Pictured L-R Jim Smith, Eric Wassenaar, Carol Rausch, Helen Hassinger, Chelsea Friedlander & Joelle Washer
The club was once again wowed by the talents and amazing performances of several members of the Chautauqua Opera Company. Carol Rausch, a great friend of the club, was welcomed by Jim Smith. Carol brought Eric Wassenaar, Helen Hassinger and Chelsea Friendlander with her to sing at today's meeting.
Carol first presented to the Club in 1999, and this is her 19th consecutive visit with us!
The Chautauqua Opera is the oldest continuing summer opera in the United States, having been founded in 1929 along with the Chautauqua Symphony. This year, they are into their 88th season. Since 1985, Carol has served as Chorus Master/Music Administrator overseeing the musical components of the company and the Young Artists Program.
Carol's home is New Orleans, where she is the Chorus Master/Music Administrator for New Orleans Opera Association. Carol heads the Opera Department at Loyola University, where she has prepared and conducted numerous opera productions. She also remains active as a recital pianist, which she put on full display today while playing for Chelsea, Eric and Helen.
Chelsea kicked of the performances with a selection from Gianni Schicchi.
Next, Eric sang "Dein ist mein ganzes Herz" from Das Land des Lacheln by Lehar.
Helen was next, and this Rotarily Yours writer will openly admit he forgot to snap a picture of her performance as from the first note to the last, Helen's voice was mesmerizing. Many Club members gasped when she hit some incredible notes.
After another song from Chelsea, Eric and Helen closed out the show with the "Watch Duet" from Die Fledermaus by Johann Strauss, Jr.
Many thanks to Eric, Chelsea and Helen for sharing their amazing voices, and for Carol for tickling the ivories once again.