From Our CEO

Reflections of Convention

Istated in the last edition of The Pitch Pipe that I would highlight specific departments in each issue and I will get back to that in April.

But right now, I would like to reflect on the wonderful week we experienced in St. Louis. We’re familiar with the Christmas classic, It’s The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year, and for Sweet Adelines, convention and competition week is definitely one of the most wonderful times of the year!

Congratulations to all competitors who crossed the stage. This is the first year that I’ve had the opportunity to sit in the audience and enjoy the music. My oh my – we are good! The talent on that stage was amazing! Congratulations to Division A – Sirens of Gotham; Division AA – Wellington City Chorus; International Chorus Champions Scottsdale Chorus, and International Quartet winners, ClassRing! You all represent this amazing organization beautifully!

There were so many highlights for the week, but a few come to the top of my mind. As we began the week at regional leaders' training, I listened to the amazing volunteer leaders who give their time and talent to care for their region. On Tuesday, at the Diversity Café, I listened to members share from their hearts to help others understand different perspectives and shift their perspective as a result. I had the privilege of joining the 50-60-year member breakfast and honoring members who have given their lives to this organization. The stories shared and hearing Lustre serenade a member – priceless.

Another highlight – Ricky Peterson, the keyboardist for Fleetwood Mac, Prince and David Sanborn, attended a portion of the chorus finals! He had been at a restaurant the night before, where Sweet Adelines sang to him and brought tears to his eyes. Joe Liles’ emotion was unforgettable when he was announced as the winner of the songwriting contest and North Metro’s swan song performance was beautiful and moving.

By the end of the week, Queen Janell Paviolitis let me wear her crown (A girl can dream!) and a new staff member asked me after chorus finals Saturday night, “Tammy, can I come to convention every year?” (Why yes, I think that can be arranged!)

Finally, the hugs, love, support and words of encouragement you shared with me moved my heart.

Once again, as with all SA events, my takeaway is the amazing music and the community. You are a community of women encouraging, supporting and empowering one another. If we could bottle this, we could truly change the world.

In appreciation,

Tammy Talbot, CEO

After a Sweet Adelines serenade, Fleetwood Mac keyboardist Ricky Peterson sat in on part of the chorus finals. Tammy Talbot with members of the Young Singers Foundation Silent Auction Committee.