Golden Memories SWD Chapters
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TYLER, TX
Vocal Express by Buster Barlow |
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The Vocal Express, 1994 - Keith Houts, Director
| In the fall of 1991, 17 men (including director
Keith Houts) from the Greater East Texas chapter began meeting in Tyler
to form a new "musical excellence" chorus. To expedite its formation, the
inactive Palestine, Texas chapter was moved to Tyler and renamed "The Vocal
Express". Tyler's official charter date is March 15, 1992. A meeting place
was eventually located at the First Baptist Church.
In 1994 The Vocal Express won: the small chorus contest in Dallas, Division VI level A chorus contest In Hot Springs, Arkansas and finished the year as Level A chorus champs in Tulsa, OMahoma. In fact, with only 30 voices, placed 4th overall in the 1994 district competition. The consensus of members in 1995 was not to compete since we had climbed those mouutains and won. We had a need to grow in numbers so we could reach the next level of competition. In performing and competing there was a pressing need for risers, uniforms, and sound equipment. During 1995 all of these goals were attained. With the help of a generous gift from V.L. Hooper's widow, Mary, the chapter was able to purchase a state-of-the-art sound system. In lieu of contest travel expenses, chorus members purchased their own uniforms. With proceeds from two well attended shows and Valentine gigs, new risers were purchased. |
In the new year, the chapter expects to hit the contest trail again, hopefully in the AA level with 40 plus members. It's been quite a ride on the Ole Vocal Express after only two years on the tracks.
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Contents |
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How It All Began Chapters Chapter Histories International Quartet Champions ChorusesAdministration
Contests and Conventions Registered Quartets Publications Recognitions In Conclusion