee suggested some websites: Oldsouth.org, Copley Square, UU music, and UU Andover. Three singers joined the church today - Judith Grohe (alto), Mary Jane Doherty (tenor), and Bob Clagett (tenor.) The cash infusion of $1,000 into the music library is greatly appreciated. Candlelight Choir had 46 at its first rehearsal. Many more are expected. Overall performance level of the Choir is way up. It's not about performance, but how music can lead people to a higher spiritual place. And a poor performance will always lead to a negative, uncomfortable place. Choir recognition. The choir could wear their robes to Coffee Hour and meet and greet. After a discussion of other possibilities, there was general agreement that this would be a good idea, but no firm decision was made as to how and when to do this. A piano for the choir loft was offered on loan for a couple of years. After seeing and playing it, Frances recommended not to accept it, and the committee concurred with that assessment. Communication: It has come to my attention that I'm not communicating with you effectively. Since the meetings are long enough, maybe all this could be sent by email ahead of time. Then you would have time to mull it over and ask questions. Meetings would be reserved for acting on issues. Singers are still being contacted for solos for the Messiah Sing, the Sunday after Thanksgiving; Anne Azema will be one soloist. Frances also presented the program for the Candlelight service, ideas for a sidewalk signboard to publicize musical events, and a list of needs and improvements. She then presented a 6-page financial report to inform the committee of funding and expenses. Chairman's report: Anita announced that Cori Thurlow would be next year's chair. New Business: A reminder of the choir dinner at Frances' new house in Haverhill at 6:00pm on Dec. 29. The meeting adjourned at 1:40. The next meeting will be held Jan. 8, 2006 at 12:00. Respectfully submitted, Anne Spraker FRSUU Music Committee -- Meeting Minutes -- October 16, 2005 ATTENDANCE: H.Babcock, A.E.Wright, C.Keyian, J Carroll, C.Thurlow, F.Burmeister, S. Creed, B.Turner Excused: A Spraker 1. Minutes of the September meeting were reviewed and approved. 2. Youth Choir
Anita reminded all that the fiduciary responsibility for the MC budget rests with the chair and the MC. We must take our responsibility seriously and stay within the goals and budget agreed upon.
FRSUU Music Committee -- Meeting Minutes -- Feb. 8, 2004 Attending: R. Lawson, chair; F. Burmeister, C. Keyian, staff; B. Kray, J. Carroll, J. Wilson, S. Creed, J. Vose, B. Turner, T. Herrmann, committee members. Absent: A. Wright 1. Call for canvassers. Committee members were asked to contact Susan Ricker, chair of the Canvass Committee, to sign up for this year's canvass. 2. Report from Barry Kray on the results of the structural engineer survey. The choir loft (the area to directly to the right and left of the organ, not including the galleries) was deemed safe for 30 people, but additional weight from risers are a concern. A full analysis would cost $2 - 3K. The committee was unable to come up with a solution to the problem, which in short is the inability of singers to see the director. The issue was tabled for further discussion. Claudia introduced the need for risers for the Teen Choir. She will assess requirements and ask the administrator to research costs.
3. Publicity for the March 28 concert. The Feb. 1 rehearsal drew 35 singers, but the chorus is in need of tenors. Publicity will include: 4. Concert receptions. For upcoming concerts on 2/15, 3/7 and 3/28, Frances, Bettina and Todd agreed to host. Jean will check with performers to find out if they are available to stay for the 2/15 and 3/7 receptions. 5. Bylaws. The revised committee bylaws submitted by Sue were approved for submission to the bylaws committee. 6. Report on budgeting guidelines. Robin reported on a meeting held Jan. 19 attended by Harold Babcock, Lynn Kettleson, Stan Cecil, John Mercer and Frances. The group reached consensus that proceeds from all income-producing events should go into the general fund of the church. However, it is understood that income produced by committees will be accounted for in budget requests. 7. April '04 organ recital. Frances would like to perform an organ recital in April, with proceeds benefiting the music program. The committee voted to request permission from the Parish Committee; Robin will submit the request in time for the 2/11 meeting. 8. Yankee Homecoming. The committee voted not to undertake any additional summer events this year. 9. Succession planning. The Parish Committee has requested an overall plan for succession of committee chairs. Discussion was tabled until the next meeting. Minutes - Sept. 18, 2003 Attendance: R. Lawson, F. Burmeister, H. Babcock. S. Creed, B. Turner, J. Vose, J. Wilson, B. Kray, A. Wright Excused: C. Keyian, T. Herrmann, J. Carroll Discussion & reports Read report submitted by Claudia including highlights from children's choir activities, mention in the UU World magazine, related inquiry from Iowa church. Update on choir membership; discussed recruitment and retention, need for additional robes. A forthcoming meeting will be held re: teen robes and a storage cabinet, section leaders.
Concert timeline: Robin discussed the need for a flow chart and organization for projects so everyone understands his/her role not only as performers but in the actual structure. For example, someone has to be in charge of opening and closing and all the stuff in between: outreach, tickets, publicity/flyers, etc. Upcoming events, possible fund-raising ideas: Candlelight in December, Rutter in spring? Silent movies with the Alloy Orchestra in the summer? Design logo for shirts/hats? Old business: Bylaws revision ongoing; piano in sanctuary tabled for later discussion. |
