The Union High School Chamber Choir

As many of you know Tanner’s Chamber Choir from Union HS was recently invited to attend the MENC Conference (The National Association for Music Education – Northwest Conference) in Bellevue, Washington this past week.  They were invited as one of four high schools in a six state area (Alaska, Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana and Wyoming) to perform at this conference.  It was quite an honor.

Following their 7 song performance, they received a standing ovation that continued until they were well out of the room. The audience felt the music and messages they were trying to convey.  Their sacred songs brought tears to many in the audience and their Indian piece had jaws dropped in utter surprise and disbelief.

Tanner has been involved in this choir since his sophomore year, which is quite an accomplishement.  The choir consists of 33 students (mostly juniors and seniors) chosen by the director, Mr. Iverson, through an intense audition process.  Tanner acknowledges his training in the piano has given him a great advantage (I think I even have gotten a few "Thank you, Mom, for making me do it.").  These students meet in class everyday during the school year and are also members of the Select Men's and Women's ensembles.  They all have had advanced training in sol-fege, sight-reading, and rhythm reading.  Besides their class hours, these dedicated students have rehearsed up to five hours per week outside of class time for two months leading up to this performance.

Tanner's choir is not new in the spotlight.  They have received many awards and honors.  For example, they have placed in all categories in the State Solo and Ensemble Contests since their formation.  Last year Tanner helped the Select Men's Ensemble win 1st place at the WIAA State Solo and Ensemble Contest for the third year in a row.  They are hoping for a fourth win this year.

We are the U!

Valentine, Be Mine!

I think one of the traditions my kids look forward to the most in our home is our Valentine's Dinner.  I started this years ago as a way to teach my kids proper table manners, and they have really enjoyed it.  I usually send my family a special invitation inviting them to a formal valentine dinner.   In the beginning we focused a lot on the basics like chewing with your mouth closed and saying please and thank you.  From there we advanced to where to put your napkin, which fork to use, proper table conversation, etc.   We even had a dance after dinner one year where we taught proper dance etiquette.  Lots of fun memories!

This year I had just finished reading the book, Prayers for Sale by Sandra Dallas.  I loved how the main character in the book kept history alive by storytelling.  I realized I don't tell my kids enough stories.  I talked to Eric about this and we decided to make this night a storytelling night about our families history.  Eric put together a little quiz about our courtship and marriage to see what the kids knew about us.  How did we meet?  What was our first date?  When did Dad try and kiss Mom for the first time?  How many times did Dad propose?  How long did we date before we got engaged?  The kids loved the answers, but most of all the stories that went along with them.  It made us real to them, not just Mom and Dad.

My valentine gave me these gorgeous roses
with a sweet card saying he still had the biggest crush on me,
then to show me he took the day off work
and helped me prepare for our dinner.

Since this night I am trying to tell more stories about my life and the people I love to my children.  I hope it will help them understand who I am and build strength in our relationships.