What a joy to make music with my dear friends Sybil Cheesman and Lynn Raley in Jackson, Mississippi last week!
I drove from Atlanta to Jackson on Monday and had a lovely visit with my sister Laura Knight and her family, who graciously hosted me for the first part of my visit.
Lynn, Sybil and I had a rehearsal from 1-4 on Tuesday.
Then at 4:15, I taught a masterclass to six amazing singers, plus friends and supporters. It was a great time of sharing ideas. Following the masterclass, Dr. Cheryl Coker treated me to a delicious dinner at the Manship House. Steak and brussels sprouts, yummy!
Wednesday we had another rehearsal at 10:45 a.m. and performed for the Chaminade Music Society at 3 p.m. What a beautiful space we had at St. James Episcopal Church!
I received thanks for programming “Four Haiku” by Samuel Jones, as many people from his home state of Mississippi remembered him and were glad to reconnect through his music.
Sam Jones, Four Haiku; Sarah Ellena Hogrefe, mezzo-soprano and Lynn Raley, pianist
After the concert, I went to Wells Methodist Church to say hello to friends there. I’ll be directing the music for Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat this July. What a wonderful opportunity to work with young singers!
Thursday was the final recital at Millsaps. What a privilege to sing such great songs and arias with fantastic musicians. My heartfelt thanks to all!
Johannes Brahms, Vier ernste Gesaenge, Op. 121; Sarah Ellena Hogrefe, mezzo-soprano and Lynn Raley, pianist
