Masters of Harmony

Winning in Bakersfield: A Moment to Celebrate

October 2, 2004

Dane Hutchins, Oct 9, 2004

Our win in Bakersfield on October 2nd was clear evidence that the Masters’ hard work ethic, combined with the high-caliber of our directorial and coaching staff, has helped us maintain our performance edge over the other Far Western District choruses. To win by 99 points in one of the most competitive districts in the Society is enough reason to celebrate. Many commented that equally as joyous as the win was experiencing the audience erupting onto their feet in applause and loud cheers when we completed our second song. Isn’t that boisterous accolade from our fans the real reason why we do what we do? Beyond our own win, we can be doubly honored to also know that numerous Masters of Harmony singers, some dual members with other chapters, won a high percentage of the top quartet and chorus awards at this year’s district convention.

The Bakersfield win, our seventh consecutive district championship, was another proud milestone for us. But now that the hoopla of the moment has subsided, we recognize that the tougher task still lies ahead. The 89.8 percent average that won in Bakersfield will almost certainly not be enough to win a gold medal at the 2005 International Chorus Contest in Salt Lake City. Never mind our glorious wins of the past, you can be quite certain that Toronto, Northbrook, Alexandria, and others are not going to allow us to just “coast” to capture this next cherished prize!

Between now and next July, of course, we can count on Mark Hale and all our chorus leaders and coaches to do all they can to help boost our already impressive performance skills to even higher limits. We are looking forward to the challenge!