5 questions with Melinda Imthurn
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Melinda Imthurn is the artistic director for The Women’s Chorus of Dallas. A holder of several music degrees, she has performed with many theatrical companies. A native of Cleveland, Ohio, she moved to Dallas on the hottest day in 1980. She is also a member of the music faculty at Mountain View College and an on-air personality for WRR classical 101.1 FM.
What is The Women’s Chorus of Dallas?
The Women’s Chorus of Dallas is a women’s choral organization with an emphasis on diversity in music and in membership. With our roots in the gay community, we have as an important part of our mission community outreach. In addition to three season concerts, we perform at least a dozen additional outreach performances at civic events, benefits, and other places where our music and our message can make a difference.
What do you do in your role as artistic director?
As artistic director, I lead the artistic vision for the organization, and also serve as principal conductor. That means I plan all music and performances, as well as direct all rehearsals and performances. And do all of the behind-the-scenes stuff that makes them happen. It’s a lot of work, and a lot of fun!
How did you become involved in TWCD?
I became involved as a singer, and when the position became open, I thought I was the right person for the job. Although I had a couple of music degrees, I didn’t have experience doing exactly this, but the Board had faith in my abilities, and it has turned out to be a perfect match.
What events/shows do you have this upcoming season?
First, we have an opportunity for new members to join! After that, we begin preparing for our concert on April 25, which will feature a brand new choral work commissioned by TWCD, and also past pops favorites chosen by online vote via our Web site. Then, we prepare to record a new CD this summer! All the while, we’re preparing for our performance cruise this summer — we’re performing onboard the Carnival Ecstasy in June.
Where do you see The Women’s Chorus of Dallas in five years?
TWCD will continue to grow musically, in its membership numbers, and in diversity of members. We will make an exciting move to performing our concerts in the new City Performance Hall in the Dallas Center for the Performing Arts! We’ll continue performing as an outreach with a focus on women’s issues, especially breast cancer and domestic violence, children’s and AIDS services organizations. We will commission new music by women composers, and will perform exciting concerts which include this new music written especially for TWCD. At 25 years of age, we will be stronger and better than ever!
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