An Unbelievable Journey!

It is hard to believe that Spectacular is over, it’s the last week of classes, and we’ve been through one round of auditions for next year’s cast! This year literally flew by. I guess the old saying “time flies when you’re having fun” is definitely true! I would like to say thank you to each of the young adults who make up Indiana’s Goodwill ambassadors-”The Ball State University Singers” for an incredible journey this year. It’s always difficult to go through change, but you all rose to the challenge, did your job as a cast member, and even went beyond expectations, to make this an overall productive and very rewarding year. I thank all of you, including instrumentalists, sound technicians, and glee club for helping me understand and appreciate the evolution that has taken place with the group over the last 30 years. (Things have definitely changed since the 1970’s!! LOL) Even through the “tough” times- which there weren’t many from my perspective- I thoroughly enjoyed the moments spent with you. I don’t know what will happen for next year, but I do know that I am assured that the group has continued an amazing tradition and will continue to so for many years to come. It was an honor to work with and get to know each of you! Please accept my heart felt gratitude for a “Spectacular” experience this year! Good luck to those who are moving on! To those who are staying, I hope you get losts of rest and come back rejuvenated and ready to conquer another year! My best to all.
God Bless
Yours In Song!
Mrs. Debbie Andis

SPEC – First night done – now #2…

Well, I am sitting back stage of Emens Auditorium and the cast is arriving to begin our preparations for our second performance of the 45th Spectacular. Our first show was last night and it was a great success! I feel the cast did an outstanding job; not only in performance, but also during the week of preparation leading up to the performances. I am so pleased with our band – they play VERY well. And, I am extremely please with our tech crew – they have REALLY made our show come together into a very fine performance! I know, at times this week, that I have made it difficult for them to do their job because I have put a great number of demands on them. I have made an effort to impress upon them exactly how important their role is in the over all success of the University Singers, and that they are not back in the back simply “mashing buttons!” 

The Glee Club has come miles in their singing this year; of that I am very proud! I had some faculty members of the School of Music approach me to say that this was the best they had ever heard the group sound, etc. I am appreciative of those comments, and they mean a great deal to me as I work to mold and shape this group. My goal this year was to simply “keep it going and to maintain” what was already happening. For me, some things have worked very well; other things, however, just didn’t seem to fit into what I hold true to be my overall style and philosophy. When it came to adjusting some of those things this year, there were a number of difficulties and challenges. Some of the older members found my views different and challenging. I hope that they remember these moments in the future – there will be more of them to come in their immediate future as they enter the “real” world. As I have said to them many times: “Once you walk across the stage and have that diploma in your hand… WELCOME TO MY WORLD!” These students are wonderful people and I know that they will ALL be very successful – I am very proud of them, and honored to have been a small part of their experience this year.

Now… on to show #2 – sound check is about to begin… let’s hope those wireless microphones hold out for just one more show…

Going back… a blessing and a curse!

Well, we are preparing to return to school in less than 48 hours. I have to say that I have grown accustomed to staying up very late and not having to be up early! But, as they say, all good things must come to and end. I feel like I did get a bit of a longer “break” than most because I went to the ACDA convention in Oklahoma City. It was a fantastic experience, filled with a lot of great choral music, very informative sessions on how to make the choral arts better, etc. Once the convention ended, I accompanied my partner to Dallas, TX, where he had a couple of days of work to do. While he worked, I did a great deal of “catching up” on my work as well. We returned late last Tuesday and I spent all of Wednesday doing more work. On Thursday, I went into the office and had some meetings, etc. Even though I am not totally excited about going “back to the grind,” I am ready to get back to my daily routine, etc. I miss the students and the daily activity, so for that I am glad to be returning! Spec is VERY close and we have a great deal of work to do to put the final pieces into place. I am the kind of person that thrives on the pressure of the deadline – this is the point where I feel things really begin to “click” – I hope everyone else can keep up! We’ll see… we still have some challenges and other things to attend to, to make everything just as it should be. I have faith in the members of University Singers abilities, so I know that it will truly be a “Spectacular” show – pun intended!

More to come…

CABARET!!!

Well, it’s the night before our 2009 Cabaret Show. We had our rehearsal in Sursa Hall last night and it was fantastic. What was most enjoyable was that the students had an opportunity to hear themselves and learn what they HAD to do to improve their product. It is MOST gratifying when students become students of their own knowledge – sometimes it is by accident, other times it is intentional, and other times, someone has to drag them kicking and screaming… it wasn’t QUITE like that, but needless to say it was illuminating for all – BINGO! I hope anyone who reads this will make time to come to see the University Singers tomorrow night – Tuesday, January 27, in Sursa Hall @ 8:00 PM. See you there!

And… We’re back!

We are now into the second week of the new semester and things are already VERY busy here! We are making preparations for the University Singers Cabaret Show. The event will be in Sursa Hall, Tuesday Jan 27th @ 8:00 PM. We do this show to observe and celebrate University Singers Day, which is Jan. 29th. We have a great show planned with some very talented students, so I am very excited that we get to share this program with everyone. We would love to see you there!

Hello, Everyone!

It’s the beginning of the second sememster and I’m just now figuring out how to write a “Blog”!!  Thanks to Stefan for being patient with me. 

I’m so very excited to be back at BSU, but this time in a different role, as the Assistant Director for the Ball State University Singers-Indiana’s  and Ball State’s “Goodwill Ambassadors” !  I am proud to be a BSU Singer/Dancer Alum from the Larry Boye years.  My time  in Ball State Singers (1973-77) was filled with some of the most amazing experiences in my life, and was the highlight of my college career.  I didn’t realize it at the time, but the vocal and choreography rehearsals, performances, preparation for Spec in planning, building sets, sewing costumes, taking on a leadership role as Vice-President of the group in my Senior year, and much, much more prepared me for my life career as a Choral Director.  Upon graduation, I became the Choral Director and Guard Instructor for Hamilton Southeastern High School and Middle School.  That was back when the schools were on narrow two lane country roads and nothing else was around!!  For a starting salary of $8.000.00, I directed the concert and show choirs at the high school along with the guard (flags and rifles), traveled to the middle school and taught 6, 7, 8 grade choirs, and several sections of general music, as well as the guard at that level.  I had to attend all football and basketball games, and of course the performaces of the choirs.  Needless to say, I was very busy!  When I left, they replaced me with 2 teachers.  My next job was at Wes-Del High School and Middle School.  When my beautiful daughter, Andria, was born I decided to work on my Masters.  While doing so, I had the opportunity to work with Mr. Boye again as his secretary during one summer, and set up a Fall tour of Indiana schools for the Ball State Singers.  While teaching  part time at St. Ambrose in Anderson my son, Ross, was born.  I was offered the job at Frankton High School, then was able to land a job in Anderson Community Schools as an elementary music teacher.  I was “bumped” to Highland High School where I spent 14 fabulous  years.  My show choir experiences with Ball State kicked in again!  The Highland Singers (mixed show choir) and Starliters (women’s show choir) claimed the national Showstoppers title several times, along with many other prestigious championships throughout   Indiana, Ohio, Tennessee, Illinois, and California.  During my tenure,  I  also started a junior varsity show choir, madrigal/vocal jazz group, concert choir and freshman training choir.   Presently, I am the Choral Director at North Side Middle School in Anderson, as well as well as a faculty member serving as the Assistant Director for Singers!!  I also judge show choir competitions, serve as a clinician for show choirs as they prepare their competition shows, and am the choreographer and artistic advisor for the Bridgeport High School Show Choir in Bridgeport, WV.  My husband, Randy, and I have an awesome 3 year old grand daughter, Hadleigh, who I think may be following my footsteps!  She LOVES to sing and dance!!

The tradition of hard work, dedication, and  incredible talent is still alive and strong in the young people who make up “the group”!!  I am so impressed with every aspect of the individuals.  From the singer/dancers to the band and sound technicians!  They are amazing.  Every alum can be extremely proud of our legacy!!  I hope that everyone who went through this program-starting with the original  group until now- will take time to write on the Singers web site, sharing experiences, maybe stop by and see the group as they rehearse, but especially, make an effort to come to Spec in April.  The show is shaping up to be an exciting one!    I know you’ll enjoy the fun!! 

God Bless!

Debbie (Hilderbrand) Andis

1st Semester – the last day!

Well, we have reached the end of the 1st semester! Much to many other people’s chagrin, mine actually finished Tuesday, and I am now sitting on the beach of Miami, FL., waiting to board a cruise ship for some much needed rest and fun. My heart goes out to those who have to stay in Muncie until the end of the day today, taking tests, turning in projects, etc.

As we wrapped up the semester with a whirlwind of programs and shows, the University Singers showed that as usual, they have an emmense amount of poise and grace  – even under a large amount of pressure. The first week of December we did seven rehearsals (for two different shows) and then had the shows over the weekend. We also had Jan’s annual Christmas party once all of that was over – believe me – it was MUCH needed by then!

As I sit here reflecting on the past semester, I remember all of the folks that know me from outside BSU, or are associated with me through my public education career. They all said the same thing…  “You are in the big time now – no kids to worry about… etc” However, what I have learned is this: It is all the same; no matter what level you are working, it’s still the same. Although I have the pleasure of working with college students, it is simple – they are still kids. But I mean that in a good way – they are kids and that is wonderful. The reason I say that is simple – it has opened my eyes to the fact that I still have to be on my toes, and the work is real and authentic. They certainly keep me honest and they challenge me – I LOVE THAT!

We had our end of the semster check-in meetings with each student this past week – it was a great experience. I am not in the dark about the fact that not every person in the group is happy all the time – or ever for some – for that matter. But, I tried to help each of them understand that they have the right to approach me, ask questions, present challenges, and play the devil’s advocate. The other part of that right is also be a part of the solution. Some folks are happy to sit around, be in the dark, complain about EVERYTHING, make statements with out all the facts, etc. They don’t seem to remember to ask questions and get anwers. When one skips the second step, nothing good ever comes – I hope a couple of those in our family will now be reminded to go to the second step from now on – if not, heaven help them! LOL!

I still say, that I am extremely proud of each of our University Singers folks – they are wonderful kids who bring A LOT to the table each and every rehearsal. To each of them, I wish them a great holiday break – be safe and warm! Be ready to come back and work hard – you are all the best and I love you all!

Well, our first show – DONE!

We did it! We survived our first BIG show of the year. I must say, although it wasn’t without a couple of “moments” that were still somewhat “fresh” I feel that the University Singers did an awesome job! There isn’t anything that can diminish the level of pride that I feel for them and their work in the past few weeks and it came through in their performance!

It was a pleasure to spend the day with them – the University Singers are a FUN group of students that make it easy to have fun. While on the bus, we enjoyed watching movies as well as each others’ company. Our matriarchal figure, Jan, was with us and that made my day! She was helpful and her support is always appreciated.

We did the show, packed up, and left sometime after 10 o’clock Chesterton time, which was an hour later at home, so it was LATE, or early, however you want to say, when we got home. I didn’t get home and into bed until 5 AM! I spent the bulk of Sunday recovering, but I am STILL dragging – LOL!

Now, we are preparing for the holiday events – there are several once we return from Thanksgiving. We are appearing with the Muncie Symphony as well as all of the other choral ensembles – these appearances are two separate events – back to back! We have some short and longer holiday run-outs, the Christmas party at Jan’s and a whole host of other things going on. Christmas break will be a welcome rest!

Well, enough for now, back to work!

Hello again!

Well I am finally back on here – I feel badly about the fact that I have neglected this for a week or two! Things have been VERY busy at BSU; especially with the University Singers! We had our first in a series of what I would call “mini run-outs” last night at the Delaware County Country Club. There wasn’t a lot of room for dancing, so we mainly had to stand and sing our set of about 45 min. It was fun and the group did well; especially considering that is not our normal way of producing a show!

We have a big run-out next Saturday; we are going to Chesterton High School in Chesterton, IN. It is a LONG way up there, but we are excited to show the audience what we have been working on this semester. Then, when we get back from there, we have several more of our mini run-outs and then the holiday concert with the MSO on the 6th of December. Bigger news is that we have a concert with the BSU choirs as well – that happens on Dec. 7th. I know that these events will prove to be a LOT of fun and very worthwhile – not only for the University Singers, but everyone involved.

I should get back to my work on the Bach B Minor Mass – AGH!

Hello Everyone!

Well, it has been exciting for me this fall. I am extremely honored and very happy to be back at BSU and even more proud to be working with the University Singers! Many have asked me about how I came to be here in the first place, so I thought that I devote this first post to that information as well as a few other things.

I got my BME from ISU in Terre Haute, IN and then started teaching high school and middle school choir in Greensburg, IN at North Decatur Jr./Sr. High School. I enjoyed this job a lot – especially as it was my very first job and I was in the “big time” – ACTUALLY teaching! While I enjoyed the work, the students as well as my coworkers, the reality was that it was a very small school in a small community and I desired something on a larger scale. Also, I found that I missed going to school – so, I went back! I was awarded an assistantship in choral conducting at Ball State, and was then asked to join the University Singers as Graduate Assistant, where I worked for two years.

After finishing my masters degree, I applied for the choral director’s position at Anderson High School, which, is where I actually went to high school. Before I knew it, I was in a much larger position with about 200 students. The AHS program was in trouble and it took A LOT of time and energy to get it back on course. Within the first three years there, we had more than 500 students in the program. The concert choirs AND show choirs were thriving.

Then, as fate would have it, the almighty dollar began to speak and administrative decisions had a HUGE impact on the program. Staff was cut and the over-all schedule was changed from a block-8 schedule to a seven period day, where the classes were to meet every day. At first, I thought that would be best for the program: I would get more time with the students, more time to polish and teach all of the essentials, etc. However, instead, I found myself alone with HUGE classes and no assistant. Also, course offerings were cut in half, because the choral staff was cut in half. We used to offer Madrigal Singers, Chamber Choir, Concert Choir, Mixed choir, two show choirs, Music theory and Music Appreciation. With the new schedule and less staff, the course offerings were cut to the two show choirs, two introductory level choirs and maybe a theory class!

I found that I was able to continue work in this way with some success, but with folks in the Anderson community finding themselves continually financially strapped, less work ethic and in many cases less talent, I eventually felt as if it was time for a change. My partner, Thomas, has a daughter who went to AHS and was in the choral program; I decided that I would stay in my position there at least until she finished high school. At the start of her senior year, I began a series of conversations with different people across the country about what I wanted to do and where I might want to go next. I was offered an opportunity out west – I was interested in that, but when I visited, it seemed to me that I would be leaving my current situation for more of the same – just in a different place. So, that was not what I was looking for – I wanted something more – something that would be rewarding to me as well as challenging in a way that was different than I had for the last seven years.

So, I began talks with some folks at BSU; the original deal was that I was to be offered the position of the Graduate Assistant to the University Singers, under the direction of Jeffery Carter. However, Dr. Carter was offered a position at another university – it was something that he was ready for and it was much deserved. So, that left the directorship of the University Singers kind of “up in the air.” It was at that time that I was asked to consider becoming the “Acting Director” of the group, to which I readily agreed. This is something that I knew would be a HUGE challenge, but I am more than happy to have this opportunity to be where I am. In the short time that I have been back at BSU, I have found that I am extremely happy. I am once again being fed as a musician and as a teacher; something that doesn’t always come easy when teaching public school at any level. The members of the University Singers are the TOP of the top and I am so proud of each of them. They are the kind of people that you are glad to see in the hallway each day and they are a pleasure to work with in rehearsal!

Don’t be misled – nothing is always PERFECT. We are still getting to know each other and how we all work together and apart. We have had no major catastrophes or mishaps (knock on wood). We are preparing for our first runout and that has provided some opportunities for growth on everyone’s part. I find that the leadership of the University Singers is being challenged in new ways – time will tell how that all comes out in the end. I have very confidence in our leadership – they WILL rise to the occasion. I feel extremely confident in our current offerings for our first full show – it will have a great impact on our audience!

Like I said before, I am just glad to be here and thrilled to have such a great group to work with; I can’t wait to see how they run with everything the rest of the year – stay tuned!