On Sunday September 16, 2001 the Chorus participated in a joint concert with the Doshisha University Glee Club visiting from Japan at Old South Church in Boston. The decision of the executive Committee to hold the [only rehearsal on] Tuesday September 11 despite the tragic events of that day was validated by the exceptional focus and intensity of the singing that took place that evening. Many thanks to all who were able to attend that rehearsal and gave a wonderful demonstration of the power of music to unite, comfort and heal a community.

With respect to the concert itself, the preparation and musicianship of the Doshisha singers set a high standard. We are indebted both to Mr. Thomas and the instrumentalists who performed several excerpts from Handel’s Messiah with us and the Doshisha singers.

The well stuffed canvas "goodie bags" (with CCC insignia) prepared by Donna Killoran (thanks!) as a "welcome" gift from the Cambridge chorus to our Japanese visitors were a great success. During the presentation of the bags there was no need for translation of the technical musical terms "chocolate chip cookie" and "brownie" which produced audible gasps of recognition and approval from the members of the visiting Doshisha chorus.

Rehearsals for the Cambridge Community Chorus’ 12^th annual season of Handel’s Messiah begin on Tuesday, October 23 at 6:30 pm at St. Paul’s AME Church, 37 Bishop Allen Dr. (corner of Bishop Allen Dr. and Columbia St.) near Central Square. Come sing with us to greet and meet old and new friends.

Come join us for our 12^th annual season of Handel’s Messiah. Except where noted all rehearsals will be at St. Paul’s AME Church, 37 Bishop Allen Dr., Cambridge.

Profiles in Chorus - Maybe next time– if someone volunteers to write some (contact Paul Raila).

In this mailing you will find a return envelope and a letter appealing for your financial support. Please take a moment to reflect on the value of the Cambridge Community Chorus in your life, whether you sing in the Chorus or attend our concerts. Although we don’t charge dues or admission to most of our concerts we still have many expenses to pay. Please contribute whatever you can to help keep the music coming!

Tape and CD recordings of our Spring 2001 concert featuring the Fauré Requiem and J.S. Bach Cantata #4 (Christ Lag in Todesbanden) are now available for $10. Keep in mind that recordings of Chorus performances always make nice gifts to family and friends. There are still a few more copies of the Messiah 2000 ($15) and Spring 1999 ($10) concerts. See Karen Greenwood at Messiah rehearsals for details or leave a message for her at (781) 229-2574 (be sure to include your phone number). Remember also to thank her for handling the production and distribution of these recordings.

If you read carefully the earlier report about the special September Concert you may remember a reference to canvas Chorus tote bags. We’re pleased to announce the availability of these bags for purchase (cookies not included) by interested Chorus members and friends for only $10. They make excellent gifts!

December 9, 2001      Handel's Messiah at Kresge Auditorium, MIT, 3pm.

January 2002            Participation in the Cambridge celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s Birthday

April or May, 2002      Participation in the Cambridge Holocaust Remembrance Ceremony

May 19, 2002            Spring Concert with the Cambridge Rindge & Latin School Vocal Ensemble

We are very excited about the Spring concert which will be held in Sanders Theatre thanks to the generosity of Harvard University. We will be singing Bach’s Magnificat and performing the North American premiere of the Misa Tango by Argentinean composer, Luis Bacalov. Because we want this to be a very special concert, we have scheduled rehearsals for February 19 and 26, in addition to the regular spring rehearsal schedule which will begin on March 12. Put these rehearsal dates on your calendar!