A bit later than intended (travel and work intervened), here is a review of the Summer Choral Workshop, written by Karin Kaminker, together with comments from a few audience members.
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2026 GAOS Summer Workshop from a proud Tenorette perspective
OK, before I go any further I must specify that I am a lady tenor, or what I have come to call a TenAlto or better yet, a proud Tenorette. Believe it or not, recent articles in the art-world press have focused on the paucity of tenors in the choral realm and GAOS is no exception. That is why, from my very first GAOS choral group rehearsal 15 or so years ago, I voluntarily left the alto section to reinforce the tenors and I have never looked back. It's a challenge, but although we are often short on voice-support in terms of numbers, we also often have some of the most beautiful lines to sing. (Go tenors!)
Anyway, I digress. I was thinking of not participating in this summer's choral workshop because of other things I have going on, but a call was put out for more tenors and so I rose to the call and joined. At first glance, the proposed music selection seemed too huge and challenging for such a project and in fact during the first few rehearsals, which were not obligatory, the makeup of the participants often changed and at times it looked like I might have to "woman" the tenor section all alone. Gratefully our superb GAOS chair Gisela left the alto section to give me wonderful support and we at times were also kindly supported by valiant Bart in the bass section. Many heartfelt thanks to them both.
I think as a result, by banding together as a choir, with the excellent support of our talented accompanist Ana, we pulled this off, didn't we? As I write, only a few hours after leaving our concert venue in Commugny, I am still buzzing from the experience of having sung this fabulous music in such tasteful and energetic arrangements that we, as a workshop choral group, mastered (to a "casual" performance level) in such a short period of time. The songlist for this workshop represented a departure from previous summer programs that have veered toward more traditional music, but GAOS produces Broadway-type shows on a yearly basis and Chelsea provided us with a valuable workshop on how tolearn and sing such chzallenging show-tune arrangements in a confident and energetic way.
For me it was inspirational, energizing and eye-opening, and I think our concert would actually deserve an encore at some future time. So bravo to our music director, Chelsea Middleton! Judging from our audience reaction, your vision and direction were a gift to us all.
PS: Seeing the number of GAOS faithful who showed up to show support for even such a relatively minor music event, I must add my thanks to you all. GAOS community is a part of what makes these activities so special and enriching on so many levels, and I am grateful to have you in my life.
Karin Kaminker, Proud Tenorette
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Comments from the audience:
"The concert was so impressive, especially given the short rehearsal time and challenging nature of the music. The solos were gorgeous, and the harmonies blended beautifully. I thoroughly enjoyed the interesting and varied choice of songs. Big congratulations to everyone." - Helen Dixon-Altaber
"It was a great concert. The choir only had little time - for 13 songs that were mostly unknown to many choristers. But it was a good choice. Chelsea galvanised the choir, and Ana gave an excellent rhythm. I liked in particular Our Time, Super Trooper, and Masquerade." - Wouter van Ginneken
"On Sunday we took our front row positions to encourage our fellow GAOS friends. We knew they hadn't had long to rehearse but were sure with the enthusiasm everyone brought to the event it would be good! And it was more than good, it was great! We admired the quality of the complicated melodies (well done Chelsea), could hear all the voices, especially in La La Land and Super Trouper. Good work everyone for a wonderful afternoon and an extremely professional concert. We enjoyed it very much." - Sue and Mike Sell
"Chelsea, Ana, and all the choristers did a terrific job that nearly made the audience forget about the heat. I was proud to be present and profit from the moment." - Jim Akré
