Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: FRIDAY, December 2, 1994 TAG: 9412020030
SECTION: CURRENT PAGE: NRV4 EDITION: NEW RIVER VALLEY
SOURCE: PETER S. WILLIS CORRESPONDENT
DATELINE: BLACKSBURG LENGTH: Medium
A new director, a reduction in size and a concentrated focus have transformed the choral ensemble into an organization with little resemblance to its incarnation from previous years.
"It's a new group with an old name," Director Lisanne Lyons said.
Lyons joined the New Virginians 18 months ago, bringing with her enthusiasm, a wealth of experience and a taste of reality.
She said she found the ensemble, which had lost some of its university funding, besieged by frustration and confusion. Her solution? A complete transformation.
"It was a difficult break for many of the older members," said Richard Sheild, who's been with the group for four years. "They followed the New Virginians since they were kids."
But Lyons said the change was necessary. The original focus was too broad, the direction was too commercial and the members were disheartened, she said. An injection of new energy and realistic goals made up the cure.
In the updated version of the New Virginians, members rigorously practice proper vocal technique and a challenging repertoire of pop, jazz and traditional choral styles. "Good quality music is entertaining and does not have to be camouflaged with choreography or special effects," Lyons said.
The elimination of choreography and special effects reduced the size of the ensemble by almost two-thirds.
The reduced size has allowed Lyons to focus on fully developing and harmonizing the choral quality of the group. And its bringing the students together, Sheild said.
The choral members are supported by a rhythm section and occasionally a horn section.
Recent performances have been well received but the New Virginians are still fighting the traditions attached to their name. Some members are concerned that they're being judged against ensembles of previous years.
"We're almost starting out as a new group and we don't have quite the public image that the old group had," first-year member Jesse Stapleton said.
The New Virginians will perform tonight at 8 in Virginia Tech's Haymarket Theater. Tickets are $2 and should be available at the door.
by CNB