Meet
the Artists
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Photo by George Mitchell
Director Alan Rowe, son of Mary Rowe and Dr. Harry Rowe, began conducting the chorus in the autumn of 1999. He holds degrees from the University of Vermont and Vandercook College of Music, Chicago, and is currently president of the Vermont Chapter of the American Choral Directors’ Association. Since 1984 Alan has taught at St. Johnsbury Academy, where he directs the choral and band programs, including the Academy's select chorus, The Hilltones. He is a frequent conductor at Vermont music festivals.
Alan is an accomplished clarinetist. While growing up in Wells River, Vermont, Alan played in high school orchestra and band, sang in his church choir and the North Country Chorus, performed in All-State and All-New England music festivals, and attended New England Music Camp in Oakland, Maine.
Alan lives in St Johnsbury with his wife Stephanie. They have three children.
Jean Anderson, a professional pianist with degrees from West Chester (PA) State University and Hofstra University, has accompanied the North Country Chorus since 1989. Before retiring to Vermont she taught public school music and performed instrumental and vocal music on Long Island. She served as pianist for the Metropolitan Opera auditions, New York City Center, and the Long Island Vocal Ensemble. She continues an active schedule — performing chamber music, accompanying choral groups and teaching privately.
Mary Holley, left, and Jean Anderson are frequent performers in the Peacham area.
Geoffrey Penar is a St. Johnsbury Academy alumnus, and a 2011 Honors graduate of the Eastman School of Music. He is currently enrolled in the Masters Program in Opera Performance at the McGill University Schulich School of Music, in the studio of Sanford Sylvan. Geoffrey’s portrayal of Leporello in the Opera McGill 2012 production of Don Giovanni drew enthusiastic applause and positive reviews..He has performed on From the Top, with the Eastman Opera Theater, the Janiec Opera Company, and the Ohio Light Opera Company. Learn more about Geoffrey at his website: geoffreypenar.com
Julie Drown, soprano, has been singing since the age of five, when she would sing along with her father's recordings of Risë Stevens and Jan Peerce! In 1982 she joined the North Country Chorus and began studying voice with Claire Taylor. Since then she has delighted NCC audiences with her voice and her interpretation of numerous solos in the choral repertoire. She has been a frequent collaborator with Jean Anderson, Jean's late husband Ray, and Mary Holley in solo recitals. Julie also studied with Mark Hull and Katherine DeBoer, and has performed with Vermont Opera Theater and Valley Singers. She is often invited to sing for private family functions. Julie teaches voice privately at her home studio.
Photo by George Mitchell
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