Village Vocal Chords – Vocal HERspective

Jeanne O’Connor

Our hearts are overflowing with the myriad of ways we could introduce this week’s guest, but we’ll leave it at: Living Legend. Jeanne O’Connor exemplifies everything it means to “give of talents, time, and song” because that is exactly what she has been doing for over 64 years. Jeanne joined The Village Vocal Chords of Harmony Incorporated at just 14 years old, eventually going on to be their director, leading the group to 20 gold medals. She was also a member of Queen quartets, The Scale Blazers (1964), Esprit De Corps (1974), and U4X (2008). She also lent her voice to winning quartets, Kaleidoscope and Voices. Jeanne is also a longtime volunteer and member of the International Board, including multiple terms as International President. We *could* go on and on, but we’ll let you tune into the interview to learn more!

Lynn Blakeney

From a childhood full of music, to a scary diagnosis, to finding her voice again, Lynn Blakeney clearly doesn’t take her ability to sing for granted. With three sparkly hats and more medals than she can count, you may be surprised to know that Lynn’s focus goes far beyond competing. Listen in as she chats about her time with Upstate Rhythm, LiveWire, Roulette, Northern Blend, and even Village Vocal Chords, plus her perspective as a judge and coach. So much to pack into one episode!

Jeanne O'Connor

Episode 121 (0:36:47)

Our hearts are overflowing with the myriad of ways we could introduce this week's guest, but we'll leave it at: Living Legend. Jeanne O'Connor exemplifies everything it means to "give of talents, time, and song" because that is exactly what she has been doing for over 64 years. Jeanne joined The Village Vocal Chords of Harmony Incorporated at just 14 years old, eventually going on to be their director, leading the group to 20 gold medals. She was also a member of Queen quartets, The Scale Blazers (1964), Esprit De Corps (1974), and U4X (2008). She also lent her voice to winning quartets, Kaleidoscope and Voices. Jeanne is also a longtime volunteer and member of the International Board, including multiple terms as International President. We *could* go on and on, but we'll let you tune into the interview to learn more!

Lorie Autote

Episode 120 (0:31:36)

This week our interview is with barbershop swiss army knife, Lorie Autote. Lorie is a two time queen with For Heaven's Sake and LiveWire and also a member of champion chorus, Northern Blend. She is currently competing with Vivàce Quartet, too! Listen in for all the wisdom this longtime, successful singer has to share.

Thea Kano

Episode 119 (0:30:25)

Dr. Thea Kano came on as the surprising choice for Artistic Director of the Gay Men's Chorus of Washington 21 years ago. The conversation highlights the important role that music and the arts play in turbulent times and how the chorus lives out their mission to promote equality, achieve justice, and overcome our differences.

Learn more about the many offerings within the GMCW community at https://www.gmcw.org/

Lynn Blakeney

Episode 118 (0:46:56)

From a childhood full of music, to a scary diagnosis, to finding her voice again, Lynn Blakeney clearly doesn't take her ability to sing for granted. With three sparkly hats and more medals than she can count, you may be surprised to know that Lynn's focus goes far beyond competing. Listen in as she chats about her time with Upstate Rhythm, LiveWire, Roulette, Northern Blend, and even Village Vocal Chords, plus her perspective as a judge and coach. So much to pack into one episode!

Amy Patterson

Episode 117 (0:32:39)

Amy Patterson pulls off quite the balancing act in the sheer amount of things she accomplishes. You can see her singing or directing with A Cappella Showcase, singing with her International level quartets, Empire and Sapphire, quickly building a new mixed chorus with Voices Unlimited, or nurturing the singers of tomorrow with Young Voices. Oh, and then judging, coaching, and teaching. Hear more from this barbershop start out of Ontario on this week's episode!