Don Woolf was a father, grandfather, therapist, cyclist and enthusiastically devoted member of The Chicago Gay Men’s Chorus.
Don came to me for voice lessons in February, 2004. We worked on vocal technique, musicianship, auditions, etc. But my favorite voice lesson was when he arrived dressed as Loretta Lynn to psych himself up for the talent show at a CGMC retreat.
Don took a break from voice lessons, but we still met once in a while socially to attend a show (my favorite, Dame Edna) or for a bite to eat. The last time we met he showed me some well-designed hearing aides that discreetly attached to his glasses. We laughed and cut-up as usual.
I never knew he had cancer and was shocked to hear he had died this past November. It still feels to me that he is alive. I can still hear his wicked belly laugh.
You may be wondering why I am writing a post about Don all these months later. I received a letter from CGMC yesterday asking for support to guarantee a full and vibrant season next year. These are tough times for not-for-profit organizations. This is especially true for artistic organizations.
In addition to my personal contribution to CGMC at the end of the month, I would like to include yours. So, for the month of July, OperaGram.com® will donate ten percent of the net proceeds of any order to the Chicago Gay Men’s Chorus when “CGMC2009” is included in “Referral Code” space provided on order form.
Or, you can always contribute directly at http://www.cgmc.org. 🙂