[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 64 (Thursday, May 1, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E837]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  IN RECOGNITION OF THE 30TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE SONOMA VALLEY CHORALE

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. MIKE THOMPSON

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 1, 2003

  Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize 
the Sonoma Valley Chorale as this organization celebrates its 30th 
anniversary.
  The Sonoma Valley Chorale was founded in 1973 by Jim Griewe. It's 
first performance space was in the Pioneer Chapel of the First 
Congregational Church of Sonoma. As the membership grew, the Chorale 
relocated, first to St. Francis Solano Church and finally to the 
Veterans' Memorial Building.
  Sonoma Valley Chorale, Inc. has a member-administered Board of 
Directors and serves as an umbrella organization for the 130 voice 
Choral, Chamber Ensemble, Orchestra, Sonoma Valley Children's Chorus 
and for community programs promoting small ensemble performances.
  During its 30 year history, the Chorale has received many musical 
honors and has toured France, Italy, the United Kingdom and the New 
England states. The Chorale was featured during both the 10th 
anniversary concert series of the Napa Valley Symphony and the 50th 
anniversary concert gala of the Santa Rosa Symphony.
  Guest conductors have included world renowned composer-conductor 
Jester Hariston. In 2000 the Chorale performed the world premier of 
``Come Life, Shaker Life'' by American composer Gwyneth Walker. This 
work was commissioned by and composed specifically for the Sonoma 
Valley Chorale and its music director, Jim Griewe.
  The Chorale's repertoire ranges from 1100 AD to the present and spans 
musical genres from Gregorian chants to Broadway show tunes.
  Mr. Speaker, the Sonoma Valley Chorale is an integral part of the 
cultural landscape of the First Congressional District and a true 
treasure for the people of the Sonoma Valley. It is therefore 
appropriate that we acknowledge and honor the Sonoma Valley Chorale, 
its founder and director Jim Griewe, and the hundreds voices who have 
contributed to the legacy and success of this organization.

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