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2006 European Tour an ‘unforgettable experience’ for Glee Club.
or the first time in it’s history,
F The UNI Varsity Men’s Glee
Club toured and performed in
Ireland, Wales and England, March 9-
18, 2006.
The group of 80 UNI students and
alumni arrived in Dublin, Ireland, on
March 10, 2006.
After a bus tour of Dublin city, the
guys took a walking tour of Trinity
College and viewed The Book of Kells,
a medieval illuminated biblical manu-
script. In the evening, the group went
to the historic Abbey Tavern for dinner
and a show. The show featured tradi-
tional Irish folk music, complete with
dancing performed to the music of
“Riverdance”.
The next day, the men from UNI
toured Dublin castle, and explored The UNI Varsity Men’s Glee Club performs at The Sheldonian Theatre, Oxford University
Dublin city. Several students and alum-
ni toured the famous Guinness Brewery.
The Glee Club’s first formal concert nearly 10 minutes at the end, until the
was at Christ Church Cathedral, on the Glee Club’s small group, “Camerata”
returned to perform an encore.
“I took a flight with
evening of March 11. George Frederic
Handel premiered his “Messiah” at 80 friends and came back
Christ Church Cathedral in 1742, and Over the tossing seas with 80 brothers.”
the acoustics were impressive. The Glee On March 12, the Glee Club traveled
Club’s concert was a fine success, from Dublin to Holyhead, Wales, by —T.J. Warren
though turnout was light. A nationally way of the ferry “Stena Adventurer”.
televised rugby match between Ireland After the motorcoaches were parked on
and Scotland may have kept Dubliners Deck 5, the guys went topside to check wind was nearly strong enough to sweep
at home, but the small audience was out the ship. It was a 3 hour tour, and the lighter-weight guys off their feet on
very enthusiastic. They applauded for the Irish Sea was mighty rough. The deck. Most of the guys found a comfort-
able spot amidship to take a nap. It was
an unforgettable voyage for all.
After arriving in Wales, the Glee
Hey Brothers! If you would like
Club stopped in a Welsh village that
to contribute news or articles to
had the longest name of any town in
Mr. Adam Brickley Camerata, please email your
the world, LLANFAIRPWLLGYN-
editor information to: Camerata,
NGYLLGOGERYCHWYRNDROBWL-
Adam Brickley, editor, email
LLLANTYSILIOGOGOGOCH.
address: ab496520@uni.edu.
The name means “The Church of Mary
in the Hollow of (Continued on Page 8)
2 Camerata
T H E S TAT E O F T H E G L E E C L U B
By Mr. Kevin Graves (‘93) Don’t get me wrong, I think music
UNI Glee Club Alumnus & majors should be in the mix too… Lord
Bronze Kingpin knows I could have used the help! Bob
Colorado Springs, Colorado spoke very highly of Dr. John Vallentine
during our last Europe trip and he gave
me the impression that the past
thoroughly enjoyed being updated upheaval with administration ended
I on the Glee Club via the inaugural
issue of Camerata … especially
when I read the invitation from Dr.
when Dr. Vallentine became the
Director of the School of Music.
As some of you know, I’m an Alma
Barrett for alumni to join the 2006 Mater freak and none of the new guys
European Tour! had learned it yet. I encourage Dr.
This was my fourth trip oversees with Barrett and the guys to get that thing
the Glee Club, and I was excited for the out at least once a year… you don’t
opportunity to visit three new countries. have to perform it at a concert… just
I was just as excited to see for myself if sing it for yourselves! “Hear our voices,
the culture of our beloved Glee Club now in song” is heaven to me.
had remained intact.
It actually was starting to feel like
I’m sure it comes as no surprise… it some time had passed since Bob died,
was different. I am one of those alums until this trip revived so many memo-
who has been anxious about a new ries. We certainly raised our glasses to
director. Not so much concerned about toast Bob on several occasions!
Kevin Graves with the Glee Club at
Dr. Barrett (since I really didn’t know Oxford University Kudos to the guys who stayed during
him), but with anyone who isn’t Bob. It the transition from Bob to Brad last
was nice for us to have the opportunity year. They were willing to give Dr.
to share beers with Dr. Barrett and to Barrett a chance by being flexible
hear not only his vision for the group, enough to change, and passionate
but his understanding and respect of care of themselves before a concert so enough to protect our traditions.
our traditions. they sound their best. We owe them a great deal.
Just as in past years the guys let the
alumni sing with them, laugh with If nothing else, complaining about Somewhere on the British Isles, one
them, drink with them (the least the rules brought the guys closer of the Lindeen’s appropriately dubbed
difficult thing to convince them to do) together. Indeed, one thing that has not Paul Marlow as “Old Man Marlow”.
and couldn’t have made us feel more changed is our unquenchable desire to I love it! Certainly a term of affection
welcome. bond through bitching and moaning! for our unofficial undergraduate-alumni
liaison who has done so much to keep
The reigns were certainly tighter on Personally, it was more important for the dialogue open, the communication
the guys this first time out… several me to know that the group still flowing and the philosophical spirit of
new rules, but most seemed to have a embraced a wide variety of majors. the Glee Club alive during the changes
similar outcome. For example, Dr. Before long, I’m not sure my high the last two years (Much, I would think,
Barrett — curfew the night before a school GPA (or my extensive use of like Lee Thompson did when the baton
concert and Bob — “you guys better not ellipsis when writing) would still get me passed from Les Hale to Bob Byrnes).
stay up all night before a concert and into UNI—but if it did!—I would want
sound like crap after we’ve worked this to know that a Public Relations major The alumni thought “CD Pimp”
hard.” A “curfew” for college guys on from Williamson, Iowa (pop. 200) who would definitely be appropriate too, as
Spring Break sounded strange to me, really can’t read music that well would the marketing maestro inspired the guys
but I certainly liked Dr. Barrett’s still be welcomed into the group. After to sell CDs on the airplane, at the
explanation to the guys that they were this trip, I am confident this will always hotels, in the bars, at the concerts, etc.
professionals and professionals take be a Glee Club trademark. Seriously, if we haven’t said it, thank
SUMMER 2006 3
you, Paul! You definitely have earned others to keep the alumni in the loop
your place in Glee Club history as a
“I told the Glee Club by hosting our reunion last December
member of the core group responsible before their final concert and by inviting us on this trip. I hope he
for there still being a UNI Varsity Men’s interprets the feedback from a very
Glee Club. in London, one thing is vocal group of alumni as us holding on
to fond memories or even out of respect
Several of the guys we met on the
indisputable: they sound for Bob… but never as disrespect for
trip graduated this spring. I encourage better than ever.” him or the guys. Dr. Barrett is one of
all of them to consider becoming our Brothers now and the students
Kingpins and joining us in ensuring the —Kevin Graves (and the alumni) are lucky to have him.
future of the Glee Club… its song and
its camaraderie… for maybe a younger I’m not saying there aren’t still
brother or perhaps someday their sons unanswered questions or that many
and grandsons. Or, just as importantly, Lastly, thank you to Dr. Barrett who of us won’t always long for what is
any man at UNI… any man who has accepted the challenge of directing the familiar. But, as I told the Glee Club
the desire and persistence to make great Glee Club at such a sensitive time. He before their final concert in London,
music. Same to the alumni out there not only pulled off the Christmas one thing is indisputable: they sound
who haven’t signed up yet! I know we Variety Shows, but now his first better than ever. It’s clear that making
all are at different places with our fami- European Tour with the Glee Club. great music and enjoying one another’s
lies and careers and life in general, but I would think most would like to just company is still the priority… and
if this is the year you can start con- get these big events under their belts, that’s more than enough to give this
tributing as little as $16.67/month, but Dr. Barrett was committed to alum some comfort… and a great deal
please step up! working with guys like Paul Marlow and of pride.
Band of Brothers and Big Ben — Glee Clubbers in London on their last full day of the tour. (From left to right, front row) Eric Schettler,
Tyler Terpstra, Adam Merkel, Kris Reid and David Wirtz. (Back row) Justin Bohnet, Scott Rybowicz, Aaron Griffin, and T.J. Warren.
4 Camerata
FROM THE LHEF BOARD
By Mr. Scott Smith (‘82)
Les Hale Endowment Fund
Board Chair & Silver Kingpin
Urbandale, Iowa
rothers, I would like to take this
B opportunity to introduce myself
to you as the new chair of the
Les Hale Endowment Fund Board of
Directors. I am a 1982 graduate of the
University of Northern Iowa and
currently reside in Urbandale, Iowa
where I am employed by Principal
Financial Group. I was elected to the
LHEF Board this past June and am
beginning my term as its chair.
As many of you know, the Les Hale The Glee Club Council, 2005-2006 – (left to right) David Lindeen, Casey Huff, T.J. Warren, Scott
Rybowicz, Adam Hoffman, John Volkert, Michael Gleason, Joe Divoky, Kevin Grieme, Eric Lindeen,
Endowment Fund represents a valuable Kyle Thomas, Adam Brickley, Eric Schettler, Justin Bohnet, and Scott Hanson. Not pictured: Ned Kelly.
tool for ensuring the future success of
the Glee Club. Serving as stewards of
this fund is an 11-member board of and future success in their own ways. and would welcome the assistance of
directors comprised of Glee Club The Executive Committee is their fellow alumni. There will
alumni, representing a cross section of responsible for upholding bylaws and undoubtedly be opportunities to provide
graduates from throughout the tenure board policy, as well as general oversight expertise or simply lend a hand as a
of Robert Byrnes as well as Dr. Brad of board activity. The Finance volunteer, and I encourage you all to
Barrett. I am excited to welcome these Committee tracks the financial health take advantage of such opportunities.
new and returning members of the of the endowment fund, while the Glee Please feel free to contact me at
LHEF Board of Directors: Club Relations Committee serves as a smith.scott.r@principal.com with
liaison with current Glee Club mem- questions on how to become involved
Scott Belden ’71 bers, maintaining a vital line of commu- or visit www.unigleeclub.com for more
Lee Thompson ’76 nication with the undergraduates. information on the activities of these
Bill Flege ’88 The Alumni Relations Committee committees.
Adam Riley ’02 strives to keep alumni across the coun-
Matt Pullen ’05 try connected with both each other and I am both humbled and excited to
Matt Patterson ’99 the current Glee Club through alumni lead the LHEF Board and to join my
Matt Harris ’04 reunions, new website efforts, and fellow alumni in support of the tradi-
Adam Bruss ’04 activities held in conjunction with the tions and achievements of our UNI
Chris Foy ’84 Christmas Variety Shows and annual Varsity Men’s Glee Club. With the
Dr. Brad Barrett spring concerts. Working closely with 2006-07 academic year now upon us,
Alumni Relations, the Fundraising the group is poised for another dynamic
As the current board chair, I look Committee is charged with growing the semester and a bright future ahead. I
forward to updating you on the progress base of endowment support and raising invite you all to watch the website for
and activities of the Board throughout money for the endowment through the information on activities and perform-
future issues of Camerata as well as the recruitment of new LHEF Kingpins and ances throughout the year to remain as
Glee Club website. This progress will future public giving efforts. much a part of the Glee Club’s future
be a direct result of the combined as you do its past.
efforts of the Board’s five committees, These committees are working on
each ensuring the Glee Club’s traditions behalf of the entire Glee Club family Brothers, Sing On!
SUMMER 2006 5
FROM THE DIRECTOR
Gentlemen, is composing music full-time. Dale is which features the pieces we
looking forward to publishing “Advent performed in Europe. We also added
his Fall begins Joy” and we look forward to performing to our repertoire — I found and
T my third year
as director of
the University of
it on the 2006 Christmas Variety
Shows. We anticipate many more
works from this incredibly talented
purchased the sheet music for “If Ye
Love Me” at a music store in Oxford,
England. If you are in any way associ-
Northern Iowa gentleman. ated with the UNI Varsity Men’s Glee
Varsity Men’s Glee Club, you will be very proud of the
Club, and words In March of this year, the Glee Club music on this CD!
cannot describe what a positive influ- toured Ireland, Wales and England for
ence this group has been in my life. the first time. It was an absolutely In the first issue of this newsletter
unforgettable tour! last year, I stated that I believe there
It was wonderful to have so many I have led other choirs to these coun- is nothing this group cannot achieve.
join us for the Alumni Reunion last tries before – even larger groups, in My faith in these young men to
December! Many alumni spoke to me fact – but this was my first tour with perform at the highest levels of
after the shows about how happy they the UNI Men’s Glee Club. I was excellence has never been stronger!
were to see the group thriving, and I completely blown away by the way There are big things on the horizon
am grateful for all of their support. our young men performed. for these young men, and I can’t wait
to see what the future holds!
The Glee Club has been honored by The guys performed 20 songs from
several ‘firsts’ in the past year. Mr. memory for the tour, and for our annu- All the best,
Craig Dickinson became the first ‘Gold al spring concert last April. These Dr. Brad Barrett
Kingpin’ — pledging $10,000 to the songs are on a new CD, “Behold Man” Director and Kingpin
Les Hale Endowment Fund. I have
been so inspired by the level of dedica-
tion shown by this Glee Club’s Alumni
& Friends, I thought the time was right
to become a Kingpin myself.
“My faith in these young
men to perform at the
highest levels of excellence
has never been stronger.”
—Dr. Brad T. Barrett
The Glee Club also received it’s first
piece of music written especially for
the UNI Varsity Men’s Glee Club.
Mr. Dale Grotenhuis, a dear friend and
colleague, wrote “Advent Joy”, a won-
derful TTBB piece. He dedicated this
music to our Glee Club. Dale is a
retired professor from Dordt College
in Sioux Center, Iowa, where he served
as Director of Choral Activities. He is
currently living in Michigan, where he The Glee Club warms up at St. Asaph’s Cathedral, March 13, 2006, at St. Asaph, Wales.
6 Camerata
First $10,000 Kingpin believes in giving back
MR. CRAIG DICKINSON IS THE FIRST PERSON TO REACH THE GOLD
K I N G P I N L E V E L , P L E D G I N G $10,000 T O T H E L E S H A L E E N D O W M E N T
F U N D , T O H E L P S E C U R E T H E G L E E C L U B ’ S F U T U R E . T H I S I S H I S S T O RY...
entlemen... and I use that
G phrase loosely... It has been my
honor and privilege to be a part
of such a distinguished brotherhood as
the UNI Men’s Glee Club. I thought I’d
share a little bit about me and where
I’ve been and where it all started.
I’m originally from southeast Iowa,
born in Keokuk, Iowa and later moved
to Fort Madison where I graduated in
1977.
I have a twin brother who went to
Central College in Pella. My choral
music experience dates back in Junior
High school and continually evolved
into several mixed choruses at FMHS
and my first introduction into barber-
shop during my junior year. I decided
to come to UNI because of my interest
in accounting as a career, thanks to a barbershop quartet with another buddy, music. There were very few if any music
special business / accounting teacher at my brother and me. Little did I know at majors in the Glee Club, which made it
FMHS, Mr. Joe Bowen. the time, the decision to join the UNI more special, and for Bob, all that more
Men’s Glee Club is one of the best challenging. To me, the Glee Club was
As a freshman, I started in the Glee decisions I’ve ever made and to this day, not just a class, but a group of young
Club with the encouragement of a high there have been no regrets at all. The men that enjoyed singing, having fun
school friend, who along with him, par- practices were grueling and Bob was and building a unique bond with each
ticipated in various choral groups and a always “encouraging” us to excel in our other that I will carry on for the rest of
my life. During my 3 1/2 years in the
Glee Club, I was honored to be chosen
“To me, the Glee Club was not just a class, but as one of the original Arthur Murder
Dancers for the 1978 inaugural Annual
a group of young men that enjoyed singing, having Christmas Variety Show which was held
at Russell Hall.
fun and building a unique bond with each other
In 1980, I went on my first ever
that I will carry on for the rest of my life.” trans-Atlantic trip where we toured
Germany, Austria and Northern Italy. I
— Craig Dickinson
still have the poster that advertised our
SUMMER 2006 7
concert we held in Seefeld, Austria in Blanshan, Mike Magee, Randy Smith, Area, CA, and for the last 13 years in
March of 1980 and a mug from the Jeff Vandercook, Paul Marlow, and a Houston Texas. My career has made
Hofbrau House in Munich. very special friend, Lee Thompson. I several turns, from starting in financial
enjoy seeing these guys every chance I analysis and general accounting, to
Another fond memory was participat- get, including when I come back to the corporate reporting, tax accounting, IT
ing in cutting the first Christmas Album reunions at the Christmas Variety software development, technical and
in May 1981 in the Commons Shows. I’ve made several trips back to application support for trading systems,
Ballroom. Not quite like St Peter’s, but UNI in December just to participate in Crude Oil Stock Loss analyst, and
hey, we had to start somewhere! In the Christmas Show performances and Operations Coordinator for Chevron’s
addition to the classroom learning and see how the Glee Club continues to Middle East Crude Trading Operations
based in Houston, TX. In February of
2006, I was appointed as the Terminal
“I’m a firm believer
in giving back to
those who have
made an impact
on your life.”
Offtake Coordinator, responsible for
planning and coordinating exports of
crude oil out of Cabinda, Angola, West
Jumping for joy – These Glee Club members are captured during a moment of goofiness at Africa.
Oriel College, Oxford University, March 15, 2006. (Photo on left, from left to right) Derek
Happel, David Wirtz, Adam Pedersen, Scott Rybowitz, Paul Marlow, Brian Lenz, Bobby
Williams, Ryan Purhmann, Casey Huff and Derek Rodgers. They had just finished a tour Now that I’ve shared some things
of Oriel, one of the oldest of 39 colleges that comprise the University of Oxford. about me, I’d like to share the reason
behind this donation at this time. I’m a
firm believer in giving back to those
choral instruction, many Wednesday grow and improve. Since I live in the who have made an impact on your life.
nights (after rehearsal) were spent down south, people often ask “Why do you go As I reach my 25th anniversary of
on the Hill at Tony’s or the O.P. “Other to Northern Iowa in December... the graduating from UNI and career with
Place” where we would reconvene to dead of winter?” My response – Chevron, I’ve chosen to commemorate
enhance our learning and broaden our “Because I was in the UNI Men’s Glee the occasion by making this donation.
horizons. Club and they put on a great Christmas I’ve been blessed in my family, my
Variety Show that I like to see whenever career, health and many opportunities
While there were about 50-75 men possible!” They just don’t understand... and am at a position to be able to
in the Glee Club, a few guys stood out provide for the longevity of the UNI
that made my experience with the Glee To round out my history, since Varsity Men’s Glee Club.
Club even more memorable... for graduating with a BA in Accounting and
various reasons, like Bob Byrnes – our starting my career with Chevron, I’ve Brothers Sing On!
fearless leader, God Rest his soul, Kevin lived in Dallas, TX, San Francisco Bay
8 Camerata
Glee Club has ‘unforgettable experience’ in Ireland, Wales and England (continued from Page 1)
the White Hazel near the Fierce
Whirlpool and the Church of Tysilio by
the Red Cave”.
A medieval Welsh castle adventure
The group then traveled by motorcoach
to Ruthin Castle. Ruthin Castle (Castell
Rhuthun) was originally founded by
Edward I in the year 1277, attacked by
Owain Glyndwr in 1400, and laid waste
in 1646. The castle ruins remain When lions attack — Glee Clubber Jeff Kessler loses his forearm to one of the marble lions
guarding Ruthin Castle in Ruthin, Wales. Shown with Jeff (in pain, center) is Ned Kelly
around and below the modern castle,
(left to right) Sean Carey, T.J. Warren, Andrew Gelbowitz, Eric Lindeen and Kevin Grieme.
begun in 1826, and was recently reno-
vated into a fascinating hotel. Many in
the group explored the ancient castle mented honey, served in authentic the ‘Baron’ and ‘Baroness’, a Welsh cou-
ruins, including the original dungeon. pewter chalices. The ‘serving wenches’ ple celebrating their anniversary.
In the evening, the group experi- also provided the evening’s entertain- The next day the Glee Club toured
enced a medieval feast of lamb, chicken ment, and sang many beautiful Welsh the Llechwedd Slate Mines. The guys
and potatoes, eaten with a dagger. The folk songs. The Glee Club also provided wore hard hats, and traveled through
beverage of choice was ‘Ruthin Castle some musical entertainment, to the the subterranean caverns by electric
Mead’, an ancient wine made from fer- delight of the other diners, including train. Years ago, every mine and small
town in Wales had a men’s choir. Today,
Wales is world-renowned for it’s rich
tradition of men’s choral singing.
Potential contenders for the
grand prize medal
Every July, choirs from across the globe
perform in the Eisteddfod, an interna-
tional music festival in Llangollen,
Wales. And every year, a grand prize
medal is given to the best choir. The
UNI Varsity Men’s Glee Club per-
formed at St. Asaph’s Cathedral in
northern Wales on Monday, March 13,
2006. Because the Glee Club’s tour
was in March, the group could not
The Guinness Boys — 5 alums toured the Ruthin Castle Mead! — Nick Michner compete in the 2006 Eisteddfod.
famous Guinness Brewery in Dublin. (left to (left) and David Lindeen raise their chalices However, it was the goal of the Men
right) Brian Happel, Matt Pullen, Brent of ‘Ruthin Castle Mead’, wine made from from UNI to sing so well that, perhaps,
Bierstedt, Kevin Graves, and Steve Heinle. honey, at the castle feast in Ruthin, Wales. they would be considered worthy to
SUMMER 2006 9
compete in such a prestigious event in
the future. Several members of the
Eisteddfod festival committee attended
the Glee Club’s concert in St. Asaph.
After hearing the group sing, they told
Dr. Brad Barrett, director, that not only
would the Glee Club have competed in
the Eisteddfod, the Men from Northern
Iowa would have been strong con-
tenders for the grand prize medal.
Many in the audience were moved
by the group’s performance. Ms. Ann
Atkinson, artistic director of the North
Wales International Music Festival, said
it was the best singing she had ever
heard. The mayor of St. Asaph present-
ed Dr. Barrett and the Glee Club with a
ceremonial banner.
The ‘dreaming spires’ of
Keble College Chapel, Oxford University — A chance stop on a campus tour led to an
Oxford University unforgettable private performance here on March 15, 2006.
The historic Sheldonian Theatre was
the scene for the Glee Club’s perform-
ance at Oxford University, Tuesday, of Oxford Collutorium have raised over Teddy’s” is one of the oldest colleges of
March 14, 2006. This was a combined £3000 for local charities. Oxford University. St. Edmund Hall
concert with the well-known local Sacred and secular songs were per- began life as one of Oxford’s ancient
chamber choir, “Oxford Collutorium”. formed by both groups. The audience Aularian houses, the medieval halls that
Oxford Collutorium, conducted by especially appreciated the Glee Club’s laid the foundation of the University. As
Will Orr, was founded by a group of African pieces, and the Glee Club’s per- the only surviving medieval hall, its
doctors from the John Radcliffe formance of “Ave Maria” moved several members are known as “Aularians”. The
Hospital, Oxford. Since 1996, members in the audience to tears. men from UNI enjoyed their stay in the
After the concert, members of the medieval accommodations, as “honorary
Glee Club and Oxford Collutorium met Aularians”.
at a popular 399-year-old pub, “The
Kings Arms”. Patrons were treated to An unforgettable performance
more singing, and camaraderie was A walking tour of Oxford University led
shared by the groups. One of the mem- to an unforgettable private performance
bers of Oxford Collutorium later said of by the Glee Club on March 15, 2006.
the American singers, “They were all so Earlier in the day, the Glee Club split
nice, and I was really struck by the up into small groups, and toured some
maturity of even the youngest guys. of the 39 colleges that make up the
They all seemed to be having the time prestigious, 700-year-old university.
of their lives.” One group of UNI students visited the
The Sheldonian Theatre, located in chapel at Keble College, and sang
Oxford, was built from 1664 to 1668 “Salvation is Created” inside the beauti-
after a design by Sir Christopher Wren ful neo-gothic sanctuary. Despite the
for the University of Oxford. Donations lack of first tenors, the chapel acoustics
The Brothers Happle — Alumnus Brian from the concert went to the Oxford were quite impressive. The guys won-
(left) and Glee Club member Derek Happle Homeless Medical Fund. dered how the music would sound in
pose in Keble College, Oxford University. The Glee Club lodged at St. Edmund the chapel with the full power of the
Brian Happle recently became a Kingpin. Hall. Established around 1225, “St. (Continued on Page 10)
10 Camerata
Oxford University, a.k.a. ‘Hogwarts’ — Some of the guys touring Oxford were able to see locations on campus that were used in exteriors
scenes of the famous wizard school in the Harry Potter films. (Below, right) Kevin Bott stands by an ancient ‘Hogwarts’ gothic window.
Glee Club behind it. The guys then celebrated at their many of the guys took advantage of the
The tour guide arranged for the favorite Oxford watering hole, “The opportunity to take in a play or musical
group to return at 7:00 pm, after din- Kings Arms”, located at the corner of in London.
ner. Wearing crisp white shirts, purple Holywell Street and Parks Road in The following day, the guys took the
and gold striped ties and khakis, the Oxford, England. time to sight-see and shop. In the
Glee Club made the 10 minute trek to evening, the Glee Club donned their
the chapel. The chapel impressed the London calling tuxedos for the last time on the tour, for
young midwesterners. Dr. Barrett The UNI Varsity Men’s Glee Club a concert at St. Paul’s Covent Garden
instructed the Glee Club to form a large arrived in London on Thursday, March Church.
circle around the perimeter of the 16, 2006. The group went on a bus tour Before the 7:30 pm concert began,
church. In addition to singing of the city, and visited the Tower of the guys did a little ‘live marketing’ by
“Salvation is Created”, the group sang London in the afternoon. Dinner was at gathering in the square in front of the
“Ave Maria”, “Dúlamán”, and “Behold the original Hard Rock Cafe. Dr. Barrett Actor’s Church to sing a couple of
Man”, all a capella. Then the small was able to secure tickets to “Les songs. A crowd gathered to hear the
group formed a circle around the altar Miserables” and “Blood Brothers”, and impromptu singing. The guys then
area and performed “I Believe”, “Go
Lovely Rose” and “Set Down Servant”.
There was no audience. The guys
sang simply for their own enjoyment.
The sound and the moment were so
overwhelming, some of the guys were
Read “The Power of the Glee Club”, an
essay by T.J. Warren about the night the
Glee Club sang at Keble College, in the
next issue of Camerata.
visibly moved. The experience reminded
many Glee Club veterans of singing for
the high mass at St Peter’s Basilica in
Rome two years earlier. Several Glee St.Edmund Hall, Oxford — There’s The Gleason Boys — The pride of Cascade,
Clubbers mentioned that it was one of nothing like staying in accommodations Iowa, and two of the most introverted
the most memorable moments they ever older than your own country! Despite it’s members of the group, Michael Gleason
experienced with the Glee Club. age (over 400 years old), the interior of the (left) and cousin Dan Gleason celebrate at
hall was modern and comfortable. “The Kings Arms” in Oxford, England.
SUMMER 2006 11
handed out flyers touting the concert.
By concert time, the church was nearly
filled with people ready to hear more.
Two women in the audience who had
heard the Glee Club sing in Dublin the
previous weekend made the trip to
London to hear the group again.
On Saturday, March 18, the guys start-
ed the long journey back to Iowa. Half
the group departed from Heathrow
International Airport, the other half
from Gatwick Airport. Some tense
moments occurred along the way, as the
second group flew from London, to
Newark, New Jersey. Their flight took
off late from London, and in Newark,
the guys had only 45 minutes to get off
their plane, go through Passport
Control, U.S. Customs, retrieve their
checked luggage and 23 stage boxes,
recheck the same luggage and boxes for
their Newark-to-Chicago flight, make
the train from Terminal C to Terminal
A, go through a security check yet The Union Jack Heads — Sporting the
again, and hustle to their waiting plane. wearing their white shirts, purple and latest in matching British headwear is
They made it with no time to spare, gold striped ties and khakis, the group Robert Jordan and Scott Hanson.
and would not have made it in time, performed at the Sunday Mass at St.
were it not for the tremendous team- Thomas Catholic Church in Freeport.
work of the Glee Club men. The audience in Freeport applauded at many members of the group voiced
Later that evening, the Glee Club the end of “Ave Maria”, before the Mass their desire to return to Ireland, Wales
stayed over in Freeport, Illinois. Again was over, just as the audience at St. and England in the future.
Peter’s Basilica had two years earlier in “One of the most rewarding parts of
Rome. the trip for me was watching the
The green Northwest Tour buses younger men in Glee Club become
finally rolled onto the UNI campus completely wrapped up in the entire
around 4:00 pm. To show support for experience, said senior Kyle Thomas.
their hard-working brethren, the guys “Only after this trip did I feel totally
who didn’t have to wrestle with the assured of the continued success of the
stage boxes from London to Chicago Glee Club. With their leadership and
were employed to bring them into the enthusiasm, the Glee Club is on the
Gallagher-Bluedorn Performing Arts right track.
Center. Glee Club member T.J. Warren
Dr. Barrett later told the members of agreed. “I took a flight with 80 friends
the Glee Club, “I just want you to know and came back with 80 brothers,” said
how proud I am of you and how Warren. “That’s how valuable this trip
honored I am to be your conductor. was. Not only did we see the sights of
You have made such a huge impact on Europe, but we experienced it all
Man about town — Dr. Barrett poses for a
my life as a conductor and as a per- together as a choir. The 2006 UNI
‘snap’ while waiting for a train on London’s
Piccadilly Line. Glee Club members used son... and for that I am grateful.” Varsity Men’s Glee Club Europe Tour
the Underground extensively between hotel It was an exhausting but memorable was an unforgettable experience!”
and city center during their London stay. European tour for the Glee Club, and
12 Camerata
ALUMNI NEWS
he Glee Club Alumni continue
T to be one of the great strengths
of the organization. Collectively,
the Glee Club Alumni and Friends
have given or pledged over
$130,000.00 to ensure the future of
the Glee Club, in the form of an
endowment. The Les Hale Endowment
Fund, the first of it’s kind for any
group on the UNI campus, is named
in honor of the founder of the
Glee Club, Dr. Les Hale.
A CA L L F O R
A R T I FA C T S !
The Brothers Sing On — Members of the Glee Club and Alumni performed on the
We’re looking for your Glee Club 2005 Christmas Variety Shows. 2005 marked the 45th anniversary of the Glee Club,
photos from the past. If you have and alumni from all over the country gathered in Cedar Falls for an Alumni Reunion.
any old snapshots from your Glee
Club days, scan them, save them
in jpeg form and email them to
paul@creativegenes.com. Also,
include any information, with names
and locations if possible.
CLASS NOTES
Major Bruce Coyne (’87-’90) is back
in Iraq for yet another tour of duty for
Operation Iraqi Freedom. Bruce is
working as an operations officer. He
arrived in Kuwait in November 2005,
and in December moved into Baghdad
to assist in building and training Iraqi
police, security and army forces.
Bruce was assigned to the 506th
Regimental Combat Team of the 101st
Airborne Division, aka “The Screaming
Eagles”. Bruce hopes to be home
around Thanksgiving, so he can make
it back to UNI for the Christmas Mr. Chris Brokaw (’95-’96) – So, check out the website if you
Variety Shows. We’ll save you a couple After teaching high school, and would like to see Chris’s nuts! If
of tickets, Bruno! training in a corporate environment, you find something you like, enter
Chris has finally gone nuts… this promo code (SINGON) and
Hey Brothers! If you would like to seriously! He recently became the receive a 15% discount on your
contribute news to appear in future brand manager for The Original order.
issues of Camerata, please email your Nuthouse which sells nuts and Thanks for the unique and tasty
information to: Camerata, Adam snacks on the internet at way to show your appreciation to
Brickley, editor ab496520@uni.edu. www.originalnuthouse.com. the Glee Club, Chris!
SUMMER 2006 13
A screen shot from BrothersSingOn.com, a new companion web site to the official UNI Varsity Men’s Glee Club web site
(www.unigleeclub.com). BrothersSingOn.com was created to pay homage to the Glee Club’s anthem song.
GLEE CLUB WEB SITE days, we’re interested in posting them BROTHERSSINGON.COM
GETTING AN UPDATE on the Glee Club site.” NOW ONLINE
The are no Glee Club photos on
It may seem hard to believe, but hand from the Les Hale era, so the The Glee Club has a new ‘brother’ web
the UNI Varsity Men’s Glee Club web group is very interested in finding site: www. brotherssingon.com.
celebrates the 10th anniversary of those early photos, if they exist. Developed by Kevin Kelly, father
it’s website this year. The group plans to have Phase I of of Glee Club alumnus Ned Kelly (‘06),
Alumnus Matt Patterson (‘99) the web site up and running by the BrothersSingOn.com pays homage to
created the original Glee Club web site fall, with additions and new features the Glee Club’s anthem song. It also
(www.unigleeclub.com) in 1996. added in the following months. highlights the UNI Varsity Men’s Glee
Now, Mr. Patterson and recent alum If you have photos from your days Club, directs visitors to the official
Matt Pullen (’05) are currently leading in the Glee Club, scan them, save UNI Glee Club site, and features links
a major update to the site, including them in jpeg form and email to other collegiate men’s glee club web
new features, more photos and an them to alumnus Paul Marlow sites.
expanded alumni area. (paul@creativegenes.com) Also, The site is already getting high-
And alumni can help in the process. include information about the photos, profile visitors – a representative of the
“We’re creating an historic photos including names and locations. Purdue University Glee Club recently
archive,” says Patterson. “If you have The Glee Club site is hosted by Brent asked to be included on the UNI Glee
any old snapshots from your Glee Club Bierstedt, Unlimited Web Network. Club’s links area.
14 Camerata
GLEE CLUB RECORDINGS
T H E UNI VA R S I T Y M E N ’ S G L E E singing, this CD is a must-have. range of musical styles, from the tradi-
C L U B has an exciting new album to Listen for yourself! Go to tional Glee Club anthem “Brothers
share with you! www.unigleeclub.com or www.broth- Sing On” , the spiritual “Set Down
erssingon.com and click on the Servant” and
Merchandise link. “Sometimes I
Feel Like A
T HE G LEE C LUB also has a limited Motherless
supply of CDs from the archives: Child”, the sweet
but demanding
“A Special ballad, “Go
Christmas Lovely Rose”,
Time” features Vijay Singh’s live-
18 songs record- ly Celtic duo, “Lament of a Fisher’s
ed during the Wife” and “Fergus an Molly”, to the
2004 Christmas emotionally powerful title track “The
Variety Show, Awakening”, by Joseph Martin.
and is
dedicated to the The CDs are $15.00 each (Plus $2.50
memory of Robert Byrnes, Glee Club shipping) and can be purchased online!
“Behold Man” features music per- Director from 1974 - 2004.
formed in Ireland, Wales and England Only a limited supply of CDs remain!
during the group’s 2006 European Traditional favorites such as “We Need To purchase these albums, go to
Tour. There are 20 total tracks, A Little Christmas”, “Lo, How A Rose www.unigleeclub.com and go to the
including 2 bonus tracks featuring the ’Ere Blooming”, and “The First Noel” Merchandise section. You can pay by
Glee Club’s small group, “Camerata”. are included on this CD. Plus, several check or secure online credit card
new songs from the Glee Club, and order via PayPal. Purchasing Glee Club
Besides the standard Glee Club soloists Rose Newburn, Maria Peel, merchandise is ridiculously easy and
favorites, there are several songs new Jean McDonald, Will Lopes, Devin takes only minutes!
to the Glee Club, including “Cantate Cogdill, Natalie Whitney, and The
Domino”, “If Ye Love Me”, “Toccata of UNI Small Vocal Ensemble contribute
Praise”, Dulaman, “Bridge Over their wonderful vocal talents to this
Troubled Water”, and the title track, collection of holiday favorites. Listen before you buy!
“Behold Man”. Go to www.unigleeclub.com and
“Awake My Soul and Sing” is an click on the Merchandise link.
Engineered by audio veteran Eric exciting collection of 13 songs You can download an MP3 sample
Sabotta, the sound quality of this recorded at The Gallagher-Bluedorn
of select songs from each CD!
album will knock your socks off! Performing Arts Center on April 13,
If you enjoy excellent men’s choral 2005. This album features a wide
Archival Recordings to be made available
T
here have been many recordings Club director, the late Bob Byrnes, playing If you lost your original album and
made of the Glee Club over the the UNI campanile’s carillon. wish restore your collection, or you are
years. Some are lost to the ages. Also, from the collection of alumnus interested in obtaining one of these rare
Others go back to an era of vinyl records Dan Stuber (‘93), CDs of the 1991 concert recordings for the first time, contact
and cassette tapes. A very limited supply at Sacred Heart Cathedral in Davenport, Paul Marlow at paul@creativegenes.com.
of these recordings were recently and “Christmas at Symphony”, the UNI If there is sufficient interest, these
discovered, including a Christmas album Men’s Glee Club performing in 1991 recordings may be made available via the
featuring the Glee Club, and former Glee with the Waterloo/ Cedar Falls Symphony. Glee Club’s web site.
SUMMER 2006 15
U N I VA R S I T Y M E N ’ S G L E E C L U B
BOB BYRNES KINGPINS
“To ensure the Glee Club’s future”
A S O F A U G U S T 2 0 0 6
Althof, Stephanie (’92) Happel, Brian (’96 & ’98) Pippert, Nathan (’00)
Andersen, Darik (’01) Harris, Jerry (’89) and Beth Jorgensen (’89) Porath, Adam (’03) and Angie (’03)
Barrett, Dr. Bradley T Harris, Matthew (’04) Pullen, Matt (’05)
*Bauer, Jason (’00) *Heinle, Steven (’93) Rasmussen, Nancy
Belden, Scott H. (’71) and Myrna J. Hicks, Joddey (’91) Rasmussen, Layne (’81) and Peggy (’86)
Berthusen, Joel (’90) and Ann (’90) Honold, Todd (’86) and Barbara (’90) Riley, Adam (’02) and Neavins, Jessica (’02)
Billings, David (’96) and Melissa (’96) *James, Chad (’95) Rodriguez, John (’82) and Lorene
Blanshan, Kevin (’79 & ’96) and Dee Jones, F. Addison and Marion A. *Rose, Kevin (’01) and Rosanne (’00)
Boekhoff, Don (’89) and JoNel (’87) Jones, F. Austin (’86) and Kim M. Ruden, Alan (’94) and Tanya (’96)
Bonar, Rick (’91) Keahi, Chris (’97) Schmitt, Bob (’94) and Julie (’94)
Book, Joe (’01) Ketelsen, Scott (’82) and Suzy (’84) Schmitz, Jim (’94) and Kim (’94)
Boomer, Michael (’97) and Kathryn (’99) Klein, Joe (’84) and Lynn (’85) Schultz, Brent (’97)
Brannon, Michael (’91) and Stasia (’91) Scott, Sean (’03)
Breen, David (’83) and Mary Seeman, Jamie (’99) and Leah
Brokaw, Chris (’96) and Deb (’01) **Smith, Scott (’82) and Claudia
Bruss, Adam (’04) Smith, Skipper (’96) and Shelly (’97) ($2,000)
Byrnes, Chelsie and Bejar, Rafael Smith, Josh (’05)
Byrnes, Dustin Snell, Brendon (’99)
Byrnes, Mark and Candace Snook, Warren (’00)
Byrnes, Robert (’71 & ’77) Stuber, Dan (’93) and Karen (’01)
Cakerice, Kirk (’77) – Brothers, Sing On! **Thompson, Lee (’76) and Carol (’74)
– In loving memory from Jed (’77) and Tille, Heath (’00) and Angela (’00)
Debbie Fisk and Dan (’77) and Sue Scoles Tillman, Ed (’92 & ’99)
Carlin, Dan and Mary Eileen (Cooney) Vandercook, Jeff (’78) and Terri (’78 & ’79)
(’61 & ’69) VanLaere, Justin (’02) and Neibauer, Cayen
Carlin, Patrick (’00 & ’03) Koster, Brian (’03) and Cynthia (’03) Verdon, Jason (’95) and Lynn (’94 & ’95)
Clark, Lori Hockett- (’87) and Richard Landis, Luke (’98) and Emily (’98) Voran, Brad A. (’81)
Cuvelier, Thomas (’84) and Susan Lightbody, Larry (’75) and Jennifer (’75) Weis, Rod (’87) and Rosalyn (’87)
***Dickinson, Craig (’81) Loney, Angie Monteith (’94) and Jeff (’96) Winter, Mike (’84) and Denice
Drewelow, David (’76) and Lonna Magee, Michael (’80) and Sheryl (’80 & ’81) Worm, Richard (’64) and Jane (’64)
Duhrkopf, Clark (’89) Marlow, Patric (’92) Zwald, Kelly (’04)
Duskin, Jeff (’87) *Marlow, Paul (’88) and Theresa (’91)
Ebert, Clark (’00) and Shary (’00) McInnis, Mark and McInnis, Brian (’96) Honorary Kingpins
Eggen, Paul (’83) and Margaret (’89) Mefford, Chris (’91) and Heather Byrnes, Dustin
Elkin, Chad (’90) and Carrie Ann Meyer, Todd (’87 & ’90) and Lyn Byrnes, Mark & Candace
*Eltjes, Scott (’88) and Jodi (’88) Moldt, Pete (’90) and Karen (’88) Byrnes, Chelsie & Bejar, Rafael
Federer, Erik J. (’98) and Shannon (’98) Morton, David (’82) and Mary (’83) Jones, F. Addison & Marion A.
Flanagan, Brad (’98) Mosby, Milton Jr. \’75 Rasmussen, Nancy
Flege, Bill (’88) and Kelly Murray, Timothy (’84)
*Ford, Edward (’82) Nelson, Joel (’94) and Barbara New Kingpin
Foy, Christopher (’84) and Mary Neuendorf, Tracey (’99) and Chris *Bronze Kingpin ($2,500+)
Gardner, Loren (’03) Nickerson, Doug (’91) and Candace (’87) **Silver Kingpin ($5,000+)
Goeman, Bob (’92) and Deborah (’92) Nuehring, Corey (’96) and Michelle (’95) ***Gold Kingpin ($10,000+)
Granzow, Joseph (’90 & ’95) Olson, Greg (’96) and Jill If you would like to help ensure the future
*Graves, Kevin (’93) Parker, Derrick (’94) and Heidi (’93) of the Glee Club, we invite you to become
Greve, Bret (’96) *Patterson, Matt (’99) and Blair (’99) a Kingpin! Go to www.unigleeclub.com for
Greving, Brian (’96) and Katie (’96) Pauly, John (’99 & ’01) more information, or contact Mr. Lee
*Gwin, Leo (’81) and Anita Phillips, Jeremy (’87) and Deb Copeland Thompson at lfthompson@bellsouth.net
SUMMER 2006 16
THE LAST NOTE
By Mr. Steven Heinle (‘93)
UNI Glee Club Alumnus &
Bronze Kingpin
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii
t is hard for me to put into words
I what the 2006 European Tour
meant to me as an alum and
member of the UNI Varsity Men’s Glee
Club. I was very apprehensive back in
December when I learned that there
was the possibility that alumni might be
invited on tour. The memories of 2004
with the performance at St. Peter’s and
the gala farewell dinner were still very
fresh in my mind. I just was not sure
what this trip would hold and did not
want to be a negative influence with the
“we used to do it this way mentality”
that puts the new group against the old
guard.
With a fair dose of guarded optimism
I was ready for the 20 plus hours on a After their successful concert at St. Asaph, Wales, the Glee Club returned to the ancient
plane to meet the group in Ireland. The Ruthin Castle, to celebrate in the richly appointed Library bar. (From left to right)
concerts were the best part of the trip Scott Rybowicz, Alumnus Steve Heinle, John Volkert, and Robert Latch.
for me. It is difficult to always see the
concerts because of the 3000 plus mile
trip back to UNI with those pesky work love and joy that made it a truly The 2006 European Tour is one for
requirements getting in the way. The spiritual evening. It reminded me of the record books. The memories of the
sound of the group was amazing. It is the concerts at Modling and St. Peter’s sites, sounds and adventures will last a
when everything in the moment was lifetime. It seemed only appropriate that
perfect. I felt the well of my soul being we had several toasts to ‘Sir Robert of
“The UNI Varsity Men’s Glee replenished with that joy that seems to Cedar Falls’ at the King’s Arms in
get beaten out of us in our daily Oxford. The songs of brotherhood were
Club is a group that brings struggles. I came back to work refreshed especially strong that evening.
and ready for whatever new challenges The group had their fair amount of
out the best in its members lay ahead. complaints, which seem to bond us just
whether it is personally, The UNI Varsity Men’s Glee Club is as in the days of old with Herr Rolf.
a group that brings out the best in its It reminds me now even more of the
musically or professionally.” members whether it is personally, critical need for individuals to step for-
musically or professionally. The quality ward and become Bob Byrnes Kingpins.
—Steve Heinle
of the individuals that have made up If you have not made this commitment,
the group over the years is constant. I encourage you to do it now, and if you
always surprising to hear how with The value placed on hard work and are a Kingpin, consider moving to the
some songs that just get a little tweak- dedication to doing what it takes to get next level. Dr. Barrett has many ideas
ing and you get an entirely different a song to the next level is reflected in its on how to further build on these
experience. My favorite concert would group leadership. It helps its members traditions, but he needs our council and
be the performance at St. Asaph’s to develop the tools they will need in support. This is the type of experience
Cathedral in Wales. The group just did the outside world to make a difference I would like to make sure is available to
everything to perfection with warmth, in whatever path they choose to take. students for many years to come.
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