To the editor:

Bruce Perry was a highly esteemed colleague of mine for many years. We were both on the Fort Dodge musical scene for a long time, he for 30 years and I for 40. The concert by the Fort Dodge Choral Society on Sunday, on May 5, was a memorial concert for Bruce, who was its artistic director for 30 years until his passing in 2023.

What a wonderful concert it was! The large, 40 voice choir had a professional sound with fine balance, blend, intonation and musical sensitivity. It was very ably prepared and conducted by its new artistic director, Greta Nelson from Webster City accompanied by highly talented pianist, Jeanette Hinkeldey, of Storm Lake.

The entire concert was first rate. Many of the selections were among Bruce’s favorites opening with “Let All Mortal Flesh” arranged by Mr. Perry, a stirring piece by contemporary composer, Mark Hays and very popular selections from musicals, “Carousel” and “Camelot.”

The featured work of the afternoon was “Requiem Brevis” by Jordan Jinosko. This four movement work was especially commissioned by the Choral Society in memory of Bruce Perry. and it received its world premiere with the highly gifted composer in the audience. It was accompanied by a very talented 11 piece instrumental ensemble. Judging by the quality of the work itself, it is due to have many, many more performances in the future.

The concert concluded with an appropriate and truly beautiful, and moving selection, “Homeward Bound,” At the conclusion, the large audience rose as one in spontaneous acclaim for a job so exceedingly well done.

The Choral Society and its fine, new director appear to have great chemistry and I am certain that they will have a wonderful collaboration. I am sure that Bruce would heartily approve.

Larry Mitchell

Fort Dodge