Wanted: director to lead Singing Christmas Tree

Sean C. Morgan

“Help wanted: no pay, long hours, little recognition – Dream Job.”

That’s how Sweet Home Singing Christmas Tree Board Chairwoman Sue Olson is marketing the group’s open musical director position.

Musical Director David Dominy resigned last week to focus more of his time on his family, and the choir’s board is seeking a new director.

Dominy has been involved with the tree in many capacities for more than 20 years. He has been director for about five years, taking over after Paul Rowton resigned.

“While I have thoroughly enjoyed the many duties associated with the position of musical director, it has not gone without sacrifice,” Dominy said in his letter to the board. “My family has supported me 100 percent through my time in the tree and has endured through many years where Christmas time was eclipsed by the tree.

“This past year, it became painfully evident that due to the time, money and demand associated with the position, my family had taken a backseat to the tree. Weighing in the activities of four children with the activities of everyday life shows that life during the fall and during the holiday season has gotten too busy.”

He noted that he missed a variety of activities with his children to attend Singing Christmas Tree rehearsals, and he said he would like to be involved as his two youngest children begin getting involved in extracurricular activities.

“This decision was a hard one to make and took lots of prayer and many conversations with my family,” Dominy said. “I pray that you are able to find a successor in a short period of time. Thank you for allowing me to the opportunity to lead such a wonderful group of people in creating a wonderful gift to the Willamette Valley.”

Olson accepted his resignation unwillingly, with a heavy heart, she said in a letter back to Dominy. “I watched your directing talent evolve until this past year, your last with us, as it blossomed and you became a very proficient director. I wonder if I will ever find another director with whom I can relate so well.”

She cherished the early years when they communicated for so many hours at a time online, Olson said. “Without your working so dedicatedly with me, the tree may not have received the 501(C)3 IRS standing that opened up so many financial opportunities.”

The tree was able to obtain grants to purchase LED lights and the tree structure, she said.

“I will miss your joking, your obstinancy and your glee at a good altercation or debate,” Olson said. “I will miss you. Your presence will be greatly missed when the choir begins rehearsals in September. We all wish you well in whatever comes your way. Enjoy time with your family.”

The board has started its search for a new director, Olson said. She has put out feelers to several music educators throughout the area, and she has talked to the band director at Oregon State University and the music director at Linn-Benton Community College. She’s also put out notices through Facebook groups.

Some of the educators have gotten back to her and let her know they’re putting word out, Olson said. “If we could get somebody by March, that would be ideal.”

The board will set the theme next month, she said, and if a new director is in place by March, he or she could help choose the music.

The director also sets the practice schedule, Olson said.

In addition to a director, the tree can always use new singers, Olson said, and she urges singers to join.

“I love Christmas, and I love singing the Christmas music,” Olson said. The tree appeals to both the secular and religious facets of Christmas. “It fills everyone’s needs.”

For information or to get involved, call Olson at (541) 367-4639. People can also contact any of the board members, including Sherry Johnston, Kari Bennett and Kathy Burnett. The Singing Christmas Tree also has a Facebook page.

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