02/01/2016
Letter from an admirer,
I’m Melissa Decker’s dad Randy. I’ve been trying to make time for a couple of weeks to write a letter to the choir members of the groups of 75-76. I have a couple of observations to share and then an invitation.
My observations…
I know that you’re aware that I listened to you from the point of view of a parent and a choir director. That being said, I have a couple of short observations. The choir of ’04-’05 was one of the most amazing choirs to represent our little school in the pine trees. I thoroughly enjoyed hearing you guys each and every time. You were talented, you were prepared, you sang music that was both challenging and inspirational, and you sang it very well. In UIL terms (Texas school competitions), you were Superior. I felt the same way about my college choir from ’74-’75. That was such a special experience that I changed my major from engineering to music. You share a pedestal I reserve for only the best of the best.
The ’05-’06 choir was a horse of a different color. I think my memory is still functioning here. Not nearly so talented, not nearly so experienced, not nearly as deep as the previous choir. (My sophomore year at JBC was similar, we were good, but not as deep.) Having taught junior high and high school choir for many years, the cycle of ups and downs was something I had experienced so many times that I grew to expect it. I probably thought something like, “Well, Melissa had a great year last year and this will be fine, but not like last year.”
And then you ladies and gentlemen did your thing…….
Of all the choirs I’ve ever taught or followed closely enough to know their journey from the beginning of a year to it’s end…THE ’05-’06 CHOIR IS PROBABLY THE CHOIR THAT IMPRESSES ME AS MUCH AS ANY OTHER I’VE EVER BEEN AROUND. Your growth from the beginning to the end of that year was phenomenal. You had a level of excellence in mind and were unfazed by the length of the journey. Those of you who know me well know I don’t blow smoke. I want to personally thank you for giving my daughter that kind of experience. I want to thank you personally for giving me that kind of experience as her dad. WOW, just WOW!!!
Here is my invitation
1. At this year’s homecoming activities, we are planning to have choir members from 1976 sing along with the current choir. I would like to extend an invitation for you to join us in that song. We will be singing the song “If My People Will Pray”. It would be an honor to have you take part in that with us. We will sing during the morning program at 10:00 am, Saturday Feb. 20th. If you can join us please respond as quickly as possible. I hope to send you a digital copy of the music and possibly a digital practice file as well.
a. email your voice part
2. PLEASE go to one of the multiple sites available and RSVP for the homecoming activities.
a. Jacksonville-college.edu, ABOUT tab, HOMECOMING, Click Here to register for Homecoming.
b. Look on your Crank Ross page and the RSVP form is there.
c. Send me a personal email, [email protected] and I will return a form to you.
You will find a complete schedule of activities on that page as well.
As someone who is 40 years out, I treasure every opportunity I’ve had to reunite with people from my past who are special to me. I hope you’ll take opportunity to do the same. It would be an honor for you to join us.
Your biggest fan,
Randy Decker
903-790-1700
