TEMPO!TEMPO!TEMPO!TEMPO!INTERNATIONAL MUSIC FRATERNITY

2Collegiate Comment

6Alumnae Comment

A P R2014

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GREGORY DICKENS Publications

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RUTH SIEBER JOHNSONExecutive Director

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The sisters of Alpha A, Alpha B, and Alpha C Provinces met for Alpha State Day on

Jan. 25, 2014 at St. Stephen’s Lutheran Church in Lansing, MI. The event was hosted by the Alpha Lambda Chapter at Michigan State University and the women of the Lansing/East Lansing Alumnae Chapter. Our special guest was Region V Regional Officer Peggy Glennie. After the Opening Ritual, Carolyn Sherrill was initiated as a Friend of the Arts. She is a clarinetist, Musical Director of the Meridian Concert Band, and a teacher at St. Gerard School. The musicale included a saxophone and flute performances, Celtic tunes played on fiddle, penny whistle, and bodhran, and “Always a Bridesmaid” from I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change. Pamela Moore and Jennifer White, SAI mother and daughter, performed Sonata No. 3 in D Major for Piano, 1st Movement; Diane Singletary and Jessica Leese, also mother and daughter, sang “Love Grows Here” by Don Besig, a song used at their family events. Dr. Marcie Ray, Assistant Professor of Musicology at Michigan

State University, spoke on the place of women in music through the centuries. A homemade taco bar was the perfect lunch on this blustery day in the “mitten” state. There was an SAI Photo Booth which was enjoyed by all attendees and collected monies for SAI Philanthropies, Inc. Amy Capp, Lansing/East Lansing Alumnae Chapter President made cakes decorated with handmade red roses and the first line of the SAI Chorale. After lunch, Alpha B Province Officer Sally Roach gave a presentation on sisterhood and presented the collegiate and alumnae Alpha Province Yearbook Directory Awards. Dr. Pam Stover (Northwest Ohio Alumnae Chapter member), Bernadette Skodack (Alpha A PO), and Kellie Hansen (CODA Music Therapy

Services, LLC) spoke on the SAI grants they have received and how the monies were spent. Phlea-Phlam was very successful, and sisters enjoyed the SAI Red Songbook Sing-along. The Closing Ritual and Chorale brought another day of learning, sharing, and warm sisterhood to a close on a chilly January day. — Sally Roach, Alpha B PO

Lansing/E. Lansing Alumnae Chapter members Diane Singletary and Jessica Leese (mother and daughter) attended the Alpha State Day in January.

Iota D Province is geographically unique as the province stretches only 45 miles from one end to the other. Due to the small size,

the Province Day committee consists of one delegate from each chapter and the Province Officer who worked closely together to plan it. Each chapter was responsible for a specific portion of the day. This year, Iota D Province Day was hosted by Theta Pi, and over 60 sisters attended on Feb. 8,

2014. As part of the “SAI Olympics” theme for the day the sisters competed in musical games led by Lambda Rho, and winners were awarded medals and mini-trophies. The Hampton Roads Alumnae chapter led the craft for the day, which was to decorate Olympic sashes that many sisters chose to wear throughout the remainder of the day. The guest speaker, Lorraine Bell, advisor to the Mu Gamma chapter and Norfolk Alumnae Chapter member,

spoke on Olympic sisterhood and the importance of love and unity. Finally, Gamma Zeta chapter led the province in a spectacular musicale in which every chapter contributed. The musical selections ranged from group a capella pop pieces to classical selections. Every chapter in Iota D is unique, and Province Day was a perfect opportunity to showcase each and every one of these lovely talented ladies. — Kymberley Jeffries, Iota D PO

Iota D ProvInce Day

alPha state Day

SAIs GATHER foR fEllowSHIp

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Zeta — Jordan Conservatory Butler University This fall, the Zetas continued a tradition of celebrating North American Music Month (NAMM) with our NAMM musicale. This year we not only honored North American composers, but debuted several works by Butler students and provided a quality recital for the Indianapolis community. NAMM also gives the Zetas a chance to perform SAI songs to showcase our chapter’s musical talents. Philanthropic efforts from the Zetas reach new levels with our university-wide fundraiser selling Jordan College of the Arts t-shirts. This project involves the collaboration with other Fine Arts organizations by constructing a design and group marketing strategies. Through this project the Zetas hope to make upwards of $5,000 to sponsor sisterhood events and donate to SAI Philanthropies Inc. Another unique fundraiser the Zetas continued for the second year running was our “Silence a Sister” week. This fundraiser offers students, faculty, and staff the playful opportunity to “silence” any Zeta sister during any music class or ensemble rehearsal. The fall “Silence a Sister” Week’s profits totaled approximately $50 and will be entirely contributed to SAI Philanthropies, Inc. During the holiday season, the Zetas are introducing a new fundraiser: candy cane grams, where we will be selling small holiday-themed treats. Our final SAI-sponsored event of the semester is our annual faculty and staff appreciation breakfast. — Kathryn Chamberlain, editor

Rho — University of Wisconsin-Madison Rho is excited to be premiering several new services within the University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Music this semester. We recently welcomed Professor Paul Rowe as our new Faculty Advisor, and his insight has been an invaluable guide towards new opportunities to reach out to students. Beginning in late February we will host a Lecture Series within the school, giving students currently working on research in music a non-judgmental and safe environment to practice their presentation skills while also educating students about various topics. Another large project our chapter will be working on this semester is a Sibelius-a-Thon benefitting SAI Philanthropies, Inc. Classes will be taught by graduate students to teach the basics of using music software such as Sibelius and Finale to anyone interested in learning more. Our chapter will also be hosting a guest master class with university alumna

and SAI Friend of the Arts Dr. Julia Foster when she visits in March to collaborate on a recital. Lastly, we are excited to assist the School of Music in presenting information about graduate music programs by hosting round-table discussions, matching undergraduates with professors and graduate students who can help answer a variety of questions. — Anastasia Grindle, vice president, membership and editor

Sigma Beta — Ohio University At each weekly meeting, a sister gives “Sophia the Elephant” (a cozy stuffed animal) to a fellow sister to encourage, motivate, or console her. Sophia was given to Kaitrin McCoy who is working on her composition thesis this semester. The chapter is also entering recruitment week! Kaitrin McCoy and Cody Parker (VPM) planned a few wonderful recruitment events, such as a “Jeopardy” night, a cupcake decorating party, and a coloring book event. We look forward to welcoming the new sisters! — Lauretta Werner, editor

Iota Theta — University of North Texas Last fall, Iota Theta welcomed six new members: Sheila Adams, Sarah Katz, Vanessa Lopez, Melyn Saenz, Sarah Sandoval, and Alexis Wormington. They were excited to begin this spring semester as sisters of

Iota Beta joined Phi Mu Alpha and Kappa Kappa Psi at Northern Illinois University on Nov.10, 2013 to perform winter musical selections to the residents at St. Patrick’s Residence Nursing and Rehabilitation in Naperville, IL.

Fall 2013 initiates of Iota Theta.

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our chapter. During the weekend of January 11 and 12, Iota Theta held its first Sisterhood Retreat. Nine sisters stayed in a cabin at Lake Murray State Park in Oklahoma where they made s’mores, sang songs from the SAI songbook around a campfire, played games, and went hiking. Everyone had a blast and hopes to attend the event again next year. Our Texan-themed Recruitment Week was also incredibly successful. The week consisted of two-stepping, a chili-making contest, and other western events. We had more recruits show up than ever before, and we ended the week with 15 new MITs. This is the largest MIT group for Iota Theta in recent years! The chapter is very excited for them to begin their journey toward sisterhood. — Laura Pavlas

Iota Tau — University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill The Iota Tau chapter has been busy with various service projects! In just the fall semester, members volunteered their time and efforts around campus and beyond. In mid-September, many Iota Tau members took a trip to SAI National Headquarters where they helped with office work and packaging ritual materials (and had a great time). During the semester, Iota Tau held two cleanups of our music building’s practice rooms as well as a “Hot Chocolate Morale Booster,” for which they prepared and gave away free hot chocolate to stressed students near final-exam time. Members of the chapter volunteered to help at the Bands of America SuperRegional Event in Winston-Salem, and rehearsed and performed holiday carols at the local mall for the second year in a row. Finally, for a long-term project, Iota Tau held a music book drive in conjunction with Musical Empowerment, a student-run organization that works to teach children music. Many sisters gathered methods books and donated them to this good cause. Iota Tau’s service chairman, Lauren Fuller, has been instrumental in ensuring the chapter can reach out and help in many different ways. We look forward to more great projects next semester! — Sarah Church, editor

Beta Epsilon – University of Evansville, IN The ladies of the chapter held their first annual Air Band Competition, benefiting SAI Philanthropies, Inc. Six campus organizations entered 3-7-member air bands into the “Sigma Alpha Iota Loves the ’80s” competition. Using brooms, hairbrushes, buckets, and other props,

the bands performed a rock song for the first round, and the top three groups advanced to the second round, which consisted of a randomly selected song for which they had a short time to prepare. Judges, including the university Director of the Center for Student Engagement and a Residence Life staff member, judged the bands on creativity, prop and costume use, and realistic performance. In between the rounds, information was shared about SAI and SAI Philanthropies, Inc., the SAIs performed a song, and audience members participated in an ’80s trivia contest. Money was raised through band entrance fees, audience admission fees, and as a means of voting for bands. The chapter raised over $525 dollars for SAI Philanthropies, Inc. from this event and can’t wait to start planning for next year! — Candice Murray, corresponding secretary

Gamma Omicron — Bowling Green State University, Ohio Gamma Omicron is delighted to welcome four new initiates to our chapter. One of our major successful service projects in 2013 was our spaghetti dinner with proceeds going to the Music Therapy program. In addition, we also had an effective fundraiser at Cedar Point Amusement Park. Gamma Omicron has had a successful year in 2013, and we hope to make 2014 even more successful. — Cassandra Tyler, editor

collegiate comment collegiate comment

Gamma Omicron welcomed four initiates in 2013.

Beta Epsilon held an air band competition to benefit SAI Philanthropies, Inc.

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Epsilon Lambda — Belmont University, Nashville On Nov.17, 2013 we initiated eight wonderful ladies into our chapter. We needed all of their help to plan for Province Day in February, which we hosted. We based the theme on the National Objectives, but focusing specifically on the diversity of our membership. Our chapter’s majors range from computer science and marketing to music performance and education. We celebrated the diversity of our chapter and SAI that makes us unique and successful as an organization. Our outreach in November served the Preston Taylor Ministries as we danced and made paper-plate maracas with children afterschool. The outreach in our community was a huge success as we planned a movie-night social in the Beaman Student Center on campus with the ladies of Alpha Sigma Tau. Our chapter is accomplishing our goal of becoming recognizable around our campus. We concluded our semester with a senior commitment ceremony, and we installed a new recording secretary. As a celebration, we gathered with Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia at Sunset Grill to ring out a great semester! — Celine DuTemple, editor

Zeta Nu — University of Texas, Arlington, TX Zeta Nu abounds in sisterhood now more than ever! In the last year, we have had many successful recruitment and sisterhood events, including Pinterest Parties, retreats, caroling at local nursing homes with the Phi Mu Alpha chapter, and hosting receptions, most notably for the university president. In the last year, we have welcomed two new sisters and two new Friends of the Arts, and we could not be more honored to have them with us. In November, we hosted our second annual “Movember” Benefit, an evening of music to raise money for men’s cancer research. We’ve also taken on our university’s National Association of Schools of Music project to bring hearing protection awareness to our students. We are very proud to announce the recent graduation of our sister, Karen Curry, who will be teaching English in South Korea within the coming months. Zeta Nu will continue this semester with our upcoming Rose Week membership recruitment and will hold initiation on our 40th anniversary this April. — Marissa DesJardins, treasurer

Zeta Omicron — Lipscomb University, Nashville The 2013 Fall semester was a busy and successful one for Zeta Omicron. We started the year off right, holding several bake sales to meet our fundraising goal for SAI Philanthropies, Inc. We had a wonderful

time connecting with sisters in our province at the Nashville Alumnae Brunch. Members of Zeta Omicron also participated in the Disney-themed Alumnae Benefit Concert.We performed “Touch the Sky” — a fun and upbeat signature song from Disney’s Brave — and as a special surprise, we won the ticket sales competition given by the Nashville Alumnae Chapter! We love spending time together as a chapter and went on a few outings during the semester, including our My Tie Formal. During the fall, we went to Gentry Farms to brave the corn maze and find our perfect pumpkins. For our formal, we dressed up, saw the Opryland Hotel lights display, and played Laser Tag. (Yes, Laser Tag in sparkly, fancy dresses.) Right before the end of the semester, we had a Christmas musicale/ fundraiser. Zeta Omicron had a wonderful fall semester, and we are looking forward to an even better spring semester! —Rachel Harris, editor

Eta Omega — University of the Pacific, Stockton, CA On Dec. 7, 2013 our chapter walked and sang through a local neighborhood and collected cans for the Stockton Food Bank. This event, Caroling for Cans, was so successful that, by the end of the event, we had a car full of canned and non-perishable foods. One woman in the neighborhood even hosted a “girls night” and asked all of her friends to bring canned foods to her house to support us in our event. To balance our community involvement, our social chairman, Annela Flores, has organized and hosted several very successful events for sisters to bond and create long lasting memories. These included but were not limited to a sing-along and viewing of The Lion King and a Holiday Tea Party. Annela’s work to help establish and foster our sisterhood is simply inspiring. Another remarkable officer getting ready for the semester ahead is our very own Vice President, Membership, Melissa Ewing. On top of applying to graduate school, Melissa is preparing for this year’s MIT class. We are so excited to see what Melissa has in store for our chapter and our soon-to-be members in training. — Amy Jean Burns, editor

Theta Delta — University of Alabama-Tuscaloosa Theta Delta and the Colony of Kappa Kappa Psi National Honorary Band Fraternity have raised more than $1,700 to support American Christian Academy’s (ACA) local band program. The two music fraternities worked together with the university’s Million Dollar Band to raise money for ACA to procure new marching band uniforms. Through a two-week coin drive, the initial fundraising goal of $500 more than tripled

collegiate comment

Theta Delta and the colony of Kappa Kappa Psi at the University of Alabama-Tuscaloosa presented a check for $1,700 for the local American Christian Academy band program.

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5with the overwhelming support of UA students. “We couldn’t be more thrilled with the outcome,” chapter president Kara Silver said. “The Million Dollar Band exceeded every goal we had and raised more than we could have ever hoped for.” ACA allowed the Million Dollar Band to use their field for summer rehearsals when the band’s field was flooded from rain. SAI and KKPsi music fraternities created the fundraiser to show their support for ACA’s generosity. Members of SAI and KKPsi presented the check to Heather Henson, director of bands and choral director at ACA, on Nov. 20, 2013 at the Million Dollar Band’s rehearsal. — Gabrielle Taylor, editor

Theta Lambda — Furman University, Greenville, SC This semester, the sisters have been active throughout the department, campus, and community! Sisters assisted the department by proctoring auditions at the South Carolina Music Teachers Association Conference, which Furman University hosted this fall. Sisters aided judges as time keepers and room monitors in order to ensure fairness throughout the competitions. We also teamed up with brothers of Phi Mu Alpha for a number of activities including a joint Homecoming Committee-organized effort to build the Music Department float, complete with a hot dog cookout. The committee also designed and distributed t-shirts for music students corresponding to the Homecoming theme. The Annual SAI/PMA Christmas Concert and Canned Food Drive was a great success! The concert featured a number of solo, duet, and small ensemble performances of holiday tunes. The fraternities collected 134 cans which were donated to Triune Mercy Center in Greenville, SC. Theta Lambda recognized two faculty members and two students as Musicians of the Month during the Fall Term. These individuals were recognized with flyers posted around the department, a signed card, and a voucher for $2 at our end of semester bake sale, the Fermata Cafe. Theta Lambda is excited to have initiated six new members to close out this term! — Elyse Marder, editor

Theta Omicron — Central Methodist University Fayette, MO The chapter held a Halloween-themed membership recruitment activity. The attendees participated in Four Pictures One Place, a game based on the popular game Four Pictures One Word. In December, Theta Omicron hosted its annual Christmas concert with the men of Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia. During the concert, they collected donations for Joslyn West, a recent Theta Omicron alumna and band director of Southwest R-1 School District in Ludlow, MO. After returning from Christmas vacation, the ladies started planning several membership recruitment activities for the upcoming training class. Theta Omicron is very excited for the prospective MITs to start their journey into Sigma Alpha Iota. — Sarah Espino, editor

Kappa Upsilon — Kansas State University Five new sisters — Ivy Calvert, Sierra Davila, Elizabeth DeRoulet, Kellyn Harrison, and Adi Millen — have joined our chapter. We have already dived into recruitment for the spring semester by hosting fun events for future sisters to enjoy, including: Girl’s Trivia Night, ’80s Zumba, Princess Movie Night, and Formal Tea. This semester our chapter is focusing on service within our community. We are volunteering for Habitat for Humanity and holding an iPod drive in support of Music in Memory, an organization that brings music therapy to elders who have succumbed to dementia. We hope to accomplish these service events with flying colors while fulfilling our duty of achieving the SAI National Objectives. — Katelyn Nickerson, editor

Kappa Omega — Elmhurst College, Elmhurst IL The sisters of the Kappa Omega chapter would like to welcome two new initiates: Callie Romenesko and Jenifer Garcia. The chapter would also like to give a warm farewell to our graduating seniors: Kelly Thelen, Judith Mezger, and Juliana Murphy. Kappa Omega will miss you very much and wish you good luck in your future careers. Vita brevis, ars longa. —Geena Jacobson, editor

Lambda Kappa — Alderson Broaddus University The chapter won the first-ever Greek Week at Alderson Broaddus University. It was an experience many of us will never forget. As sisters we competed in events all week, whether it was inner-tube water polo or a quiz show. The whole week brought us all together as a sisterhood. “My favorite part was that it made us all work together as a team,” past chapter treasurer and editor Tristan Steven said. “We normally work together, but this was in a different setting. I think it brought us together and made us closer.” “I loved Greek Week because of all the time we spent together as sisters,” past corresponding secretary SarahEllen Dillon said. “My favorite part was our lip-dub. Learning choreography and blowing the crowd away with our routine was just an awesome experience to share with my sisters.” “My favorite thing about Greek Week was anxiously holding hands with my sisters while we waited to see if we won the trophy after competing all week,” recording secretary Susan Blevins said.That is what it all comes down to: After a long week of competition we still stuck together through the very end, and that is what sisterhood is all about to us. — Rachel Tadlock, corresponding secretary

Mu Gamma — Hampton University in Hampton, VA The chapter hosted an etiquette recital on Oct. 27. The recital instructed students about appropriate behavior during performances while featuring interactive dialogue and live performance. The recital highlighted pianist Victoria Buchanan, a senior Nursing Major and chapter recording secretary. Seven new members were initiated Nov. 25. Our first ever Christmas Recital, “Carol of the Roses” was held on Dec, 7. The recital featured spirited holiday classics ranging from songs such as “Mary Did You Know” to “The Christmas Song.” The chapter plans to continue the recital in the future. We also participated in a variety of community service projects over the last few months. They included serving at a local food bank during the holiday season and marching and leading spirituals during the university’s annual Martin Luther King Day Commemoration Service on Jan. 20. Mu Gamma and the Pi Beta Chapter of Phi Mu Alpha held their 3rd annual Valentine’s Day Concert on Feb. 13, 2014. Each year, the concert features a different theme. This year the concert was titled “Opening Pandora’s Box” which is themed after the popular music app, Pandora. The concert featured several “stations” ranging from Neo Soul, Funk, and Pop Music. — Kathryn Kenny, editor

Collegiate Comment Editor Rosalind B. Cratsley, Iota Alpha initiate, can be reached at collegiatecomment@sai-national.org. Send photo submissions to Gregory Dickens at gregory@sai-national.org.

collegiate comment

Mu Gamma welcomed seven initiates in November.

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Bloomington (IN) The Matinee Musicale opened our 2013-2014 year in September with National Arts Associate and Professor at the Jacobs School of Music, James Campbell (clarinet) performing. The concert also featured Indiana University faculty members on piano, bassoon, and basset horn. A reception followed. The musicale is the chapter’s main fundraiser, supporting our scholarships and local philanthropies. In October, the Opening Tea program was presented by Yana Weinstein (mezzo soprano) accompanied by guest pianist, Anthony Weinstein. Her program included works by Ravel, Schumann, Barber, Powers, and Tchaikovsky. Mary Ruth Yates received a 50-year membership pin as well as the Sword of Honor. The Adopt-An-Instrument program is in its 23rd year of providing income from the rental and sale of instruments to regional public schools’ students. Fraternity education was led by Erin Thompson. Mary Kominowski (soprano) and guest pianist Owen Hartnett performed the November formal meeting program. Incorporation day ceremony was presented, and a silent auction was held to benefit our general fund. In January, the chapter met in the Meadowood Retirement Center in Bloomington for a meeting and program. Emily Meade (mezzo soprano) who has spent a year working in Ireland, sang Irish music accompanied by pianist Beverly McGahey. An affiliation ceremony was presented, and Mary Mills received our chapter scholarship for tuition at Indiana University School of Science Education. — Mary Ruth Yates, editor

Boulder (CO) The chapter started off 2014 celebrating our sisterhood with the rest of Xi C at Province Day on Jan. 18. Soon after, we braved the snow and raised our voices to perform at the Meridian, an independent living community, to celebrate Valentine’s Day with our annual Sing-Along. We are planning on a lovely harp and cello performance in March and will be concentrating on students for the rest of our spring with an event to benefit the Madison Elementary Music Program and a May musicale featuring the works of American composers performed by students of our chapter members. We recently welcomed Paul Jarvis as a Friend of the Arts, and he will be hosting our Public Musicale at the Boulder Piano Gallery on April 27. We look forward to our continuing relationship with Paul and welcome him warmly to our hearts! — Patty Krus, editor

Buffalo (NY) On Sept. 28 for our opening luncheon, chapter member Karen Schmid gave an account of her experiences at the Westfield Fortepiano Workshop held in July at the University of North Carolina, featuring coaches Malcolm Bilson, Andrew Willis, and David Breitman. The chapter is devoting the 2013-2014 year to scrapbooking and reporting on our history, and at the October meeting, Carol Murphy presented “The Fifties.” Sabrina Peña Young and Marissa Greenwald were affiliated as members, and charter member Laura Martin was honored for her many years of outstanding service to the chapter. In November, Marilyn Obermeyer presented chapter happenings from “The Sixties,” and she and Carol Murphy played several American piano duets that had been performed in that decade by charter members Dorothy Beynon and Janet Henkel. In November, Heather Randall was affiliated as a member, and the chapter held its Annual Benefit Recital which featured the Amherst Bel Canto Singers under the direction of Sue Fay Allen and pianist Karen Schmid. In early January, we enjoyed a festive “Cabin Fever” Dinner. February’s gathering included a handbell workshop led by Marilyn Obermeyer and Laura Buechi. — Carole Harris, editor

Dallas (TX) The chapter celebrated its 70th anniversary in November with a Gala Anniversary Tea at Wilshire Baptist Church. Kappa B Province Officer JoAn White officiated at the Rededication Ceremony, assisted by chapter President Marilyn Rogers and VP-Ritual Karla Wintle. Over fifty chapter members and guests, including several Distinguished Members, attended. Soprano Rachel Helgeson presented the program, accompanied by Jane Echols with additional music provided by a string quartet including members Jane Aten, Betsy Durnin, and Jane Samford. Chartered on Nov. 15, 1943, the chapter has a long history of accomplishments such as the Province Alumnae Achievement Award in 1967 and 1979. The chapter hosted the SAI National Conventions in 1978 and 2000 and established major local projects such as the Service to Music in Dallas Award, the Young Artist Recital series, and the Marion Flagg Memorial Scholarship. Many current members have served SAI at the province and national level, including Sylvia Elton and Marian King (NEB), Karen Kimball (Philanthropies Board), Michelle Hahn, Jane Aten, Michelle Kennemer, Nelta Owen, and Rosalind Cratsley. Former NEB members Mildred Sale, Lottie Hutzel, and Wyema Wilhite, deceased, were also members of the chapter. Six members have been awarded the Diamond Sword of Honor Alumnae Leadership Award, and the chapter boasts over twenty 50-year members, most of whom are still active. — Karen Kimball, editor

East Bay (CA) This past fall the chapter enthusiastically welcomed Honorary Member and pianist, Hanny Schmid Wyss, while visiting from her home country of Switzerland. She put on a special performance of long-time chapter member Ariel Witbeck’s beautiful composition, Prelude Chromantique, Op.1. The music was breathtaking, a true testament to the harmonious artistic collaboration between Schmid Wyss and Witbeck. Our chapter has also been fortunate to feature the works of talented local composer Dr. Stephen Moellering, who lent his musicianship for a performance of his piece Classical Sonata for 2 pianos-8 hands, at our November 2013 meeting. In the New Year, the Mistral Woodwind Quintet showcased their orchestral sound with a stunning performance

Buffalo Alumnae Chapter charter member Laura Martin was honored for her years of outstanding service to the chapter.

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of Franz Danzi’s Woodwind Quintet in B-flat Major (Op. 56, Nr. 1). We also affiliated three brilliantly gifted ladies at our meeting in January 2014: Alexa Zaharris, Jaycee Burroughs, and Kyla Dickerson-Santana. To add to the excitement of this year, the chapter hosted its annual public musicale on Feb. 9 to raise funds for local music non-profits, teachers, and performing arts competitions in the Bay Area. — Megan C. Delventhal, editor

Fort Wayne (IN) The chapter held its annual Benefit Tea on Oct. 27, 2013. Patroness Mimi Rolland again graciously opened her home as hostess and provided refreshments. Trudy Spath and Marcy Trentacosti were co-chairmen. Six alumnae, two Patronesses, three Friends of the Arts, and a Youth Orchestra Scholarship winner performed. This is our chapter’s biggest fundraiser, supporting the many scholarships we give throughout the year which include: The Fort Wayne Youth Orchestras audition for two summer camp scholarships; the Indiana University Purdue University (IUPU) Zeta Psi, SAI chapter auditions for two scholarships; the Fort Wayne String Summer Camp, and Fort Wayne FAME Camp scholarships. We affiliated three new alumnae members at our October meeting: Lauren Tourkow, Emily Franz, and Kendra McFarland. This brings our active membership to 50. — Tess Reiling, editor

Fort Worth (TX) Our opening Salad Luncheon in September provided a delightful discussion of our summer activities, including various summer travels, and pictures of a group of members going to Chautauqua with Barbara Boulware, who has been there many times. Barbara, along with Barbara Flynn, Bridgette and Abbey Griffin, Mary Pastusek, Barbara Sills, and Pat Wooley had an “SAI Sisters Week” at Chautauqua Institute in southwestern New York in July. They stayed in one of the houses owned by Barbara’s service organization, Kings’ Daughters, and they attended lectures, concerts, opera, drama, and did a little sightseeing on the side. A great time was had by all! We affiliated four ladies in October, including Patronesses With Training, Barbara Flynn and Gwen Genius, and we are so happy to have them with us full time. Selena Stewart, recent Texas Woman’s University graduate and former Beta Kappa president, is now teaching school, and we are glad to have her join us. Amber Womack is also a Beta Kappa initiate, but has been in New York for several years. She was active in the SAI chapter and served as Phi B Province Officer, but has moved back to Fort

Worth and we are glad to welcome her “home.” Our annual Dinner With Friends in December featured several soloists – BK Hayley Eaker, flute; Melanie MacFarlane, soprano; Jennifer Medlock, soprano; Debra Rue and husband Carroll, a comic duet; Jean Frick, violin. Gwen Genius and Elizabeth were the outstanding accompanists. Then came the Griffin Family. Bridgette Griffin and husband David, along with several other family members and children gave a marvelous program of Christmas carols. A real extravaganza! In January we met at the home of National Arts Associate John Giordano and his wife Mary Alice. Our program was presented by our president, Myrtis Tate, and friends. It was a lovely program of Baroque and Medieval songs played on recorders. They ranged from Sopranino to Contra-Bass (so large you stand to play it). We also affiliated Kimberley Hanna, daughter of our member Shirley Hanna. Several of our members attended Province Day, hosted by the Abilene Alumnae Chapter. — Jean Frick, editor

Hampton Roads (VA) Each December, the chapter likes to forego our standard monthly business meeting in favor of a winter social. This year we decided to take advantage of the local history and hit the streets of Colonial Williamsburg. After some shopping, sisters met for lunch at one of the historic taverns. We ate traditional colonial food including homemade cider and root beer. After lunch, we spent time walking around the area despite the light rain. Traditional holiday decorations of leaves and fruit decorated houses, and we could hear some music of the season, including traditional music played by the fife and drum corps and more contemporary selections performed by the men’s a cappella group from The College of William and Mary. Overall, it was a wonderful afternoon of history and sisterhood! — Emily Ficca, editor

Hays (KS) Our programs for this year feature each member telling us why a piece of music is her favorite. Some members have performed them, and others played a CD. It was enjoyable to hear how different pieces affect our members’ lives. We met with our Province Officer, Laura Higer, for our Christmas meeting and had an enjoyable lunch together at a favorite restaurant. We also brought gifts for our active Alpha Pi members. We included gum, candy, notepads, extra pencils, whatever we thought would be of help through finals. They were wrapped in gift bags and given to each active member. We are looking forward to affiliating a new member and patroness in our February meeting. Annually we participate in two events that are in conjunction with the Alpha Pi Chapter at Fort Hays State University. The first is a salad supper which develops ties between the collegiate and the alumnae members. The second is the Senior Commitment in the spring in which we serve our graduating senior a meal and encourage them to become members of the National Alumnae Association and an affiliate of the alumnae chapter in the city where they will be residing. — Christine Vitztum, editor

Hot Springs (AR) A Christmas Luncheon presented by Cantate, a women’s choral ensemble sponsored by our chapter, was presented on Dec. 19, 2013. The theme was “An American Folk Song Christmas,” featuring traditional sacred and secular music from the nineteenth century. Under the direction of Lynn Payette, the members include Janet Ford, Mara Magdalene, Brittany Osman, Kay Provus, Cindy Smith, Gay Smith, Gay Strakshus, Dianna Thayer, and Robin Williams. Cantate is committed to exploring

From left, Emily Franz, Leah Turkow and Kendra McFarland affiliated with the Fort Wayne Alumnae Chapter in October.

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quality choral music and striving for musical excellence. All proceeds from Cantate’s performances are donated to area music programs. Past recipients include First Step School, the Garland County Library, Hot Springs Music Festival, Hot Springs Middle School, and Oaklawn School for the Performing Arts. In attendance was Dr. Ouida Keck, Mu B Province Officer and Professor of Music at Ouachita Baptist University located in Arkadelphia, Arkansas. — Lynn Payette, editor

Kansas City (MO) Honors Chairman Dixie Lou Morris presented Carolyn McDill with a 50-year Membership Certificate and Sanna Cass with a 40-year Membership Certificate at our chapter meeting in November. Carolyn was initiated by Delta Epsilon Chapter at Southeast Missouri State University. Sanna was initiated by Iota Theta Chapter at the University of North Texas. The meeting was held in the home of chapter member Sanna Cass, which she shared with her husband, National Arts Associate Dr. Richard Cass until his death in 2009. The musicale of piano duets was presented by Dr. Janet Fetterman and her friend Elizabeth Grace. Dr. Fetterman was a Graduate Performance Award winner in 2003 at the SAI Centennial National Convention in Dearborn, MI. In December, we presented a holiday musicale for the Lake View Village Senior Citizens’ Community in Lenexa, KS. The musicale featured Jane Christison (vocals, accordion), Marilyn Miller (vocals), Elaine Minden (vocals), Pam Pendergast (piano), Jennifer Hull (cello), and Carolyn Holtman (piano). — Vicki Hedger, editor

Lindsborg (KS) The chapter recently initiated Patroness Jennifer Bundy-Jones and affiliated Sarah Peterson. We prepared decorative Christmas bags containing first aid and school supplies which were presented to area elementary school music teachers. One of our main projects has been to sponsor a Valentine Party for the Bethany Home residents; we perform a musicale and serve sandwiches and cookies. Our chapter filled Valentine tins with cookies and candy to give Alpha Alpha members at Bethany College. Chapter member Genevieve Bishop serves as the Alpha Alpha faculty advisor. We are very proud of a recent affiliate with our chapter, Krista Connelly, who is a second-year music teacher. She wrote an orchestral composition, “Cycles,” that was performed by the Salina Symphony at their January concert. The composition depicts the water cycle, and she wrote it with a particular saxophone soloist friend in mind, who was able to perform with the symphony. — Jeanine Tiemann, editor

Long Beach (CA) Chapter members initiated Honorary Member Evi Martyn, an international concert pianist, teacher, and author. It is with pleasure we welcome her into SAI. Afterwards, Dolly Ickler (piano) and Lindsay Feldmeth (soprano) performed three arias for our great enjoyment. — Heather O’Lone, editor

Milwaukee (WI) At the September 2013 meeting, Epsilon A Province Officer Sandy Erickson was present when Martha Stoner was awarded the Region V Diamond Sword of Honor. In October, sisters were hard at work right up until the doors were opened at the Sunset Playhouse in Elm Grove, WI, for our enormously successful fundraiser. The silent auction tables at Rosie’s Merchandise Mart boasted 30 items and 5 raffles plus a Grand Raffle Chicago Getaway. The night was filled with the great hits of the 1930s presented by various performers. Delicious foods of the 1930s were served by Tammy Enevold’s Youth Group, dressed as 1930s characters. The chapter raised more than $2,000 for scholarships. In December, many members performed songs related to angels in the Musicale entitled “Angel’s Song,” at the home of Robin and Friend of Arts Rob Engl. “A Civil War Christmas” written by Suzanne Freshley, was performed by the chapter’s “Civil War Singers” at several senior living facilities in December. The chapter’s “Ladies of Broadway” performed for the “Over 55” group at Wauwatosa Presbyterian Church in January 2014. Donations received for “Civil War Christmas” and “Ladies of Broadway” performances support various chapter scholarships and awards. — Jill K. Anderson, editor

alumnae commentFrom left, Hot Springs Alumnae Chapter president Robin Williams, Mu B PO Dr. Ouida Keck, and chapter VP-Ritual Dianna Thayer at the American Folk Song Christmas performance by chapter members.

Evi Martyn was initiated as an Honorary member by the Long Beach Alumnae Chapter. At left is chapter president Mary Lou Franck, and at right is chapter member Ashley Stanbury.

The Milwaukee Alumnae Chapter’s “Ladies of Broadway” performed at the Wauwatosa Presbyterian Church in January.

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Minneapolis/St. Paul (MN) The chapter met at Calvary Lutheran Church in Edina, joined by Sigma Sigma President Lauren Williams to announce Province Day in November. A gift basket raffle raised nearly $300 for the scholarship fund. Dianne Lundeen was elected/installed by Trista Schlick as the Vice President, Ritual. Trista, who is moving to NC, was presented a gift, serenaded with a song, lyrics by chapter president Susan Anderson-Benson. A November musicale featured Susan Jones performing Sicilienne by Fauré on English Horn, and 5 movements of Themes of Arcangelo Corelli by Barbirolli on Oboe, with Patricia Nortwen (piano). Nancy Cox beautifully sang Chopin songs with texts of Polish poetry, with Jim Reilly (piano) performing Impromptu Nocturne by Sveinbjörnsson. The Community Outreach event in December was a performance in Arden Hills for the residents of Johanna Shores senior living center. In January, Rebecca Shockley presented a lovely talk about her mother: Dorothy Payne’s very successful career left a legacy of three brilliantly talented children, all pianists. Her mother was a personal friend of Percy Grainger. — Madalyn Staupe Traun, editor

Moscow-Pullman (ID) The chapter hosted its annual spring fundraising musical Sunday, Jan. 26, 2014 at the Lionel Hampton School of Music Haddock Performance Hall. Our concert opened with a rendition of the SAI Chorale performed by the Alumnae Handbell Choir. In addition, the group played two other selections. Also performing were Carol Padgham Albrecht (English horn), Del Hungerford (clarinet), Pamela Bathurst (soprano), Susan Billin & Susan Mahoney (piano 4-hands), and the University of Idaho clarinet ensemble. The recipient of the Sigma Zeta Upperclassmen Achievement Award, Melissa Appel (mezzo-soprano), delighted the audience with her vocal selection from Monty Python’s Spamalot. The chapter would like to thank Tom and Denise Crossler for directing the handbell choir and for providing instruments and rehearsal space. Over the past year, the chapter has received over 40 used instruments as well as raising over $1,200 for

instrument repairs. Area schools apply for these instruments through the School Instrument Award application. The highlight of the concert was the presentation of two awards of instruments and certificates. Ten instruments were given to Leah Dahl, music director for the Deary, ID, School District and fellow SAI sister while seven instruments went to Marianna Smith, music director for the Colton, WA School District. — Amanda C. Soto, president

Pittsburg (PA) The chapter started the 2013-14 year on a high note in September with a meeting and brunch at the home of Virginia Schatz. A total of 20 SAI sisters were in attendance. Highlights of the meeting included the presentation of the Rose of Dedication to Virginia Schatz and the opportunity to hear the 2013 Biennial Margaret Blackburn Memorial Composition Competition winning piece. Eri Kim, composer, wrote a

Alumnae Comment Editor Kim Everett, an initiate of Gamma Rho Chapter, can be reached at alumnaecomment@sai-national.org. Send photo submissions to Gregory Dickens at gregory@sai-national.org.

alumnae comment

The Colton, Washington School District received the Moscow-Pullman Alumnae Chapter School Instrument Award. Sitting, from left, Music Director Marianna Smith; Del Hungerford, Chairman of Instrument Award Committee; and Amanda C. Soto, chapter president. Standing are a teacher and student from the district.

The November musicale for the Minneapolis/St. Paul Alumnae Chapter featured performances by, from left, Susan Jones, oboe/English horn; Jim Reilly, piano for Nancy Cox, Patricia Nortwen, piano for Susan Jones, and Nancy Cox, soprano.

Members celebrated the Nashville Alumnae Chapter’s 65th anniversary at a pizzeria luncheon in January.

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chamber work entitled “P.A.R.I.S.”, for flute, clarinet in Bƅ, violin, viola, cello, and piano. The competition is a project of the chapter in honor and memory of Margaret Blackburn. At our second meeting, we affiliated two new members, Maria Sisley and Rebecca McNamee. The third meeting was a holiday luncheon and informal meeting held in January at Panera Bread in Pittsburgh. On February 7, the Pittsburg Symphony performed “The Elements,” a collaborative piece that celebrates the Pittsburgh region. It was composed by Patrick Burke, Bomi Jang, Mathew Rosenblum, Reza Vali, and Amy Williams. Bomi Jang was the winner of the 2007 Margaret Blackburn Composition Competition, and Reza Vali is a National Arts Associate. — Rebecca Catelinet, editor

Raleigh/Durham (NC) The chapter was pleased to welcome Nancy Ping-Robbins, Ph.D., and Caitlin Byington as our newest affiliates. In November, our scholarship fund was selected as the recipient of a local fundraising event which earned us $312.50, enough to fully fund our scholarship for two years. We enjoyed fellowship and a lively game at our December meeting. At our

January meeting, we made Valentine cards for the residents of the local Veteran’s Association hospital. We are ecstatic to attend Tau D Province Day hosted by Beta Psi and to welcome National President Leslie Odom Miller with southern hospitality. Additionally, the theme for our 2014 scholarship will be revealed at Province Day. If you are an active sister in good standing with a Tau D collegiate chapter, pick up an application at Province Day! — Johanna Wolf, editor

Reno (NV) For most of the chapter musicians, bell ringing was a new experience, at least first-hand. Although we have cheered on Tess Houston and her converts for years, many of us had never actually touched these beautiful instruments. Linda Brown’s son, Ben, patiently took us through the basics and got us sounding amazingly good, at least to our not-exactly-impartial ears. We were so excited that we have vowed to continue our dinging and donging in the future. Eta Omicron and the alumnae chapters met together as usual to celebrate the holiday season, but this time in the charming refurbished old Reno school now transformed into an arts center and inhabited by the Note-Ables, a nonprofit musical therapy group for children and adults. As they are our service project, we were glad to “officially” visit their new digs. Province Day comes on March 29, and we are now actively planning activities, as we are hosting the event, along with Eta Omicron, at the University of Nevada, Reno. — Ann Owen, editor

Rochester (NY) The Rochester Alumnae Chapter and Mu Phi Epsilon have presented an annual joint musicale for almost fifty years. In October, both groups performed at the Jewish Home and the program included a Klezmer ensemble, consisting of Liz Million (flute), Rita George (flute), Barbara Noval (piano), Ruth Heitz (piano), Shirley Blandino (clarinet), Pat Stott (violin), and Elizabeth Kinney (cello). In November Friend of the Arts Dr. Kevin Frick presented a program about SAI Honorary Member Marian McPartland who died in August. He used information from the fall issue of PAN PIPES as well as audio and video recordings. His neighbor, a granddaughter of Dr. Donald J. Grout from Cornell University, also visited the meeting. Friend of the Arts Ronald Terpening died in June. The board of Roberts Wesleyan College Community Theatre has established the Ronald Terpening Service Award to honor an individual who exemplifies the musical and personal qualities that reflect Ron’s life.

alumnae comment

The September meeting of the Pittsburg Alumnae Chapter included a Rose of Dedication for Virginia Schatz (with rose). From left is VP-Ritual Julie Lechliter, chapter president Janis Kapadia, and treasurer Melissa Lessure.

The Raleigh/Durham Alumnae Chapter enjoyed fellowship and sisterhood at its holiday gift exchange.

Clad in Halloween hats, the Reno Alumnae Chapter takes its first bell-ringing lesson, given by the son of corresponding secretary Linda Brown’s son.

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Terpening was very involved in supporting each musical presented. He was their rehearsal accompanist and played both piano and trombone in the orchestra. It is the board’s desire to remember the man and his mission by creating this award. His wife Marilyn, chapter Vice President, Membership, presented the first award on January 17. — Holly Barry, editor

Rockford (IL) December 2013 saw two SAIs “performing percussion” as members Lanna Raley and Mary Jo Armstrong rang bells for the local Salvation Army. Member and vocal professor Martha Dahlberg has begun presenting two-hour workshops to local church choirs for producing a good sound, using language, and breathing techniques. She has an ongoing workshop with one local church, and other churches are lined up for the future. While the severe winter weather has not dampened our enthusiasm, it has made attending meetings logistically difficult for some of our members who live farther away. As a result, the affiliations planned for our December meeting have been postponed until spring. — Sarah Thurber-Fiorenza, editor

Tacoma (WA) A trio of women singers called “Sweet Swing” performed a program of music from the 1940s during the chapter meeting on Oct. 19, 2013, held at Wheeler Library in Tacoma. The program was open to visitors in the library and was part of our community outreach. The chapter’s Nov. 16 meeting was also held at Wheeler Library and featured a program of music and dance by Erin Ceragioli, director of the Tacoma Ballet

Company. Ceragioli brought two young female ballet students with her who demonstrated many different steps and choreography used in the performance of the Nutcracker Ballet by the Tacoma Ballet Company. Again this program was open to visitors in the library. The chapter contributed over $1,000 this year to local philanthropies which included the Tacoma Symphony, the Northwest Sinfonietta, Classical Tuesdays, the Tacoma Youth Symphony, and the Auburn Symphony. Chapter member Erin Guinup was awarded a grant from the Tacoma Artist Initiative Program of the Tacoma Arts Commission to develop a one-woman show entitled “The Ladies of Lyric and Song.” This program was presented at the University of Puget Sound on Nov.16. — Dr. Evangeline Rimbach, editor

Tampa (FL) Kudos to one of the newest affiliates to the chapter, Dr. Kira Omelchenko. Kira recently presented a session at the Florida Music Educator’s Clinic-Conference entitled, “Setting Expectations On and Off the Podium.” It was a wealth of information about how a conductor can plan for keeping ensembles rehearsing and performing at a high level. She diligently went through all of the steps needed and even had the participants (of which about 20 were current college students) on their feet for a brief body warm-up that she always practices with her students. Participants were also given some words of inspiration that they could contemplate in order to make themselves better. Kira is the orchestral director of the University of Tampa. She has also worked at the University of Iowa and the University of New Mexico. In addition, she has conducted and studied in Vienna, Italy, Rotterdam, Amsterdam, and Bulgaria. — Carol Carstensen, editor

alumnae comment

Members of the Rochester Alumnae Chapter — from left, Ruth Heitz, Barbara Noval, Elizabeth Kinney, and Patricia Stott — performed a joint musicale with Mu Phi Epsilon in October.

APRIl 2014ONE TUNNEl ROADASHEvIllE, NC 28805

INTERNATIONAL MUSIC FRATERNITY INTERNATIONAL MUSIC FRATERNITY

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Save the dates — July 23-27, 2015 in St. Louis

Tucson (AZ) Virginia Plaia celebrated her 100th birthday with a party of Tucson Alumnae Chapter friends on Oct. 12, 2013, though her birth date is October 20. Virginia told about her experiences of knowing four founders and being a Sigma Chapter President and delegate to National Convention in Los Angeles. She has been an SAI for 79 years. There is an article about her in PAN PIPES Spring 2004. — Becky Moore, treasurer

Tulsa (OK) The chapter observed its 70th Anniversary on Oct.19, 2013. The celebration took place in Meinig Recital Hall of the Lorton Performance Center at the University of Tulsa. Festivities began with a musicale entitled “With a Song in My Heart.” Trio members included members Aileen Todd (soprano), Kari Caldwell (cello), and SAI Member Laureate Anna Norberg (pianist). Following the musicale was a ten-minute video presentation incorporating photographs of the 70-year history of the chapter. Drawn from the archives, photos included aspects of the chapter’s life which began in November 1943 and ending with a photo taken in 2013. Member anniversaries were observed, with a 50-year certificate being presented to SAI Philanthropies Chairman Sharon Doty and 60-year certificates being presented to Dr. Marilyn Carver and Mary May. The program concluded with the Chapter Anniversary Ceremony led by the chapter’s Vice President, Ritual. Eighteen current and past members

of the chapter participated in the ceremony. A gala reception honoring the anniversary followed, with a beautifully decorated birthday cake as the centerpiece. Special guests included Zeta A Province Officer Hazel Rowena Mills, members of University of Tulsa’s Sigma Gamma Chapter, a number of SAI spouses and family members, and representatives of several other music-related organizations in the city. — Sue Amstutz, editor

Volusia County (FL) In May, we welcomed several brand new alumnae of Stetson University’s Eta Pi chapter who joined us for our dinner and final meeting of the season. We presented the Sword of Honor to Kristin Woolard and the Rose of Dedication to Amy Crane. On Sept. 28, over 150 children enjoyed our 6th annual Instrument Petting Zoo. Many spent the morning going from room to room repeatedly playing instruments – the Orff-instrument room being quite popular. Eta Pi members ably demonstrated the instruments and patiently helped the children handle them. Their assistance is invaluable to us. In November, we held our scholarship competition and presented $1,200 in scholarships to three Eta Pi members: 1st - Alyssa Kemp (voice); 2nd - Erin Coatney (voice); and 3rd - Ashley Oliveto (clarinet). Congratulations to these accomplished musicians! On Jan. 25, 2014 we assisted Eta Pi with their Formal Tea, providing antique and vintage cups, saucers, and tea sets for over 60 people to share the occasion. — Amy Crane, editor

The Tulsa Alumnae Chapter celebrated its 70th anniversary in October at the University of Tulsa.