Dona Maher Studio Newsletter Vol. 2 No. 1, October 2018
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Hello! Our names are Sofia Clifford and Julia Birtwell, and we are very excited to continue as editors for the Dona Maher Newsletter! We are both sophomores at Norwell High School, and have been involved in Dona’s studio for several years. We both take private lessons with Dona, were members of the Studio Chorus and are in our second year of Studio A Capella. We would like to take this opportunity to encourage both parents and students to share any exciting events, concerts, awards, and especially what songs you love for the newsletter! In addition, at-home practice parts for both Studio Chorus and A Capella are available for practice by scrolling down and clicking on the YouTube icon! Please feel free to email your exciting news, stories, pictures, videos or questions to dona.maher77@gmail.com which we will check regularly. Hope everyone’s school year is off to a great start, and cannot wait for another outstanding season!
This week for Noteworthy News, we decided to interview student Nidhi Bellur, who is involved in traditional Indian dance called Bharatanatyam.
When Did Nidhi start dancing?
Nidhi started dancing about two years ago.
What is the cultural significance of the dance?
The Indian dance form Nidhi is learning is called “Bharatanatyam” . It is an ancient form of classical dance form that has been passed on for generations in a southern part of India from where her family comes from. She started exploring this dance form with the encouragement from her parents to get a taste of the rich and vibrant culture of India.
Do any other family members participate?
She was attracted to this dance form because of her aunt who is an avid dancer.
What is the origin of the dancing?
Bharatanatyam is the oldest classical dance tradition in India. It has been believed to have existed since 2nd century CE. This dance form tells about Hindu mythology and ancient stories . Her family thought it was a fun way to learn about those stories was through dance. They are very glad she has enjoyed learning this and plans on continuing this as long as she can.
We also interviewed longtime student Rachel Warhaftig, who has shared her experiences with Handel and Haydn, the oldest vocal and orchestral organization in the country.
What is the Handel and Haydn society?
Handel and Haydn Society is a vocal and orchestral organization, the oldest in the country, that is based out of Boston. I participate in the Youth Vocal Arts Program as a member of both Young Women’s Chorus and Young Women’s Chamber Chorus, along with 70 high school girls from the Boston area.
How did you get involved?
I got involved in Handel and Haydn because the conductor of the group conducted the Southeastern Junior Districts ensemble when I was in 7th grade. She recommended that I look into the program with my family.
Are there any big events coming up that you are involved in?
This coming spring, Young Women’s Chamber Chorus and Young Men’s Chorus will be performing the Mozart Requiem at Symphony Hall along with the professional Handel and Haydn Society Chorus.
All Studio Chorus and A Capella girls, please access Dona’s YouTube channel to find your specific practice parts!
Studio Calendar: Recitals, bonding, and more!
Friday 10/12 4:30pm: Studio Coffee House!
We are so excited to introduce our first coffee house performance! We want to encourage any students to participate no matter their age, skill level, or music choices! This opportunity will allow students to perform in front of peers and become more comfortable with performing in front of a crowd, especially for the winter and spring recitals. Email us if you’re coming for a cookie count! dona.maher77@gmail.com
Saturday 10/13 6pm: A Capella Bowling Night!
Our very own A Capella girls are so excited to bond as a group and having a bowling night! Bowling night will take place at Boston Bowl in Hanover, at 58 Rockland Street. Who will win? Our bets are on Dona!
Norwell Tree Lightning Ceremony: Sunday 12/2 at 2:00pm with a 1:45pm call for singers
Holiday Chorus Concert: Monday, 12/10 at 6:30pm with a 5:00pm call for singers at United Church of Christ in Norwell
Solo Recitals: Friday, 12/14 at 6:30pm and Saturday, 12/15 at 11:00am and 2:00pm
Friendship Home Holiday Party: Tuesday, 12/18 at 6:30pm with a 6:15pm call for singers (for Studio Chorus only)