The Martha's Vineyard Times The Martha's Vineyard Times
The Martha's Vineyard Times The Martha's Vineyard Times The Martha's Vineyard Times
The Martha's Vineyard Times The Martha's Vineyard Times

Music

Kristopher Hauck
Kristopher Hauck rehearses with Vineyard A Cappella. Photos by Ralph Stewart

In perfect harmony

By Mary-Jean Miner - October 26, 2006

Vineyard A Cappella, an exciting new singing group, has been rehearsing at the Federated Church in Edgartown for several months. Originally the brainchild of Kristopher Hauck, former music teacher at the Edgartown School, the singers form sort of a chamber group. Feeling the need for a small, unaccompanied singing group here on the Island, Mr. Hauck approached the other singers, who responded with enthusiasm. "I wanted to create a chamber group just for the enjoyment of singing with a small group," said Mr. Hauck, "and this ensemble of talented singers has filled that space where something seemed to be missing. It's great fun." His thoughts were echoed by Glenn Carpenter, who sang with Island A Cappella during its years of performing.

"Since 1999 no local a cappella group has been here," Glenn said, mentioning that Vineyard Sound is here only in the summertime each year. "It's a great thing to get together and sing, year-round," he added.

Jordan Winderl, who is in her second year of teaching music in the West Tisbury School, has been a great asset to the group, serving as musical director and accompanist while the singers are learning their parts. Now that they are ready for a concert, Jordan has joined the alto section. "It's nice to be in a performing group," she said, "because, as a teacher, you're always on the other side." She and Kris share the director's duties - both are accomplished musicians.

Brad Austin, Jennifer Sanders, and Pam Butterick
(From left) Brad Austin, Jennifer Sanders, and Pam Butterick ready for this Saturday's premiere concert at the Federated Church in Edgartown.

The premiere concert of Vineyard A Cappella will be held this Saturday, Oct. 28, at 7:30 pm, at the Federated Church meetinghouse. "We wanted to thank the church for providing rehearsal space, so we volunteered to give our very first concert there, as a benefit for the church's Steeple Fund," said Pamela Butterick, soprano, and member of the Steeple Fund Committee. The suggested donation is $10, with kids admitted free.

The program will be highly eclectic, ranging from early Madrigal songs and folk music, up to and including hits by Billy Joel, the Beatles, among others: "The Silver Swan"; "In These Delightful, Pleasant Groves"; "'Alleluia,' from Shrek"; "Shenandoah"; "You Are the New Day"; and "And So It Goes." This is truly a family event, with something for everyone. There will be a gala reception following the concert in the Parish House, with all invited.

Along with Ms. Butterick, Mr. Carpenter, Ms. Winderl, and Mr. Hauck (all members of the Federated Church choir), singers Brad Austin, Jane Loutzenhiser, Jean Lewellyn, Bruce Lewellyn, and Jennifer Sanders will be featured. Many of these vocalists were part of the recent Island Theatre Workshop's presentation of "H.M.S Pinafore," and appear regularly with the Island Community Chorus.

Vineyard A Cappella concert, Saturday, Oct. 28, 7:30 pm, Federated Church meetinghouse, 45 S. Summer Street, Edgartown. $10 suggested donation; children free. Reception immediately following in the Parish House. Call 508-627-4421 for more information.

Mary-Jean Miner is a freelance writer who lives in Tisbury with two retired racing greyhounds. She frequently writes about classical music and art.