About LASF: Contra Costa Sun Articles

Acalanes’ Choral Artist-in-Resident Program Shows Students the Big Picture

Bonnie McNab
LASF CORRESPONDENT

Growing focus on test scores has squeezed the arts in many public schools, eliminating visual and performing arts classes in favor of more traditional—and measurable—curriculum. Thankfully, however, that’s not the case at Acalanes High School, where performing arts programs are thriving.

Nowhere is that more evident than in Acalanes’ choral programs—specifically its Concert and Chamber Choirs. Comprised of mostly juniors and seniors, these choirs are at the top of their game, thanks to loads of talent and a dedicated and contagiously enthusiastic choral director, Bruce Lengacher. The joy is apparent when watching Bruce’s ease and exuberance with his students and their response as a community of artists meshing together in perfect harmony.

Always looking to keep his program fresh and challenge his students, Bruce last year applied for and was awarded a grant from the Lafayette Arts & Science Foundation to create a once-in-a-lifetime musical experience for his students. With the funding, Bruce enlisted resident musical artist John Thomas to work closely with students to create a professional-quality CD of their music—working through every step of the process.

The pieces span a variety of musical styles—from an African-American spiritual to a snappy Beatles number to an original composition jointly created by John and the students.

And the kids are engaged. “It’s good to work with a different oral conductor,” says concert choir singer Mickey Campion. “It’s a change of pace with a different personality.”

Chamber choir singer Krissy Hopper concurs. “I feel really lucky to work with John Thomas. He is amazing.”

Observing the collaboration between John and the students in developing the original score was mesmerizing. It began with input from each student about ideas behind the music. Once the title—“Just Between Us”—was determined, students brainstormed about the lyrics. From this, John developed an initial body of lyrics, and with more input was approved by the students. Next came a basic melody. 

To develop the piece, once a month John visits the class armed only with his lead sheet, where with much experimentation he and the students develop the harmonies. Observes Bruce, “Having the students use their ears to learn rather than to simply read off a page allows them to grow as artists.” With no page structure available, the students’ individual talents and learning styles flourish. 

John’s way with the kids is understated and inspiring; he exudes a kindness that immediately establishes a connection with the singers.

With each session, “Just Between Us” changes and grows, as do the six other pieces to be included on the CD. When complete next May, the CD will be a key fundraiser to allow the choirs to participate in a variety of unique performing opportunities.

Concert choir member Amanda Holding effuses, “It’s great to be involved in and to see the process of changing the music for each group. It’s an experience I’ll never forget.”

02/11/05 Reprinted with permission. Visit the Contra Costa Times on the web at www.contracostatimes.com.

Previous article        Next article