Dane and Brier in Oysterville

     We went to “Autumn in Oysterville” yesterday afternoon at the church just across the street.  The program featured the delectable voice of Brier Gregory with a guest appearance by her brother Dane.  Both are voice students of Barbara Poulshock and hearing them in the fabulous acoustics of the little 1892 church was about the best Sunday treat I can think of.
     Brier sang arias from three operas (two by Handel and one by Puccini) as well as works by American composers including Barbara, herself.  When Dane joined his sister on the stage they sang two numbers from the musical “Camelot” –“I Wonder What the King is Doing Tonight” and “What Do the Simple Folk Do?”  Delightful!
     We happened to be sitting in a pew one person removed from Madison Baker, another young soprano with a marvelous voice.  We had actually enjoyed a solo performance by Madison at the Art Walk on Thursday.  She was singing a cappella at the Tuscany Restaurant where we stopped for a bite to eat.  The diners loved her, but it was a tough gig.  People were eating and talking, dishes rattled, outside noises could be heard.   Through it all, Madison remained perfectly poised, seemingly enjoying the opportunity to just… sing!  It is hard to wrap my head around the fact that she has barely entered her teens.
     And, over in the Sunday School Room sat August Davenport.  August is the six foot fourteen-year-old who played Prince Harry in “Once Upon A Mattress” last summer.  He is another of Mrs. Poulchock’s students.
     How wonderful that in every direction I looked there were young, talented singers.  I truly felt surrounded by blessings and by hope.  Next time I wonder what the future holds for the buildings that we keep patched together in this aging little village, I know I’ll feel reassured.  I have no doubt that there will be music and enthusiasm and good memories being made here for many years to come.