Mark Knebel has been one of those skilled singers that started straight as a Senior Chorister because of the high musical aptitude displayed at audition, and because, whenever I find a boy gifted with a beautiful, resonant instrument, the looming threat of the male voice change forces me to maximize the resources at hand. The great mystery of the voice change in boys resides in how the singer will react to it. Many times, in the history of Chorus Angelicus, boys embrace the voice change and the possibility of singing in falsetto, so they can stay as Senior choristers. I have succeeded in convincing many a chorister to remain in our ranks by singing in this “countertenor” style.
Mark has been the epitome of such a scenario: he fervently welcomed his countertenor-hood with a passion, elevating the art of singing alto into a whole new sphere. Mark would sing his alto part with pride, his trumpety tone ringing forward like a laser beam!
Mark always participated in all tours, music camps, and “extracurricular” activities for Chorus Angelicus with a unique sense of enthusiasm and camaraderie. I recall having terrific times with him and the entire group at the Monastery of
El Escorial
in Spain! These last two years, predictably so, Mark was extremely busy making music with his excellent Jazz Combo and the Canton Chamber Singers at Canton High School, He still managed to remain part of Chorus Angelicus: we are tremendously grateful for that.
We will sorely miss Mark’s presence at Chorus Angelicus: he was the “nameless” alto section-leader for our ensemble. I really hope Mark finds time to be a Gaudie from time to time so we can all share of the never-ending gift of his musicianship! Keep making music and touching people’s hearts, Mark!
Gabriel Löfvall
