Testimonials
We’ve told you a lot about ourselves—but don’t just take our word for it! Here are some things that others have had to say about Coastal Sound:
“My husband and I have to tell you how absolutely thrilled, overwhelmed with emotion and pride, blown away etc., etc. Andrew and I attended the presentation by the Children’s Concert Choir at the Red Robinson Show Theatre in Coquitlam. What you have managed to accomplish with the Children’s Choir, and specifically, our son Lee, is nothing short of amazing to us. My goodness! We drop him off at the stage door, and five minutes later, he is totally focused and prepared…and the presentation he and the choir did on stage was unreal for us. We had NO IDEA that he could do all those dance moves so well, sing a solo, and have such professional stage presence and GREAT SOUND. I glanced over at my husband during the show, and he (like me) had tears of pride in his eyes - this from a couple of crusty music teachers who hear lots of good music. We were truly “blown away” – and this is just their first show. We are SO thankful for CSMA and the excellence in music experiences that you provide. Lee has never once yet complained about having to go to choir rehearsals – a real testament to the work you are doing and challenge you are providing – both musically and socially.”
—Diana Clark, CSMA parent and teacher (October 2007)
“I have grown up in this organization and I have met some of the most amazing people and gone through some of the most amazing experiences here. I know that the friendship, love, and family I feel in this choir will always be in my heart… In this family of choirs, there are children, youth, and adults from a variety of backgrounds… Music has no boundaries; it is in your blood, your heart, and your spirit. It nurtures your soul and mind with its purity: simple, timeless, and eternal. Music is a gift that no one should be denied. Coastal Sound has given me that gift.”
—Pam Garcia, long-time CSMA student (April 2002)
“My daughter joined CSMA when she was nine years old. Six years later, she has grown from an animated little girl who majored in lunch hour and recess into an animated young woman with a focus on her future and respect for others. Over those six years, I have given countless volunteer hours to CSMA, but no matter how much time I give, it will never compare with what CSMA has given my little girl: the confidence and poise to go anywhere, meet anyone, do anything—and do it well.”
—Lynne Melcombe, CSMA parent/volunteer (April 2003)
“My happiest time each week (other than time spent with my patient and long-suffering partner) is on Tuesday nights when I have the pleasure of working with the wonderful and very jolly members of the Adult Choir. To be able to work with such dedicated and eager musicians is the joyful culmination of all that I believe to be important about education and the possibilities of music.”
—Michael Grice, Music Director, Adult Choir (April 2003)
“Many of the delegates from the conference are still speaking about how powerful and inspirational the children’s performance was during their 15 minutes of singing.”
—R.G. McGill, School Assistant Superintendent
AASPA Conference (October 2002)
“They did a beautiful job … their tuning and blend is remarkable. The young men, in particular, deserve special praise for the tricky staggering they used to underpin the Peach—bravo. I am very impressed with your group and your organization. Bravo to all of you.”
—Jon Washburn, Artistic and Executive Director
Vancouver Chamber Choir (May 2001)
“I was so impressed with the performance of the Coastal Sound Music Academy on April 1, 2000 that I decided to share my experience with my colleagues in the House of Commons during Question Period. I wish you continued success in your role as Music Director of your distinguished music academy.”
—Lou Sekora, MP, official Hansard records
House of Commons, Ottawa April 5, 2000
“I was very impressed by the confidence the singers demonstrated, the good tuning skills, and the professional manner in which they did their job. Congratulations to all and I look forward to a future opportunity to perform with all of you in some kind of new project.”
—Sal Ferreras, musician, producer, and director
(July 1999)
“They offered an exceptional musical presentation, beautifully executed musicianship, and inspiring stage presence. I have pointed to this fine ensemble as an example of the kind of choral organizations that embody the artistry and character we cherish at the festival. In addition to their considerable musical gifts, they carried themselves in such a way as to garner the admiration and praise of the other participant choirs and conductors. This reflected well on their conductor Donna Otto, and their fine organization, as well as their country. Please accept my recommendation as a small token of my esteem for this fine organization and their superb conductor.”
—Peter Robb, Executive Director
Pacific International Children’s Choir Festival
Eugene, Oregon (October 1998)
“I was so impressed with your choir and the work you do to make them a strong and enjoyable group of young people. Musically they were first class. They sing in tune with a strong sense of phrasing, and with an understanding of the music. It is obvious that you have a strong music-training program and take great personal care in the training of your choirs. Your choir members are great young people. They showed true respect for you and for others and were outstanding representatives of your district, your community, and Canada. You are to be congratulated for your part in the Festival.”
—Dr. Jack Kukuk, Chairman
International Children’s Choir Festival
Phoenix, Arizona (November 1998)
“We want to thank you, your staff, parents, and choristers for hosting the Indianapolis Children’s Choir. We know what a stretch it can be to make plans for a visiting choir, especially in the middle of the summer! We do think this joint venture was indeed special and one we know the Indianapolis Children’s Choir will remember for years to come.”
—Henry Leck, Founder/Artistic Director
Indianapolis Children’s Choir (August 1998)
“The group’s performance was not only inspirational at our evening Children’s Choir Concert, but was named as a highlight at our whole American Orff-Schulwerk Association Conference by many of its 2500 participants.”
—Shelly Nordlund, Chair
Children’s Performances Committee
American Orff-Schulwerk Association
Seattle, Washington (November 1997)
“All who attended had a wonderful evening. The artistic presentation and sound control was superb. In fact a parishioner said the rendering of the 'Hebrew Slaves Chorus' left him emotionally drained. Perhaps you would pass our comments on to Donna Otto and Morna Edmundson and not forgetting your brilliant accompanist, Siiri Rebane.”
—Ray Green, St. Columba’s Church
Chester, England (July 1997)
“The 36 officials of the Ministry of Religious Affairs (MORA) returned to Indonesia. They left in the best of spirits and expressed great satisfaction with their three-week program here at Simon Fraser University. Robin Barrow, Dean of the Faculty of Education, joins me in thanking you for your valuable contribution to the MORA - Educational Policy and Planning Program. We value how much time and effort Coastal Sound Music Academy contributed to this Program.”
—Ian H. Andrew, Ph.D., Director of International Teacher Education Faculty of Education
SFU (November 2001)
(Final Farewell Memorial Service to George Seaman former teacher and principal School District 43): “He would have shed his own tears in his own eyes at hearing the Coastal Sound Chamber Choir sing Over the Rainbow and An Irish Blessing.”
—Hannah Diamond 'My View' article
Now Newspaper (February 2000)
