WARREN G. BLACKMON |
ROBIN FAWN BRYANT
MARIA DE LA LUZ CIENFUEGOS |
PATRICIA MARIA HARRIS DIGGS |
MERRITT DEVON FRANKLIN
RONALD H. HARRIS |
CAROLE HENDERSON |
LAYNE JACKSON |
RENÉE JAMES (KUZNIAR)
ANDRENE RENÉE JOHNSON |
LAYNI KATZ |
JOI LEAVELL
FRANCES L. MARSHALL-BRIM |
DR. TACOMA ANN MCKNIGHT |
GRETA MOSS
ANABEL RODA |
JIM SCHULMAN |
SHIRLEY J. TYLER|
SHELBY WEBB, JR.
RUSSELL CLEMENT WILSON, JR. |
KAREN WINTERS |
JUDITH ANN WOOD |
WARREN G. BLACKMON,
Tenor I, is honored to be
a part of CHORAL THUNDER. Born in East Chicago, Indiana, but presently from Gary,
Indiana, Warren has studied at the Sherwood Conservatory of Music in Chicago.
He brings a strong and varied musical heritage to CHORAL
THUNDER. He is often in demand as a solo artist and has sung
with the United Male Chorus of Gary. An active member of Christ
Universal Temple in Chicago, he also sings with the Christ
Universal Temple Ensemble. Warren is also a member of one of the three
Toastmaster International Clubs organized at Christ Universal Temple.
Warren was a Navy Reservist and is currently a Campaign Manager
with the Lake Area United Way in Griffith, IN. When Warren is not performing
as a Lead Vocalist with CHORAL THUNDER, he enjoys playing
cello and bass, photography, theater, and cinema. Warren played
the starring role of Phantom in a local production of Phantom
of the Opera.
WARREN says... "Singing with CHORAL
THUNDER helps me see the lessons as I walk and learn to honor the divine
purpose of all things."
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ROBIN FAWN BRYANT, Soprano I, is thrilled to
be in her first season with CHORAL THUNDER. Born and raised
in Chicago, Robin attended the University of Illinois at Chicago,
where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology.
She also completed vocal studies at the American Conservatory
of Music in Chicago.
Before joining CHORAL THUNDER, Robin sang with various ensembles,
including the Whitney Young High School Master Singers and
the University of Illinois Concert Choir. She is currently
a member of the Grace Calvary United Methodist Church and
has sung in the church's choir as well.
Robin enjoys composing songs, sewing, poetry and artwork.
ROBIN says... "I am really excited
to be a part of CHORAL THUNDER. To me, CHORAL THUNDER makes
an important statement that although we come from different
backgrounds, we serve the same God. And what better way to
convey this message than through a unique blend of culture
and music. CHORAL THUNDER truly means unity."
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MARIA DE LA LUZ CIENFUEGOS (Mary of the light of 100
fires), Fundraising Chairperson, Alto II, a name given to her by her mother
as she was born a preemie that she thought was too fragile
to survive her birth, is affectionately known to everyone
as Lucy. Stemming from Mexican-American, Spanish and Apache
Indian ancestry, Lucy originally hails from El Paso, Texas.
She considers herself a "transplanted Texan," due
to her love for Chicago where she has resided for the past
30 years.
Lucy attended a CHORAL THUNDER concert in June, 1999 after
being told it would be a unique, extraordinary event. She
is a music lover at heart and regularly attends many concerts.
Seeing CHORAL THUNDER live was more than she imagined. The
experience moved her in a deep and profound way. What attracted
her most was the cultural and religious diversity of the membership.
She joined the choir three months later.
Lucy sings with the Sunday Choir at St. Gertrude's Church
in Chicago and has performed with the One In The Spirit Multicultural
Gospel Workshop Choir in Oak Park. She performs solo works
in several Jazz venues, including the Chicago Cultural Center
and local nightclubs. Lucy has also recorded Latin Jazz for
the Jazz Combo group at the Old Town School in Chicago and
has studied with acclaimed Jazz vocalist Jackie Allen.
In addition to her duties as a professional consultant and
business analyst, Lucy currently serves on the Board of Directors
for the Chicago Abused Women Coalition, the Diversity Team
at St. Gertrude's Church and the Fundraising Committees for
CHORAL THUNDER and the Cathedral Counseling Center.
LUCY says... "We welcome and invite you to
'raise the rafters' when you hear CHORAL THUNDER'S mastery
of music. Your soul will be renewed, refreshed and uplifted."
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PATRICIA MARIA HARRIS DIGGS, Soprano I, is pleased
to be in her seventh season with CHORAL THUNDER. Born and raised
in Chicago, she received her Master of Arts and Science degree
in Adaptive Physical Education and a Master's Degree in Education
Administration from Chicago State University.
She received her Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Education/Biology
from Prairie View A&M University in Prairie View, Texas.
Pat has received certifications in CPR, First Aid and Water
Safety.
Pat's musical career began as an instrumentalist. She played
Clarinet in High School and college as part of the Symphony
Orchestra and Marching Bands. She went on to study voice with
several instructors and is currently studying with Ingrid
Muller of Downers Grove, Illinois.
A gifted and highly skilled vocalist, Pat is often in demand
as a solo artist. She is a woman of strong faith and love
for the Lord, having sung with several church groups and ensembles.
Her diverse musical experience includes background vocal performances
with various recording artists, including Ben Vareen, Jennifer
Holiday and Bobby Brown.
An educator by profession, Pat has held several teaching
and administrative positions throughout the Chicagoland area.
She currently serves as Dean of Students at Hinsdale South
High School in Darien, Illinois.
When Pat is not exploring music and performing as a featured
Lead Vocalist with CHORAL THUNDER, she enjoys reading and
church activities.
PAT says... "CHORAL THUNDER is my God-given
second family which has a bonus of being musical and diverse."
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MERRITT DEVON FRANKLIN, Baritone, is a founding
member (1989) and former President/Business Manager of CHORAL
THUNDER. Born and raised in Chicago, Merritt performed his
first solo at the age of 8 before 1,000 people at a church
convention in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.
A naturally gifted leader, Merritt also served as Chief Choir
Director for the Outreach Church of God In Christ in Harvey,
Illinois. He then went on to serve as Chief Director and President
of the Voices of the Valley Choir at Valley Kingdom
International Ministries (formerly New Christian Valley Full
Gospel Church) in South Holland, Illinois. Under Merritt's
direction, the Voices won first place in The McDonaldland
Gospel Choir Competition, sponsored by McDonalds Corporation.
Although Merritt is often in demand as a solo artist, his
diverse musical experience includes ensemble tours in Italy
and Switzerland. His extensive background includes working
with several local groups and choirs. He currently serves
as the Director of Music at Zion Faith Center International
Ministries in Chicago.
In his spare time, Merritt has written several Praise and
Worship songs. He also enjoys brisk workouts and "pigging
out" on sweets and seafood (thus, the need for the brisk
workouts). He loves watching Nutty Professor 2 and
Big Momma's House videos.
MERRITT says... "CHORAL THUNDER is
one of those unique groups that have the ability to draw all
mankind together through perfected praise in song."
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RONALD H. HARRIS, Bass, is a founding member
(1989) of CHORAL THUNDER. Born and raised in Chicago, Ron
brings tremendous depth and quality to the choir. He received
his Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science/Economics
from Northwestern University and a Doctor of Jurisprudence
degree from Indiana University in Bloomington.
Ron has a varied ensemble performance background which includes
singing with the Chicago Choral Society. There, he
participated in two European tours, at one point visiting
16 cities, in 7 countries, in 21 days.
Ron is presently a member of the St. Thomas Lutheran Church
in Chicago, where he sings with the Adult Choir and
Male Quartet. He is often in demand as a solo performer.
An environmental consultant by profession, Ron has worked
with several federal agencies - the Department of Defense
(he is a frequent visitor to the Pentagon, military bases
and weapons production facilities around the country); the
Department of Energy (he has visited many nuclear power plants)
and NASA (he is working on getting a look inside an authentic
space shuttle on his next visit to Cape Kennedy). Ron is also
a member of Pro Bono Advocates, a group that provides free
legal services for battered and abused women and children.
When Ron is not performing as a Lead Vocalist with CHORAL
THUNDER, he enjoys tennis, chess and loud rap music (only
when he's alone in his car).
RON says... "When life's troubles are
really getting to me, I can always find comfort in the music
and loving spirit of my CHORAL THUNDER family."
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CAROLE HENDERSON, Tenor I, joined CHORAL THUNDER
in 1994. A native Chicagoan, Carole possesses a caring and compassionate
spirit. She is a hospital-based speech-language pathologist who works
primarily with individuals who suffer from traumatic brain injury and
neurological illness.
In addition to her love for singing, Carole enjoys volunteer
work and writing poetry and short stories.
CAROLE says... "Because of CHORAL THUNDER, I have
allowed God to enter my life."
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LAYNE JACKSON, Alto II,
is an accomplished musician, artist and vocalist. She has been
a member of CHORAL THUNDER since 1996. Although originally from
Dallas, Texas, Layne grew up in Toronto, Canada, attended the
University of Texas, where she earned her Bachelor of Fine Arts
degree with honors, and spent three years in Paris working as an
art director before coming to Chicago in 1996.
Layne studied piano (and art) as a child and came back to performing
as a young adult. Besides recording and singing on several back up
sessions with Texas musicians, she took part in the All Star Blues
Revue in Chicago, studied at the Bloom School of Jazz, and now performs
at various venues in Chicago. She plays piano and is studying the cello
with Katerina van Epps.
A fine arts painter by profession, Layne specializes in oil, acrylics,
gouache, and watercolor on canvas, board, silver and gold leaf. She has
held various lecture and teaching positions and her work has been featured
in numerous museum, gallery and solo exhibits. She has been honored with
several artistic and professional awards and distinctions, including a
commissioned work for (former) President of the United States, William
Jefferson Clinton.
When Layne is not performing as a Lead Vocalist with CHORAL THUNDER,
she enjoys swimming and restoring her recently-acquired 110 year old house.
LAYNE says... "Being part of CHORAL
THUNDER has meant being part of a wonderful musical family.
We have worked hard together, laughed and cried together and
these are friends for life. I wouldn't trade the experience
for anything in the world."
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RENÉE JAMES (KUZNIAR), Wardrobe
Coordinator, Soprano I, has been
a member of CHORAL THUNDER since 1993. Born and raised in
Chicago, Renée stems from German, Creole and African-American
ancestry. She has lived in Wisconsin and has traveled to several
cites throughout the United States.
Renée brings a diverse musical background to CHORAL
THUNDER. She was part of the backup band for the mighty
Dells and has sung with various local ensembles and R&B/Jazz
groups.
Renée has served in various management career positions.
Her kind and compassionate spirit enabled her to also serve
as a certified Nurse's Assistant.
In addition to her love for singing, Renée enjoys modeling,
dancing and life's simpler pleasures. Renée served
as CHORAL THUNDER'S Music Librarian for several years. When
Renée is not currently performing as Wardrobe Coordinator
and Lead Vocalist with CHORAL THUNDER, she spends time with
her devoted husband, artistically creative son and lovely
daughter.
RENÉE says... "I find joy in
the fact that people from different backgrounds can come together
to share music as a true family."
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ANDRENE RENÉE JOHNSON, Assistant
Director, Alto II, first
joined CHORAL THUNDER in 1994. She took a temporary leave
of absence in the late '90's to complete her Bachelor of Arts
degree in Theatre and Arts Management at Chicago State University
and to embark upon an Honors Course in International Studies
at the University of Minnesota.
Reflecting on her "ever-blooming love affair with the
Arts," Andrene (commonly known as Renée to some),
has performed as a singer, actress, dancer, composer, stage
manager, house manager and scenic painter. She made her acting
debut in the award-winning musical Train is Coming
at the Chicago Theater Company.
Andrene is a thankful mother of three girls (women) and gives
God all the praise.
ANDRENE says... "Singing unto the Lord
and hearing Him respond 'Yes, I am pleased' is the reason
that CHORAL THUNDER and I make such a good match. Whenever
CT members put their voices together, it's awesome! It's all
because of Him - Christ, the risen Lord."
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LAYNI KATZ, Alto I, joined CHORAL THUNDER in
1993. She was born in St. Paul, Minnesota, but has called
Chicago her home since 1983. She came to Chicago to attend
the Goodman School of Drama at DePaul University where she
received a Certificate in Acting, and then followed up with
a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication Studies while working
at the DePaul School of Music.
Layni has been singing since grade school and has enjoyed
performing in many of the classic American musicals during
all the years up to college. Musically, she was influenced
by the music she learned in her synagogue, all the music in
her home (her father is a drummer/timpanist, her maternal
grandmother was a marvelous pianist and she never underestimated
the radio and her sister's album collection), after lunch
group singing at summer camps, Junior High chorus, youth group
dances and a few years of classical voice training. Then,
she was bitten by the Jazz bug.
Layni now appears regularly as part of small jazz combos
here in Chicago, and performs with contemporary composers
John Elmquist (Hard Art Groop) and Jeff Kowalkowski. She also
sings for Congregation Makom Shalom.
LAYNI says... "CHORAL THUNDER is like
family to me. I cherish the love and spirit of this group.
Performing with CT brings great joy. I feel blessed to be
a part of it."
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JOI LEAVELL, Tenor II, is the consummate Gospel
singer. Known for her strong spirit and power-packed vocals,
Joi has been a member of CHORAL THUNDER since 1994. Joi was
called the "Miracle Baby" because she weighed only
3 lbs., 1 oz. at birth. She was born just six months after
conception.
Her solo debut came at the age of 5, singing before the entire
congregation at a local Chicago church. She's been singing
ever since. Her diverse musical background includes singing
with various ensembles and R&B groups. She was the featured
soloist on a couple of local recording artist's singles.
Joi loves to dance. She and her brother performed locally
as a duo, winning several community dance contests, prior
to his passing. She also won various young adult modeling
competitions.
When Joi is not performing as a featured Lead Vocalist with
CHORAL THUNDER, she enjoys culinary arts, childcare, swimming
and roller skating (she does a mean "Crazy Legs").
JOI says... "I thank God almighty for
continuing to bring me through the fire AND the flood. CHORAL
THUNDER is a lifeline to my spirituality. It allows me to
fulfill my most earnest desire to sing praises to the Lord."
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FRANCES L. MARSHALL-BRIM,
President/Business Manager, Alto I, is a founding
member (1989) and the current President/Business Manager of
CHORAL THUNDER. Born and raised in Chicago, she received her
Bachelor of Science degree in Biology, with a Math minor,
from the University of Illinois at Chicago. Although Fran
initially started as a Pre-Med student, she was subsequently
steered into engineering because she eventually realized that
she just could not stand the sight of blood.
Fran's powerful and beautiful vocal expressions proclaim,
in a musical form, the spiritual message of CHORAL THUNDER.
Her musical ability stems naturally from her father, who is
a founding member and lead vocalist with the Calvary Wonders,
a local Gospel singing group.
Fran's musical journey began at an early age. She enjoyed
singing in a group formed among her siblings called the Marshall
Sisters. This group performed locally and occasionally
participated in studio recording sessions. Fran also has a
rich performance background which includes various church
and school choirs. Presently, she is often in demand as a
solo performer.
A telecommunications executive by profession, Fran has applied
her talents towards various national initiatives. She has
served as Director of the Executive Leadership and Development
Department for SBC Ameritech and has been honored with several
professional awards and distinctions. Fran currently serves
as Chief Operating Officer of the Leadership Group of Chicago,
Executive Director of Disaster Recovery Associates and is
a member of Executive Development Associates and the Information
& Communications Technology Network.
When Fran is not performing as a featured Lead Vocalist with
CHORAL THUNDER, she enjoys interior decorating and cooking.
FRAN says... "CHORAL THUNDER has given
me the gift of lifelong friendships, a wonderful vehicle through
which I can share and cultivate God-given talents and the
privilege of expressing my profound appreciation for the many
blessings that I have so undeservingly received through song."
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DR. TACOMA ANN MCKNIGHT, Soprano I, is a founding
member (1989) of CHORAL THUNDER. Born on Christmas Day, Tacoma's
solo debut came at the age of 5 in Kindergarten, when the
teacher, exasperated from the shrieks and yells of the other
singing students singled her out because she had covered her
ears but continued to sing in almost perfect pitch!
Tacoma, a natural leader, served as Director of her church
choir and later became Director of her college choir, the
Northwestern Community Ensemble. Her sweet mellifluous
voice often creates quite a demand for her solo as well as
ensemble performances.
Tacoma has excelled academically from a very young age. She
was a member of the highly competitive Honors Medical Program
at Northwestern University and went on to receive both her
Bachelor of Science and Doctor of Medicine degrees from Northwestern.
Tacoma now serves as Associate Professor of Obstetrics and
Gynecology and Co-Section Head of the Division of General
Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology
at Northwestern University's Feinberg School of Medicine.
She has been honored with numerous educational and professional
awards and distinctions.
When Tacoma is not performing as a Lead Vocalist with CHORAL
THUNDER, she enjoys reading, travel, history and fashion.
She also played the Clarinet (in the distant past).
TACOMA says... "Sharing my love for
the instrument of voice with others has been incredible."
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GRETA MOSS, Historian, Soprano I,
and Historian of CHORAL THUNDER. She joined the vocal ensemble in 1993.
A native Chicagoan, Greta attended the University of Illinois at Chicago
where she earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Communications and Theater.
There, she served as Chapter Song Mistress of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.
Her educational background also includes attending The Conservatory of Music
and ITM - Institut Du Maquillage in Paris, France.
One of Greta's earliest musical memories includes singing duets
and harmonizing with her mother at the age of 2! Greta's diverse musical
experience includes singing on a cruise ship and a traveling performance
in Europe. She was also a member of the first Black Expo Choir. Greta is
currently a member of the Third Baptist Church in Chicago and has sung in
the church's Gospel Choir.
Greta is a makeup artist/stylist and licensed esthetician
by profession. She works with a unique clientele in the television
and entertainment industries and has worked throughout the
United States and in Europe. She has also served on CHORAL
THUNDER'S Wardrobe Committee.
When Greta is not performing as a Lead Vocalist with CHORAL
THUNDER, she enjoys white water rafting, bicycle riding and
racing scale-sized cars.
GRETA says... "CHORAL THUNDER is a
ministry of music like no other. It's more than soul-stirring
- it captures the essence of everything that is divine!"
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ANABEL RODA,
Co-Webmaster, Alto I,
has been a member of CHORAL THUNDER since the summer of 2005.
Although she started singing very late in life, she feels blessed
to have been a part of numerous musical experiences. It all
started when she mustered enough courage to audition for a
local rock band and was ecstatic when they accepted her as
a background singer. Since then, she has performed in various
cover and original bands and with renowned local jazz musicians.
She has also lent her speaking voice, as well as her singing voice,
for commercial spots and promos for WLS 890 AM. Currently, she is
performing throughout the Chicagoland area with her original rock
band, "Legs Akimbo".
ANABEL says... "I have enjoyed singing with the
immensely talented individuals that make up Choral Thunder. It
has been one of the most fulfilling experiences in my life."
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JIM SCHULMAN, Baritone, is an accomplished vocalist,
musician and producer. He first joined CHORAL THUNDER in 1993.
Although born in Cleveland, Ohio, he attended the University
of Texas at Austin, where he earned his Bachelor of Arts degree
in Communications.
Jim's musical journey began by singing with his brother and
sister between the ages of 5 and 14. This trio performed locally
in San Antonio, Texas and won several community talent competitions
there. They even produced a single that was regionally distributed.
Jim continued on to become the National Songleader for the
National Federation of Temple Youth, conducting singing for
teenagers at camp and weekend conventions until the age of
20. He later established his own singing group, Timberline
Rose, concentrating in blues, R&B and contemporary
music.
Jim plays Guitar, Bass and Harmonica. He has co-produced
several record albums and is now a featured Lead Vocalist
with CHORAL THUNDER.
In his spare time, Jim enjoys pottery and spending time with
his wonderful wife and son. He created and presented a workshop
for people who want to learn to express themselves, called
"The Music Inside of You."
JIM says... "Singing with CHORAL THUNDER is
the realization of a lifelong dream."
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SHIRLEY J. TYLER, Treasurer,
Soprano II, is thrilled to
be in her first season with CHORAL THUNDER. Born and raised
in Chicago, Shirley adds her unique blend of love and magic
to the choir. A Liberal Arts major, with an emphasis on Marketing,
Shirley received her Bachelor of Arts degree from Roosevelt
University in Chicago.
Not only does Shirley enjoy the lively nature of ensemble
singing, but she currently performs occasional solo works.
Prior to joining CHORAL THUNDER, Shirley sang with the Community
Renewal Chorus of Chicago.
Shirley is an active member of Chicago's Trinity United Church
of Christ, where she is a Youth Church Instructor and volunteer
sponsor of the Imani Ya Watume young adult choir. She
is also a sponsor within the High School Counseling Ministry.
In addition to her vocal expressions, Shirley has played
Clarinet, Alto Saxophone and Marching Drums. That's right
- Marching Drums! She currently enjoys reading and watching
old movies.
SHIRLEY says... "CHORAL THUNDER feels
more like a family than a choir. Listening to the choir is
like standing under a cool shower - the sound is so refreshing
it gives you goose bumps."
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SHELBY WEBB, JR., Founder and Choral Director,
is a talented producer, arranger, conductor and clinician.
He has an extensive background in choir directing and choral
conducting and has been directing choirs since the age of
15.
A native of Chicago, Illinois, Shelby has directed choirs
for several area churches. He served as Director of Choirs
at the esteemed Pilgrim Baptist Church, simultaneously overseeing
the church's two largest singing units: the Pilgrim Senior
Choir and the Pilgrim Gospel Chorus. The Pilgrim
Gospel Chorus was founded by the late Rev. Dr. Thomas
A. Dorsey, the "Father of Gospel Music." Shelby
considers it an honor to have continued Dr. Dorsey's legacy
of spreading the "good news" through traditional
gospel music.
Shelby possesses a remarkable expertise in the development
of widely-varied choral repertoires. Accordingly, he has served
as consultant to award-winning vocalists, ensembles, and directors.
In addition to producing and arranging CHORAL THUNDER recordings,
Shelby conducts various choral workshops and his work has
been a featured portion of several radio and television projects.
An accomplished Attorney, Shelby holds various post-baccalaureate
degrees. Although honored with numerous academic awards, music
has always held a special priority in Shelby's life. He received
the bulk of his music training in high school and college
and has studied extensively at the American Conservatory of
Music in Chicago.
SHELBY says... "When God gave me the
vision for CHORAL THUNDER, I had no idea how far God would
take us. As we continue on this path, He continues to remind
me of just how finite our perceptions can be: 'Now to Him
who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine,
according to His power that is at work within us. To Him be
glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations,
for ever and ever! Amen.' - Ephesians 3:20, 21 (NIV)."
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RUSSELL CLEMENT WILSON, JR.,
Baritone, joined
CHORAL THUNDER in 1994. Born and raised in Chicago, Russell's
strong and dependable vocal expressions anchor the vocal foundation
of the choir.
Russell began singing at an early age. He attended the Anglican
Choir School and sang with the Chicago Children's Choir.
As a member of Hearts of Soul, an ensemble within the
Chicago Children's Choir, he performed in England,
Denmark and Germany.
Russell traveled throughout the world as a member of the
U.S. Navy and retired after 22 years of service to our country.
When not exploring music, Russell enjoys Bowling, Chess and
Reading.
RUSSELL says... "CHORAL THUNDER fosters
unique and long-lasting friendships. The sound that we all
'create' moves the soul
and recharges my spiritual batteries
every week."
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KAREN WINTERS, Secretary,
Soprano II,
joined CHORAL THUNDER in 1994. Karen was born and raised in Chicago,
and has a Bachelors of Arts degree in Speech Communications from the
University of Southern California in Los Angeles. After graduation,
Karen worked in advertising and also as a copywriter in the marketing
division of a Los Angeles area executive search firm
Around that same time, an actor friend encouraged her to look into
small acting parts to supplement her income. He suggested that if speaking
roles were unavailable, to try becoming a movie extra. Karen took his advice
and later went on to make her living primarily as a background actor in
movies and television for several years.
After returning to Chicago, Karen noticed a local performer's newspaper
with an ad regarding an audition for a local Gospel group. She called the
phone number and has been a member of CHORAL THUNDER ever since.
KAREN says... "It is an honor and a blessing to be
a member of such a dynamic musical ministry. When CHORAL THUNDER sings, it's
as though none of us are present in our own right, but have released ourselves
as individuals to be used by God as a collective vessel to speak to others.
As we bless others with our music, we ourselves are blessed in turn."
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JUDITH ANN WOOD, Vice
President/Business Manager, Alto I, has been a member of CHORAL
THUNDER since 1993. Born and raised in Chicago, she majored
in Child Development and received her Bachelor of Arts degree
from Spelman College in Atlanta, Georgia. Besides being the
Treasurer of CHORAL THUNDER, her life is a constant reminder
of the beautiful and gentle qualities of Spirit.
Judy ushered in the 1991 New Year in Ganeshpuri, India and
has visited about a dozen cities outside of Chicago. Her interests
include studies in health, wellness, metaphysics, cultural
arts, animals and the continuous pursuit of personal growth
and development through lifelong learning.
JUDY says... "Being a member of CHORAL
THUNDER has granted me the opportunity to be encouraged by
and to lift my voice with the most wonderful and diverse group
of people who truly embody the spirit of love, fellowship
and friendship."
She adds: "Years ago a friend gave me a greeting
card which she said reminded her of my lifetime search for
spiritual diversity. It read, 'God made so many different
kinds of people. Why would He allow only one way to serve
Him?' This is my belief."
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