There are so many wonderful Sisters of Saint Francis, and we would like to highlight Sister Lalonde Ryan. Sister Lalonde was our voice teacher from 1979-1983. She gifted us both with her vocal coaching and her total dedication to us as music students. Each of us had weekly lessons with her that were equal parts challenging and encouraging. These interactions led to a lasting friendship. Lalonde has been our beloved cheerleader and listening ear as we have moved through our lives and careers, whether they were music-related or not. We know that Sister Lalonde is always praying for us and we for her. The College of Saint Teresa was our spiritual and educational community for four precious years, and Sister Lalonde’s deep love for us has always called us spiritually home.
We thought we would give a nod to the poetical:
Music Lessons ala Lalonde
Music, melody, singing lieder,
Diaphragmatic deep breath
An encouraging smile
Shoulders back, bottom in, posture adjustment so air flows in.
“Try again”
Open your mouth
Relax and Drop your jaw
Create space
“Yes, that is it”
Out comes the vocals, crisp and clear,
Ringing rounds for all to hear,
Rich with poise,
Dynamic filled grace,
Sending us all into a different place.
“I knew you could do it”
Our warm-up vocals a tribute to:
…. La be da may ni po to-
Lalonde!
Marcia Krull ’83, Rosine Hermodson-Olsen ’83 & Cheryl Yenter ‘83
