I was able to attend the Celebration of Life for WO and am grateful I did. At some point in the afternoon it came to me that I was experiencing a top ten Denison moment for me. Now yes, that means I have started a draft of a Top Ten list...it may take some time. No doubt, this concert, reflection, memorial, reunion is on the list. Here are some reasons why and reflections of note:
The music was stunning. Singers give credit to conductor, current Denison faculty member Harris Ipock...but of course it is their commitment, work and talent as well. The selection of pieces presented told a story and portrayed the sentiments of commitment, love, learning and impact.
Two that touched me:
"Gently"2001- M. Michael Fauss '72- from PIGS, the sad saga of a wolf who was outwitted by his own dinner. Tree House Pig...oh my goodensss....I found the composer to learn more- proud Denison moment.
"Pianosong"1985 Paul Halley (b. 1952) performed by Meredith Needham '78, pianist, Donald Armitage, organist.
A number of times there was the piano for two hands, and it took my breath way.
Watching the reactions and emotions from the choir provided a poignant part of the afternoon. These Singers were so beautiful in allowing us to join their grief, it elevated the experience.
Each person that spoke and reflected made us laugh and think, remember and delight in how fortunate each of us and Denison was to have William Osborne. Thank you to all presentors. President Adam Weinberg set the stage by explaning WO demonstrated what is to be a faculty mentor, saying he did it best. It is true and these Singers and Sunday was tesitment. That said Margaret Padelford Karns '65 reminded us of Wally Chesman and others that did the same and I'm so grateful for this time to reflect on these types of Denisonians. I sat with Larry Murdock, another one. I'm inspired by the sentiment of WO- strive for the unattainable to achieve the improbable- we heard it a few times. The joy of music, learning, sharing, uniting was the energy of the event, weekend and tenure...Sarah Enterline Roch '02- little Sarah-ensured those of us attending felt it too.
Jeffrey Masten '86, Denison Trustee linked the academic prowess of WO, it took me back to WO as my teacher and the the World Music Class. Jeff's thoughts inspired me and I want to read and know more.
Yes, I took notes, I'm trying to read my own writing and recall more of the WOism that made us laugh and cry. The gift and purpose of Choral music- to blend, giving order to chaos.....teamwork, programs, all valuable lessons that inspire.
Link: https://denison.edu/academics/music/feature/162102 Here is the official well done article about the day wtih photos. More photos of the full weekend here, thanks Brenda!! https://www.flickr.com/photos/denisonuniversity/with/55359919042
Enjoy and savor.
The reception and after the service was key to rating "top ten", seeing Denisonians I have not seen in probably 35 plus year...hearing the connection Scott and Margararet Kruse '89 '86's family have to WO and having them part of the Singers family- truly heartening. The hug from dear Jeny Dawes '88 and Sarah Leibowits '89- sigh, the happy, grateful sigh, heart on chest- ahhh. I could go on and on...Lauren Kronish Klayman '89, David Zivan '88, Wanda Wilson with her current student daugther...Cookie Sunkle back in town...Denisonians of all generations and types...happiness is..even in a sad time to say farewell and thank you, but joy filled because of WO and all that give of time and talen...and treasure.
https://alumni.denison.edu/stories/a-standing-o-for-wo/ Another beautiful facet to this story, this life, the impact and inspiration..not only WO's scholarship he created, but this one created by alums in WO's name. THANK YOU to all supporting this. I was a music minor, I know the community the arts provides and each dollar matters and makes a difference.
WO, thank you for being you, for loving Denison, music, learning, students, community in such a liberal arts way. Thank you for your philanthropy and generosity and making Denisonians your family.
The music will play on, we will Sing on....
PS- thanks to the staff that made it all happen too....you all rock..you've been busy this Spring- well done!
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