Saint Charles Borromeo Church, Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin
SPONSOR: FRIENDS OF THE MASTER SINGERS & THE LAMOUREUX FAMILY
SPRING CONCERT..........................................30
Choral Images: Reaching for the Light
March 9, 2025 at 3:00 p.m.
First Congregational UCC, Eau Claire, Wisconsin
SPONSOR: THE VAN BEEK-KAISER FAMILY, THE EDDY-GIDEONSEN FAMILY, & ANNELIES SLACK & HOWARD WHITE
ANCILLARY PERFORMANCES
Lessons and Carols: Be Still, My Soul................................
December 7, 2024 at 4:00 p.m.
Christ Episcopal Church, La Crosse, Wisconsin
Missa Choralis Series
March 8, 2025 at 4:30 p.m.
Basilica of Saint Mary, Minneapolis, Minnesota
SPONSOR: FRIENDS OF THE MASTER SINGERS
CHIPPEWA
The Master Singers, a community chamber ensemble with membership from throughout the Greater Chippewa Valley, performs repertoire from a rich choral tradition. The ensemble is celebrating its Thirty-Second Concert Season in 2024-2025 with a subscription series featuring three concerts. The Master Singers is pleased to be working with Zachary J. Moore as our commissioned composer in the 32nd concert season.
The ensemble is dedicated to the fostering, promotion, and appreciation of choral music in the Greater Chippewa Valley with the membership of The Master Singers from colleges and universities that are noted for a strong choral tradition. Annually, the ensemble performs in churches and concert halls in the Chippewa Valley, Minneapolis, and Saint Paul, including, since 1997, performing as guest artist in the Missa Choralis Series at the Basilica of Saint Mary in Minneapolis. Additionally, the ensemble has appeared in Wisconsin at the River Arts Center in Prairie du Sac, the Richland Concert Association in Richland Center, the Mabel Tainter Center for the Arts in Menomonie, the Heyde Center for the Arts in Chippewa Falls and the Flambeau Valley Arts Association in Ladysmith.
The Master Singers has collaborated with prominent choral conductors/ composers including Eric Barnum, Jackson Berkey, Eph Ehly, Dan Forrest, James Fritschel, Dale Grotenhuis, Elaine Hagenberg, Dan Kallman, Connor Koppin, Heidi Joosten, Zachary Moore, James Mulholland, Kyle Pederson, Andrew Steffen, Z. Randall Stroope,
Timothy Takach, and Jeffrey Van. This collaboration has involved annual commissioned works for the ensemble involving numerous composers over their history.
The Master Singers has appeared in concert with the Chippewa Valley Symphony Orchestra, Eau Claire Chamber Orchestra, Philadelphia Brass, and the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire Symphony Orchestra. Since 2006, The Master Singers has been featured on Wisconsin Public Radio in an annual broadcast of their Christmas concert. The Master Singers performed at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington D.C. honoring John F. Kennedy in February 2013. In 2014, the ensemble participated in a choral residency with composer Dan Forrest in Chicago. The Master Singers participated in the Four Freedom Choral Festival in Washington D.C. honoring Franklin Delano Roosevelt in 2016. Members of The Master Singers participated in the UW-Eau Claire Alumni Choir in the 75th Anniversary of D-Day and the Liberation of France Choral Festival in Paris in 2019.
Membership in the choir is through an audition with the conductor. Interested vocalists are encouraged to contact the conductor at director@themastersingers.net. To learn more about the ensemble, please visit our website at www.themastersingers.net
SEASON SPONSORS:
A Letter from the Artistic Director
Welcome to the 32nd Season of The Master Singers!
On behalf of The Master Singers, I’d like to extend a warm welcome to all of you, our loyal patrons, as we embark on another exciting season of choral music. Your continued support is what makes our work possible, and we’re thrilled to have the opportunity to share our passion for music with you once again.
This year, we’re particularly excited to collaborate with members of the Eau Claire Chamber Orchestra on a performance of Schicksalslied by Johannes Brahms. This powerful and moving work promises to be a highlight of our season. Joining us on this concert will be Women’s Concert Chorale from the University of Wisconsin Eau Claire. Women’s Concert Chorale is one of six ensembles of UW-EC and prides itself on the strong bonds of friendship and sisterhood it fosters through the study and performance of meaningful repertoire.
Our annual Lessons and Carols concert, “Be Still My Soul,” will return this year, featuring a selection of beloved works by Josef Rheinberger, David Conte, Margaret Bonds, and Elaine Hagenberg. This timeless tradition offers a contemplative and inspiring experience for the entire family.
Our season will conclude with “Reaching for the Light,” a concert featuring a commissioned work by composer Zachary J. Moore. Moore is an American composer, conductor, and speaker. Combining his interests in film, classical music and film scoring, Zach strives to tell meaningful stories through his music that will captivate, transform, and transport listeners. We are excited to feature this great artist who is breathing new life into the American choral canon. This exciting new piece will be paired with works by Eric Barnum, Kyle Peterson, and Sid Robinovitch, creating a diverse and thought-provoking program.
The Master Singers are proud to be a part of the cultural fabric of the Greater Chippewa Valley. Your support is greatly appreciated and essential to our continued sustainability. We gladly accept individual and corporate donations.
Thank you for your continued support and I look forward to seeing you this season.
Frank A. Watkins Artistic Director and Conductor
A Letter from the Board President
Dear Esteemed Patrons,
On behalf of The Master Singers, I wish to extend our deepest and most sincere gratitude for your steadfast support throughout our 32nd season. Your patronage is not merely a pillar of our success; it is a cherished partnership that enriches our collective musical journey.
As the president of this organization and a dedicated member of the choir for the past 25 years, I am profoundly aware of the rich and storied tradition of music that thrives in the Chippewa Valley. This region’s deep-seated appreciation for the arts, and for choral music in particular, is something truly special. We are immensely fortunate to be part of a community that not only values but also actively supports and nurtures this tradition.
It is with a deep sense of duty and privilege that we, as The Master Singers, seek to honor and contribute to this legacy. We view it as our responsibility to share the gifts and passions of our choir with our fellow citizens, both here in the Chippewa Valley and wherever our music takes us. The encouragement and support we receive from you, our esteemed patrons, inspire us to continue striving for excellence and to uphold the high standards of this musical legacy.
Reflecting on this remarkable season, we are filled with pride for the music we have created and the joy it has brought to our audiences. Each concert is a testament to the enduring spirit of our community’s musical tradition, and it is your presence and participation that make these events truly meaningful.
Once again, we extend our heartfelt thanks for your unwavering support during our 32nd season. We eagerly anticipate your continued presence at our upcoming concerts, as together we celebrate the rich musical tradition that defines the Chippewa Valley.
With the deepest appreciation,
Annelies Slack President, The Master Singers
The Master Singers
2024-2025 Roster
Dr. Frank A. Watkins, Artistic Director and Conductor
Conductor: Dr. Frank A. Watkins • Assistant Conductor: *Derrick Tilus
Operations Manager: *Annie Jackson
*denotes current member of the ensemble
Dr. Frank A. Watkins
Artistic Director and Conductor
Dr. Frank A. Watkins, artistic director and conductor, is an Associate Professor of Music and Director of Choral Studies at the University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire. A native of Omaha Nebraska, Watkins taught secondary choral music in Texas for six years. He holds degrees in piano performance from Jackson State University (BM), the University of Arkansas (MM), and choral conducting from Northwestern University (MM) and Michigan State University (DMA). Watkins is in demand as guest conductor and clinician. In 2016, he was appointed Conductor and Music Director of the Eau Claire Chamber Orchestra. Recent engagements include the Big Nine Festival Honor Choir, the Great Northern Conference All-Conference Choir, Cloverbelt All-Conference Honor Choir, the 2018 Men’s Choir Festival, Big 8 Choral Festival, Northwest Suburban Conference Choir, the 2021 WSMA State Honors Mixed Choir, and the 2022 WCDA State Treble Choir. He has presented workshops on choral methods for the International Music and Christian Arts Conference, Michigan State University, and the Ohio State University. He has presented workshops at both the Wisconsin Music Educators State Convention and the National Collegiate Choral Organization National Conference. Additionally, he has taught internationally with Village Harmony. Choirs under his direction have performed at the Wisconsin Music Educators State Conference (2018; 2023), Wisconsin Choral Director’s Association State Conference (2023), and the North Central Divisional Conference of the American Choral Directors Association (2020).
In 2017-18, Watkins led an International Fellows Trip to Dakar, Senegal to study the use of hip-hop and rap as a form of non-violent political protest. In 2023, Watkins was a guest lecturer in Cape Town, South Africa. Watkins’ research interests include the intersectionality of race, class, and gender in the music of African-American Women in the 21st century.
Watkins joined the faculty of the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire in 2014. A dynamic young conductor, Watkins’ love and passion is teaching. He believes that in order to educate, you must first inspire! It is his goal to make an impact…not just an impression on the lives of those that follow his baton.
“I enjoy Dr. Watkins’ programming!”
- Concert Patron
Derrick Tilus
Derrick Tilus is the Choir Director in the Elk Mound Area School District. After graduating from Annandale High School in Minnesota, he attended Southwest Minnesota State University where he earned a BS in Music Education and a BA in Vocal Performance. During his tenure at SMSU, Derrick studied under Russell Svenningsen, and worked alongside Peter Halverson, Dale Warland, Abbie Betinis, and Jocelyn Hagen. Derrick also studied Opera Performance at the International Performing Arts Institute in Kiefersfelden, Germany where he worked
with Dr. Robert Tannenbaum, Aidan Soder, Bruce Earnest and Darla Earnest. He has sung professionally with The Minnesota Chorale, The Minnesota Orchestra, The Minnesota Opera, The Master Singers and also sings the National Anthem at Minnesota Timberwolves games. Since living in the Chippewa Valley, Mr. Tilus has grown by working with Master Educators including Ronald Buckles, Gary Schwartzhoff, Frank Watkins, Cathy Reitz and many others. Derrick has been a guest Choir Conductor for Dunn St. Croix Honor Choir in 2020 and 20222024, and has served as the Bass Vocal Coach for the Wisconsin School of Music Association All State Honors Mixed Choir in 2023 and 2024 where he worked alongside Dr. Andrew Last from Luther College as well as Dr. Daniel Bara from Georgia. In November of 2023, Derrick served as a guest Choir Conductor for the Wisconsin Choral Directors Association’s Singing In Wisconsin Choir Festival. This year Derrick is honored to serve as The Master Singers Assistant Conductor as well as take over as the Director of Music at First Congregational United Church of Christ in Eau Claire, WI. In January of 2025, Derrick will be conducting the Riverside Treble Choir; an ensemble of The Master Singers in its Inaugural season and in the future will serve as the WSMA All State Honor Choir Coordinator and Bass Vocal Coach in 2025 and 2026.
Megan Sorenson
Megan Sorenson has played piano for 27 years and has accompanied for around 20 years. In her early piano career, Megan competed in solo competitions through the Wisconsin Music Teachers Association and Wisconsin School Music Association. She accompanied her middle and high school choirs, in addition to serving as the pianist in the pit orchestra for school productions. Her education continued while attending the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, where she studied solo piano and also accompanied solo musicians for recitals and recordings. One of Megan’s most notable experiences in college was serving as the accompanist for the UWEC Concert Choir for several years, which allowed her to travel domestically and internationally with the ensemble. After college, she continued her accompanying with The Master Singers, where she still plays today. In addition to The Master Singers, Megan enjoys finding opportunities to accompany weddings and events throughout the community.
- Concert Patron
Commissioned Composer
Zachary J. Moore (b. 1992)
“Zach’s compositions have received numerous prestigious performances at many state, regional, national, and international conventions.”
is an American composer, conductor, and speaker. Combining his interests in film, classical music, and film scoring, Zach stives to tell meaningful stories through his music that will captivate, transform, and transport listeners.
From 2013 to the present, Zach has received an increasing number of commissions all over the world including Asia, Africa, and Australia. Amongst his international commissions were two projects with the Cheong Gong High School Male Choir, previous winners of the 2013 Busan Choral Competition, and the professional choir, Inspirare in 2015. Zach has also written frequently for college choirs including Luther College (2022), University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire (2020), and Lawrence University (2019), to name a few. From 2014 – 2016, Zach served as the composer in residence to The Master Singers, of Eau Claire, WI. In 2014, Zach was commissioned by the North Central American Choral Director’s Association for their project, “A Community That Sings.” For a more complete list, please visit Zach’s Awards and Honors website page.
Aside from commissions, Zach’s compositions have received numerous prestigious performances at many state, regional, national, and international conventions such as the Texas Music Educator Association Convention (2022), Association for Music in International Schools (2022) and the American Choral Director’s Association Convention (2018, 2020, and 2022). Amongst these performances are many Honors and All State Choirs including the Indiana All-State Treble Choir, Oklahoma All-State Junior High Choir, and the AMIS High School Honor Choir. Beyond conventions, Zach’s works have also been performed at prestigious concert halls including Carnegie Hall (twice in 2019), the Taipei National Concert Hall (2015 and 2016), and the Franklin Delano Roosevelt 75th Anniversary Concert (2016). Internationally, Zach’s works have been performed in Africa, Europe, North America, Australia, and Asia. In 2022, Zach’s first feature length film score, “Vertical Freedom” was premiered at the Caesar Forum in Las Vegas.
Throughout Zach’s career he has received distinguished awards for his compositions. In 2010 his first composition received third place in the Wisconsin Student Music Association’s Student Composition Project. In 2014, he submitted an entry to the American Prize national competition, earning third place as well. More recently, Zach took third in an international film composition contest, the Marvin Hamlisch Contest, in 2018.
Zach holds a bachelor’s degree in music education from the University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire and a master’s degree in composition from Stephen F. Austin State University where he studied composition with Dr. Stephen Lias. Additionally, he has received master classes and guidance from some of the world’s leading choral composers including Eric Barnum, Dan Forrest, Ola Gjeilo, Timothy Takach, and Jake Runestad. Zach currently serves as an editor for Hal Leonard’s Choral Division.
The Singers
R. Dale Anderson, A lifelong singer & musician, R.Dale enjoys the beauty of sound and harmony, and appreciates the impact music brings to health and wellness in our daily lives. Since 2017 he has accompanied the Singing Hills Chorus of Mankato MN, a community outreach activity for those living with various forms of Dementia and their care partners. A composer/arranger, many of his works have been performed by dementia/Alzheimer’s friendly choruses around the country. He is also a current member of the Eau Claire Male Chorus and participates with CVASING.
Annie Bailey, alto, has been a member of The Master Singers since 2003. She is a paraprofessional at Immaculate Conception Elementary School. She received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Music from Hamline University, a Master of Music degree in Vocal Performance, and a Master of Science degree in Nurse Midwifery, both from the University of Minnesota, Minneapolis. She is also a member of the Chancel Choir at First Congregational United Church of Christ in Eau Claire.
Jamie Brieske, soprano, joins The Master Singers for her second season. She received her undergraduate degree in Music and Religion from Luther College. She taught middle school and high school music for four years before attending Luther Seminary and becoming a pastor. Jaime currently serves at Immanuel Lutheran Church (ELCA) in Eau Claire. She is active in her church choir and enjoys performing in community theatre. Jamie loves to go for walks with her husband Chad and cheer on her sons Bennett and Brandt at their sporting and musical events.
Diana Cataldi, Originally from Ohio, Diana has a DMA in vocal performance and is working on her MS in Communication Science Disorders at UWEC. For 17 years, she taught voice and music classes at the university level, including five years on faculty at UWEC. Diana is passionate about everything voice related, but most importantly, she loves the joy of singing and making music with others. Joining The Master Singers is the exciting next step in that journey! She lives in Altoona with her family (Buzz, Bene, & Jess) and well-loved felines (Sugar, Snowy, and Tosti).
Tim Cruciani, This is Tim’s debut season with The Master Singers. He recently retired after spending 39 years in the banking industry. Tim received a degree in Music Education from UWEC and his musical career includes memebership with the Eau Claire Musical Arts Chorale in the late 80’s and singing in the Trinity Lutheran Choir for many years. Tim is married to Lori, who is a piano professor at UWEC. Together they have three daughters; Gina, Emma, and Maria.
Jennifer Eddy, alto, is overjoyed for this, her ninth year with The Master Singers. As an undergraduate, she sang in Harvard’s University Choir under John Ferris and the Collegium Musicum under Jameson Marvin. A family physician by training, Jennifer serves as Director of the Family Resource Center (located in the Oakwood Mall) which coordinates the ‘Triple P’ Positive Parenting Program in Eau Claire County (frcec.org). She recently started playing the bassoon again after a more than 30-year hiatus—which is almost as amazing as singing with The Master Singers!
Zach Franson, tenor, is returning for his ninth year with The Master Singers. He is a graduate from the Psychology program at the University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire. While at UW-Eau Claire, Zach sang in The Singing Statesmen for two and a half years under previous Master Singers conductor, Dr. Gary Schwartzhoff. Zach works for the State of Wisconsin - DHS at Northern Wisconsin Center in Chippewa Falls as a Case Manager/Developmental Disabilities Specialist. He looks forward to the opportunity of being able to create beautiful music again with The Master Singers. “If music be the food of love, sing on!”
Kristi Gerry, soprano, is delighted to return to The Master Singers for her seventeenth season. Born into a family of musicians, Kristi grew up singing, playing piano and violin, and loving it all. A 1984 graduate of St Olaf College in Northfield, MN, Kristi studied voice with Alice Larsen, and sang in Manitou, Chapel and the St Olaf Choir while on campus. Singing and music making with others continue to bring joy to Kristi. She is mother to three amazing daughters, has a terrific sonin-law, and has added Grandma to her resume with two beautiful grandchilren.
Sydney Grimm, alto, is thrilled to sing with The Master Singers for a second season. She is currently a department manager at the Eau Claire Hy-Vee, but finds an abundance of joy in creating music. Being a former music student at UWEC, she is pleased that this choral opportunity entered her life and she is eagerly awaiting the rest of the season. In her free time, Sydney enjoys writing, rollerblading, baking, and playing the bass guitar.
Nicole Harper, soprano, is in her fifth season with The Master Singers. Nicole is proud to be a part of her successful family-run construction business, Design Built Structures as the Office Manager. Additionally, she is a vocal coach in Chippewa Falls where she has the
pleasure of teaching many talented young musicians. Nicole graduated from UWEau Claire with a Bachelor of Music-Vocal Performance degree. While at UWEC, she sang in Women’s Concert Choral, Concert Choir, Vocal Jazz ensemble, and multiple A Capella ensembles. She has sung for many weddings, innumerable events and with various area jazz bands. She is also very involved with making lots of music at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church in Chippewa Falls. In her free time, she enjoys playing volleyball, spending time with friends and getting in as much time with her amazing family, especially in their “happy place,” up north on Long Lake, specifically at Lincolnwood.
Lukas Hoffland, bass, works at Mid-West Family Eau Claire, as Program Director and On-Air Personality for Greatest Hits 98.1, Music Programmer for I-94 and 92.9 The X, and On-Air Personality for Sports Talk 105.1. He is a contributor for Volume One magazine, and hosts the “Got Time for A Quick Story?” podcast. Lukas is in his twenty-third season singing with The Master Singers. Lukas’s hometown is Eau Claire, and he performed in Madrigals and Old Abe Show Choir at Memorial High School. He is a 2000 graduate of Luther College, where he sang in Nordic Choir, among other vocal ensembles, and founded Luther College Vocal Jazz. He continues to pursue careers in music and broadcasting.
Annie Jackson, soprano, in her third year with The Master Singers, also serves as the Operations Manager. After receiving a Music Education degree from UW-EC, she is now supporting all levels of the educational system; from individuals and their families to teachers and administrators. Using a variety of modalities including music, improv, and restorative practices, Annie loves to bring her passions together to meet the needs of our community. Learn more about her work at www.anniejackson.org
David Johnson, baritone, is excited for his second year in The Master Singers. After a long hiatus raising kids, he is jazzed (dad joke) to be back in music. He was a Singing Statesman in college, performed in Fiddler on the roof, and was in the Fall Creek Men’s Choir. He has a wife Brenna, 4 children, dogs, cats, and 11 chickens. His kids say he can’t remember lyrics so he is here to prove them wrong.
Brian Klein, tenor, is the Choir Director for the Mondovi School District. He graduated from St. Olaf College with a Bachelor’s degree in Music Education. During his time there, Brian sang with the Viking Chorus, Chapel Choir, Chamber Singers, and the renowned St. Olaf Choir. Brian currently conducts The Menomonie Singers, and is excited to sing now with The Master Singers.
Kari Lammers, alto, is beginning her second season with The Master Singers. She received Secretarial Science and Materials Management degrees from the Chippewa Valley Technical College (CVTC) and for 25 years worked primarily as a buyer for Eau Claire County and CVTV. Kari has been active in West
Ridge Church, singing in choir, dramas and on the worship team, scheduling vocal ensembles and directing Fine Arts human videos, skits and dramas. Kari has been involved in the UW- Eau Claire Symphonic Choir since 2003 and joined the Chippewa Valley Festival Choir in 2019 (created for the Chippewa Valley Symphony Orchestra). She joined The Master Singers on a Paris Choral Festival in 2019 commemorating the 75th Anniversary of D-Day. Kari enjoys: Biking, hiking, lifting weights, gardening and reading. She and her husband, Duane, have 2 children: Matt, along with his wife Julia and daughter Izzy; and Abbey - all residing in Minneapolis.
Ronnie Ludin, soprano, is excited to sing in her second year with The Master Singers! She is an elementary school music teacher and loves sharing the joy of music with students. As a former UWEC student, she enjoys singing with fellow alumni and under the direction of Dr. Watkins. When she is not singing or teaching, Ronnie loves rock climbing, crocheting, and hanging out with her two cats, Oatmeal and Raisin!
“Always excellent performances - I know I can go to any Master Singers concert and be impressed by the musicianship. The Master Singers are one of the great artistic treasures of the Chippewa Valley! Thank you also for your commitment to commissioning new music.”
— Concert Patron
Sandra Mighell, tenor, is delighted to be in her fourth season with The Master Singers. Sandra has sung for many years with various college and community choirs. Most notably, she sang under Robert Fountain with the UW-Madison Concert Choir in her college years, more recently under David Bell with the Golden Community Choir in Golden, CO, and under Matthew Mehaffey with the Oratorio Society of Minnesota in St. Paul, MN. She is a graduate of UW-Madison, with a BA in Psychology. Sandra is also a studied and masterful instructor of mindful movement, including the disciplines of Qigong, Tai Chi and The Nia Technique. In addition to singing, dancing, and moving, she enjoys reading, gardening, weekend car adventures, jigsaw puzzles, and making music and spending time with her partner Daniel (a professional musician in Eau Claire).
Katerina Musgrave, Music has always been a big part of Katerina’s life. She graduated from UWEC with a degree in general and choral music education in 2020. Katerina’s first position was at Foxview Intermediate in De Pere for three years. In 2023, she moved back to western Wisconsin and teaches music at Ellsworth Elementary. Outside of work and choir, she loves to spend time with her husband, Turner, and their fur-baby, Chip—preferably outside!
Eric G Nielson is a 5-year member of the ensemble. A graduate of the University of Northern Iowa and Louisville Presbyterian Theological Seminary, he is a retired Presbyterian Church (USA) Pastor, including his final 12 years of service in Eau Claire. He is now a Senior Consumer Loan Officer at WESTconsin Credit Union. Eric has served on The Master Singers Board of Directors and is the former President of the Chippewa Valley Symphony Board of Directors. Eric is a frequent soloist with various community groups and is an active member of St John’s Lutheran Church. His two children and two grandchildren live in Minneapolis.
Matt Nyman, tenor, is in his fourth season with The Master Singers. Matt is an Information Security Engineer working for Jamf in the Eau Claire area. He went to college at the University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire where he sang with The Singing Statesmen, the Chamber Choir, and the Concert Choir while completing a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration. He is excited to be singing with The Master Singers once more!
Sarah Pennington, alto, joined The Master Singers in 2018. She also sings with the Chorale Nouveau and Christ Church Cathedral Choir. Previously, she sang with Women’s Concert Chorale and Concert Choir at UWEC. Sarah enjoys a variety of interests and hobbies including traveling, camping, sewing, and spoiling her two miniature schnauzers.
Laura Ramlow, is an ELCA Deacon, serving as Assistant to the Bishop in the Northwest Synod of Wisconsin. Her work includes youth and young adult ministry, digital content, and a partnership with the Lutheran Church in Malawi. Laura is a proud alum of Luther College (which prepared her for her first career as an elementary music teacher) and Luther Seminary. Laura and her husband, Nik have four incredible children (Julia, Maddie, Gabe & Lila), two dogs, and a guinea pig. Early on, Laura participated in church choirs, college ensembles, and local musical productions. Making a return to choral ensembles last year, Laura is grateful to sing with the Chorale Nouveau, with the church choir at Immanuel Lutheran, and in her second year with The Master Singers. “It has been an absolute gift to create beautiful music with this ensemble, and I feel very fortunate to sing another season with them!”
Laura Seymour Reali, Raised in the culture-rich Eau Claire area, Laura spent her formative years learning, performing, and appreciating music. Schooled as an instrumentalist, she discovered her voice after graduating from high school. Although she never studied voice, she spent her adult years singing with a number of choral ensembles, including the
first 10 seasons of The Master Singers. She graduated Summa Cum Laude from UW-Stout in Technical Communications and always looked forward to leaving her job at the end of the day when choir rehearsals or performances awaited. In retirement she enjoys pickleball, racquetball, quilting, golfing, singing/ playing in a 60’s cover band, and, most of all, being Grandma Laura.
Rebecca Santine, soprano, has been a member of The Master Singers for sixteen seasons. She is the choral music educator at Regis High School and Regis Middle School in Eau Claire, and is currently in her twenty-fifth year of teaching. Rebecca attended the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire where she sang under the direction of Dr. Gary Schwartzhoff, who was the founding artistic director and conductor of The Master Singers. At UWEC, Rebecca was a member of the Concert Choir, Women’s Concert Chorale, and was the student director of the mixed a cappella ensemble, Impromptu. Rebecca is married to Tim, and they have two wonderful children, Dominic and Gabriella, and a beautiful Siberian Husky, Navi. When she is not teaching music or spending time with her family, Rebecca enjoys running and yoga, and when her schedule allows, she enjoys performing on local community theater stages. Rebecca also enjoys directing the Adult Choir at her home parish, St. James the Greater Catholic Church in Eau Claire.
Grant Singer, is thrilled to join The Master Singers for the first time this season. A 2021 graduate of UW-Eau Claire with a Bachelor of Music Education, Grant is currently pursuing a Master of Fine Arts in Music Education at the University of St. Thomas - Minnesota. A proud public educator he teaches three choirs, two sections of theatre, and an adaptive music class at Menomonie High School, where he is dedicated to fostering a love of the arts in his students. In his free time, Grant enjoys hiking, cheering on the Milwaukee Brewers, and spending quality time with his orange tabby cat, Schubert.
Annelies L. Slack, soprano, is a Mental Health Therapist with Nystrom and Associates. Before her current second career as a therapist, she taught choral
music in Wisconsin and Pennsylvania schools and conservatories. She received her Bachelor of Music Education and her Master of Education from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire and her Masters in Community Counseling from Lakeland College. While at UW-Eau Claire, Annelies sang in Concert Choir and numerous other choirs. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her friends and family, gardening and painting. She also sings with the Chancel Choir and directs the Youth Music Program at First Congregational Church and participates in productions at the Eau Claire Children’s Theatre. Annelies lives in Eau Claire with her husband, Howard, and their three cats, Maggie, Sampson and Frankie. This is her twenty-sixth season with The Master Singers and is proud and excited to serve as the President of the Board of Directors this year.
Collin Sorenson, tenor, is in his second season with The Master Singers. Collin is Accounting Manager working for Specialty Smile Partners in Eau Claire, WI. He went to college at the University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire where he sang with The Singing Statesmen, Symphonic Choir, and Fifth Element a capella while completing a bachelor’s degree in both Accounting and Information Systems. Colin enjoys spending his free time with his cats, Mona and Luna.
Megan Sorenson, alto, is looking forward to taking part in her 9th season with The Master Singers. Megan is a graduate of UW-Eau Claire, where she majored in both elementary education and music. While in college, Megan participated in the Concert Choir, Wind Ensemble, Symphony Band, and University Orchestra, having opportunities to tour parts of the United States and Europe with the ensembles. In addition, Megan continues her career in education teaching first grade at Locust Lane Elementary in Eau Claire. She is very appreciative to have the opportunity to create music with The Master Singers again this season. When she is not working or singing, Megan enjoys playing piano, taking care of her two cocker spaniels Belle and Leia, and spending time with family and friends.
Emily Sternfeld-Dunn is a multi-faceted performer and educator whose experience spans classical, music theater, and commercial music. Her award-winning album, SHE, was released in April 2018. She has performed as a soprano soloist with CVSO, ECCO, Wichita Symphony Orchestra, Connecticut Concert Opera, the Idaho Washington Symphony, and the Palouse Choral Society. Emily’s arrangements are performed around the country and are a staple of MTWichita’s teen choir. As an educator Emily has taught voice and piano lessons for the last twenty years. She has been on faculty teaching voice at Washington State University, Southwestern College, Fort Hays State University, and Wichita State University while maintaining a private studio. She is currently on the voice faculty at University of Wisconsin, Eau Claire. You can read more about Emily at www.emilysternfelddunn.com.
Robin Stoessel, alto, board member, and native Iowan is thrilled to be singing with The Master Singers a third year. A graduate of the University of Northern Iowa with a B.A. degree in Elementary Education, she primarily taught Kindergarten for 31 years. Following retirement she studied voice with Margaret Smothers and sang with the Metropolitan Chorale (Waterloo/ Cedar Falls, IA) under the direction of Dr. Lee Nelson. Since moving to Eau Claire in 2017 she has sung with the Holcombe Madrigal Court Singers directed by Joni Weinert, several local community choruses, and the Chancel Choir of First Congregational UCC. Robin enjoys being active - hiking, biking, kayaking, and gardening. She and her husband Mike have three daughters - Jodie and Annie in Iowa, and Holly, along with son-in-law Tom and grandkids Abby and Tucker in Alaska.
Derrick Tilus is the Choir Director in the Elk Mound Area School District. After graduating from Annandale High School in Minnesota, he attended Southwest Minnesota State University where he earned a BS in Music Education and a BA in Vocal Performance. Derrick also studied Opera Performance at the International Performing Arts Institute in Kiefersfelden, Germany. He has sung professionally with The Minnesota
Chorale, The Minnesota Orchestra, The Minnesota Opera, The Master Singers, and also sings the National Anthem at Minnesota Timberwolves games. Derrick loves to sing and is glad to be a part of The Master Singers!
Paul Van Beek, baritone, is returning for his seventh season with The Master Singers. Paul lives in Eau Claire with his wife Laurie. Paul enjoys spending time with his adult children and traveling to visit family across America. Paul is excited to be singing with The Master Singers again. He is a member of Lake Street United Methodist Church and serves on various committees.
Taylor Wallace, is starting her 5th season with The Master Singers. She is a 4K-12 general music and choir teacher as well as the summer school program director for the Elmwood School District. She graduated from UWEC in 2012 and has been teaching ever since. Career highlights include being an international soloist for the 75th commemoration of D-Day in Paris with Music Celebrations International, conducting the elementary choir for the Northeast Singing in Wisconsin concert, and working as the Wisconsin State Honors Project Alto Coach. Her husband is a firefighter/ paramedic and freelance trumpet player. Their son is 11 and is also a musician, playing piano, and trombone, and singing Galavanting is their favorite family activity, whether it’s locally, stateside, or abroad.
Jennifer Williamson, a central Illinois native, recently moved to the Eau Claire area with her partner, Bradley. She has a Bachelor’s in Commercial Music from Millikin University and has a passion for music production and audio mixing. She’s worked as a voice teacher and a remote publicist for a musician on the west coast since spring of 2023. In her free time, she enjoys cooking, rock climbing, biking, and spending time with her 3 cats.
Commissioned Composers
The Master Singers is honored to celebrate our association with leading composers during our history. Thank you to these composers whose musical gifts through these commissioned works have enriched our lives and thrilled audiences.
Zachary Moore
Heidi Joosten
Z. Randall Stroope
Kyle Pederson
Elaine Hagenberg
Trevor Manor
Ivo Antognini
She Walks in Beauty- 2024-2025
Psalm 23 – 2022-2023
The Fall of Rome – 2015-2016
Carol of the Bells – 2015-2016
My Flight to Heaven – 2014-2015
Sleep My Child, Sleep – 2014-2015
October Song – 2014-2015
Magnificat - 2023-2024
Out of the Depths - 2023-2024
Earth Voices – 2022-2023
O Magnum Mysterium – 2009-2010
Sing We Now of Christmas – 2021-2022
Illuminare – 2021-2022
The Rivers’ Song – 2018-2019
Wexford Carol – 2018-2019
Jesus, Jesus, Rest Your Head – 2019-2020
Take the Train – 2018-2019
“The blending of musical sounds today filled me up. Thank you!”
— Concert Patron
Songs from the Road
October 20, 2024 at 4:00 p.m.
Pablo Center at the Confluence, Eau Claire
Dr. Frank A. Watkins, Artistic Director and Conductor
Shawn Muench, piano
Megan Sorenson, piano
SPONSOR: Anonymous
Women’s Concert Chorale, UW-Eau Claire
Musica Aeterna ................................ Lorenz Maierhofer
Shawn Muench, piano
Travelin’ Home .................................. Andrea Ramsey
Shawn Muench, piano
Amazing Grace ............................. arr. Michael Hennigan
I Want to Die While You Love Me .................. Rosephanye Powell
Shawn Muench, piano
Never One Thing ............................... arr. Corie Brown
Hard Trials .................................. Craig Hella Johnson
Megan Sorenson, piano
Song from the Road ........................... Craig Hella Johnson
Megan Sorenson, piano
Not One Sparrow is Forgotten ...................... William Hawley
i thank you god for most this amazing day .......... Christopher Aspaas
Megan Sorenson, piano
III. The Master Singers
Schicksalslied .................................. Johannes Brahms
Members of the Eau Claire Chamber Orchestra
Schicksalslied (Song of Fate)
You wander above in the light on soft ground, blessed genies! Blazing, divine breezes brush by you as lightly as the fingers of the player on her holy strings.
Fateless, like sleeping infants, the divine beings breathe, chastely protected in modest buds, blooming eternally their spirits,
and their blissful eyes gazing in mute, eternal clarity. Yet there is granted us no place to rest; we vanish, we fallthe suffering humansblind from one hour to another, like water thrown from cliff to cliff, for years into the unknown depths.
-translation by Emily Ezust
Women’s Concert Chorale
Fall 2024
Dr. Frank A. Watkins, Conductor
Shawn Muench, piano
SOPRANO 1
Adrianna Dahlberg
Yana Hamilton
Hailey Hornberg
Ana Huls
Ava Kizewski
Joleah Joiner
Rachel Miller
Aubree Morehouse
Maria Peterson
Grace Riesgraf
Faith Shamburek
Mae Tygum
Sam Wiesner
Cori Wood
ALTO 1
Violette Culp
Keira Deiman
Ava Doperalski
Hannah Durham
Robin Ferreras
Leigha Foat
Evelyn Fritsch
Anna Haag
Elena Holm
Kyli Hylla
Latte Lee
Emma Lenzner
Elise Mangan
Grace Phelps
Isabelle Roehl
Annelise Swiggum
Phoebe Wolf
SOPRANO 2
Madi Arnold
Annika Borgnes
Octavia Heuschele
Kayle Hunt
Lucy Johnson
Kaia Ketcham
Rhianna Kolocheski
Miranda Larson
Gretchen Mattson
Ruby Milton
Cleo Moen
Julia Moran - Cherney
Anna Rabe
Lorelei “Link” Sanders
Caidyn Schulz
ALTO 2
Jordyn Anderson
Lana Backstrom
Alina Bushinger
Max Davis
Samantha Gundrum
Leila Laczhazy
Audrey LaRoy
Lindsay Mangan
Megan Odegard
Evelyn Oehler
Mary Phillipson
Carissa Rice
Cecilia Ridgeway
Renee Sandoval
Norah Schimming
Megan Snyder
American Choral Series
Norman Dello Joio
Alice Parker and Robert Shaw
Robert De Cormier
America, My Home: Tender Love
America, My Home: Shenandoah
America, My Home: Deep River
America, My Home: The Best of All Possible Worlds 2011
America, My Home: Our Tender Land
2012
America, My Home: The Road Home
2013
America, My Home: A Red, Red Rose
2014
America, My Home: October Song
2015
America, My Home: Homeland
2016
America, My Home: Hairston and Hogan
2017
America, My Home: Remembered
2018
America, My Home: Flight Song
2019
America, My Home: Carmina Pax
2021
America, My Home: Sing Gently 2022
America, My Home: Earth Voices 2023 I, Too, Sing America
2024
Songs from the Road
Lessons and Carols: Be Still, My Soul
December 13, 2024 at 7:30 p.m.
First Congregational United Church of Christ | Eau Claire
SPONSOR:
Chippewa Valley Eye Clinic
December 14, 2024 at 1:00 p.m.
Saint Charles Borromeo Church | Chippewa Falls
SPONSORS:
Friends of the Master Singers The Lamoureaux Family
Dr. Frank A. Watkins, Artistic Director and Conductor
Megan Sorenson, piano
O Radiant Dawn ................................ James MacMillan
Qui Sedes ....................................... James Fritschel
Who sits at the right hand of the Father, have mercy on us. For thou alone are holy; thou alone Lord. Thou alone most high, Jesus Christ.
O Nata Lux ...................................... Andrew Steffen
O Light born of Light, Jesus, redeemer of the world, with loving-kindness deign to receive suppliant praise and prayer. Thou who once deigned to be clothed in flesh for the sake of the lost, grant us to be members of thy blessed body.
Abendlied .................................... Josef Rheinberger
Bide with us, for evening shadows darken, and the day will soon be over.
En Les Nits de Desembre ............................. Josep Sabaté
Megan Sorenson, piano
In the December nights
In the December nights which are so long! the shepherds are alone in the wind, contemplating the earth in darkness... And in the sky there is the star of the East. In the December nights which are so long! between the wind and the invisible murmur, there are angel flights that fill the dreams of the shepherds! The angels walk the earth and there’s a bright glow in the sky
O Magnum Mysterium ............................
O great mystery, and wonderful sacrament, that animals should see the newborn Lord, lying in a manger!
Blessed is the virgin whose womb was worthy to bear the Lord, Jesus Christ. Alleluia!
Jennifer Higdon
We Dance! ...................................... Dominic DiOrio
Alleluia, For This Day .......................
Megan Sorenson, piano
Christopher A. Harris
Piano Solo by Megan Sorenson
The First Noel...arr Ethan Mattox
Gaudete ..................................... arr. Jacques Cohen
Rejoice, rejoice!
Christ is born
Of the Virgin Mary –Rejoice!
The time of grace has come— What we have wished for; Songs of joy
Let us give back faithfully. God has become man, With nature marvelling, The world has been renewed By the reigning Christ. The closed gate of Ezekiel Is passed through, Whence the light is risen; Salvation has been found. Therefore, let our assembly Now sing in brightness
Let it bless the Lord: Greetings to our King
Gabriel’s Message .................... Basque Carol arr. Jim Clements
In the Bleak Midwinter .............................. Abbie Betinis
Megan Sorenson, piano
Sussex Carol ............................... arr. Elaine Hagenberg
Megan Sorenson, piano
Pat-a-pan ...................................... arr. David Conte
This Christmastide ................................. Donald Fraser
Megan Sorenson, piano
Mary Had a Baby ................................ Margaret Bonds
Megan Sorenson, piano
Everytime I Feel the Spirit ........................ arr. Moses Hogan
My husband and I always look forward to the Christmas Concert. It has become a yearly tradition for us. - Concert Patron
v
The Master Singers would like to recognize the 293 musicians who have performed with The Master Singers during our 32 year history. We celebrate your time with the ensemble and the music you helped us to create in the Greater Chippewa Valley and beyond.
Craig Aamot
Aaron Accola
Adam Accola
R. Dale Anderson
Joshua Andrew
Todd Anger
Sara Antonson
Aaron Athas
Max Athorn
Kathy Attermeier
Mark Attermeier
Holly Bacha
Annie Bailey
Matthew Barnes
Angela Batterman
Ben Bedroske
Judy Bell
David Bishop
Steve Bohrer
Linda Booton
James Boulter
Laura Boyd
Seth Boyd
Jamie Brieske
Janine Brinkman
Jennifer Brockpahler
Andy Brown
Ronald Buckles*
Angela Burisek
Diana Cataldi
Ryan Cook
Jennifer Corcoran
Christopher Cox
Adrian Cramer
Tim Cruciani
Dave Dalton
Tammie Delveaux
Eric Dickson
Tomas Dominguez
Maria Donato
Paul Drace
John Dutmer
Jennifer Eddy
Christine Emerson
John Emery
Terra Favilla
David Fehr
Susan Fiegel
Suzi Fischer
Magdalene Flinner
Nicholas Flinner
Karen Flodquist
LeAnne Ford*
Jim Forster
Terri Fox
Susan Franco
Zachary Franson
Ray French
Jeanne Fritts
Terry Fritz
Maureen Fromme
Lori Gallagher*
Colleen Garnevicus
Hugh Gaston
Kristi Gerry
Jason Gottsacker
Greg Granlund
Sydney Grimm
Judith Willink Grose*
Brian Grosz
Dan Gustafson
Jeanne Haack
Sharon Hahn
Amy Halberg
Matthew Hall*
Katharine Hamilton
Jeffrey Hanestad
Cynthia Hanson
Joleen Hanson
Kristina Hanson
Roy Hanson
Nicole Harper
Lloyd Harter
Dick Hazelton
Jacob Hickey
Jessica Hoehn
Terry Hoepner*
Lukas Hoffland
Steve Hopeman
Leah Horne*
Wilma Hovland
Jessi Hoy
Christian Hoyer
David Huber
Scott Humrickhouse*
Stephanie Hunt
Slavko Ivankovic
Annie Jackson
Alex Jacques
Maggie James
Roberta Joern
Ben John
Andrew Johnson
Beth Johnson
Clint Johnson
David Johnson
Merton Johnson
Rebecca Johnson
James Jones
Matthew Jones
Chris Jorgenson
Mark Juergens
Joe Kastner
Allen Keniston
Amanda Kinney
Matthew Kiskunas*
Darwyn Klatt
JoAnn Klatt*
Brain Klein
Dan Kneer
Val Knobloch
Kelly Knutson
Spencer Kopp
Sandy Kowalsky
Libby Krause
Richard Kuby*
John Kuehl*
Heather Lahr
Kari Lammers
Ann Lamoureux
Kate Larson
Eric Leih
Jon Lepsch
Corinne Liegel
Judy Lies
Colleen Lindgren
Caitlin Lloyd
Evan Lloyd
Catherine Lofy
Kurt Lothe
Veronica Ludin
Jonathan Lueck
Justin Lundberg
Mark Lundin
Rebecca Macholl
Erin Maher
Jacob Manier
Carmen Manning
Andrew Marlett
Patty Marsnik
Beth Martin*
Jennifer Mason
Randy Mastin*
Ron Mastin*
Tim Mattson
Cinthia Mayer
Lynn McFadyen
Emma McIlquham
Rachael McIlquham
Sharon McIlquham
Dundee McNair
Marty McNamee
Matthew McVeigh
Sarah McVeigh
Shayla Menter
Laura Metcalf
Sandra Mighell
Kathleen Miller
Matthew Miller
Wanda Miller
Adam Minten
Zachary Moore
Jenifer Morgan
Jeremiah Morgan
David Morley
Janna Morley
Richard Moses
Brian Mueller
Katerina Musgrave
Mark Neppl
Eric Nielsen
Jens Nielsen
Brenda Nyhus
Matthew Nyman
Jerry O’Brien
Ryan O’Connor
Deborah Oleson
Jeff Olson
Kirk Olson
Randy Olson
Jay Olstad
Paul Oppedahl
Christine Ott*
Gillian Pacetti
Sarah Parks
Sarah Pennington
Warren Petryk
Matthew Pfantz
Mark Pirazzini
Meredith Pirazzini
Emy Polodna
Joe Poncelet
Mark Quamme
Karen Radix
Laura Ramlow
Nikolas Ramlow
Amy Randall
Dan Reali
Laura Seymour Reali*
Phil Reilly
Cathy Reitz
Leah Richardson
Kyle Robl
Anna Rybicki
Shawn Ryser
Katie Sandberg
Mariah Sands
Dominic Santine
Rebecca Santine
Rebecca Schaberg
Lauren Schell
Amber Schiessl
Leland Schmick
Jessica Scholl
Alexa Schroeder
Gary Schwartzhoff*
Nancy Schwartzhoff*
Bill Seipel
Anthony Sheperd
Gracie Sheperd
Holly Simmons
Ryan Simmons
Grant Singer
Barbara Sipple
Annelies Slack
Elizabeth Sletten
Carter Smith
Victoria Smith
Ken Snart
Kyle Sonnemann
Collin Sorenson
Megan Sorenson
Katie Stark
Cathy Statz
Andrew Steffen
Gary Steffenhagen
Michael Steinberger
Emily Sternfeld-Dunn
Robin Stoessel
Eva Stokes
Brad Stoughton
Rod Stoughton
Larry Studt
Alyssa Styczynski
Mary Swanson
Noah Tashner
Helissa Thornton
Derrick Tilus
Terri Tompkins
Darius Torres
Stephanie Tyink
Robert Ukrainec
Kate Vagnino
Dorinda Van Beek
Paul Van Beek
Marcia Van Beek*
James Van Heel
Mark Wacek
Taylor Wallace
Kristin Walukas
Kristin Warner
Karen Wartchow
Frank Watkins
Jennifer Weber
Heidi Weber*
Jeffrey Weishaar*
Matthew Weiss
Jane Wells
Steve Werner
Ben White
Howard White*
Beth Willer
Jennifer Williamson
Ross Wilson
Luke Wolfe
Dale Young
Loretta Young
Rachel Zarzyski
Samuel Zehms
Elizabeth Zenz
Ryan Zettlemoyer
Paula Zwiefelhofer
* Charter Member
Choral Images: Reaching for the Light
March 9, 2025 at 3:00 p.m.
First Congregational United Church of Christ | Eau Claire
Dr. Frank A. Watkins, Artistic Director and Conductor
Megan Sorenson, piano
SPONSORS:
The Van Beek-Kaiser Family
The Eddy-Gideonsen Family
Kyrie Eleison from Requiem for Peace ................... Larry Nickel
Lord have mercy
Christ have mercy Lord have mercy
O Vos Omnes ...................................... Pablo Casals
O all you who walk by on the road, pay attention and see: if there be any sorrow like my sorrow. Pay attention, all people, and look at my sorrow: if there be any sorrow like my sorrow.
Oculus non vidit .................................. Rihards Dubra
Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, The things which God hath prepared for them that love Him.
Incline Your Ear and Come Unto Me ................ Edward Fissinger
To Night .......................................... Eric Barnum
In The Night We Shall Go In ......................... Imant Ramish
Megan Sorenson, piano
She Walks in Beauty ............................. Zachary J. Moore
Annelies Slack & Howard White World Premiere
Can We Sing Darkness to Light? ..................... Kyle Pederson
Megan Sorenson, piano
Intermission
My Spirit Sang All Day ...............................
Gerald Finzi
Sehnsucht .....................................
Johannes Brahms
Like water, running day and night, your longing lies awake. You think about a vanished time that lies so far away. You look out into the light of morning and you are alone.
Like water, running day and night, your longing lies awake.
Megan Sorenson, piano
O Schöne Nacht ................................ Johannes Brahms
O Lovely Night!
In the sky, magically, the moon shines in all its splendor; around it, the pleasant company of little stars.
Megan Sorenson, piano
Light of the Clear Blue Morning ....................... Dolly Parton
arr. Craig Hella Johnson
Megan Sorenson, piano
Noche de Lluvia .................................
Wait, do not sleep.
Listen to what the wind is saying And to what the water says tapping With little fingers upon the window panes.
My heart is listening
To hear the enchanted sister Who has slept in the sky, Who has seen the sun, And now comes down, buoyant and gay. Let us listen to the rhythm of the rain. Cradle between my breasts
Your silent forehead
I will feel the beating of your temples, Throbbing and warm.
How gay the waving wheat will be! How eagerly the grass will thrive! What diamonds will cluster now
In the deep branches of the pines! Wait, do not sleep. Tonight The two of us are a world, Isolated by wind and rain
In the warmth of a bedroom.
Nyon Nyon ......................................
Sid Robinovitch
Jake Runestad
A Farewell ....................................... Molly Ijames
Megan Sorenson, piano
The Master Plan
If you are interested in helping us continue our tradition of fine choral performances, we invite your consideration to support The Master Singers by becoming a member of The Master Plan through a charitable contribution:
Premier Concert Master $5,000+
Grand Concert Master
$3,000 4,999
Concert Master
$1,500 2,999
Master of the Hall
$500 1,499
Master Class
$250 499
Master of the Arts
$100 249
Master Singers
$1 99
The following opportunities are ways that your contribution to The Master Plan can be realized:
Fund a Commissioned Work: $5,000
Sponsor a Concert: $4,500
Co-Sponsor a Concert: $1,500
Purchase an Ad in Our Season Program:
$100-$600
Donations to The Master Singers are tax deductible as described in Section 170 of the IRS Code under 501(c)(3). Donors making a gift of $250 or more will receive one ticket for the Lessons & Carols Series and one ticket for the Spring Concert.
We would be honored to have you as a member of The Master Plan. Gifts received by September 1st will be listed in that year’s concert program.
When donating, please print your name as you would like it to appear in the season program.
Donate online: www.TheMasterSingers.net
Or please mail your contribution to:
The Master Singers PO Box 3194 Eau Claire, WI 54702-3194
Individual tickets are available at Festival Foods, First Congregational UCC, the membership and online. All sales are final.
You can hear many selections of The Master Singers on our YouTube channel which may be accessed through our website at www.TheMasterSingers.net
The Master Plan 2024–2025
THE MASTER PLAN SPONSORSHIPS
Season Sponsors
Wisconsin Arts Board
Art Works
Media Sponsor
Wisconsin Public Radio
Concert Sponsors
Anonymous
Chippewa Valley Eye Clinic
Eddy-Gideonsen Family
Lamoureux Family
Annelies Slack & Howard White
Van Beek-Kaiser Family
Friends of The Master Singers
The following individuals are recognized for their individual Friends of The Master Singers co-sponsorship of “Lessons & Carols: Be Still, My Soul” concert at Saint Charles Borromeo Church in Chippewa Falls and the “Missa Choralis” concert at the Basilica of Saint Mary in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
Anonymous
Annie Bailey
Tim & Kristi Gerry
Eric Nielsen
Mike & Robin Stoessel
The Master Singers Circle Concert Sponsors
The Master Singers added The Master Singers Circle to its Master Plan in 2014. The Circle gives alumni and current Master Singer members along with alumni and current Board Directors the opportunity to collectively provide sponsorships for ancillary performances. Founding members are noted with an asterisk*.
Mark & Kathy Attermeier*
Jim, Barb, & Nikki Harper
Ray & Sue Koch*
Pete & Patty Marsnik
Lynn & Bob McFadyen*
David & Janna Morley*
Dan Reali*
Gary & Rita Steffenhagen
Marcia Van Beek*
THE MASTER PLAN DONORS
Premier Concert Master:
Anonymous
Chippewa Valley Eye Clinic
Concert Master:
Jennifer Eddy & Mark Gideonsen
John & Ann Lamoureux
Annelies Slack & Howard White
Marcia Van Beek & Jack Kaiser
Master of the Hall:
Anonymous
Annie Bailey
Tom & Jill Barland
Tim & Kristi Gerry
Eric Nielsen
Mike & Robin Stoessel
WESTconsin Credit Union
Master Class:
Mark and Kathy Attermeier
Jim, Barb and Nikki Harper
Gary and Rita Steffenhagen
Master of the Arts:
Dr. Kristen C. Abbott-Anderson
Charlie and Lucy Bauer
Carol Benning
Ray & Sue Koch
Pete & Patty Marsnik
Lynn & Bob McFadyen
Joanne Miller
David & Janna Morley
Dan Reali
Dana Schroeder
THE
MASTER
PLAN ADVERTISEMENT SPONSORS
We recognize the following individuals and businesses for their ads placed in the season program as part of The Master Plan. Your sponsorship allows us to produce a quality program for patrons in the Thirty-Second Concert Season.
In-Kind Ad:
First Congregational United Church of Christ
Mid-West Broadcasting
Wisconsin Public Radio
Program Ad Sponsors:
Capital Coordinators Company
Chippewa Valley Cremation Services
Chippewa Valley Eye Clinic
Chippewa Valley Symphony Orchestra
Chippewa Valley Theatre Guild
Eau Claire Chamber Orchestra
Laskers Jewelers
Royal Credit Union
Wiersgalla
White & Schilling
Xcel Energy
Acknowledgements:
The Master Singers would like to thank those individuals and organizations who have supported our mission of the fostering, promotion, and appreciation of choral music in the Greater Chippewa Valley:
Eau Claire Memorial High School Choral Program, Aurora Krajnikconde, conductor
Chippewa Falls High School Choral Program, Rachael McIlquham, conductor
Eau Claire North High School Choral Program, Catherine Lofy, conductor
Eau Claire Regis High School, Rebecca Santine, conductor
Zachary J Moore 32nd Season Commissioned Composer
Members of the Board of Directors of The Master Singers
Dr. Rev. Mark Pirazzini, Pastor, First Congregational UCC
First Congregational United Church of Christ Eau Claire
Pam Braun, Office Manager, First Congregational UCC
The Heart and Soul of The Master Singers
Paul and Peggy Savides, house managers
Family members of The Master Singers
Contributors to The Master Singers
Concert Sponsors and Advertisers
Area High School Choral Ushers
Michael McNally, videographer
Carmen Manning, grant writer
Laura Ramlow, grant writer
Reception Coordinators
Wisconsin Public Radio
Wisconsin Arts Board
The Les Hale Chorale
Concert Patrons
Concert Ushers
Festival Foods
Our Audience
“Very talented choir, we enjoy them all the time.”
presents special holiday broadcasts by The Master Singers on WPR 89.7 WUEC FM and other WPR stations across Wisconsin.
Lessons & Carols 2023: A Rose in Winter
Airing Sunday, December 8th beginning at Noon Monday, December 9th beginning at 8pm
