[Congressional Record Volume 156, Number 23 (Tuesday, February 23, 2010)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E207]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




IN RECOGNITION OF PHILIP BRUNELLE RECEIVING THE 2010 LOCAL LEGEND AWARD

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                          HON. BETTY McCOLLUM

                              of minnesota

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, February 23, 2010

  Ms. McCOLLUM. Madam Speaker, today I rise in recognition of Philip 
Brunelle who received the Minnesota Martin Luther King, Jr. Breakfast 
Committee's 2010 Local Legend Award.
  Philip Brunelle is a renowned conductor, organist and choral scholar. 
In 1969, with his partners, Brunelle founded the non-profit choral 
music organization Plymouth Music Series now known as VocalEssence.
  VocalEssence presents concerts which feature the 130 voice 
VocalEssence Chorus and its core group, a 32-voice professional mixed 
chorus called the Ensemble Singers, along with guest singers and 
instrumentalists. VocalEssence stands apart from other choral groups 
because of its range, variety and quality of performance.
  Mr. Brunelle has been awarded the 2010 Local Legend Award for his 
work with the WITNESS Collection. WITNESS is an initiative that began 
in 1991. It seeks to bear witness to the musical contributions of 
African American artists through concerts, recordings and educational 
programs.
  This initiative has grown to include; an annual concert, a 4-volume 
collection showcasing 100 years of classical compositions by African 
American composers, educational outreach programs that strive to teach 
students about African American contributions, and the Teachers Guide 
that enhances educational outreach initiatives.
  It is a privilege to recognize this valued leader before the United 
States House of Representatives. I salute Mr. Brunelle on behalf of his 
selfless dedication to music and the history of African American 
Artists.
  Madam Speaker, in honor of Philip Brunelle, I am pleased to submit 
this statement for the Congressional Record.

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