Philly will be Jim Clancy’s last contest as director
Posted by Lorin May | Posted in Chorus, Contests & Judging, In the news, Media, Uncategorized | Posted on May 19, 2010, 8:53 AM
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We’ll let the VM’s press release speak for itself:
PHILADELPHIA CONTEST TO BE LAST COMPETITION FOR VOCAL MAJORITY DIRECTOR JIM CLANCY
Dallas, TX (May 18, 2010) — After nearly forty years and an unprecedented eleven gold medals in international competition, Director Jim Clancy has decided to make the 2010 Philadelphia performance his last international contest at the helm of the Vocal Majority Chorus®. He will continue as Musical Director and primary arranger, but will leave preparation and execution for future contests to Jeff Oxley and the rest of his music staff.
Formed in 1972, the Vocal Majority Chorus® won its first gold medal in the 1975 International competition in Indianapolis and is now preparing for competition in Philadelphia. When asked about the upcoming contest, Clancy says, “I’m very excited about our preparation for this upcoming international competition. I believe that the Vocal Majority Chorus® is singing better than ever, and I am honored to lead the men into competition one last time before our wonderful family of barbershoppers.”
The Board of Directors of the Vocal Majority asks that any questions and comments regarding this announcement be directed to:
Todd Roberts
President, Vocal Majority Chorus
Email: TR3336@aol.com
Wow. The man absolutely defined what a barbershop chorus could be–heck, what a men’s chorus could be. The man changed thousands of lives, and not just those among VM members and audiences.
What are your best memories of Jim Clancy and the VM? What do you expect for Philly? How should we remember Jim’s historical legacy?
Wow, no comments yet? Ok.
My biggest VM memory by far was Pittsburgh ’82. I had never heard them before, I had 15th row seats, and they did an upward swipe in “Redhead” that made me feel literally like I was being pushed back into my chair by a hand to the chest. Amazing. The VM and others have sung a lot of chords that good since but there’s only one first time.
I only met Jim once, indirectly. We (Sounds of Concord) were competing at Int’l in Louisville and the VM was next door in the warmup area. We were singing Come Take Your Place In My Heart, and Jim came over and listened to us sing it and complimented us and wished us good luck. Since the VM won with it, and Jim wrote and arranged it, I thought that was really cool. Singing it for him was really special.
I expect to see a lot of politics at play here. It’s no coincidence that he announced this a couple months before Internationals. The judges in the pit will look at him with this in mind and will want to send him off with a gold medal no matter how the chorus does.
VM might just well deserve and earn the gold, but I know there are lots of politics and “who you know” stuff that happens in the judging pits whether anyone wants to admit it or not. I’m seen SO many quartets get FAR higher scores than they deserved simply because of who was IN the quartet.
I imagine we’ll see the same thing here. It would be such a sweet finish for him to leave with a gold in hand. Westminster won’t stand a chance at winning this year because the judges couldn’t imagine them beating Jim in his last year.
Westminster (and all other choruses) have already lost because of this announcement. I wish it weren’t so. But mark my words, VM will win this year. Hopefully it will be because they deserve to and not because of this announcement.
James, I am sorry that you feel this way and want to put a damper on a WONDEFUL Man’s last competition! That is very sad to me.
As for stories about Jim Clancy, I have only met him personally a handful of times but he has ALWAYS been a wonderful, gracious Texas Gentleman!! I have seen him interacting with other chorus directors and even saw the GIANT smile he had on his face last year when AOH won. Was he sad that the VM did not win? SURE but he was also happy for the guys in AOH. A few other times, when a friend of mine’s chorus didn’t finish where they wanted to, Greg Clancy would offer to give my friend a piggy back ride over to his Dad to cheer him up. That was a fun sight to see and THAT is the kind of man Jim Clancy is! My life has forever been enriched by Jim Clancy, and his influence on the VM family and barbershop as a whole!
So since everyone has already lost I guess it’ll be a short contest with one chorus.
Sheesh.
James,
Wow. I don’t know where you got your ideas about Society politics, but this is not a reality-based rant of yours here. Our judges really do try to call them as they see them. They know all about the concepts of “halo effect” and personal biases, and they’re very intent on scoring songs according to their training.
The judges in the pit don’t know or discuss each other’s scores until the entire contest is over. And when it is, the average Joe may not learn which judge scored what, but his fellow judges do. There are very lively discussions among them during the weeks following international as they discuss what they agreed upon, what they didn’t agree on, and how they reacted to unexpected performance elements. If it turns out one judge assigned a score that was much higher or lower than the other judges in his category (or even if the judges in the seats saw it differently from most of the panel), that judge’s peers will expect him to defend his score based on his category’s scoring criteria. He’d better have a great answer, because he knows his fellow judges will be reviewing the video many times over, and he’ll be raked over the coals if they don’t see or hear what he claims in his replies.
That’s how Society judging politics work in my experience (not as a judge, but having listened to plenty of them). Yeah, it’s possible that one judge here and there will second-guess his personal biases too little, but one of the great things about our judging system is that there are 15 judges at international, and only rarely can a few judges affect the final outcome. The general fairness and calibrated objective criteria in our judging system is something other organizations would kill for. Some have even told us so.
If ever you think the judges scored a song too high or too low, go ahead and be a Monday morning quarterback and make your case. You might actually be right, and you might find some judges and other knowledgeable barbershoppers backing you up. Second-guessing is exactly what the judges do among themselves. But if your answer involves some sort of overarching political agenda or judging conspiracy, don’t expect people who actually know and talk to judges to take you seriously. This rant of yours is one to be filed away and forgotten.
James,
What a horrible invasion of a site dedicated to warm memories of a career that, as Lorin May said, has defined the standards for chorus sound, performance, and personal integrity. He is a gentleman and one of the most gracious people I have ever had the pleasure of meeting.
Jim Clancy represents all of those things and will leave a legacy of class, musicianship, and commitment behind him that others can only try to emulate.
It is a shame that YOU not the system would interject with a political statement in a forum like this.
Again, you may want to look around and try to emulate a little class yourself as, at this point, you have shown none
James,
Of course, you have a right to your opinion. After about 30 years of participation in barbershop, I can only say I disagree with you and am glad that you represent only the very tiniest segment of the barberhsop community with that kind of negative outlook.
Right now, I cannot even begin to say how Jim’s leadership of the VM and my first hearing of a VM CD ultimately changed my life. Maybe I will tell more of this later, but for now, just…THANKS JIM for all you are and all you have given.
After the result today what say you now James?
pretty negative inference if i am reading your comment correctly. i think a congradulatory comment would have been in much better taste!
my commentary was directed to jim catt
I can’t necessarily disagree with the initial comment on the politics of the BHS, but thankfully this doesn’t play out as much as it used to, especially when we’re talking about internationals.
That being said I’d love to pick the brains of some of the judges to find out how they came up with some of their scores. There were quite a few surprises in the quartet contest.
Hey Gary, are we going to see HOH in KC?
Nooooooooooooooooo!
The first time I ever saw the VM in person was in San Antonio and they sang “Robert E. Lee.” In my opinion, the best chorus performance ever. For me, they’ve been the highlight of every International that they’ve sung at. There are a lot of choruses that are almost as good, and in the case of AOH this past year, even better than the VM, but many years ago the VM set the standard for everyone else to shoot for.
I have many great memories of singing with the VM under Jim’s direction. You would be pressed to find a more genuine man of integrity and love of music. His contributions to the society and barbershop in general are immeasurable, and I wish him the best.
What a consumate professional. I first saw/heard the VM in Tulsa at the 1998 district convention “Show of Champions” where they blew me away with their rendition of “Joshua Fit the Battle of Jericho”. That was enough for me to turn to my bride and tell her that I wanted to do this.
Then 4 years later at a divisional convention being hosted by Tulsa, we rode up the hotel elevator with Jim and Mrs. Clancy. Always the gentleman, he let the ladies out first then me. Handshakes and well-wishes were exchanged. I’ll always remember him as a warm and wonderful man.
You know this day has to come, but you really hate to see it when it gets here. Like others have already said, Jim Clancy and the VM are two of the reasons I’m a barbershopper. He’s a class act all the way around. I’m sure the VM will continue to be an outstanding medal-winning chorus, but without Mr. Clancy something will be missing. You just can’t replace people of his caliber.
One of the greatest moments in my Barbershop Life, was a surprising phone call from Mr. Jim Clancy in May of 1995. Jim asked me, in his southern bass gentleman voice to help design the new visual uptune for the VM. Needless to say my life was changed in an instance. While I was in awe of the VM and Jim from the beginning. These past 15 years working with Jim and the men of the VM has been more than anyone could have asked for. My relationship with Jim and the VM has been a little piece of heaven here on earth.
Jim Clancy changes lives, opens doors, and touches hearts. His presence on the International stage will be missed after this year. No one man in this society has made so many lives better because of his love for Barbershop Harmony and passion for musical excellence. So many of us will never be able to repay Jim for bringing out the best in each of us. Thanks Jim, we love you.
I have never met Jim personally, but I feel I know him well! His talent and genius certainly has influenced my 49 years in BHS. Good Luck in your future endeavors Jim!
Well James, you can’t attach a great barbershopper like Jim, so “blame a Judge” Boo….bad form man!
Several of my friends sang/sing with the VM, including Bill Thornton, Smokey Mountcastle, Mike Borts, Tom Jackson, Russell Shaner, etc. Every time I am in DFW on Thursday I visit their rehersal, sing on the risers and everytime I am welcomed warmly by Jim and the rest of the crew. One of my greatest thrills was being directed by Mr. Clancy at San Antonio Mid Winter as a member of the Texas Lone Star/All Star Chorus. What a thrill. Thanks for the wonderful memories Jim.
I had the pleasure of meeting, seeing Jim and the VM in person, and communicating with Jim. I can assure you he is as genuine, humble, warm, and inviting as he appears on stage.
Jim always maintained his standards and gave quartets, choruses and directors a role model to follow. He will be greatly missed on stage but will never be forgotten for as long as there is a SPEBSQSA or BHS.
On behalf of all barbershoppers, “Thank You for the Music.
I was blessed to be invited to the 1st organizational meeting of VM. The marvelous Ray Anthony directed us to our 1st International competition where we came in 3rd. In his inordinate wisdom Ray picked Big Jim to be THE future for VM right after that contest. From the first meeting he directed, we all knew Jim was extra, extra special in every way immaginable: unbeliveable musical talent, fabulous singing voice, top notch arranger and the epitome of a Texas gentleman at all times. In my 52 years in the Society and in business, I’ve never met anyone who could motivate men from every walk of life so much and do it without yelling, badgering or intimidating. With Jim he motivated us with love. We all have such love for him that we’d do just about anything to not disappoint him. As I recall at the 25th anniversary of VM, 500 men had been in the chorus. I swear Jim knew everyone’s name, even those from the first year.
Jim’s abilities are uncanny. He changed the way choruses and quartets sing and will be singing forever. The impact Jim has made on HIS singers especially is as if he started a giant pyramid club of singers, “barbershop missionaries”, if you will, who when they left VM carried Jim’s lessons and spirit with them. Those who continued to sing and/or direct did their best to pass on to other barbershoppers what they had learned from this Master.
Jim Clancy is totally honest and expects nothing less from others. The scoring in Philly will be accurate to the best of every judge’s ability because they all know that is their charge. But in addition they know what Jim would expect…what Jim demands…honesty in everything. I have no doubt that VM will win because not only that’s the way Jim approaches performances/contests BUT the men on the risers will strive for perfection plus so Jim’s last International will be one where he goes out a winner.
Heck, Jim’s a WINNER no matter what happens.
Thankyou Jim clancy for many hours of great listening & singingalong with the best in the world of barbershop….I do a lot of car driving —–I’m a bass in the Australian Blenders chorus, & singing your arrangements has been another great pleasure.
Enjoy each present moment (I’m 71, how old are you?) & God Bless You.
Warwick selvey
What a shame that James no-last-name had to concentrate on accusing judges rather than honoring Jim Clancy. That thought would have been best kept to himself me thinks. Mr. Clancy – thanks for all the enjoyment you’ve provided for so many of us over the years: you are truly an inspiration to barbershoppers everywhere. I’m so glad you’re still going to be active and continuing to inspire and astound.
Susi Nelson
Politics means simply “who gets how much;” how much money, how much prestige, how much power, etc.. There’s no cash prize, so prestige (positive recognition) is what’s up for grabs. Jim already enjoys the most prestige of any barbershop chorus director in history, so he has nothing to gain, and everything to lose.
Rational folks can’t help but admire the courage required to take that kind of risk. Everybody is gunning for the VM, so they will have to leave no doubt about their performance if they want to win, as usual. They will have chosen great tunes, and they will have posted near perfect attendance for contest rehearsals.
Some of the VM’s competitors have not yet learned to exhibit that kind of taste or to demand that kind of discipline, but who knows? Maybe somebody’s talent is so great that they can practice for a couple hours with 60% of their guys once a week between video games, and still win.
I wouldn’t bet on it.
James
Barbershoping is many things: it’s family, it’s friendship and camaraderie. It’s about ringing chords until the wee hours of the morning. It’s about lifting people up and reaching out and touching people with our music. But most of all, it’s all about improvement. You may recall the original society name included the word “Encouragement”.
Well, there is no one who epitomizes this more than Jim Clancy. For over 35 years Jim has insisted on excellence and raising the bar. He demands the best from all of us, constantly pushes us to to improve. As he has said many times yesterday’s 10 is today’s 7. He is one of a kind, a true leader of men, a master motivator, and most of all, a genuine human being. He is our father figure and has the ability to make you WANT to do your best for him.
Jim is a true barbershopper. He loves the society. He has spent countless numbers of hours working with other choruses to make them better. When the Ambassadors of Harmony won in Anaheim last year, Jim Henry and David Wright both credited Jim with having a big impact on the Ambassadors program.
As for the judging program, I belive Lorin May has explained how it works quite clearly, and your comments are completely misguided. The last thing Jim or any member of the VM would want is to feel like we didn’t earn whatever medal we receive.
For this year’s contest in Philadelphia, we know that we will be fairly judged by a well qualified panel, and will let our performance speak for itself. We wish the best of luck to all the competitors. Because it is through competition that we all improve.
Looking forward to seeing all of our barbershop friends in Philly!
Nick Alexander MC, 30 year member of The Vocal Majority
Very sorry to see such a wonderful gentleman retire. The society will miss him m and so will I .
Hello Jim,
My new wife and I were on our honeymoon two years ago when we visited and I sang with your chorus… and then stayed an extra week to do it again… When we travel in our motorhome, I get to sing with other BBS choruses along the way. None have surpassed the experience and thrill of singing for you and then being allowed to direct… my feet never touched the ground for two days. You are the man and a true gentleman. Glad to see that you are staying with the chorus. Cannot imagine VM with you absent. I would only leave Oregon to sing with you in Dallas but my quartet won’t leave with me. I’m stuck here. We will be rooting for you in Philly.
I didn’t truly understand what the VM was until AFTER Aneheim. Before Aneheim, the VM, to me, was an amazing chorus with a pedigree of excellence that could not be challenged.
Imagine my surprise when the VM came in second after posting an all time high score! I was shocked!! The VM came in Second? How could this be?
Then I learned more about its perennial leader… The man who shaped The VM into what it has become.
I heard the wonderful accolades heaped upon Jim by the directors of AOH and MOH. I had a chance to talk to members of those choruses again and again over the next two days…. Each of them told me of a time when Jim and Greg took time to coach and encourage their choruses to be better, to step closer to excellence.
Would Phil Jackson take time from his Lakers schedule to help The Dallas Mavericks get closer to winning a championship?
Would 2010 Superbowl Quarterback Peyton Manning put on a QB clinic specifically to help other NFL teams have a better shot at beating the Colts?
But that is exactly what Jim Clancy has done over his career with The Vocal Majority. Not because he doesn’t care about winning. A more competitive man I have rarely met…
He embodies this Bible Verse:
Just as Iron sharpens iron, So one man sharpens another. [Proverbs 27:17]
Accordingly has his time with The Vocal Majority progressed. Jim strives for excellence by making The VM as good as it can possibly be, but ALSO by helping other choruses whenever and however he can.
Excellent and difficult competition makes both teams perform better.
Because of Jim Clancy, we see competitions like last year…. Where The VM had a ground breaking performance; one that set a new international performance record, only to have it beaten several hours later by a chorus who bested that record and gave us an unbelievable, unforgettable show.
Jim’s legacy to me is that he strives for excellence. Not just with The Vocal Majority, but for any and all that surround him.
And The Barbershop Harmony Society as a whole is the benefactor.
It goes without saying that Jim Clancy is my ALL-TIME #1 Barbershop Harmony Society hero. He has probably contributed more than any other single individual (yes, that’s saying a LOT) in the history of our (SPEBSQSA) Society. His unselfish love for our hobby – whether as a director, arranger, coach, mentor, performer, father, grandfather, etc. – cannot ever be equaled by anyone (IMHO).
There are so many favorite memories that I could mention but the two top ones for me that actually changed my life “For Good” are as follows:
1) Jim was our (Masters of Harmony) retreat coach before our 1996 Salt Lake City performance. Jim’s comments after our Friday night session made a true believer out of each and every man standing on those risers. Whenever Jim speaks, it’s directly from the heart and with much PASSION! We were seeded #2 behind The New Tradition Chorus but the end results put us #1. Needless to say, that was one of the best performances I’ve ever been a part of.
2) As President of the Santa Fe Springs, CA Chapter in 2004, I invited Jim to be our keynote speaker and installing officer at our annual MOH Awards Banquet. Part of the entertainment for the evening was a small group of young guys from the Westminster Chorus. Jim and Judy were both amazed at the energy these young guys presented. He said, “The future of our Society is in good hands.” The fraternal bond that the VM and MOH have shared over the years has been something I wish every barbershopper could experience as we have.
As someone who has been serving as a DoD contractor in Iraq for the past 3 (out of 4) years, I would like to see Jim become the next Bob Hope and head up a USO tour to entertain our troops. Wouldn’t that be GREAT for everyone? Hopefully, the Harmony Foundation can start woking with the USO to make it happen.
So Jim, I want to personally say, “Thanks for the Memories”!
The VM will win the gold medal at the 2010 International because they will led by the finest director in Society history and will perform at a higher level than any other chorus.
Some years ago I was visiting my family in Dallas when I had the occasion to attend a VM rehearsal. I was having a wonderful muscial evening when Jim Clancy unexpectely invited me to direct his arrangement of the Lord’s Prayer. To this day it is the most wonderful musical experience of my life and I will be forever grateful to Jim for giving me this opportunity.
Jim Clancy is a gentle and humble man and a master arranger and musician who deserves every accolade. His contribution to the BSH is unsurpassed.
I know that the VM will give a performance that will have us all sitting on the edges of our seats once again this year and all our good wishes go with them to Philadelphia.
Best wishes Jim and Judy on your retirement.
It is a rare occasion in our lifetimes that one encounters a true genius. Jim Clancy is in the ranks of all those who are considered to be in that rarified atmosphere.
His inate ability to combine his musical skills (singing, arranging and directing) with a profoundly keen sense of leadership is unmatched in the history of the society. No one teaches this. When you couple this with his genuine love and respect for others, I am speechless to express my admiration for him.
The seven years I spent on the risers with the VM were a unique period in my life and I will carry those vivid memories until I depart this orb.
Whatever the outcome in Philly, Jim Clancy is a gift to mankind by any measure.
Break a leg, Vocal Majority!
Shortly after I started working for the Society HQ in Membership in 2007, during the brunt of our initial Nashville transition – I had the good fortune of talking with Jim about his Senior Member status on his 70th birthday – paying 1/2 price dues.
We had somehow charged him full-price, but the math didn’t work out right; so I checked it by hand, and sure enough; Jim should’ve only been paying 1/2 price, not full dues.
He insisted on paying full dues until we worked out the kinks, and within a few hours we sorted it out and refunded his over-payment. He was patient, very kind, and a classy gentleman throughout the process. I would have been super frustrated (and was, as an employee trying to make it right) – but Jim was a gentleman the entire way through.
I can tell you just like others can, you don’t have to be a “somebody” to get attention from Jim Clancy. At the International Convention in 2003 in Montreal, I introduced myself to Jim as a guy who first saw the VM in Crockett, TX doing a Christmas show back in 1998 or so, before I became a Society member. He talked to me about that show, East Texas (where we lived at the time), and just random chat for about 10 minutes. I was a total stranger, and he seemed like a giant. I was blown away!
Two words resound loudly and clearly in my mind describing Jim, and I’d like to “give him his flowers” now, rather than wait for his funeral:
ROLE MODEL. I hope the same is said about me.
I had the privilege of singing with the VM from 1978 – 1990 and the honor of serving as its president in 1981 and 1982. While I will cherish those years and four gold medals for the rest of my life, there are more important things I learned from Jim Clancy.
Yes, Jim certainly taught me to be a better singer and performer. But beyond that, he showed me how to be a better person. He taught me to reach for the best in myself every day. He is the ROLE MODEL in my life for working hard, working smart, motivation, leadership, commitment to excellence, teamwork, graciousness, humility, and how to persist through adversity.
No matter what level was achieved, Jim always reminded us there was a better level out there and YES WE CAN GET THERE – with more hard work!!! This raised the bar for the entire Society and for every singer. He ccould pull effort and improvement from a group of men like absolutely no one I’ve ever met.
Jim’s passion for giving EVERY audience the best they’ve ever heard and seen has made his legacy one that will live on for generations to come, regardless of any medal count. It will be a while, if ever, before the Society sees Jim’s combination of musicianship and leadership pass our way again.
Thank you, Jim, for so many incredible performce experiences, outstanding Society competition, and for helping me and thousands of others become better at whatever we do in life.
Tom Halverson
Durham, NC
I sung with the VM from 2004-2008. All choruses are a reflection of their director, and none more so than the VM. The guys would walk through a wall for him, because they know his commitment to what the group is doing, and they know his talent.
When I came to Texas, I had heard of the VM, but had never seen them or any top ten chorus before. Naturally, I was blown away. Jim (and of course his lovely counterpart Judy) were always top shelf in terms of grace and class. Jim can get mad, I can tell you, but it is never done in a hurtful or mean way. It’s like a Dad mad at his sons for not reaching their full potential- never a question that the love is not there.
It is the closest thing to being a five year old on Christmas day, when Jim would present the chorus a new Jim Clancy arrangement. Often, because the guys knew Jim’s arranging style so well, we would be almost off paper after the first couple run throughs. How many great songs? Well, lets see: “All the Way,” “Sigma Chi,” “Hymns of the Cross,” “Holy City,” “What Kind of fool am I,” and many others.
It took me a long time to get riser qualified. But, through it all, Jim and Judy were kind and never treated me like a “rookie.” Once I got in, it was just such a thrill to sing for him. We all had absolute trust in his musical vision and direction. The result was often magic.
I told Jim one time, and I meant it, that I would rather lose with him than win with anyone else. That’s not a knock on any of our other great choruses, but it is the truth. I can’t speak for the current group of VMers, but I bet they feel exactly the same.
Lars Isaacson
The first time I ever saw the VM perform was in the late 80′s in Shreveport, LA. Jim grew up there & his mother, Martha, still lived there at the time. I was a fairly new Sweet Adeline (in a very tiny chorus) & had no idea how my perception of barbershop was about to be changed. I don’t think my jaw came off the floor for the entire two hour show.
At the end of the show (with jaw firmly back in place), my mom introduced me to Martha, who, in turn, introduced me to Jim. He was, as has already been described, a truly gracious, Southern gentleman & made me feel as though I was the most important person in the room (after his mother, of course).
Fast forward almost 20 years, two marriages & a move to Dallas & a new hair color later. I visited my first VM rehearsal as a “VM girlfriend”. My now husband, Rodney, introduced me to Jim at the break. When I told him we’d met several years earlier & described the event, he remembered the moment, asked about my mom & welcomed me into the VM family. My jaw was, again, on the floor.
In the nearly 10 years & many rehearsal visits since then, I have learned a great deal about what it really means to be a barbershopper, both from observing Jim’s work with the chorus, as well as his interaction with family, friends & guests. Some might say that to call Jim Clancy the epitome of the barbershop society might be overstating things a bit. Those people obviously have not met Jim or seen him in action. Jim is & shall remain the bar to which others strive to reach – as much for his talent as his class.
The international competition stage will never be the same.
Jim Clancy is, without question, the most gracious person I’ve ever met in my 60+ years. At my first rehearsal, he spent the intermission talking with me in my car as if we’d been friends for life.
The music of the VM has enriched me more than I could begin to tell. He has nothing to prove to anyone. His legacy is secure. It is my dream to stand on the risers one day soon under his direction.
As for “politics,” did anyone suggest last summer that the VM lost due to politics, that the judges felt the VM had won enough already? In fact, Jim told me personally that he believed the AOH deserved their win. Total class!
It was with much sadness that I heard the news that Jim wold be stepping down after Philly. Like many other barbershoppers, Jim has affected my life in ways he can never know.
As a young 15-year old barbershopper, I’ll never forget when the 1997 Int’l chorus recording came in the mail. The first track was the VM’s winning ballad, a medley of “You’ll Never Know” and “My Buddy.” I experienced what I can only compare to what I imagine it must be like for a blind person to experience sight for the first time.
All through college, Jim continued to inspire me through his fabulous vocal arrangements, chorus recordings, and contest appearances.
After college, I moved to Texas to experience singing with the VM for myself. This was where Jim taught me the most about how to make singers successful. Every single rehearsal with the VM is an amazing learning experience, and Jim is the center of that learning. After moving to CO, I have tried my best to pay forward the musical ideas and philosophies that I learned from Jim with Sound of the Rockies and 52Eighty. And they do work!
Above and beyond all that, the best surprise that came from singing in the VM was learning the biggest reason Jim is a successful director: he shows genuine affection and care for each and every person in the chorus. He makes eye contact with every chorus member through the course of a song he directs. He is always encouraging and treats everyone equally.
He not only remembers my name, but recalls specific events from the past that I am blown away he even remembers. Like when we coincidentally sat together on our flight to the 2005 Int’l contest in Salt Lake City, or when I lost my college medal at a division convention and he found it, or when I had to run a CD over to his house for a fellow VMer. To me, this is a telltale sign of a man who truly loves people in every sense of the word.
While Jim’s last time on the Int’l stage with the VM will be a sad time for me, I hope it can simultaneously be a time of celebration and remembrance.
I’m sorry to have offended a few of you. So I went back to read my post but only found that I was honest and forthright.
If you re-read it (second post down), you’ll see that I repeatedly mention that I HOPE VM wins because they deserve it.
I mean no disrespect to Jim. He IS an AMAZING director and has earned so many honors! And the society will sorely miss him.
When I wrote that I had just come back from a recent division contest in which 3 quartets qualified for district even though they sand MUCH poorer than a couple others who did not qualify and I was venting about it I guess. The quartets that qualified that shouldn’t have all had big names in among their ranks.
So I stand by my statement that there ARE politics. But I do apologize and agree that this was not the right forum for my venting. Forgive me, all.
Keep the Whole World Singing!
Society historian Deac Martin on Voltaire: “I may disagree with what you say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it”
Hey James, we love you man!!!
Oh and to James, you have every right to express your opinion, i feel that there are politics involved to a degree.
I was in Anaheim last year, and AOH deserved the gold , VM were wonderful as always but AOH had the edge. Lets Hope VM win because they deserve to, they are wonderful and i love meeting up with them, just wish i could have been there this year
James,
Thanks for offering context to your original comments. I think the main offense was the certainty of your last paragraph in the original comment.
The judging community takes favoritism very seriously, and when reports come in like yours a full discussion ensues with that panel and within an entire category. Stats are run to find bias traits, deviations, etc. You may be surprised just how much effort is given to analyze the heck out of reports of potential bias.
Feel free to share your concerns with C&J Chair Steve Jamison if you still feel it was an unfair contest. It will be addressed. Also remember that there may be other elements involved in scoring and ranking differences, and many judges are more than happy to discuss theory and the arts. Some of these discussions even become topics at Category School, and have become part of adjustments in adjudication methods.
Also remember that last year the judges rewarded the VM with their highest score ever, and still found room to reward another chorus higher for the first time in a long time.
I look forward to watching the contest from the comfort of my seats this year without needing to analyze. I will likely give Clancy a 3-minute-standing-O even if the chorus all trip over their feet and flat a minor third (highly unlikely).
I will then also look forward to the challenge posed by others, including my stepson in Westminster, and trust that the men in the pit will do their jobs.
Alan
gotchabari@juno.com
I meant “theory and the artistic application…” instead of “theory and the arts.” Meaning, “The geeky stuff we think about when watching and evaluating a performance.” =)
Sorry.
I’ve never met Jim Clancy, but it’s been a joy to read all of the comments about him. We are soooo blessed to have such great people leading our society. I HAVE met Jim Henry, and would place him right up there with Jim Clancy, from what I know. And it’s not so much because of what they’ve both achieved in the music world, but rather how they’ve handled their success. It’ll be a great International with an interesting chorus competition. I love the clearness and precision of Westminster, and the big sound of the VM…what fun! I can hardly wait! Best wishes to all of the competitors, and hats off (!) to Jim Clancy and the VM. What a credit to our obsession.
I saw Jim Clancy and Vocal Majority’s rehearsal in Anaheim California last year due to wanting to meet one of the men he directed from a website I am on… Best wishes to him, and Vocal Majority (Rooting for you in Spirit go VM!!!)
Jim was very good at getting the men’s voices to form a beautiful tapestry of sound.
21 years ago I heard a very scratchy tape recording of VM singing Step to the Rear. I thought I want some of that. So I joined Shannon Express of England. I didn’t realise that 6 years later I would be singing on stage at Harrogate with VM. We sang If I Give my Heart to You and Harmony. Also, I had the pleasure singing with them again at Kansas at their hotel. VM has always been my number one. I have most of their CD’s.
I am so sorry this will be your last concert – my husband and I have enjoyed VM so much. Because of your style of leadership, he practiced with the VM a few times – wish his work schedule had not been so hectic; he really wanted to sing with you. We wish you all the best in your “retirement”. Thanks for all the great music!
I had the pleasure of being under Jimbo’s direction in the early 90′s. The first time I heard the VM live they were rehearsing a ballad in 1992 (after a blowout swan song in New Orleans). I gripped the music binder so hard, my left elbow locked up and I couldn’t extend my arm for a few minutes after the song ended. I had to be a part of this family.
Now, almost 20 years later, it is still family. I can attend a practice or show once every 7 years and my VM family still knows my name- even Jim.
It is Jim’s love for men and music that makes the Vocal Majority far more than a chorus. Jim is not only one of the greatest choral directors ever, he is also one of the greatest men (a real, authentic man) I have encountered in my life and to call friend. Jim is a genuine mentor of men- a mentor of morals, values, humility, sincerity, and compassion. What an honor it is to know him, to have learned from him, and to follow him through “life’s music.”
Jim, you are a true gentleman. Congratulations on your retirement! Go get that GOLD!
Though I have not “rung” a Barbershop chord in nearly 20 years, my friendship with Jim Clancy, as a charter member of the Dallas Metropolitan Chapter evokes a profound sense of loss as I try to imagine the Vocal Majority without “Clance.”
But then I remember the early years, trying to visualize this trendsetting new chorus without Ray Anthony. . .its first director.
I don’t think anyone realized back then what the VM would truly become under Jim Clancy, and though the Maestros chair will be empty for a time, he had the forsight to assure that — by passing his knowledge, wisdom, and inspiration to his contemporaries — the legacy of the Vocal Majority will continue for years to come.
Clance, if you’re reading this, Man. . .best wishes for a resounding victory in Philadephia! God Bless You Friend!
John D. Olsen
Beaumont, Texas
VM 1972-1976
When I was a young man growing up in Maryland, with zero experience in barbershop, I was given a tape of the VM. The guy that gave it to me told me, “This is how chorus singing should sound.” It was “The Best of the Early Years.” I remember being transfixed at the sounds that came out of my boombox. I remember when they got to the tag of “A Nightingale Sang in Berkeley Square” I was dumbfounded. NEVER had I heard such sounds come from ANY group…and I ran off to the next chapter meeting that I could find.
When I decided to go to college in Fort Worth, Texas (a mere 30 miles from Dallas) I told all my barbershop buddies I was going to join the VM. They told me I would never get in, there was a waiting list, you have to be a pro, you’re too young, all these things that I later found out to be total myths.
When I walked into my first VM rehearsal, I was greeted at the door and asked to sign the guest register. I told them I sang bass so they stood me next to a good bass to listen to. I’m a good sightreader, so I started singing right along with all the tunes. The bass they stood me next to was impressed I suppose, and at the break he walked me up to Jim and introduced me. He said, “This kid’s got an ear…and we’ll be glad to have him.” Jim was excited by this and told me how great it was to have me. Little old me…and Jim Clancy cared.
My first performance with the VM was at District in 1996. It was in New Orleans, and it just so happened that Jim, Judy, and I were on the same flight. He asked me to sit down near them because he wanted to talk. He wanted to know my story…what brought me to Texas, how I got into barbershopping, just wanted to get to know me. And I was BRAND NEW. I knew from day one the man was special, but this really hit home about how much he cares for EVERY man on the risers.
Now 14 years later, 4 gold medals and 1 silver (yes I’m just as proud of that silver) later, Jim is making this his last contest (thank goodness he’s just giving up contest and not all the directing). I can tell you that ALL of the guys on the risers have been treasuring every moment of every rehearsal.
NEVER again will there be another Jim Clancy, and I say that as someone who loved the VM from afar before I got to be a part of it. I would walk through fire for the man because I know he would do the same for me.
Let the chips fall where they may in Philadelphia, but it will be an International appearance that I will never forget for as long as I live. The chance to connect with “THE MAN” one more time in front of the best audience in the world. The chance to let “THE MAN” work his magic touching hearts and changing lives with our music. And if we score enough points to win, great. But my memories of those precious few minutes on the stage will be a “gold medal moment” for the ages.
Thank you Jim for all the wonderful memories. I will treasure singing for you for as long as you can stand me…
Tom Jackson
VM Back Row Bass
Bass Section Leader
VM 1996-present
Director, Texas Millionaires
When your father or brother or husband joins the VM you know he is doing so because of his love for the music. You are proud of him and so pleased that he is going to have this magical experience in his life. You learn later that you had no idea what this experience would mean to him and to everyone that loves him. You see, we knew Jim Clancy would make him a better singer, we knew that Jim Clancy could make him appreciate the sounds of every note he sang much more, but we didn’t know that Jim Clancy was going to make him a better man. But that is what happens. The character of Jim Clancy is not a myth, it is not just something he saves for when he is on stage, it is real. He is a kind and gentle giant, with caring and compassion for each and every other human being on this planet. When he teaches, he teaches excellence, but he also never lets the heart out of his music. Over time, if you are fortunate to be in his chorus, you begin to change. The emotion begins to infiltrate not only your music, but your life. You really do begin to appreciate so much more those you love, and the blessings you took for granted. Simply, you become a better man. So not only do the gentlemen who stand in his chorus get so much more out of this than music, so do those that love them benefit in so many ways.
His graciousness, his honor, his integrity, I hoped, have rubbed off on the entire barbershop community and that we will always and forever treat each other with respect and genuine good will. That is who Jim Clancy is, let’s honor him in that way
All the best to Mr. Clancy as he takes a step back. The legacy you have given reaches far and wide, we should all have touched so many lives in such a positive way.
I CERTAINLY WANT TO EXPRESS MY FEELINGS ABOUT THAT TALL TEXAN JIM. I Soooooooooo NOW WISH I HAD INTRODUCED MYSELF TO YOU MR. CLANCY, WHEN I PASSED BY YOU AT A PAST INTERNATIONAL. ONE OF THE MANY POSITIVE COMMENTS (anyone who critisizes you should examine their own spiritual lives) I WANT TO SHARE IS WHEN THE VM SANG PAINT YOUR WAGON. THE VM SANG GIVES A DARN. SADLY, OUR CHORUS USED THE OTHER WORD. THAT ALONE TELLS ME WHAT YOU AND THE VM STAND FOR IN LIFE.
I TOO WISH YOU ALL THE BEST IN PHILLY. THE CITY OF BROTHERLY LOVE WILL GET A DOSE OF THAT WHEN YOU AND THE VM ARRIVE.
With no disrespect to Jim Clancy intended, regardless of this being his last International appearance, I hope what happened last year in Anaheim repeats itself it Philly.
Imagine what a contest set that will be for the winner.
Dave, your grasp of the future is uncanny! No doubt, there WILL be a repeat of last year, and of every year in the past — the chorus with the highest score from their performance on the international stage wins the gold!
God Bless America!
rick
My first rehearsal with the Vocal Majority Chorus was the summer of 2008. It just so happened to be the first rehearsal of the 2009 ballad written by THE MAN, “Georgia On My Mind.” I had never performed such brilliantly written music, and my adrenaline was pumping so hard when we got to the tag, I literally had to stop singing, or else destroy the wonderful sounds coming from the men around me.
Jim has been a huge inspiration to me on how to live like a true gentleman. Seeing the way he speaks with his wife, admires and supports his son, and the way he lovingly commands his chorus should be an example for ANY man.
Watching Jim direct is like nothing I have ever seen before. I have been in plenty of concert and marching band ensembles, as well as a choir or two. Even with as many orchestral concerts as I attend, Jim is by far my favorite to watch. If asked to describe his style, I would never call it “conducting.” He shapes. He forms. He paints pictures. He caresses his music. It’s a beautiful art form that many conductors in other parts of the musical world ignore.
One last sentimental thing. Anyone who as ever sung under Jim Clancy’s hands has seen this. He makes eye contact with every man he’s sharing music with, and if Jim can see that whoever he is looking at is not only performing the hell out of the music, but is actually telling a story with his face, Jim will give him a look of absolute love and appreciation. It’s a look that leaves a fantastic tingling sensation in your abdomen and doesn’t leave too quickly.
Jimbo, you’ve taught me so much in the mere two years I’ve been fortunate enough to sing with you every week, and the best way I can repay you is by giving my all for Philly.
To my fellow barbershoppers, I can’t wait to see you all and share the stage with you.
Kevin Wagner
VM Front Row
Bass of College Quartet; “Phantom 5th”
Jim, I hope you take the time to read (most of) these. And I also hope that you take to heart all the appreciation that’s being sent your way. You are a loved, admired, and appreciated man. And that makes for “a wonderful life.”
Dear Jim,
I wish you a wonderful retirement you deserve to enjoy the other things in life you love. I want to thank you for the “Vocal Majority”, I have lost count of the years I have attended the shows and I am a season ticket holder. You and the Vocal Majority under your leadership have brought me so much joy. When mother was alive she attended your concerts and my daughter continues to enjoy your shows. I just do not know the words to express the impact you and the Vocal Majority have made on my life through the music and shows.
I will miss you. God bless you as you begin a new chapter of your life.
Blessings to you and your family
My first experience of VM was when they came to Glasgow England, i was hooked, been to several internationals but had never seen them compete untill Anaheim last year. Yes they came second and AOH deservered the gold (L love Jim Henry, met him in Harrogate) but for me VM were and will always be my ultimate favourites. I actually got to meet Jim and Greg at one of the rehearsals, absolute gentlemen. Of course my favourite Bass is Jeff Oxley and i wish him all the best with competitions as it seems Jim will still be at the helm of VM. I will be in Kansas next year and cant wait to see all my favourite singers again.
Good luck Jim in whatever you decide to do in the future, a true Barbershop hero, wonderful man xx
Jim Clancy is a musical genius of virtuoso standing. His legacy will be now and forever as an awesome mentor and inspiration to 1000′s of musical men and women around the world. His musical work is directly responsible for enriching the lives of 10′s of 1000′s of singers, now that is awesome!
As a young boy and barbershop brat over 30 years ago, even then Jim Clancy stood out to me as being one of the best teachers and motivators I had ever seen.
Having met him personally many times since I have always found him bountiful in his generosity of spirit and willingness to share his truly magical gift.
I am sure Jim’s achievements and accomplishments will be recognised by the BHS, some time soon.
Thank you Jim Clancy and thank you Judy for supporting Jim in his musical journey so far.
To Mr. Jim Clancy:
My sincerests congrats to you and your VM Chorus on your 2010 International finish. There really is no difference between a first or second place finish at this highest barbershop level other than the color of the medal. Your many years of dedictation to the barbershop world and your international influence on thousands of people both within and without the barbershop world is a legacy which few will achieve.
The Heart of Harmony Chorus, West Allis, Wi., extends our heart-felt thank-you for your many years of “entertainment” which is really what our hobby is all about//gthiel
Still being on a Barbershop ‘high’, after attending International in Philly, I moved from reading a Harmonet link ‘Here’s to the winners! Gratitude for the champs among us’ to reading all the comments posted about Jim on this site.
As with many guys who find Barbershop later in life than they would have liked, I have moved from what I thought was a little local singing group to something that has helped me to travel the world.
My first experience of seeing Jim in front of the VM was the eagerly anticipated Harrogate BABS Convention in 1995. As he will remember, and the video shows it clearly, the standing ovation before they had sung a note showed the love that British Barbershoppers had for this great man and his chorus. That love was repeated in International in Philly in the same way.
My first International was Anaheim 1999, when the VM were taking a well earned second year out of competition. However, the chance to cruise Alaska with a mixed chorus of around 300 under Jim’s direction was too tempting to miss. Within 48 hours of seeing the poster, my Mum (Jessie) and I were booked. I hadn’t even got my vacation leave secured at that time! My faith was rewarded with both myself and Mum having a truly wonderful experience singing under his direction, when, as has been said, he communicated visually with each and every one of us.
Jim insisted that we learn to sing on top of the pitch for all our songs, something that Jim Henry mentioned in the Ambassadors Masterclass at Philly.
I have mentioned many times to many people that when Jim finished the last song of our show he moved across to where Mum was positioned in the chorus and put his hand on her shoulder. A magic moment for her as she had never sung in a Barbershop chorus until that trip!
When the VM made their second trip to BABS in Glasgow in 1999, even though I knew what to expect, I was still brought to tears during at least one of their songs and Mum was also similarly affected in the Cathedral appearance that I couldn’t attend as I was in the competition circuit that day. My Golden Years CD was replaced by the 20th Century Box Set during that Convention.
I was fortunate to be in Montreal in 2003 to see the VM win Gold there. My next opportunity, only booked a month before Convention, was this year in Philly. The medals may be silver in colour but it was a golden moment for me after only 17 years in this wonderful hobby.
Thank you, and bless you, for the music, Jim