Music Meets Drama

 Recently Gena Branscombe’s grandson, Roger, sent me a copy of a poem he had found in the family files. Over many years the crumpled piece of paper held the words to a  poem titled, “Farewell to THE OLD TIMER”    To the right of the title is typed, “American Folksy Song of 1942 (With apologies to all concerned.”)   With great humor the poem writers, who were Branscombe Choral members, describe in great detail the demise of Miss Branscombe’s “rack.”  Gena raised her wand to beat the time and the rack went down!  The “rack” is obviously her conductor’s stand that with much assistance could not be revived.  The Choral members found the “dough” to gift their beloved conductor a new rack hoping she doesn’t want the old one back!  What wonderful humor and one does wonder what the “American Folksy Song of 1942” was.   This poem/song must have been performed by Choral members at their annual Spring luncheon.   In 1942 with World...

  Work on doctoral dissertations is arduous with specific guidelines for research and writing form.   For over 3 years Regan Russell researched Gena Branscombe’s life through publications from over 100 years ago and interviews.   She sought out scores of 150 arts songs many of which were out-of-print, some not available because Miss Branscombe lost or destroyed them and the original manuscripts of some were in libraries where copies had to be made.   Persistence….that describes Regan and her dedication to Gena Branscombe’s songs!   On November 17, 2022 at Boston University, Regan presented her doctoral dissertation “Love in a Life: The Art Songs of Gena Branscombe.”   Her presentation included a lecture on Branscombe’s life, song development and a performance of five songs beautifully sung by baritone Gray Leiper with Regan accompanying him.   Regan’s work was scholarly, passionate about the subject matter and her musicianship exceptional.  ...

The Gena Branscombe Project has announced applications for their 2023 scholarships are now open.  They are awarding a $400 scholarship to an up-and-coming student composer, arts administrator and conductor. The deadline for applications is April 30th.. Honoring Miss Branscombe's belief in education and mentorship we offer these scholarships in her name.    Share this information with your students and colleagues www.thegenabranscombeproject.com #BringingBackBranscombe