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Vocal Majority, 1974 District Competition - Jim Clancy Director
| The drive and heart of the VM is their tireless director
Jim Clancy. Mere words cannot describe the emotion he can evoke from the
chorus, nor the love and admiration that the chorus feels for him. Recognized
early by Ray Anthony, Jim was given the reins after the chorus' third place
finish in 1974. He directed the VM in their 1974 District championship
and went on to lead them to their very first gold back in 1975. With the
exception of several months (when Jim temporarily moved west because of
business), Jim has been the inspirational force of the chorus, both in
front of the chorus and behind the scenes.
As an arranger, Jim has the unique ability to hear the VM perform his arrangements in his head before he writes them down, and also has the luxury of an eager chorus on which to test his compositions. Having now directed seven championships, he's tied |
with the legendary Jim Miller (Louisville/ Cincinnati).
Other chapters have attempted to form "little VM's" without success. The
reason? They didn't have Jim Clancy. Truly a modern musical genius.
Internal coaching has played a major part in the VM's successes. They owe much credit to their members who have won quartet gold medals. They're proud to be the home of THREE International Quartet champions - The Dealer's Choice (1973) A' Kvanli, Bill Thornton, Brian Beck, Gary Parker; The Side Street Ramblers (1983) Keith Houts, Brian Beck, Dermis Malone, Earl Hagn; and Acoustix (1990) Todd Wilson, Rick Middaugh, Jason January, Jeff Oxley. Their stories appear elsewhere in this book but suffice to say, the VM couldn't have done it without them. It's ironic that two of the seven "first attempt" winners have come from |
Grannys Show, 1977 - Jim Clancy, Director
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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