New faces at Fanshawe chorus

London Community News

Photos by Mike Maloney/London Community News/Twitter: mdmaloneyphoto There were smiles all around as the new general manager, as well as new conductor and artistic director of the London Fanshawe Symphonic Chorus Organization (LFSCO), were officially introduced to the public on Wednesday (Sept. 5). The two positions became vacant in the spring of this year when former conductor and artistic director, maestro Gerald Fagan and his wife, Marlene, who served as general manager, stepped down from their roles with the organization. Taking over behind the baton, will be David Holler who hails from St. Catharines, Ont. Currently the conductor of both the University of Toronto’s Men’s Choir and the Mohawk College Community Choir, Holler is no stranger to London or the LFSCO, having completed his undergraduate studies at Western University — something he refers to as, “four of the best years of my life.” Acknowledging that he is indeed stepping into some large shoes left behind by the man whose name is synonymous with the organization, Holler is looking forward to the challenge and the opportunity to put his own ‘fingerprint’ on the chorus. “We are going to have a great year and continue the good work they (Gerald and Marlene) have set up and hopefully reach new heights,” said Holler. The other new face isn’t really new to the Fanshawe Chorus, but one that has worked her way up through the ranks of the "family business." Having experienced most everything to do with the organization from handing out programs at age 11, being in the choir during high school and returning to work with the company about seven years ago, Jennifer Fagan will be taking over the position of general manager. She is hoping to make the transition as seamless as possible. “We are not going to change something that is great and already working,” Fagan said, noting any further changes over the next while will be subtle ones. The LFSCO is a ‘three-in-one’ organization composed of the Fanshawe Chorus London — a 100-voice mass choir, The Gerald Fagan Singers — a 24-member chamber choir and the 50-member, Concert Players Orchestra. The LFSCO will kick off their 2012-13 season on Oct. 27 with a performance entitled Power and Majesty — A Celebration of Queen Elizabeth II, at St. Paul’s Cathederal. For more information on the LFSCO, visit www.choruslondon.com. Find us on Facebook: London Community News