| Golden Memories | Arlington, Tx. - Good Times Chorus | Chapters |
| charter
members of Arlington. The Golden Triangle chorus members transferred to
Arlington in January 1977 and the Golden Triangle chorus charter
was revoked. But two struggling chapters had united into a viable, on-going
and successful chapter: The new Great Southwest Chorus. Dell Walker was
president during this transition year. When Glenn Hutton was elected president
for 1978 Dell proclaimed, "Now you can try to get this bunch back from
break!". From this point on the Arlington chapter has experienced
peaks and valleys but there are accomplishments and experiences to remember
withsmiles and pride.
Al Roseman directed the Great Southwest Chorus from 1968 through 1970, when the chorus took 7th place in Houston. Grand Prairie music educator Earl Tom Keel came in 1971 to concentrate on good vocal production before that was cool. The chorus did not qualify for District that year, but the sound improved and good singers joined because of Earl Keel. In March of 1972 the Arlington chapter hosted the International Quartet Prelims in Chambers Auditorium, where the Innsiders qualified for their first International contest. The OK 4 headlined the show portion with the Great Southwest Chorus and Miss Grand Prairie. This event attracted a large audience, which boosted attendance at the show in Texas Hall a month later. After this, Earl Keel had to resign for health reasons. He wore himself out taking the Great Southwest chorus up a notch. |
Bob Gilmore came from Town North to help the Great Southwest Chorus qualify
in Lubbock, and compete in the San Antonio contest. This was the final
appearance at a Southwestern District contest for the Great Southwest Chorus,
which never again qualified. In 1973 Bob Gilmore moved to Lubbock
and on to bigger and better accomplishments.
Al Roseman returned and directed the Great Southwest Chorus on the biggest show in the Metroplex, "Harmony Hit Parade". Produced by the Arlington chapter, it featured the Mountain View College Choir, Great Southwest chorus, Big "D", Town North, Vocal Majority, Stage Door 4, numerous chapter quartets, and Dealer's Choice. The finale was fantastic! This show resulted in the biggest Arlington guest night ever, and more new members than could be retained. Membership V.P. John McBride Is still a hero! The Great Southwest chorus did not quality for District in '73,'74 or '75, and Roseman moved to Oklahoma. A' Narramore took on the difficult task of holding the chorus and chapter together until a new director could be located. The Arlington chapter moved to the Arlington Community Center when it opened in 1975. This proved to be an ideal meeting, show and contest facility for many years. The staff and city officials did everything they could to support and promote the chapter. With Al Narramore directing, the 1976 "Barbershop, Beauty Shop and Old Broadway" show featured the Great Southwest Chorus, Greater |
Previous Page |
Contents |
Page |
How It All Began Chapters Chapter Histories International Quartet Champions ChorusesAdministration
Contests and Conventions Registered Quartets Publications Recognitions In Conclusion