LETTERS TO THE EDITOR: `THE MUSIC IN MY HEART I BORE, LONG AFTER IT WAS HEARD NO MORE'

Dear Editor,

We wish to thank your newspaper for the excellent coverage of concerts this semester made possible through the hard work of the Music Department of Southeast Missouri University.

We have enjoyed some of the finest performances people can have the opportunity to hear and see.

What a joy to see Susan Ho play the piano as vigorously as any male virtuoso. This classical program conducted by Dr. Sara Edgerton during the International Week celebration showed not only hard work, but respect and love for the conductor.

And, the University Choir under the direction of Dr. John Egbert filled the Old St. Vincent's Church with people. Holy chants and the simple faith songs and hymns of the Shakers were sung a capella. The vigorous last 20th century music was accompanied by the talented Susan Ho. The Old Cathedral-type ceilings must have been reverberating, "We've never heard more beautiful!"

Since our very special Dr. Louisa Panou-Takahashe came to the Music Department, even voices in their 60's have been given the chance for their full potential. Each year, she has either directed or been assistant director of operas or light operas. This year Dr. Christopher Goeke and Louisa gave even the pre-school children a real treat with the Reluctant Dragon and showcased some of the beautiful voices of the students in Gianni Schicchi, all sung in English, each a comedy. Dr. David Green ably conducted the orchestra while Dr. Edgerton held first chair in the cello section as she did for the Messiah.

Ah, the Messiah! Parts II and III were sung by the Choral Union and the University Choir. What more can be said than the individuals in the Orchestra and Choirs put their hearts and souls into giving the large Academic audience a most fulfilling evening. And don't miss an opportunity to hear Dr. Gary Miller or his students perform on the organ -- usually at First Presbyterian Church. (We wish we had been able to hear the Concert Band this week, too.)

The Southeast Missouri Concert Asso., Inc. is pleased to be a part of the music world in Cape Girardeau, which seems to say, "Why have to go to St. Louis to have entertainment which brings enjoyable evenings and exposes us to a diversity of instruments and cultures, voices and types of music?"

This organization is an alliance of the Community Concert Asso. begun in the thirties, wherein we are sharing the Academic Auditorium and the beautiful grand piano with the University; and they are procuring three of the seven concerts now offered to Association members. Dr. Cossaboom, Dean of the Department of Music and Mr. Ed Kaiser, President of the Association were instrumental in bringing about the new alliance.

This year we have added a new feature -- children 12 and under may attend free with one adult who has a membership -- even whole groups, such as scouts and church groups! Children must sit with adults. (You may also use your membership card for concerts in 7 other communites-one person per $30 or $15 membership.) These concerts are scheduled for: Oct. 17-7:30-Metelitsa,23 classically trained musicians in costume from Russia.

Dec. 11-3:00-Clement/Patterson duo-guitar and flute from modern to classical

Jan 22, 1995-3:00-Linda Maxey-recitalist and soloist with orchestras in U S and Europe on the marimba.

Feb. 12-3:00-Bernard & Barbara McDonald vocalists of traditional Irish music accompanied by accoustic guitar and flute.(University)

Mar. 16-7:30-Riverboat Ragtime Review-costumed singers with piano and banjo.

March-28 8:00-Windfire-Percussion and flute from 17th through 20th centuries.(University

April 9-3:00-David Hollander, billed as funniest pianist in America, who teaches his audience to love music. (University)

To receive information from the University about their concerts, plays and other productions, call 335-5453.

VIVA LA MUSIC! VIVA LA UNIVERSITY!

Mary Jo Kaempfer, Secretary, Concert Asso.