| Dear AOSFYC Alum, I am pleased and proud to announce that the 1997 Cardinal Chorale will be joining me and staff for a singing tour of England, Wales and France this summer. [see below for list of Cardinal Chorale members] The Chorale will be representing the United States and our great State of Ohio, as well as dozens of large and small Ohio communities, in musical exchanges with local singing societies and concert performances in some of Europe's most famous churches and venues, including Canterbury and Salisbury Cathedrals, and as featured performers at a very special July 4th commemoration at the famed American Museum in Bristol. The Chorale will not only share their musical talents but -- perhaps more importantly -- also help instill a greater appreciation for the cultures and heritage of these countries and those of the USA. It is often said that music is the international language. Our goal is to prove this principle. Just a word about the Chorale, if you're not already a follower/supporter. We are a special ensemble of the All-Ohio State Fair Youth Choir. From the 250 members of the Youth Choir, I select by audition about 45 of these great teenagers to perform additional duties at special occasions during the annual State Fair. As such, they have been called on to render special music several times throughout Ohio since the Fair, including a second consecutive appearance at the Ohio Music Education Association's Professional Conference in Columbus, at special events in Columbus, Coshocton, and, most recently, at Muskingum College. I would add that the members travel from all over Ohio to these extra performances at their own expense. The Chorale members are now asking for your financial support to make this trip possible. Each member is paying for his/her total cost of the tour. This is a tremendous undertaking at a time when college or other career commitments are also making strong financial demands. I am also hoping that local supporters will help me to assist where some (not total) assistance is absolutely critical. In addition, we will incur expenses for the transportation of electronic equipment, music and program supplies, and the travel expenses of our two adult accompanists who will forego their summer income to help with this tour. Those individuals, businesses, agencies, and congregations or foundations providing financial support of $100 or more each will be recognized (unless anonymity is requested) in tour programs and media releases. Expressions of support may be presented directly to the Chorale members or mailed to the All-Ohio State Fair Youth Choir (AOSFYC) Alumni Association, in the name of the member. As the AOSFYC Alumni Association has a 501(c) designation from the Internal Revenue Service, payments to this organization may be tax deductible. As you consider assisting us financially, please remember that the focus and goal of this tremendous tour is three-fold. First, to share the love of music with our European audiences. Second, to give this most-deserving, most unusual group of talented young people the experience of communicating with a broad range of peers. Third, to encourage the European audiences to come visit our beautiful Ohio. Again, contributions can be presented to the member or sent to the AOSFYC Alumni Organization. The remaining balance of the nearly $1,900 total cost for each member is due very soon. We could use any assistance from alumni and other friends. Checks may be made payable to AOSFYC Alumni Association and mailed to the association c/o Heather Miller, Treasurer, 936 Green Drive, Coshocton, OH 43812. Thanks for sharing our joy and for any assistance you can provide. We will make Ohio proud of us!! Sincerely, Charles R. Snyder, Director Cardinal Chorale Members: Soprano I: Karla Kruse, Natalie Padula, Stephanie Rightler,
Brooke Williams |