Page 14 - PowerPoint Presentation

Tags and Swipes, Contest 2018

Farmington Valley Chorus (continued)

We wind our way through the backstage of Symphony Hall, being sushed all the way, thinking about,
“ I can’t sleep,” and “Good bye”( the first words of our songs) keeping that ahhh space, and smiling
like we’re gonna eat their faces off. Heart rates quicken. It’s 1:22. Showtime!!

Before we know it we are in the audience, sizing up the competition (and appreciating the fantastic
music, especially the ringing chords). Now, with a new sense of who Region 1 is and all the beauty
and sisterhood Sweet Adelines embraces, we brace hopefully for the scores.
So close. Still so fun.

Ok, We’ll enjoy the Show of Champions and the chorus dinner and party tonight and get ready for
next year!

Thank you for all the kind notes, gifts and words of encouragement that our Farmington Valley
Chorus Sisters have given to us! We are so happy to be part of this Singing Sisterhood!

Ieva

I loooooved the weekend! For me the real emotional moment was when my hair and make up was
done. I said, “Wow, I look so different cleaned up” Shari said ”No, Ieva, now you are a Sweet
Adeline".

I was amazed how the women in quartets have the courage to put their craft in front of everyone, they
were baring it all, I was both humbled and inspired at the same time. I was picking outfits for
my imaginary quartet right there and then.

The one thing I thought would have been super is to give family and friends discounted access to
competitions. In my mind, the free streaming is great, but there is no revenue in it for the organization.
Less expensive tickets would have drawn more friends and family, and a bigger audience for the
competing quartets and choruses. I don't think streaming can replace the in-house experience.

For me the competition went by way too fast, but it did get me excited for the next year.

I think the highlight was the Show of Champions where we were able to hear from some of the
quartets and choruses we may not have seen in competition. It was cool to sit in the room with so many
different, yet like-minded incredibly supportive, barbershoppers and know that I definitely belong.
This just confirms what I have felt all along, we women are amazing creatures, who can thrive and
draw strength from one another to get better in whatever we set our minds and energy to.

I am hooked, no doubt!

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North Atlantic Region 1 Sweet Adelines