For more than 50 years, the Red Bank-based Monmouth Civic Chorus has brought a selection of the world’s finest choral music classics to area audiences, at venues that include the Count Basie Theatre and Tower Hill Church. Recently the Red Bank-based arts organization announced the awarding of a total of $,3000 to the winners of its 2015 scholarships for vocally talented New Jersey high school seniors.
First Place went to Nicole Toms, Point Pleasant Borough, who was awarded $2,000. Second Place was shared by Mary Roberts of Milford and Selena Siri of Parlin, who were each awarded $500. This year’s scholarship judges were Monmouth Civic Chorus Artistic Director Dr. Ryan Brandau; Director Emeritus William R. Shoppell, Jr.; Marina Alexander, Musical Director of the Arcadian Chorale; and Reid Masters, Artistic Director of the New Jersey Chamber Singers. The accompanists were Neil F. Brown, Director of Music Ministries, First Presbyterian Church at Red Bank; and Allan Robinson, Organist and Choirmaster at Trinity Episcopal Church, Red Bank.
Since 1970, the Monmouth Civic Chorus has awarded more than $55,000 in scholarships to New Jersey high school seniors of outstanding vocal promise. To learn more or to donate to the scholarship fund, visit the MCC website — and read on for news about this year’s upcoming fundraiser gala event for the annual scholarships.
On the evening of Friday, May 22, the award-winning chorale under the direction of Dr. Ryan Brandau visits some classics of a different kind — the beloved pop hits of the transistor-radio era — during a Spring Soirée with the theme “Yesterday Once More: Favorites from the ’60’s and ’70’s.”
Hosted at the Navesink Country Club in Middletown, the 7 pm gala fundraiser includes a gourmet dinner, with oldies performed by Chorus members in a cabaret setting. Guests will enjoy cocktails at the cash bar while bidding on silent and chance auctions.
Reservations are $85 and must be received by May 15; no tickets will be sold at the door. Visit the MCC website or call (732)933-9333 for reservations and information.
