Ring in the New Year Close to Home

Looking for a way to celebrate New Years in style without spending time on the freeway? You'll be happy to know that there are a variety of venues right here in Polk County offering up good food and entertainment to suit different budgets and preferences.

Saluda Mountain Jamboree offers the best bargain for the whole family. "The Gate to 2008" with Southern Pointe, features a Twist Contest with the weekly winners as well as snacks and party favors. They will allow you to bring in some snacks of your own, but ask that you do not bring beverages. Southern Pointe's music spans genres from beach and blues to jazz and rock & roll with a little country and contemporary as well. Their high energy fun is appropriate for all ages. Tickets are $10 at the door and the evening lasts from 8pm until midnight. Reserve a table by calling 828-749-3676.

Looking for a bargain on good food and drink while listening to music? Try the Historic Melrose Inn which will be serving up an exquisite appetizer bar featuring Lamb Chops, Duck Breast, Shrimp Cocktails and other tasty treats. The evening will also feature the piano music of Jennifer Prince. The cost is only $29.95 and includes food, a free drink, and champagne toast at midnight. The evening begins at 8:30pm and will last until 1am . Call the Inn at 859-7014 for more information. The Melrose would also like you to consider RTS cab service as a safe way to end your celebration. RTS cab service is available with rates available for groups traveling within Polk County and by reservation to the surrounding area. Contact Jayson Mee 877 HAIL RTS (424-5787) or visit www.hailRTS.com for rates and information.

Up in Saluda the Purple Onion will be rocking with Gigi Dover and the Big Love. The cost for dinner and music is $60 (plus tax & 18% gratuity) starting at 7:30pm with music 8:30pm – midnight. Please be seated by 9pm . You're here evening includes dinner, music, party favors and a champagne toast at midnight. Gigi Dover's band has been called classic country with a hip hop groove, but even that falls short of the eclectic mix of original music that mixes rock, soul, and R&B influences to create their own unique sound. Call 749-1179 to reserve a table.

FENCE is celebrating its 3rd Annual New Year's Gala benefiting the Equestrian Center fund. Tickets are $100 ($50 tax deductible) and cover the evening starting at 8pm including an elegant dinner buffet from Impeccable Taste Catering, champagne toast every hour 9pm - midnight, and dancing to The Distractions. This band of experienced and solid musicians will offer up a spicy blend of musical styles ranging from jazz standards and Patsy Cline, to rock n' roll and funk. Be sure to wear you dancing shoes! Visit www.fence.org or call 859-9021 for more information.

Perhaps you'd prefer a romantic get away for two. Escape to the Orchard Inn for two days of solitude. Packages start at $625 for two which includes two nights stay with relaxed Sunday dinner, full breakfast Monday, then lavish hors d'oeuvres at 7pm begin the New Year's Eve Gala (black tie optional), and a leisurely breakfast Tuesday morning. The evening's main event will feature a seven-course dinner starting at 8pm ending with listening to a recording of Guy Lombardo at midnight. Call 749-5471 or visit www.orchardinn.com for more information.

Whatever your plans for New Years Eve, please make it a safe and joyous evening to bring in the New Year on a good note.

Charlie Hearon’s Gift

Any poet knows that words are slippery things. So, as I take a moment to set out a few words about the creative gifts of Charles O. Hearon, Jr. it is with the hope that Charlie will read this and accept these humble words as my gift to him in his 96th holiday season.

I first met Charlie in the early summer of 2006 through a neighbor who knew I did some writing and needed work, and knew that Charlie needed someone to type his stories. At the time I had not met very many true Polk County residents. I relied on the few neighbors who I had befriended to help me find my way. Now, Charlie will tell you that he’s a Summer Resident. Since his youth he and his family have spent their summers in Saluda. This may not seem an important distinction to some, but to a poet it is a small crevice to poke around in until a poem or story emerges. Charlie is just such a poet. His first gift to me was to help rekindle the art of poetic observation and begin to really see the little nuances of life in the Carolina foothills.

On the first visit to his Saluda home, I was treated to a tour of his watercolor paintings. After spending proper time to really look at each of the whimsical and colorful pieces that he had framed, I found myself drawn to the train. I suspect it’s because that was my first introduction to the train and its history here. Despite the fact I live along the tracks, I moved here after the train had stopped running. Without someone like Charlie to paint the scenes they remember, newcomers like me would never see that bit of history. As you look at the people and critters in his paintings you also learn a bit about Charlie himself and how he sees the world. You might see folks waiting on visitors arriving by train or climbing a fence to pick apples, and you’ll be introduced to bird dogs, pigs, and an old work mule. There are no grand cascading waterfalls or mountain peaks, but joyful representations of the small wonders of happy creatures. The fine folks at Saluda Senior Center were kind enough allow these paintings a formal showing for the public this past fall. The reception brought a bright and talkative crowd of new and old friends to share stories, including a little bit of friendly teasing from his art teacher about Charlie as a student. I’m not sure which came first with Charlie, the pictures or the stories, but they seem to go hand in hand.

This year has been an eventful one, with not only a gallery show, but the release of his newest book of poems and stories “The Sun’s Gonna Set Pretty Soon.” This is the companion book to his first “do-it-yourself” book of poems and pictures he created as a young man, called “The Sun’s Gonna Shine in My Back Door Some Day.” The first book was written ten years before he met his “Good Wife Sister Savarese” and the second was collected and completed after her death because, as he states in the foreword, “It was just something I had to do.” Like his paintings, the stories and poems collected focus on the people and critters that have touched his heart. Through hearing and reading and typing these stories for him I have met the Lookers, Tubers, and Walkers as well as those who have offered their help to him like the Mobile Meals Man and the Wood Thrush. Each piece is like a little prayer of thanks for the blessings offered in these glimpses of life’s simple moments. The book was celebrated with a signing at Pace’s Store in Saluda and has sold there well enough this summer to merit a second printing already.

I may not know everything about living in this part of the country, but I certainly have a new perspective and appreciation for what makes this little nook of the world special. Working on these stories with Charlie also helped to light my way back into my own writing. He reminded me that sometimes the most important lessons lie hidden in the most common events. Since finishing the book, I’ve started writing for the paper and haven’t had as much time to spend working on Charlie’s stories. However, we do have a few more pieces to finish in the coming year. Since I don’t have any family here to read my articles, I believe Charlie has been my best source of praise and encouragement for my own writing. So, forgive me as I close this article with a personal note.

Happy Birthday Charlie, it’s been a wonderful year. Thank you for being a source of local history and an inspiration. I hope the Christmas season and coming year bring you many more joyful moments to capture in poetry.

Hometown Holiday Treasures

Still shopping for those last minute gifts? Avoid the mall madness and traffic and find something truly unique at one of the local art galleries.

Up the hill in Saluda you’ll find high quality paintings, prints, photography and sculpture on display at the Saluda Fine Arts Gallery on Main Street. Tucked down underneath the Wildflower Bakery is Your Arts Desire. If you’re looking for the artful, yet practical type of gift, take a moment to explore their eclectic collection of jewelry, pottery, paintings, scarves, and other fine crafts.

In Tryon on Trade Street you’ll find beautiful wildlife and nature paintings and prints in the Green River Gallery as well as fine pencil drawings and paintings at the Gallery Coffeehouse. Don’t miss the final days of the “3 Women/3 Cameras” photography of the surrounding region and “Wondrous Things: Celebrating Local Crafts” at the Upstairs Artspace. The shows close Saturday and purchased art may be picked up during gallery hours 11am – 5pm. Slightly off the beaten path up Ola May Way you’ll find the Saluda Forge and Simply Irresistible Gallery where you’ll discover the beautiful hand painted tile tables of Kathleen Carson and Bill Crowell as well as jewelry, clothing, and some of the finest folk art in the Carolinas.

In the heart of Landrum on Rutherford Street catch the final week of Red Clover Gallery’s Winter Art Expo with a wide variety of fine paintings, photography, jewelry, and more.

Or, take a trip out to Little Mountain Pottery just six miles from Columbus on Peniel Road. On Saturday at 11am Claude Graves will be unveiling the last kiln opening of 2007 along with a special exhibit of the “stick” furniture of Don Rausch. Rausch creates tables and chairs from natural materials that are both beautiful and functional.

Once you’ve finished shopping and are ready to sit back and relax, take a moment to enjoy some live entertainment close to home. This weekend offers a variety of high quality entertainment for every taste.

Tonight the Purple Onion features the lovely “modern vintage” sounds of Miss Tess at 7:30pm. Raised by the sounds of her father’s big band, and backed by her parents on her first album, this guitar playing songstress will take you on a journey of jazz standards with her own special twist.

Friday you can make reservations to put on your finest for the Dickens Dinner at 5:30pm at the Orchard Inn. Enjoy a candlelit meal by the fire seasoned with dramatic readings of A Christmas Carol. If you prefer to keep it casual, try the sweet gospel bluegrass of the Green River Boys at 6pm at Shaffer’s Grill. Or, join in and jam at the Listening to Coffee Open Mic at the Gallery Coffeehouse at 8pm.

Saturday the Tryon Theatre will heat up the night with the Christmas Rockin’ Blues Fest benefiting Hospice of the Carolina Foothills. Starting at 7pm The Rockers, Soul Harvest, and Reddog, Winkie & Friends will bring on the blues in memory of Sue Blackwell. This is an all ages event organized by Blackwell’s three daughters as a thank you for the excellent care their mother received from Hospice. If you’d prefer a nice cozy corner with some sweet soulful original tunes, visit the Purple Onion at 8pm for Chris Rosser. This multi-instrumentalist composer has won songwriting contests at festivals such as Rocky Mountain Folks and Merle Watson as well as earning a main-stage appearance at the Kerrville Folk Festival.

Enjoy a safe and peaceful holiday weekend filled with beautiful music and moments to treasure for years to come.

Brink Piloting the Ship at TFAC

I had heard that before becoming Technical Director, Jimm Brink had been hired as a janitor by TFAC. This came as a surprise since one of my first experiences meeting him was as a volunteer with basic technical skills that were put efficiently and effectively to use setting up lights and drops for a show. Now, with the departure of the Eric Kerchner, he has been named interim Executive Director and is literally running the show. I wanted to hear from him how this progression started and catch a glimpse of where he sees himself in the future of the Tryon Fine Arts Center.

How did you get started working at TFAC?

I moved from New Jersey in January of 1990. I bought a house in Saluda, and started looking for a job. I have a degree in drafting and design from a small college in NJ, so I looked in Greenville for employment. Unfortunately, most engineering firms were making the transition to computer aided drafting. The whole job market was tightening up and I decided to look for work closer to home. I worked for a local contractor doing general carpentry. It was very flexible work, however, it wasn't consistent, and so I moved on to work at a local mechanics garage. During the summer of 1992 I was hired as Janitor/Building Maintenance at TFAC. I think the position was called House Manager. I had figured that this would suit my needs for a short time. That was over 15 years ago.


How has your job changed over the years?


Well I think the biggest change is the technical advances in the equipment around the center. In the early nineties, most events were run by volunteers and the equipment was basic. As TFAC improved its physical plant, new sound system, new lighting system, and creating a small computer network, I found the opportunity to improve my education and began my long journey into what Technical Directors call the "dark side" of theater. I began buying and reading as many books as I could. In 1996 TFAC joined the information superhighway and I started networking with other people in the theater trade. In 1998, programming increased though TFAC's Special Events committee, and I was officially named the Technical Director. We found that many performing groups wanted to talk to the technical director, and the Board at that time realized that to be taken seriously in performing/visual arts you needed to have named staff that groups work with and feel confident that their stay at TFAC will be a rewarding experience.


What have you learned over the years?

Mostly that there are no hard fast rules in theater. Take lighting for instance, there is no right way to design lights for a show and two different productions of the same show will have vastly different lighting. Stage lighting and even sound effects help set a mood to a show. A good designer will try to come up with lighting and sound designs that convey the emotion of a scene and match what the director is trying to create.


For those who've never ventured to the "dark side," what does it take to set up and take down a show?


When I say the "Dark Side" I mean things that take place to help the production, but are not happening in front of an audience. This could mean building the set pieces, hanging the lights, even sitting in front of the computer editing sound effects. For every hour of a show that the audience sees, there are about 200 man hours of preparation on the "Dark Side," everything from building something to selling a ticket or hanging a light fixture.

Perhaps you could illustrate the difference between Alvin Ailey II vs. the Berlin Wind Quintet vs. "The Little Prince."

The Alvin Ailey II tech people will send me a light plot that will need to be hung, circuited and focused prior to their arriving at TFAC. We will have the dance floor (soft sheets of vinyl) attached to our stage floor and they will send me a cue list to program the show into our light board. They will have a soundtrack to be played for the dancers and there will be some color changes made during the breaks between dances. I have to make sure I have enough extra people hired to cover everything that will need to be done before, during, and after the show. The amount of work could be compared to "The Little Prince" which TLT presented this past summer. Since I was lighting and sound designer I could create a design that fit within the technical limits of the TFAC stage. However, with an outside group, there will be many phone calls to the tour technician and many compromises made to mount the show successfully on the TFAC stage. For a group like The Berlin Wind Quintet, there is not much to do during the show, but setting up and taking it down present different challenges. A music group needs our acoustic shell system to reflect sound into the audience. This also helps the performers hear each other during the show and meld the sound of 5 instruments. As far as lighting I just have to make sure there is even coverage across the stage and that the group has enough light on their music stands. All in all, I can't say there is any less work to mount an all music event. You just have to think of their different needs and change the stage to suit them.

What do you enjoy the most about what you do?

Two things really, first, being able to explore my creativity with my work on the stage. I really like challenging myself with a complicated lighting design like this past year on "The Little Prince" or a tricky sound design for a show like "George Washington Slept Here" with the thunderstorm. Secondly, I enjoy working with all of the volunteers around TFAC. We have great people in the area and I have learned a lot working with them.


How many hours go into setting up for such productions?

If you count the design work, attending rehearsals and running the show for "The Little Prince", I spent around 125 hours working on that show. The Berlin Wind Quintet was much shorter and somewhat less creative. I think I spent around 25 hours total on that show. I'll let you know about Alvin Ailey, I already have 5 hours in that show and it's not until April.


For the technically curious, what sound and light systems does TFAC have?


TFAC has an ETC brand lighting system with 96 dimmers. Each dimmer can handle 2400 watts of lighting. It's a moderately sized system and fits our current needs rather well. We have 178 lighting fixtures of different types and wattage. We haven't the need for computerized moving fixtures yet as most touring groups would bring their own if needed. As far as sound, we have a 24 channel Mackie brand sound mixing board and I can send the mixed signal to several outputs (called an output bus). We can send to 14 buses, 7 if you want stereo.

How do they compare to other area performance spaces?

For the size of the TFAC stage we are moderately equipped. The layout of the stage and the type of programming dictate what equipment is needed, so comparing TFAC to another stage is somewhat misleading. Flat Rock Playhouse just produces their theater shows. We have equipment for musical performers that they just don't need.


What are some of the more difficult things about the job?

Wanting what all technical directors wish for, an unlimited budget and flexible laws of physics!!!

How has your role changed now that you are interim director?

Well, the biggest challenge has been just getting up to speed quickly on all of the programs that the former ED has in place. I've had to learn how to keep up with marketing and publicity, research the grants that have been applied for and make sure that we move forward with everything that is in place. I'm doing both my Technical duties and the Executive duties at this time, but I haven't met with any big difficulties yet. TFAC has a great board of directors and all I have to do is make a phone call and they will be there to help.

How is the board handling Eric's departure and the move forward?

With my role as interim executive director and the commitment of the board of directors we have not missed a beat. We are presently searching for a new executive director. Programs and project development are continuing and as we approach the New Year we are more confident than ever that we are and will continue to be a defining force in the arts.

Are you involved in the search for a new executive director?

No, I'm not involved; the TFAC board is running the search.

What is currently in process for the theatre?

We are in the "most wonderful time of the year," and our annual "Morris" Christmas ornament is on sale now. This has been a great fundraising project over the years and has become a tradition for TFAC. As far as programs in the New Year, we have The Glenn Miller Orchestra on February 24th. We will be presenting this at the Polk County High School auditorium. Back on the TFAC stage, March 7-8 we have a one man show called "Man 1, Bank 0" that should be a lot of fun. We are presenting the Alvin Ailey II Dance Company on April 17th. We are getting some calls on this show already and I expect it will sell out soon.

Home is Where the Art Is

Now that the hustle and bustle of the holidays are upon us, it never hurts to take a bit of a break to sit back and rejoice in the music of the season while marveling at simple wonders. This weekend offers a lovely array of different artists putting on their best show for this special time of year.

Start your weekend tonight with the Holiday Jam Talent Night at the Melrose Inn from 7-9pm. The buffet starts at 6:30pm and the format is open for anyone to share their talents and join in on musical favorites for the season. Or, if you're up in Saluda, stop by the Purple Onion to hear the dreamy folk crooning of Martha's Trouble. If you want to make this a special night, make reservations for the Orchard Inn's Dickens Dinner 5:30pm seating that includes a five course meal with dramatic readings from " A Christmas Carol" by fire and candlelight.

Friday afternoon visit the Book Shelf in Tryon to meet author Dean Stuart Campbell. From 2-4pm he'll be available to visit and sign his book, Eyes to the Hills: A Photographic Odyssey of the Dark Corner of South Carolina. The e vening brings music and caroling to the streets of Saluda for Home Town Christmas from 6-9pm. Enjoy this last burst of warm weather and stroll about visiting such galleries as Saluda Fine Arts and Your Arts Desire where you can find some holiday refreshments and meet the local artists.

Settle into your evening with the wonderful, heart- warming Home for the Holidays at FENCE. In the Great Room by the fire at 7pm both Friday and Saturday night Jeanne Harley Antiques presents a wonderful way to snuggle into the season with Christmas music, stories, and carols under the direction of Beth Child. A cast of fine musicians includes such notables as flutist Barbara Tilly, guitarist Ron Smith, drummer Bill Hague, tenors Ray McLees and Dean Trakas, Emily Clark, and Randy Grobe.

Sun 2-4pm "Accessorize Yourself" at Upstairs Artspace. Take a little "me" time to try on some beautiful scarves painted by Barbara Tilly, jackets by Karen Dickson Johnson, and quilted vests by Jean Pettigrew. Jewelry artists Mary Ann Merrill and Sharon Tesche will be there to share their work. There will be a silver-smithing demonstration by Ursula Shuler at 2pm, and a lamp-work bead demonstration by Julia McIntyre at 3pm. If you stop there early then you can also catch the PCHS Vocal Impressions and 7/8 Chorus under the direction of Anna Marie Kuether for their holiday concert at 3pm at Polk County High School Auditorium . Celebrate the season with the harmonious voices of our local teens.

If the weekend is too rushed to get you into the spirit of the season, maybe a trip to the movies will help. Monday and Tuesday Tryon Theatre will be showing "A Man Named Pearl." The documentary tells the story of South Carolinian Pearl Fryar who defied stereotypes and taught himself the art of topiary gardening. Over time he turned a small space of poverty stricken country into a natural wonderland that attracts visitors from all over the world. The 2006 Heartland Film Festival awarded this documentary both the Crystal Heart and Audience Choice awards. In honor of this amazing man and the documen- tary about him the Upstairs Gallery will hold a reception Monday 5-7pm for Pearl Fryar who will be visiting Tryon for the showing of the film.

Jan Impey a Friend of the Community

Reflections from Barb & Dave Halliday

When I first met Barb & Dave they handed me an ad for Pardee joint replacement that features a smiling Jan Impey in hiking garb. They explain that she has become the "Phoenix Woman" and "poster child" for Pardee since after having both hips replaced by Dr. Das she has begun hiking again. In fact, even though she's now approaching 80, she still travels with a hiking group to Snow Bird Lodge each fall. This year marks another transition for Jan as she steps down from directing the Community Chorus after ten years. I took a moment to visit with her dear friends of 45 years the Hallidays to learn more about this amazing member of our community.

How did you meet Jan?

Barb: We first met Jan in 1963 shortly after moving to the suburbs of Chicago when we were visiting a local Presbyterian church. She had been at the church since its inception and was the choir director.

Dave: Someone told her they heard a tenor and alto in the congregation and she made herself known. Thus, it was the beginning of a long and lovely friendship. We have shared many wonderful musical experiences as well as many special times together.

Aside from her love of directing she loves jazz and performs at the drop of a hat. This lady has a zest for life, has boundless energy and a great sense of humor. She's interested in those she meets and places she visits. She is a caring friend, encouraging to all, be it music, bridge, or someone's goal.

Barb: Her education (masters in music education) at University of Illinois in Dundee and various seminars she has participated in for years make her a musical pro! She is mother of two boys and grandmother of one boy and one girl that delight her to no end.

Besides the choir, what other activities was Jan involved with in Chicago?

Barb: She taught music in the Chicago suburbs. I have a sister, six years younger than me, who went into music because Jan was her first music teacher in Junior High. Jan and I also worked as a duo "for hire" in Chicago performing "Between Us Women" at women's clubs and conventions. Jan played piano, introduced all the music and filled in with humor while I basically sat on a stool by the piano and sang.

Dave: She and her family are part of our family. She is a lady, a special talent and a dear friend.

Barb: I have a 50 year old daughter who still calls her "Mrs. Impey." She has a tremendous way of meeting people at their level. We had a college student with us for Thanksgiving and Jan sat down and just started chatting away with her.

I heard you brought her to Tryon.

Dave: We moved here in 1980 and she would visit us a couple weeks every summer. We finally convinced her to retire here.

Barb: So, in 1995 she came to Tryon at our nagging and she has made her mark, having given joy to hundreds of music loving people. She is an example of giving of ones-self and that's what it's all about.

Dave: We suggested she talk with the Rotary/Community Chorus Board.

Barb: She has subbed as with the choirs at the Congregational and Presbyterian churches. She also performed with Patti Peak in several shows such as a role in "My Fair Lady" and carrying the show as Miss Daisy in "Driving Miss Daisy." Pam McNeil and Jan have worked as a pair on several shows. Her musical theatre background was enough to get her pulled onto the board at Tryon Fine Arts Center.


How has Jan changed since moving to Tryon?

Barb: She is very private and doesn't share much except with close friends. However, I can probably say that everything was very tight during the Chicago years. She was very busy working two and sometimes three jobs while raising two teenage boys by herself in Chicago. Here she is loved, has freedom, and is producing.

Dave: She's always loved bridge and plays it all the time.

Barb: We go every year to Spoleto in Charleston for two weeks to see and hear the music, theatre and dance.

Dave: She's gotten involved with many organizations here like the Upstairs Gallery and Foothills Music Club.

Barb: She has played piano and accompanied performances for Foothills Music Club. She often ends up serving on the board for places including the TFAC, the Presbyterian Church music board (basically running the show), and volunteers at the Polk County Library. She's been inducted into the Second Wind Hall of Fame. Her volunteer work with the Rotary, Library, and TFAC made her eligible for that.

Dave: She's an avid reader and always has a book. She basically spends her time and money on friends, travel, and music.

Barb: Travel – particularly in England! Also spends time in Barbados, Scotland, Ireland and Wales. Also for those who don't sing often and well any more, we meet at her house to work on parts and focus on classical rather than jazz.

What's it like to have Jan as a friend?

Dave: We've been through some tough times with our daughters and she was there and supported us.

Barb: She gave me a feeling of self-worth and encouraged me musically.

Dave: She's structured but has her own quirks, like everyone.

Barb: She'll drive 750 miles by herself without thinking about it and not even have a cell phone. I lend her mine occasionally.

Dave: She's very independent.

Barb: She would rather give unique, well thought of, whimsical gifts to others than spend money on herself! Jan still hand writes all her letters and doesn't use a computer.

Dave: She loves her University of Illinois teams but won't watch then end of a close game because she "can't take the pressure." She really should be a guide at the Biltmore as she has read everything available.

Barb: She loves all kinds of music, but has "strong" opinions regarding modern day rock and rap "music."

Dave: She is supportive and a classy addition to any group, always a teacher and encouraging. Both of us are singing still because of her support. When she steps on stage or enters a room she has a demeanor that is classy and warm.

Barb: She has so many friends here she's become more of a "hugger."

Some final things to remember?

Generosity! "Ad-a-venture" "Down and dirty Jazz"

Do you know what Jan is up to next?

We're moving to Bermuda Village , and even though it's only two and a half hours away, it's very upsetting for all of us. As for Jan, though other people and places are pulling at her, she may have some more blooming to do right here in Tryon.

Thank you Jan Impey for all the love and music you have given to the Community Chorus. You are an inspiration and a blessing to many! May your next "ad-a-venture" continue to bring you joy.

Jan Impey an Inspiration for Community Chorus

Reflections from Bill Wuehrmann & Pam McNeil

Jan Impey has directed the Community Chorus in Tryon for the past ten years. This year's Christmas concert marks her final performance as director before she takes time for some of life's other adventures. I took a few moments to visit with former choir member Bill Wuehrmann and pianist Pam McNeil to find out more about what her years of work have brought to the chorus.

Bill, how did you meet Jan?

Bill: Through Barbara Halliday, before she moved here she visited Barbara several times. My first impression of her was as a gifted musician and pianist with a wonderful personality. Jan is the source of and can recognize and appreciate good humor.

How were you involved in the Community Chorus?

Bill: I was treasurer and sang in the choir for about fourteen years. When Jan arrived ten years ago she was an obvious fit with a long successful career as choral director of an Arlington-Heights High School in the Chicago suburbs as well as a Presbyterian church there.

What was Jan like to work with?

Bill: She expects a lot of people and motivates them to perform their best. Her judgment is superb in selecting music and she has extraordinary musical talent and showmanship.

Pam: In looking back over 10 years of Chorus programs with Jan at the helm, I am amazed by not only the amount of repertoire learned, but the musical lessons I and the chorus have learned as well. Yes, there have been the usual "sit up straight, drop your jaw, WATCH ME" admonitions of any choral director, but Jan's gifts go much deeper. She knows the potential limitations of an amateur group, yet she demands a professional level of the group – and admits that she does, and most of the time we achieve it. She asks for sounds that we didn't know could be made, dynamics that we didn't think possible, and sudden musical mood changes that require an agile brain and voice (which we don't always achieve – but we try!).

What are some of your favorite memories working with Jan?

Bill: I enjoyed sitting and watching her improvise jazz on the piano. She can just keep you spellbound. With her knowledge and understanding of chords the music flows effortlessly. She's a tough task master, but reasonable. You can't help but enjoy following her. Onstage she is totally unflappable. If we miscue she'll just calmly stop and let us start again right. She's a "Real Lady," gentle and wonderful with a sense of humor. Her energy and enthusiasm make her a joy to be around. She's very bright and wise as well, you can't "not like" Jan. She's as good an improvisational pianist as any I've ever heard and she's simply fun to be with.

Pam: She is a fantastic jazz pianist; I would call her Tryon's answer to NPR's Marian McPartland. I watch her play, which she usually does with the chorus, and I am amazed. How does she hear all those sounds in her head? And I have no answer – it's just another one of this multi-talented lady's gifts, which she has so unselfishly shared with us these past ten years.

What is your favorite music you have performed under her direction?

Bill: My personal preference was the selections from Les Misérables. Jan is equally good directing the sacred as well as secular music though.

What was the most challenging music?

Bill: There was a Christmas piece that was particularly difficult to sing. Both the tempos/cadences and melody were somewhat discordant to my ears. Many "Sectional Rehearsals" were required to prepare that one.

She also has a knack for mixing and making medleys out of pieces that vary from soothing to exciting. She's an outstanding director.

What have you learned as a singer?

Bill: "WATCH THE DIRECTOR." She has a shirt that says "She who shall be obeyed" and she means it. She can make the most out of both new and experienced singers. In the early days she also showed us her determination and endurance directing us while in great pain before and shortly after bi-lateral hip replacements.

What did she bring to the Community Chorus?

Bill: She brought consistency and a continual level of expertise. Her leadership was the longest term of top quality, uninterrupted direction for the chorus.

Pam: She knows the heart and soul of both the music and the performers, and she cares about both of them with a passion. She knows her singers and cares about each one of them; the singers know it, and respond in kind. For an example: she wears a shirt which says "She Who Must Be Obeyed", which pretty much says it all. But even while you're obeying, you can see the smile on her face, or the sparkle on her eyes, and feel a sense of pride when you hear that "YES-S-S-S-S-S! THAT's it!" And you know you've gotten what she was going for, which was to make YOU, the performer, sound the best you possibly can.

And that is the charm of working with Jan; she's not afraid to share her humanity with you. She has her foibles, and will be the first to laugh at her own mistakes; she's also not afraid to show her heart, or share a concern with the chorus. Even at the end of a trying rehearsal, she can still say, "God bless you – and please come back next week!" – and you know she means it. She cares, and it's contagious – so you care, too.

What was it like adjusting to her direction?

Bill: It was very mainstream, crystal clear without any odd idiosyncrasies or affectations. She was looking for sound above all else and focus on phrasing and breath control.

What are some words to remember from her direction?

Bill: "The tip of the tongue, the tips of the teeth" and "Spit it out!" in reference to enunciation. Above all "Watch me, I don't want to see the tops of your heads" and "Get your faces out of the music."

Anything else you'd like to say about Jan as a director?

Bill: I've stopped singing with the chorus due to my hearing, but without question my life is richer having known Jan as a person and as a musician. There are not enough superlatives to adequately describe her. The song "Maria" from Sound of Music comes to mind, but there's not even a phrase from that that fits, because there's no "problem" with her, there just aren't words to describe a person like her.

Pam: I consider myself honored and privileged to have worked with this warm, funny, "nothing engraved in stone" lady for these years of music-making, and I know that whatever the next segment of life holds for her, it will be filled with the music, joy and love that is uniquely Jan.

As former treasurer, Bill can you explain how Jan's work with the Community Chorus ties into her community service with the Rotary club?

Bill: The Community Chorus mission is three fold: 1. Provide an opportunity to sing under capable leadership, 2. Provide a pleasant listening experience, and 3. Raise money for the Rotary Scholarship Fund. The scholarships are four years for degree seeking students who have demonstrated the ability to handle the college work and have shown good citizenship. The Rotary motto is "Service above Self" and the selection leans heavily on personal qualities. There are also two other scholarships for vocational students. Jan's music creates the program to draw the audience to fund the scholarship. During her tenure nearly $200,000 was raised toward the fund.

I also spoke with Art Brown who also wanted to share that Jan Impey has been named a Rotary Honorary Member for her work with the Community Chorus, volunteer work at the library and ten years of work with the education committee of the Community Foundation. She is also a 2007 Paul Harris Fellow for Rotary International and the local Rotary club has made a contribution for international work in her name.

Community Art for the Holidays

The holiday season has sped up quickly with plenty of events to kick those winter blues. Take a moment to share the spirit with your local community this weekend. On Friday from 5-7pm bring the family to enjoy the Downtown Tryon Christmas Open House, Santa will be visiting with children at the Rotary Clock Tower and there will be caroling, refreshments, carriage rides, entertainment and good cheer to help you shed the work week and relax into the weekend. If you start strolling from the south be sure to step into the Upstairs Artspace and explore “Wondrous Things: Celebrating Local Craft.” Enjoy the fine work of local wood crafters such as Andy Costine, Dave Prudhomme, and Mike Reeves, glass blowers Louie Long and Shane Smith, metal smith artist Joe Cooper and many others. Then take a moment to wander up past Morris to visit The Book Shelf where Claire Wharton, author of Pearl Maker, will be present to meet & greet the public. At the next light on Trade Street travel up to find Julie McIntyre demonstrating the fine art of creating lamp worked glass beads from 6-8pm at Simply Irresistible Gallery. Finish up your stroll by stopping for music and coffee at the Gallery Coffeehouse’s Picking Parlor after 7pm.

You might not want to tarry too long if you have tickets for the Community Chorus Concert directed by Jan Impey with the Blue Ridge Ringers at Polk County High School Friday at 8pm unless you decide to catch the show Sunday at 3pm. True to her dynamic style Jan has arranged a wonderful concert of music ranging from Bach’s "Gloria Patri" in “Magnificat,” to sweet holiday gems such as “Carol of the Bells,” “I Wonder as I Wander,” and “How Far Is It to Bethlehem." The rousing “We Need a Little Christmas" from Mame,” “The Christmas Song,” a group of carols with the Polk County High School Brass, and selections from the Blue Ridge Ringers Bell Choir round out the show. Proceeds benefit the Rotary Scholarship fund.

While you’re out this weekend, catch The Red Clover Gallery Annual Winter Art Expo which opens on Friday. They will be featuring the work of over twelve artists in a variety of disciplines. Or slip up to Flat Rock to visit the Hand in Hand Gallery for the Holiday Trunk Show Saturday, from 10am-5pm featuring the work of Jane Voorhees, Chad Alice Hagen, Charlie Patricolo, and Martha Thompson.

Make plans now to get the whole family out of the house by 4pm Saturday for the Christmas Parade in Columbus. With a new committee this year to pull the community together they have assembled a festive parade with fire trucks, marching bands, beauty queens, horses, and floats from local churches and other organizations such as the Foothills Youth Rodeo and Foothills gymnastics. Expect it to last about 45 minutes and afterwards enjoy Santa’s Village and the tree lighting. Take a horse drawn hayride and listen to church choirs singing carols amid the new decorations and lights. The Thermal Belt Outreach will be serving warm winter snacks while Foothills Barbeque will be selling some heartier food. If you’re worried about parade parking, the town suggests parking over on Ward Street and near Columbus Hardware, then view the parade at the courthouse area.

Later, step inside Tryon Fine Arts Center’s Gallery Too for the “Five Easy Pieces” reception for local artists Mike McCarthy and Jeff Jenkins on Saturday 5-7 pm. Then, warm up over dinner in Saluda at the Purple Onion to the beautiful lyrics and vocals of Americana blues singer Eliza Lynn at 8pm.