THE INTERNATIONAL MUSIC FRATERNITY NEWSLETTER SEPT …

2Province

Days

3Collegiate Chapter

Comment

5Alumnae Chapter

Comment

THE INTERNATIONAL MUSIC FRATERNITY NEWSLETTER

u Epsilon of George Mason University won the first competition held by SAI to create a fraternity-wide membership recruitment video.

Submitted videos had to match the following criteria:• Two minutes or less in length• Generic – not chapter specific – for all chapters’ use• Must be a YouTube video link• Wearing of letters, singing, etc. welcomed and encouraged• Positive, upbeat, and eye-catching The NEB enjoyed reviewing each of the submissions. While all the videos had wonderful music and enthusiasm, Mu Epsilon’s recruitment video was chosen as the winner. Chapters will be able to access this video by requesting it from the Multimedia Director in the near future. Thank you to all the participants in this first-ever collegiate chapter competition.

Mu Epsilon Video Wins SAI Competition

SEPT2016

Gregory Dickens PUBLICATIONS

MANAGER Ruth Sieber Johnson

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Linda McAlpinALUMNAE

COMMENT EDITORCONTACT US828.251.0606

[email protected]

Mu Epsilon’s membership recruitment video is the winner of the first such competition for SAI. Spring has sprung, and new things were

blooming in SAI, including a new chapter! SAI’s newest chapter, Mu Sigma, was

installed on Sunday, April 3, at Lincoln University in Oxford, PA. The ladies of Mu Sigma had the honor of two National Executive Board members at their installation. Beth Lopez, NVP-Extension, installed the chapter, while Jessica Chichester, NVP-Collegiate Chapters, was in attendance, along with Region VIII RO Mary Jennings. The sisters of Chi A were present to welcome the 22 new sisters to SAI. An emotional and uplifting Musicale followed the Initiation/Installation Ceremony, which was well attended by Chi A sisters, family members, and students from many other campus organizations, including the gentlemen from their Phi Mu Alpha Colony who serenaded the ladies of Mu Sigma and presented them with roses. It was a beautiful day of sisterhood, and congratulations to all the sisters of Mu Sigma!

— Mary Frances Bushong, Chi A PO

Mu Sigma became a chartered chapter of SAI on April 3, 2016, at Lincoln University of Pennsylvania, expanding the Chi A Province in Region VIII. Beth Lopez, NVP-Extension, conducted the initiation and installation.

Mu Sigma Charters in Chi A Province

Tempo! • September 2016 • sai-national.org

2 province days

ALPHA B lpha B sisters gathered at Dalton Center at Western Michigan University on April 9 for a Province Day, hosted by Beta Eta, filled with sisterhood, joy, learning, and music. Formal Opening

and Closing ceremonies and the Memorial Ritual were included in the day. Each guest received a “welcome bag” filled with an SAI–stamped pencil and red-and-white M&Ms printed with our Greek letters and roses. These items were used in a “Get-to-Know-Your Sister” ice breaker. Motivational and engaging presentations were given by Ibe Sodawalla, Legends Drum and Bugle Corps Director and WMU Bronco Marching Band arranger, and WMU Flute Professor Martha Councell-Vargas, National Arts Associate and Beta Eta Chapter Advisor. A portion of the Phlea-Phlam proceeds was sent to SAI Philanthropies. The musicale was presented by several Beta Eta women. The day closed with “So Near, So Dear” and the WMU Alma Mater “Brown and Gold.” Even though Alpha B Province Day was held in April, several sisters were not able to make it to Kalamazoo due to a spring snow storm. Those who “braved the weather” had a rose-y day! — Sally Roach, Alpha B PO

BETA A AND BETA B he Beta A and Beta B Provinces held our annual Province Day at Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne on April 9, hosted by Zeta Psi. Over 90 women from both provinces, and at

least one member from almost every chapter were in attendance.Our registration opened on a cold and snowy morning with breakfast provided by the Fort Wayne Alumnae Chapter, optional yoga, and a lot of socializing. After the Opening Ceremony, Beta A PO Ashley Reed read a letter from National President Leslie Odom Miller, and Zeta Psi President Megan Misner welcomed everyone to the campus and Fort Wayne. Two workshops followed, one with Director of Piano Studies and Indiana Music Teacher of the Year Dr. Hamilton Tescarollo and the other with Professor Peggy Farlow. After these workshops, everyone was invited to attend a lecture by Dr. Melanie Bookout regarding the Chicago-based patroness of the arts, Frances Macbeth Glessner. Lunch was held in the very beautiful International Ballroom, before returning to the music building for a wonderful and interactive masterclass with French jazz singer Guylenn Delassus. Several more workshops followed, including a leadership lecture, a Taiko drum demonstration by two members of the Fort Wayne Alumnae Chapter, and a music therapy session with Dr. Nancy Jackson. The alumnae and collegiate forums, moderated by the province officers, and the “Bringing Convention Home” presentation completed our activities. After a round of singing our favorite SAI songs, we held the Closing Ceremony and headed to Phlea-Phlam to close out our day. We had a marvelous time, and thank you to Zeta Psi for being wonderful hosts! — Kendra McFarland, Beta B PO

CHI A he sisters of Delta Alpha hosted this year’s Province Day on April 9 at Lebanon Valley College. Although the calendar said spring, Mother Nature disagreed, as she dropped about 3 inches of snow

on us. Despite the weather, it was a successful day. Delta Alpha initiated Dr. Mark Mecham, retired professor and former music chair, as a Friend of

Here are the Alpha B sisters working on crafts at Alpha B Province Day.

This photo includes all members in attendance at Pi A Province Day including members from Eta Epsilon, Epsilon Phi, Epsilon Omega, Kansas City Alumnae Chapter, and Springfield Alumnae Chapter. Front and center is Dixie Lou Morris, former National Vice President, Extension (center right) and Pi A Province Officer Pat Setser (center left).

Continued on page 8

sai-national.org • September 2016 • Tempo!

3THETA — Washburn (KS) University The chapter hosted a lucrative fundraiser this summer. On June 2-4, our beautiful SAI sisters ran a garage sale out of the homes of our philanthropies committee chairman Marya Feldt and Washburn music professor Dr. Rebecca Meador. This effort raised more than $450 in profit for our chapter, which we look forward to using for great things this upcoming school year! We can thank these sisters for their efforts: sophomore Sienna Haynes; junior Josey Trimble; seniors Marya Feldt, McKenzie Buttron, and Annastasia Glover; as well as our amazing treasurer and fundraising chairman Alicia Schoenberger.While this fundraiser was a big financial win for our cherished sisterhood, it also marked the coming of a much more sentimental celebration. On the last day of the sale, we received word that Caitlyn Priddy (recent Washburn graduate and beloved SAI sister) had just gotten engaged to her boyfriend Nick! This news came as a wonderful surprise, and we embraced the happy moment with contented hearts. We also look forward to the union of SAI sister Bailey Seetin and her fiancé Greg in July. Blissful moments such as these weddings bring our SAI family closer together and herald a bright and happy future for our chapter. — Annastasia Glover, editor

NU – Millikin University, Decatur, IL

Chapter members and members of the Decatur Alumnae Chapter recently celebrated the retirement of Dr. Michael Luxner, an SAI National Arts Associate. On June 1, Dr. Luxner completed 20 successful years of conducting the Millikin-Decatur Symphony Orchestra and teaching

music courses on campus. He has loyally supported the activities of Nu Chapter and refers to all of the SAI collegiate members as his sisters. Dr. Luxner’s retirement celebration featured a surprise guest, SAI Honorary member Rachel Barton Pine. She and Dr. Luxner have been close friends since she performed as a violin soloist with the orchestra 20 years ago. She has returned to perform with the symphony orchestra several times between 1996 and 2016, the years when Dr. Luxner was the conductor. Ms. Barton Pine is a favorite performer of central Illinois audiences. At the end of the retirement celebration, more than 50 SAI members presented Dr. Luxner with a single red rose and sang to him. This final shower of affection brought tears to the eyes of everyone in attendance. The Luxners will soon be moving to Maine where they own a home. Chapter members and the entire Decatur community will miss Michael Luxner and his wife, Karla, who also is a recently retired Millikin University professor. – Allie Wilson, president

DELTA PHI — Mansfield (PA) University This past spring semester, Delta Phi established a relationship with the Girl Scouts in the Mansfield area. We attended one of their events on campus where sisters sang with the girls and talked about leadership. We’re excited to continue working with them in the future. We participated in our campus’s Relay for Life and were honored to be asked to sing during one of the ceremonies. A student from our music department arranged the song “Flashlight” for us to sing at the event. We tried a new fundraiser that we called “Pipes of Pancakes.” Anyone passing through our music building enjoyed freshly made pancakes with toppings! We spent much of the semester making preparations for our Alumnae Luncheon, and it all came together on May 1. Many sisters returned for the 50th Anniversary of the Concert Choir so it was the perfect time to get together, enjoy a potluck lunch, connect with old sisters, and meet some new. Our circle filled the room when we sang “The SAI Chorale” which was a very touching moment. We ended our semester by initiating 6 new sisters but were saddened to say goodbye to 3 sisters. — Kelsey Hurst, editor

THETA ALPHA — The Ohio State University “The best way to find yourself, is to lose yourself in the service of others.” The sisters of Theta Alpha have been living this Gandhi quote this past semester. The sisters performed at a local nursing home and played classic Disney tunes for the patients of Nationwide’s Children’s Hospital. Our biggest service project was Girl Scout Day where we helped over 49 girl scouts obtain their musician badge. The sisters taught the girls how to conduct to their favorite pop songs, create their own kazoos and maracas, perform on the instruments they created, and learn about composers like Beethoven, Bach, and John Williams. Additionally, we got help from SAI alumnae who are now graduate students who talked about what it is like to be a band director. Finally, the sisters performed saxophone, tuba, and flute solos along with flute and trombone duets. Many of the sisters performed either classical or Disney pieces for the girls. Girl Scout Day was a success, and it was a day the sisters will never forget. We can’t wait to serve the community more next semester! Love and Roses! — Abigail Pryor, vice president, membership

The retirement of National Arts Associate Dr. Michael Luxner, left, is celebrated by SAI Honorary Member Rachel Barton Pine and, in back, Meganna Miller, Nu chapter vice president-ritual, and Jasmine Acosta, chapter secretary.

collegiate comment


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THETA OMEGA – Texas State University On April 2, six sisters performed in the world premiere of Lady Bird: First Lady of the Land, a one-act opera presented by Texas State Opera Theatre. Vocalists Emily Evans, Bailey Galindo, Audrey Harris, Elizabeth Shults, and Cambrey Willhelm, along with oboist Emily Edwards, all did an amazing job bringing the story of Lady Bird Johnson to life. After the show, sisters along with other cast members were greeted by Luci Baines Johnson, the youngest daughter of past Texas State graduate and U.S. President Lyndon B. Johnson and his wife, former First Lady, Lady Bird Johnson. Sisters involved in the show along with those in the audience all left feeling moved by the beautiful production that showcased many acts of patriotism, courage, and love. Congratulations to our six beautiful SAIs and the rest of the opera program! — Celeste Ramirez, editor

MU KAPPA — Western Illinois University The chapter has had an eventful year to say the least. Over the past year, we have initiated 18 new beautiful women into our cherished sisterhood. We owe our gratitude to our sister and vice president, membership Alyssa Burno who oversaw the recruitment and training of our newly initiated members. Not only did we double our chapter’s size, but we have also significantly increased our philanthropic efforts on the Western Illinois University campus and within the Macomb community. We began our year with a scholarship benefit hosted by the Episcopal Church of St. George. Some of our members performed vocal and ukulele music in conjunction with other members of the community. Together, we helped raise $1,000 in scholarships that are awarded to students of the arts. A few months later, our chapter sponsored the event “Life is a Cabaret!” in conjunction with the Kiwanis Club of McDonough County to benefit the weekend backpack programs for children in the West Prairie School District. Members of our chapter sang and played ukulele alongside other members of the community, offered face painting, and collected prizes for the door raffle. The Reverend of the Episcopal Church of St. George has been giving the chapter scholarship money for summer music camps in exchange for us singing each Sunday. Not only do we sing at the church, we have also recently started our own “canned food drive,” in which sisters from our chapter bring canned goods to meetings, and sisters bring them to the church for the offering.

The chapter has also been bringing the joy of music to local retirement homes, Wesley Village and Everly House of Macomb. Every other Saturday, a group of sisters goes to one of these retirement homes and sings and plays for the residents. All of these wonderful service projects would not have been possible without the leadership of our service chairperson, Kayla Kammermeyer. We are grateful to our fundraising chairperson, Madison Thielsen, who coordinated fundraisers such as: bake sales, Yankee Candle sale, cookie dough sale, and a Lip Sync Battle/Ice Cream Social. We have also held various social events this year coordinated by our social chairperson, Hannah Becker, including Zumba nights, bowling nights, volleyball, and pumpkin carving. The Annual Lady’s Weekend is an event in which sisters invite their mothers or other female family members to share in fun, fellowship, and the love of music. All took part in a sing-off, making a rose craft, the “newly wed” game, and taking pictures with the cutout SAI letters. — Janelle A. Gerstein, editor

MU LAMBDA — Wingate (NC) University The chapter is excited to announce our new president, Mrs. Bethany Dycus Bonner, and look forward to the upcoming school year! This past semester, we initiated our first patroness member, Dr. Nana Wolfe-Hill. At Wingate, she teaches women’s choir, advanced women’s ensemble, choral conducting and choral methods. In April, we were honored to host the Tau B Province Day. As a new chapter, we were thrilled to have that opportunity and also had a wonderful time bonding with our sisters from across the province! We look forward to hosting again in the future. This semester, two of our sisters, Bethany Bonner and Elizabeth Underwood were awarded the Sword of Honor. In May, we celebrated Commencement with eight of our sisters: Jamie Billups, Kathryne Lavender, and Alexys Lewis and charter members Dorothy Eddings, Catherine Edwards, Megan Lacy, Aryn O’Connor, and Elizabeth Underwood. In June, we were honored to be able to celebrate two weddings with our sisters! Bethany Dycus and Patrick Bonner were married in Raleigh, NC, on June 11, and Catherine Edwards and Robert Summerell were married in Winston-Salem, NC, on June 12. — Sarah Towner, editor

collegiate comment

Delta Phi’s initiation on April 20, featured the newest sisters wearing their letters for the first time.

Send collegiate chapter submissions to [email protected]. Send photo submissions to Gregory Dickens at [email protected].

Mu Kappa’s Spring initiates with chapter VPM, Alyssa Burno


5Buffalo (NY) — As musicians, we think about how the music we perform encompasses so many things at once: melody, harmony, phrasing, and rhythm, which sometimes get short shrift in our focus. If you’re a percussionist, you know your focus isn’t always the primary focus for pianists, singers, organists, and instrumentalists. Our members got a real lesson in how tricky percussion accuracy and ensemble work can be! On April 9, member Debbie Imiolo led non-percussionists in a “Hands-On Orff Workshop.” Debbie teaches Orff instruments to students at Heritage Heights Elementary School in Amherst, NY. Our Founders’ Day Celebration was held at the home of Carol Murphy on June 11. A highlight of the celebration was the presentation of fifty-year SAI membership certificates to two chapter members: Jane Cary, initiated into Sigma Iota at Syracuse University, and Marilyn Obermeyer, initiated into Sigma Theta at Eastman School of Music in Rochester. Looking back on our wonderful year, we thank all the chapter members who have enriched the lives of so many people of all ages in Western New York with their continued dedication to musical excellence.

— Carole Harris, editor

Charlotte (NC) — In April, we joyfully celebrated one year as a reinstalled chapter! We have committed ourselves to supporting the newest collegiate chapters in our area: Mu Lambda at Wingate University and Mu Nu at Winthrop University. We are also providing support for the Union Symphony Youth Orchestra in Union County, NC. Our chapter continues to grow, exceeding our goals. Over the course of the year, we affiliated a total of seven new members: Megan Armstrong from Delta Gamma; Charity Bowman from Eta Theta; Katelyn Chase from Sigma Lambda; Carmen Ensley from Eta Theta; Debbie Lesher from Beta Zeta; Sarah Madsen from Lambda Upsilon; and Alyse Scurlock from Delta Gamma. — Melinda Lein, editor

Chicago (IL) — On a beautiful April afternoon, members of the Chicago Alumnae Chapter presented “Music for a Spring Day” at the Covenant Home in Chicago. Sister SAI Virginia Frank, a resident, was the Honoree. Those in attendance enjoyed “April Showers,” along with music from “Wildcat” and “Wonderful Copenhagen” from the movie, Hans Christian Anderson, sung by the Sigma Alpha Iota Trio — Kay Bobis, Linda Parapetti, and Gail Swerdlik. Allison Smith, with accompaniment by Angela Yang, featured familiar music from Carousel and The New Moon. Allison included “SAI Garden” in her vocal grouping. Clarinetist Agnes Smith added to the musicale by playing the movie theme from Forrest Gump. Gershwin’s “Someone to Watch Over Me” by pianist Kay Bobis helped in the reminiscing. The audience enjoyed Angela Yang’s strumming the “Beatles Song” on her ukulele. The musicale concluded with everyone singing “So Near, So Dear is SAI.” Many musical moments were “planted” for a wonderful musical afternoon. — Gloria Messerschmidt, editor

Dallas (TX) — In May, a brunch was held at the home of Ericka Pack. Several sisters received awards: Kelly Kasle received the Sword of Honor, and Betsy Durnin received the Rose of Honor. Missy Lofton and Janice Lindstrom were recognized as twenty-five-year members. Joyce Patton, Kendyl Drayer, and Jordan Drayer were installed as new officers. The chapter donated two cornets and two trombones to member Jackie Akin’s band program at Carey Middle School in Dallas, assisted by the generosity of Mark Williamson of Williamson Music Company in Dallas. Karen Kimball spearheaded the Concert Listening Enrichment for Seniors (CLEFS) project with several members giving music appreciation presentations at a local senior retirement community. With donations from chapter members, Jane Aten sponsored several students at a music camp

where she is teaching this summer in the Ukraine. Scholarships were presented to SAI collegiate members at the University of North Texas in Denton (Iota Theta) and Texas A&M University, Commerce (Mu Theta), and to a music student at Southern Methodist University. A scholarship was given in memory of Marion Flagg to a Dallas Independent School District music teacher. Jane Samford was awarded the 2016 Dallas Alumnae Chapter Scholarship. A memorial service for Iota Theta initiate and chapter member Kalva Scott was held in April. — Betsy Durnin, editor

Dayton (OH) — Several members of the Dayton Alumnae Chapter have received high honors lately. Earlier in the year, President Robin Dodge presented the Wreath of Achievement to Patti Rapp, former chapter president and former province officer. At the annual picnic in June 2016, Priscilla Acuff and Marian Farley were awarded the Rose of Honor. Both are former chapter presidents. Priscilla has held a number of offices, and Marian served as treasurer for many years. At our April meeting, a beautiful concert of flute music was presented by Zeta Iota initiate Pam Rauch, a professional flutist. Devane Hargis, University of Dayton SAI scholarship winner, presented a program of music for several percussion instruments. — Marilyn Floridis Tolnitch, editor

East Bay (CA) — The chapter, based in the San Francisco Bay Area, is excited to congratulate one of our oldest members, Ariel Witbeck, on a phenomenal achievement! She has been recognized by Diablo Valley College & Holy Names University with an award named in her honor. The Ariel Witbeck Award is now part of the annual Young Artist String Competition put on by the two institutions and is bestowed on the student that gives the most outstanding bass or cello performance. Our chapter also awarded Ariel the Rose of Constancy this year as homage to her generous and unwavering involvement in the music community. The chapter presented the second annual benefit concert for Contra Costa Interfaith Housing, which serves homeless families throughout the Bay Area. The upcoming year will bring new community partnerships and fundraising efforts, and we look forward to continuing our scholarship programs with local schools and music competitions. — Megan C. Delventhal, editor

Evanston (IL) — “Music in Nature” was our theme this year. Our programs were about mating calls and bird songs. Brigette Demke and Wendy Weigers gave a beautiful musicale of Music About Nature. We even learned about the Shofar and had a demonstration by chapter member Stephanie William. Six of us attended the Gamma A Province Day at Northern Illinois University early in spring. Then in May we headed off to the Lake Forest Symphony to hear Jim Stephenson’s Concerto No. 2 for Trumpet, “Rextreme” with the Shostakovich Symphony No. 5, and the Bizet Carmen Suite. We finished the evening with a wonderful Russian meal prepared by Wendy Weigers. We provided our annual Instrument Petting Zoo for the Evanston Public Library as part of the Summer Reading Program. As usual, it was a big hit with the kids and the library. It was exciting for the kids to be able to try the instruments. For many it was their first time to touch a musical instrument. We sang the “Star Spangled Banner” with the help of the LaGrange Alumnae Chapter at the Schaumberg Boomer’s baseball game. We plan to end the summer with a few Ravinia concerts watching the Chicago Symphony and picnicking. — Ronda Otway, editor

alumnae comment


6Fort Wayne (IN) — Our chapter hosted a breakfast table at the Beta Province Day on April 9. The SAI message and influence continues to grow in our community including our support of the Manchester Symphony. Six members were recognized with honors: Jackie Hinsey, Tess Reiling, and Trudy Spat received the Rose of Honor. Sue Jehl, Mary Michalak , and Colleen Tan received the Fort Wayne Alumnae Chapter Award. Our SAI year concluded with our annual Family Picnic at the home of Betsy Gephart. Members brought a dish to share, and Betsy’s husband, Geoff, was the grill chef. Several children were a part of the fun, and we all enjoyed spending time with the family members and hearing the funny (and embarrassing) stories that the spouses told. The evening ended with a sing-along from the SAI Songbook, accompanied by Pauline Eversole. Our 2016-2017 yearbook is now in electronic format, which will be a great savings in printing and mailing costs. — Jackie Hinsey, editor

Grand Rapids and Kalamazoo (MI) — On June 26, the sisters of the Kalamazoo and Grand Rapids Alumnae Chapters came together for a wonderful afternoon of sisterhood and fellowship at Wayland City Park. Bringing back a popular tradition in Alpha B Province, this year’s picnic was a fun opportunity to meet other sisters living in West Michigan. This year we were joined by Province Officer Sally Roach and her husband, Friend of the Arts James Roach. After we shared our picnic lunch, members of both chapters presented the Founders’ Day Ritual followed by some songs in the SAI Songbook. This event allowed us to strengthen our bonds as sisters, not only among our chapter members, but with other members within our province. Many members of both chapters were collegiate sisters together at Beta Eta and had an opportunity to reconnect with one another, while others were meeting for the first time. We shared ideas, stories, laughter, and song and left the picnic with new friends, a greater sense of sisterhood, and a renewed excitement to serve our beloved Sigma Alpha Iota. — Elizabeth Barry, editor

Madison (WI) — The chapter has had a busy spring, hosting Province Day in Madison on April 16. Epsilon A sisters gathered for a day of education, ritual, and sisterhood. The May meeting featured harpist and chapter member Sylvia O’Connor offering instruction on harp technique and a beautiful performance. The sixth Annual Intergenerational Organ Recital was held in June at Bethany United Methodist Church in Madison. Performers included SAI alumnae members, a patroness, and guests. We look forward to our annual coffee get- together in August.

— Betsy Dunne, editor

Midland (MI) — Our chapter provided festive music for a holiday party in December 2015. We had instrumentalists, singers, and piano solos to help the Midland County Employees get into the holiday spirit while providing the chapter with funds for our outreach projects. In February 2016, eight sisters joined forces and sewing machines to make new robes for the Theta Eta sisters before their spring initiation. Sherry Allen finished the eight robes at home, applying the final touches. We also began a new service project called Senior Life Enhancement Project. Gaye Terwillegar met with staff at Stratford Village, a local nursing home. SAI members sign up for semi-monthly visits to play piano, lead sing-alongs, and use rhythm instruments. Participating members report joy and satisfaction from residents. The project was sparked by an article in PAN PIPES about music and cognition in the elderly. In March, the sisters helped local school choral directors with their “Celebrate Choirs” festival at the First United Methodist Church. Four Midland schools and two choirs from Bay City Public Schools participated.

The chapter provided lunch for the teachers and adjudicators and donated money to help the teachers pay accompanists and adjudicators for their time and expertise. — Susan Gessford, editor

Milwaukee (WI) — Awards were presented at a formal business meeting on May 16 at the home of Jill Anderson. Marjorie Fowler received the Rose of Honor from chapter president Tammy Enevold. Marj has most recently served as vice president, ritual. President Tammy Enevold presented chapter members Suzanne Freshley and Martha Stoner with fifty-year membership certificates. Suzanne has most recently served as chapter treasurer and historian. Martha has most recently served as chair of the fundraising committee and co-chair of the music education committee. Chapter member Rita Adams was also recognized at the May meeting and received her seventy-five-year membership certificate at the senior care facility where she resides. — Jill K. Anderson, editor

Reno (NV) — Two young musicians were chosen by the chapter to receive scholarships to Lake Tahoe Music Camp this summer. Katie Cahill, an eighth-grade clarinet and alto saxophone player, won a full scholarship and two private lessons. Eta Omicron provided a further half-scholarship and one private lesson for Austine Peng, an accomplished fifteen-year-old pianist, violinist, and clarinetist, who has already won multiple awards in Taiwan and the United States. Amanda Craig, our new treasurer, received the Sword of Honor. Along with several other members, she established our new recorder ensemble, which will perform at future meetings. On the spur of the moment, president Jen Erikson gathered a large group of SAI families to attend a performance of the Reno Pops, where Linda Brown is not only violinist but also production manager. The June family barbecue featured a potluck supper and back-yard movie at the home of Kate Kirkpatrick and Patroness Beverly Kirkpatrick and family. Helen Lee and Ann Owen were in Brussels for lunch at that time with Helen’s tour group of Taiwanese-Americans. Ann spends about half-time living in Brussels, playing chamber music with her ensemble that has been performing for about 30 years. She and her husband recently hosted Henry Kramer, an American pianist who took second prize in the prestigious Queen Elisabeth Competition in Belgium. — Ann Owen, editor

Rochester (NY) — Sisters from the chapter enjoyed lunch at a local restaurant with the collegiate sisters of Sigma Theta at Eastman School of Music in February. Lively discussions between the sisters could be heard at every table. We left with warm feelings despite the cold in the air.

alumnae comment

Milwaukee Alumnae President Tammy Enevold presented chapter members Suzanne Freshley and Martha Stoner with fifty-year membership certificates.


7 In April, we presented our Spring Musicale, and in June we met at the home of Shirley Blandino for a Founders’ Day picnic. — Holly Barry, editor

Rockford (IL) — On May 22, the chapter celebrated their sixtieth anniversary at the Forest Hills Country Club in Rockford, IL. The event was attended by past and present members of the chapter, as well as Province Officer Jennifer Shaw Wolter and Regional Officer Peggy Glennie. In honor of this celebration, the chapter commissioned a piece of music from Rockford native composer Joel Ross. He was in attendance and accompanied the SAI sisters as they performed the piece publicly for the first time. Members of the chapter also performed. Overall, it was a lovely celebration that will be remembered for many years. — Lindsay Guinand, editor

San Antonio (TX) — The chapter ushered in 2016 by attending Kappa A Province Day at University of Texas at San Antonio. Our members supported the hosting chapter, Theta Gamma, by providing breakfast on Saturday and helping with set-up and serving lunch. Alumnae member Teresa West Gray presented a session on the role that music and movement plays on the brain development of young children. It is one of our chapter’s great joys to support and mentor the sisters of our local collegiate chapter. Our annual Divas and Desserts fundraiser was held in February. As always, the homemade desserts were delicious and enjoyed by all in attendance. New this year was a silent auction, which was deemed a success. The afternoon of beautiful music culminated with the alumnae chapter members gathering on stage with members of Theta Gamma to join in singing “So Near, So Dear” and the SAI Chorale. — Teresa West Gray, editor

St. Louis (MO) — Co-presidents Julie Hoffman and Cindy Schellenberg worked hard to invigorate our chapter. We affiliated eight new members and initiated Dr. Robert Hart Baker as a National Arts Associate. We discussed highlights of the 2015 National Convention at an opening tea, toured an exhibit of the Hartenberger World Music Collection with local Mu Phi Epsilon alumnae, awarded $2,000 at our annual scholarship competition, watched a keynote presentation about Franz Liszt, supported the local collegiate chapter, enjoyed performances by chapter musicians (pianists, vocalists, and string players) at musicales, and celebrated a successful year at our annual spring luncheon. — Jayne I. Hanlin, editor

Tacoma (WA) — The February 2016 meeting was held at the home of Maxine Levy in Federal Way. The musicale featured soprano Karen Oleson and her husband Tim Strong, pianist. Bessie Ish, recent University of Puget Sound graduate, was affiliated. In March, a public program was held at Tacoma Community College Auditorium. The guest speaker was Jennifer Krikawa, who, with her husband, is a cofounder of the Vashon Opera Company. The annual Alumnae Brunch took place at Kilworth Chapel on the University of Puget Sound campus on April 23. The musicale featured a vocal trio of alumnae members and three musical numbers by Beta Delta collegiate members. Each graduating Beta Delta member received an Austrian crystal red rose and a floral red rose. Joanne Iverson and Karen Oleson received the Wreath of Achievement, and Karen Wiley received the

Rose of Dedication. Roses were presented to Sue Docken and Sara Brauner for their outstanding work for the chapter, as well as to fifty-year and sixty-year members. Sue Docken hosted the May meeting in Edgewood. Erin Guinup received the Rose of Honor. Patti Cohenour was initiated as a National Arts Associate. Following officer reports, installation of new officers took place. Before adjourning, Sue Docken presented retiring president Joanne Iverson with a summer hat and a large planter. — Dr. Evangeline Rimbach, editor

Tampa (FL) — Fun-loving Tampa alumnae gathered to help elementary music students “make merry” in MacDill Park during the Tampa Riverfest. “Music Mayhem on the Riverwalk” — a highlight of the popular downtown event — drew participants and guests from all around Hillsborough County on April 30. Tampa sisters look forward to volunteering again next year. Talented youth performed noteworthy numbers in chorus, Orff instruments, steel drums, strings, and world drumming ensembles. Chapter members served as stagehands in between acts, setting up and breaking down instruments and chairs. When not on duty, the SAI team chimed in with plenty of enthusiastic claps, cheers, and whistles to support youth who love music. — Theo Boylan, corresponding secretary

Tulsa (OK) — When May rolls around each year, it is all SAI hands on deck as the local chapters join forces to work a coupon booth for downtown Tulsa’s annual arts festival, Mayfest. Proceeds from working the booth during the four days of Mayfest go into the Mary Bowles Memorial Scholarship Fund which provides an annual award to a member of Sigma Gamma Chapter at the University of Tulsa. In May of 2016, workers included alumnae and patroness members, Sigma Gamma collegiate members, our Zeta A Province Officer Hazel Rowena Mills, and assorted spouses, family members, and friends. The chapter receives a $2,000 stipend for sponsoring the coupon booth; 2016 was the fifth consecutive year in which SAIs worked hard, had fun, and provided a community service to Tulsa and its Mayfest participants. — Sue Amstutz, editor

Volusia County (FL) — The chapter, located in the Daytona Beach-DeLand area of Florida, is small but thriving. Lambda C Province Day was held at Stetson University in DeLand in April 2016. Our chapter was asked to plan a service project that would fill 90 minutes. President Jennie Lee contacted area nursing homes and found three who wanted us to come and present a sing-along for residents. With the help of Reader’s Digest songbooks, we selected a dozen songs that the residents would know and divided the Province Day guests into three groups. We practiced the songs and then got into cars and drove to the three venues. Amy Crane and Jennie Lee accompanied on piano. In June, Amy Crane, Eva Lurtz, Sharla Mercado, and Janet Nieburg presented a musical program at the Emory L. Bennett Memorial Veterans Nursing Home in Daytona Beach. Since our audience was older veterans, we sang all the service songs and several patriotic songs in addition to some popular songs from the 1950s and before. We mingled with several of them afterward. Our chapter sponsored the annual concert given by the organ and harpsichord students at Stetson and realized a nice financial addition to our Scholarship Fund. We assisted Eta Pi Chapter at Stetson with fundraising and member recruitment events. — Janet Nieburg, editor

alumnae comment

Alumnae Chapter Comment Editor Linda McAlpin, a Delta Alpha initiate and a member of the Philadelphia Alumnae Chapter, can be reached at [email protected]. Send photo submissions to Gregory Dickens at [email protected].

Tempo! SEPTEMBER 2016ONE TUNNEL ROADASHEVILLE, NC 28805

INTERNATIONAL MUSIC FRATERNITY INTERNATIONAL MUSIC FRATERNITY

Warren-Youngstown (OH) — On February 20, the chapter hosted its annual College Day with the members of Alpha Nu on the campus of Youngstown State University. This event fosters a lasting relationship between the chapters and allows members with more than 50 years of membership to converse with newly initiated members. The day was filled with fraternity education, games, food, and music, which is a great way to forge new friendships between alumnae and collegiate chapters through the love of music. — Melissa Carchedi, editor

Washington (DC) — In April 2016, the chapter held a Founders Day Tea, which included the affiliation of seven sisters and the initiation of two patronesses. We also had a Meet the Composer workshop, organized by vice president of programs, Allison Hughes. We were able to talk with Gabriel Ruiz-Bernal, who is an accomplished composer and has written pieces for film, orchestra, solo instruments, and much more. In May, we welcomed Maya Keys from Gamma Epsilon, the recipient of our scholarship award, who performed during the musicale alongside sisters Paula Moseman and Carolyn Freel. Our chapter was also excited to give the Rose of Honor

the Arts. National President Leslie Odom Miller was our keynote speaker for the day, in which she spoke of the various career opportunities in the music industry besides teaching and performing. Other planned activities included a Chi A Phlea- Phlam, musicale, and workshops. Several chapters brought their creative SAI trinkets to sell at the Phlea-Phlam, and portions of their proceeds went to SAI Philanthropies. All those who performed at the Musicale, delighted us with their talents. Many sisters, including Jessica Chichester, NVPCC, presented workshops on various topics for the membership, along with two professors from Lebanon Valley College. All chapters from Chi A were represented, including our newly installed chapter, Mu Sigma, and over 140 sisters were in attendance. All in all it, was a great day of sisterhood and music!

— Mary Frances Bushong, PO, Chi A

CHI B espite Old Man Winter’s partially successful attempt to sabotage our Province Day, about 30 sisters of Chi B Province gathered at State College, PA for a happy, sisterhood-filled day on April 9,

hosted by Eta Phi Chapter. Following the Opening Ritual, we enjoyed the memories of last summer’s Convention in St. Louis, using the “Bringing Convention Home” PowerPoint. Our Keynote Speaker was Theta Xi initiate Rasa Drane, who entertained and instructed us with her “5 Things I Wish They Would Have Told Me.” Her talk accompanied an amusing slide show and included several of her own poems. Alumnae in the

audience laughed knowingly as she touched on her “5 things” she wished she knew about collegiate life. Seminars during the day included “The Way of the Warrior … ,” “Incorporating Music in Special Education …”, and “The History of SAI Ritual.” Our day also included a Phlea-Phlam, lunch, a musicale, and bits of sisterhood fun. Following the Closing Ritual, we all joined in celebrating Eta Phi’s 25th Chapter Anniversary. Those Chi B sisters who were able to brave the cold, wind, and snow (in April!) headed home with delightful memories of the 2016 Province Day. — Karen E. Smith, Chi B PO

SIGMA Ce had a very successful Province Day on April 16 hosted by Alpha Gamma at Muskingum University. The day included the opening and closing ceremonies and a wonderful sing-

along accompanied by Warren-Youngstown Alumnae Chapter President Jennifer Jones Mosher. A panel discussion with myself and the two alumna representatives about life in an alumnae chapter followed; the collegiate members had a lot of great questions! After, we saw a fabulous presentation by two of Alpha Gamma’s patronesses about music after college from the perspective of both a music faculty member and a librarian who is an amateur. After lunch, members had the choice of either going to a senior recital given by one of the college’s Phi Mu Alphas or doing crafts — letter making and painting plaques. More than 30 SAIs attended. It was wonderful to see so much idea sharing and sisterhood celebration amongst the women, and I think we’re all looking forward to next year! — Ashley Wohlwend, Sigma C PO

Continued from page 2

In June, Volusia County Alumnae members presented a musical program at the Emory L. Bennett Memorial Veterans Nursing Home in Daytona Beach.

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