Girard College - Corinthian Yearbook (Philadelphia, PA)

Page 21 text:

Through participation in the Glee Club, the Seniors this year have greatly expanded their appreciation and knowle dge of the fine aspects of this creative art, choral singing. Under the most capable direction and leadership of Mr. Anthony Falatico and our accompanist, Mr. Keith Chapman, the Glee Club once again more than adequate¬ ly fulfilled its Sunday morning Chapel Service and tra¬ ditional concert obligations with a high degree of precis¬ ion and excellence. Assisting Mr. Falatico and Mr. Chap¬ man in these tasks were the fine group of student leaders, including David Matthews, President; Ronald DeChrist- oforo Vice-President; and E. Robert Pasquarelli, our Sec¬ retary- Treasurer. The annual Christmas Concert, presented on Decem¬ ber 14th and 15th, was said by many people to be the best in many years. Among the highlights of the concert were Jingle Bells” by Ray Charles, The Christmas Song” by Mel Torme, and the Serbian Crib Carol by Gaul. In addition to our concerts here at Girard, the choir performed at the Valley Forge Memori¬ al Chapel and, along with the band, recorded an album. A great deal of hard work was necessary to produce this album, but the pride and satisfaction one feels when he listens to the album extin¬ guishes all memory of the work. Included in the album were Ave Verum Corpus,” Fa Una Can¬ zone,” Amo Amas, Hail Girard, Farewell Song,” and Goodnight and Christmas Prayer. This was a unique and thrilling experience none of us can ever forget. That three and a half hour recording session Will remain with us always. Mr. Falatico and Mr. Chapman must be thanked for their patience and for understanding that this was a very exciting time for us. Only those who have struggled to create a worthwhile concert can understand the value and satisfaction which we have found and enjoyed in this organization. «{17 y

Page 20 text:

Front Row, Left to Riqht: E. Kelleher, G. Amodeo, D. Matthews, D. Lolli, E. Kreinar, S. Joloway, D. Bartoli Bark Row, Left to Riqht: Mr. R Morrison, J. Fisher, D. Me Gee, L. Ferguson, G. Sedor, M. Ogden, E. Taylor Experience was the key factor which allowed the Concert Band to play more often this year than ever before. Fourteen seniors held key positions in all but three sections. The senior members of the band undertook full responsibilities, an advantage which is essential for development of a good musical organization. With new music purchased for the band, practice sessions were more interesting. This com¬ pelled the members of the organization to work diligently to produce a sound which would be com¬ mended by its audiences. Although credit is given to the members of the senior class, many of the younger members of the band must be commended for their hard work. They attended practice sessions faithfully with the will to work and took pride in their accomplishments. This will help future bands in w ' hich they participate. The combination of the different classes produced a sound so superior to former bands that the students and guests commented days later on the mastery and style in w ' hich they performed. Highlighting this year, was the cutting of a record in addition to the traditional Spring and Chirstmas Con¬ certs. Such numbers as the Scottish air The Wee Mac ¬ Gregor, the Russian carol Troika, the ever popular Sleigh Ride, and Sibelius’ famous tone poem Finlandia consti¬ tuted an outstanding Christmas Concert. Other pieces played this year were Great Themes from Great Italian Movies, Days of Glory, Lawrence of Arabia, and Fiddler on the Roof. This year the Concert Band has been one of the best during our stay at Girard. This is only because of a tre¬ mendous effort put forth by Mr. Robert Morrison. Every¬ one in the band extends their appreciation to him for a job well done. H 16 h

Page 22 text:

Urged on by the firm guidance of our Social Direct¬ ress, Miss Miriam McGhee, our social education was thrust upon us during the sophomore year in the form of dancing lessons and the well-remembered Coke Party. With only the moral support of our numbers we ventured from the corners of the ballroom to a new social world at Girard. Having made the first leap, we returned to a colorful schedule of dances in the Junior year with assurance and anticipation. Attractive girls, melodious music, and the inevitable punch all blended to make our dances very en¬ joyable. In addition to the informal class and canteen dances, we also enjoyed the formal Cadet dances. These formal dances brought the new experience of shining brass, highly polished shoes, corsages, and, of course, empty wallets. The swirling gowns of our girls, the fine music and imposing Honor Guard presented a beautiful sight. Thanks to the work of our Student Body President, Dominic Cundari, the first Junior-Senior dance was initiated. The Class of 1968 owes a great deal to Miss Miriam McGhee and to our Hosts and Hostesses, Mr. and Mrs. Herbert Eadline and Mr. and Mrs. William Focht. Their efforts made possible all the wonderful social events our class enjoyed during ouur last two years at Girard. We now thank our hosts very sincerely for a job well done. It seems impossible that the awkward boys struggling with the first dancing lessons are the same ones who gallantly escorted the beautiful jeune filles” to the parties and dances of our final year. With the confidence and grace which comes only from the reality of experience, we dis¬ covered a whole new world of pleasure and meaning, and we enjoyed every minute of it. i is y