Group renowned for quality of music

Published 9:00 pm Thursday, July 27, 2006

Regarding Wednesday’s article “Tourism tax use questioned”: Has County Councilman John Koster ever attended a Seattle Men’s Chorus concert? My first SMC concert was in Everett at last year’s Holiday Festival. My 4-year-old daughter, my 20-year-old son and I were thrilled and entertained beyond our expectations. My son was so inspired that he auditioned and now sings with the Seattle Men’s Chorus. That evening greatly impacted his life and love for music.

Based on quotes Koster made in The Herald, such as, “In fact, I think many would find this offensive …” I would guess that he has never seen this chorus perform.

“I have to wonder what it is that Koster thinks we (his constituents) would find offensive. Is quality choral music performed with impeccable precision and professionalism offensive? Is enjoying the holiday spirit with my family and being entertained by music and laughter offensive? Is the ability to get in my car and dine at a local restaurant and see a quality show in my county offensive? Or is it the fact that Seattle Men’s Chorus is a “gay chorus” the part that we are supposed to find offensive? The only thing I found offensive were Koster’s comments.

I will watch my son perform with SMC this holiday season with incredible pride. They will perform several nights at Benaroya Hall (a first class and sophisticated venue) in Seattle. I can only hope that Koster’s fellow council members have a greater vision for this county. Koster’s narrow-minded, short-sighted innuendo doesn’t belong in this progressive, fast-growing, up and coming region. The corporate sponsors of the Seattle Men’s Chorus (Alaska Airlines/Horizon Air, American Airlines, American Express, The Boeing Co.) have long ago realized the quality and integrity of this fine choral organization. Sadly, Koster has missed the boat.

Sara LeTellier

Marysville