Chorus Director Asserts, Ladies, This is a Football!
The Woodlands Show Chorus (TWSC) achieved their goal of Top Ten placement internationally in the Sweet Adelines International (SAI) Competition at the Phoenix Convention Center, Phoenix, Arizona in September of this year. Betty Clipman, world renowned Director and Coach of TWSC, began their first rehearsal with her hand held high, holding an imaginary football and stating, “Ladies, this is a football!” Her 10-year-old, four-part-harmony, a’cappella style chorus of women of all ages smiled, because they knew the drill. Betty normally began the first rehearsal after a successful campaign with that statement, imitating the great football coach, Vince Lombardi, who also began the first practice after one of the team’s perpetually winning championship season. The purpose was to let the players know that no matter how well their season went, they would start over with the basics. Thus, Director Clipman begins with the basic breathing techniques, vocal production and performance skills with the help of her staff of Associate and Assistant Directors, as well as coaches from all over the world.
Betty considers that “the building of advanced skills depends on mastery of the basics.” Vince Lombardi, the infamous American football coach and executive in the National Football League, is considered by many (and definitely by Ms. Clipman) to be the greatest coach in football history and recognized as one of the greatest coaches and leaders in the history of all American sports. Master Director Clipman likewise is regarded as top in her field around the world with over 50 years’ experience, covering all aspects of the SAI organization. She is committed to continuous musical growth through better educational opportunities. Her vision is to musically educate women of all ages, enabling them to experience the joy of excellent singing.
Visitors and interested women singers are welcome at rehearsals each Monday evening from 7-10 pm at the First Presbyterian Church in Conroe. More information is available by emailing info@thewoodlandsshowchorus.org and visiting their website at www.thewoodlandsshowchorus.org.
