I’m learning how best to direct and lead the group, they’re learning to follow my direction and accept that I do some things differently from Pat, and all the while we’re trying to honor Pat’s personal stamp on what he started in preparation for this show. Many of the members of Pops had worked with him for a good six years, and I had only been on board for five months at the time of Pat’s passing so we’re in a odd period of adjustment right now. Pat’s passing was so sudden and unexpected, and he was such a wonderful director and person that it was hard to try to stay motivated and continue on without him. It was quite emotional for myself and everyone involved. How challenging was it for you to jump in as music director after Pat Montenegro passed away, as the Pops was preparing for a concert? It’s a vibrant and unforgettable connection that gives us a chance to get closer to our audience. At one wedding reception last fall, the guests loved our version of “Sweet Caroline” so much they joined in. It’s always unexpected and always a load of fun. How it works is that we blend into the crowd, and at some appointed time we break into song. We do these at weddings and corporate events, even parties. Flash mobs use the element of surprise and never fail to delight and entertain. So the Pops does flash mobs? Give me an example of how that happens. Janet is an experienced dancer and a teacher who has been involved in many stage productions in her career. We always hope we end up with a lovely piece of jewelry in the end! Janet Kalkstein, another member, does our staging and movement. I think the narrative strings the songs together like beads in a necklace. In the last year, I have been assisted by another member, Deb Warner, who has added some fine touches along the way. I have a lot of writing experience as both a creative writer and journalist, and have been writing the script for Pops for about two years. Who comes up with the movement and dialogue? By the same token, we are blessed to have the very talented Miku Shiota-Rosenbaum to guide us through the next phase as our interim director. His spirit will live on in Pops and all we do. We all feel lucky to have learned from him and we will miss him terribly. He enriched our sound, taught us a lot about nuance and arranged a number of our songs to boot. He had wonderful musical talents and a fabulous ear. Pat was the captain who steered our ship since 2012. How important was he to the A Cappella Pops? That’s sad news about Pat Montenegro (the group’s previous music director, who passed away in April from complications from the flu).
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