By Colleen Pierson
Wyoming-Kentwood News Today Contributor
greer@wktv.org
The Grand Rapids Chorus of Sweet Adelines brought home second place at the SAI Border Lakes Region 2 Contest in early May in Kalamazoo with a score of 629—their highest score ever in their 75th year as a chorus.
That high score advances the local Sweet Adelines to the International Competition in Oct. 2027 in Seattle. And that makes some singers from Kentwood and Wyoming extremely happy.
“I was elated that we had a higher score than ever before,” said Kentwood resident Sandy Cheeseman. “We have a 75-year history. Our contests scores and chorus approach can be compared to a track runner’s philosophy. Sure, there is a competition going on, but the competition is really about improvement and looking for that personal best.”
Trish Young has been singing her heart out as a Sweet Adeline for almost 48 years.
“I enjoy the beautiful musical harmony, the focus on learning and improving, the fun of performing together and the camaraderie,” Young explained.
Wyoming Resident Elizabeth Kremer had another huge success at the competition with her newly formed quartet Hidden Gems. They took home third place, as well as the Novice Quartet trophy.
“We feel incredibly blessed and honored to have received both of these awards and the warmest of all welcomes,” Kremer said. “For two of us, this was our first time stepping onto the contest stage, and it was absolutely filled with emotion. It was an experience that none of us will forget, and we can’t wait to do it again.”
Imagine being a brand new Sweet Adeline and taking the competition stage for the first time. Such was the case for Kentwood resident Heather Hill.
“Whole experience was absolutely amazing”
“ I am one of the newest members of the chorus and I was beyond nervous for my first competition,” Hill said. “The whole experience was absolutely amazing and exciting in part of the practice and the rehearsals, but mostly the camaraderie of my sisters.”
There was so much screaming and cheering going on when the contest results were announced. Kentwood Resident Pattee Bender described being thrilled and motivated from being part of it all.
“I enjoy working as a group to make something entertaining and beautiful through singing,” Bender explained. “It’s great to watch and hear newer members learn the style of barbershop singing.”
Shoutout to Director Holli Houtz
All chorus members agree on one important person that deserves huge recognition. A special shoutout to the Grand Rapids Chorus of Sweet Adelines Director Holli Houtz, who has now achieved Master Director status after leading them to this record-breaking score.
“It’s amazing how much time and love we put into preparing for just a moment onstage,” Houtz said. “I’m so proud of the chorus for not only our excellent performance and score, but also the many, many hours each person dedicated to make that moment possible.”
