On June 30, the term of the 2022-2024 ACDA Eastern Region Board comes to an end. This edition of ChoraLink provides opportunity to reflect and thank the outgoing board as well as to look ahead to exciting plans for continued artistic, educational and philosophical development for the incoming board.
We are fortunate to have been led by 19 accomplished and respected choral musicians who have given selflessly of their time. While their names are always listed on our website, I want to make a point of listing the names and positions of the board members here.
Executive Board
Amanda Hanzlik – President-Elect
Jamie Spillane – President-Elect Designate
Penelope Cruz – Vice President
Robert Natter – Treasurer
Mark A. Boyle – Web Manager/App Chair
Arreon Harley-Emerson – DEI Advisor
Judith Nicosia – Membership Communications Chair
Edryn Coleman – Membership Chair
Repertoire and Resource Chairs
J. Donald Dumpson – Community & Professional Choirs; Music in Worship
Michael Bussewitz-Quarm – Choral Composition
Diana Sáez – World Musics and Cultures
Hana Cai – S/A Choirs
Kevin Dibble – T/B Choirs
Katherine Chan – College and University; Two-Year Colleges; Student Activities
Cheryl B. Engelhardt – Contemporary Commercial
Rebecca Saltzman – Vocal Jazz and A Cappella
Karla McClain – Middle School/Junior High Choirs
Juan Carlos – Tavarez Elementary Choirs
Kendra Balmer – Children and Community Youth Choirs
William Gunn – Senior High Choirs
When so many have given of their time it is not always appropriate to highlight the efforts of one person, but I would like to make special mention of Penelope Cruz. As Vice President, Penelope is completing her six-year term. I first met Penelope at an Eastern Region board meeting in Providence more than 10 years ago. Since that time her service to ACDA has been exemplary and pivotal in helping our organization become more intentional regarding diversity, equity, and inclusion, not only in our region, but also nationally. While I am sure Penelope will continue to be actively involved in ACDA, our organization is very much indebted to her for her vision and leadership. Thank you, Penelope.
I am grateful to all board members for working together to further the choral art in our Region. Thank you to all for your tireless efforts on behalf of the Eastern Region membership.
As for the future, in this edition of ChoraLink you will find a link to a video interview between me and incoming President, Amanda Hanzlik. While many of you are aware of Amanda’s work, the interview will give you insights into her career to date as well as her vision for ACDA Eastern Region over the next two years.
We also have a special final R&R feature for you where board members share repertoire they have taught or performed this year that resonated strongly with them. Hopefully there might be something you can use with your choir next season.
Summer is the season for state conferences. Be sure to check out state chapter web pages to see what opportunities are available.
Thank you for the opportunity to serve ACDA in this capacity – it has been a privilege and a pleasure. On behalf of the Eastern Region Board, we wish you all the very best for a restorative and productive summer.
Christopher Kiver
President, ACDA Eastern Region
SSAA Composer Consortium – August 15 deadline
Herford Dissertation Prize Nomination – June 10 deadline
Richard Kegerreis Scholarship Fund
Please consider contributing to the Richard Kegerreis Scholarship Fund. The purpose of the fund is to help students defray some of the cost of attending a region conference and is in need of replenishing. You can find out more about the fund here:
You can contribute here:
https://www.cognitoforms.com/AmericanChoralDirectorsAssociation/KegerreisScholarshipDonationForm