The collegiate newsletter of4Volume XXVII Number 2 November/December 2010

59

From the Director of Collegiate Programs and EducationThe Phi Mu Alpha experience gives

Sinfonians an incredible appreciation formusic and brotherhood. Those years as acollegiate Sinfonian are some of the fondestmemories our brothers have of their collegelife. Each of our alumni look back onthose days with thoughts of hard work forthe Fraternity, sharing their art with eachother, and enjoying their time in college

together. Countless hours are spent by brothersstudying our symbolism and trying to understandmore about our organization. Unfortunately, thereare currently few resources available for brothers onthese topics.

In just about every chapter, there are at least ahandful of members who are interested in absorbingas much information about our brotherhood as pos-sible. These are the brothers who typically go toevery province and national event that becomesavailable. They do this to develop Sinfonia spirit,but they also know that there will be opportunitiesfor them to know more about their belovedSinfonia. While it is wonderful that brothers aremaking an extra effort to learn more about Phi MuAlpha, it’s unfortunate that they have to go all theway to Lyrecrest or some special event to do so.

The same goes for general operating proceduresfor chapters. Lyrecrest is often flooded with phonecalls and emails asking how to register probationaryclasses, fill out a chapter report, what specificresponsibilities of various offices are, etc. There aresimply not enough resources to help run a chaptereffectively.

During my time as Retreat Coordinator andPrograms Associate, I conducted over 50 brother-hood retreats here at Lyrecrest. I’ve had the oppor-tunity to meet and learn from all kinds of brothersall across the country. Each chapter has broughtwith them another unique perspective on the frater-nity and procedure on how they carry outFraternity business.

While no chapter was running things improp-erly, very few chapters carried out business in theexact same manner. If there were problems theyweren’t always caused by the administration of thechapter; sometimes, the real problem was a lack ofresources for that administration.

Because of the lack of available resources, ourbrothers have had to extrapolate the best way tocarry out Fraternity business. The role of a chapterVice-President is a great example. The only realguideline for this officer’s duties is that he is sup-posed to fill in for the President when he isn’t avail-able. That makes the job very easy in some

(see, “Director,” page 3)

Your education about our esteemed Fraternity started on the night youreceived your probationary pin.Why does it have to stop there?

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GreetingsBrothers! As sum-mer has turned tofall, and all too soonfall starts turning towinter, it is mygreatest hope thatyou are all well. Asthe semester grindsalong, it can be easyto get caught up inthe minutia of not

only school life, but Fraternity life.Whenever this happens to me, I find com-fort in reading the text of our Ritual andceremonies, the writings of our founders,and any other way through which I canadvance my knowledge and understandingof our order and the world beyond.

In his Metaphysics, Aristotle wrote, “Allmen by nature desire knowledge.” Whilenot often explicitly used in their writings, Ibelieve it apparent that our founders fullyunderstood this concept. They sought formusicians to better understand their fellowman, and to bring harmony to those rela-tionships – harmony of balance, throughknowing and accepting the differences ineach other, and through the acceptancegaining wisdom.

And at the end of it all, what betterdefinition of knowledge and wisdom thanthe pursuit of greater truths? I believe thereis no more noble pursuit a man can under-take than the lifelong search for greater oreven absolute truths. The ancients surelybelieved as much, as is evident in the tradi-tion of fraternal societies, whose origin liesin the protection of knowledge; and Ibelieve it should be self-evident to allSinfonians that our founders believed muchthe same.

Now that I’ve taken this letter out toleft field, you are all thinking that this idea

has very little application in a chaptermeeting. Maybe it doesn't, but it can ifyou let it.

One of my favorite authors, IssacAsimov, once wrote, “If knowledge can cre-ate problems, it is not through ignorancethat we can solve them.” Perhaps thisacknowledgment has more application?How often does a problem arise within achapter, and we simply plow through to tryand maintain that pleasant ‘harmony’ onthe resolution side of it? Ask any formerchapter president how well it works to tryto simply move past an unresolved issue,and I suspect you may receive an eye roll atbest. Our job is not simply to seek harmo-ny in the quickest and easiest way possible,for this presents itself as false harmony; aharmony that is rotting on the underside,given time, will create more dissonancethan there was originally.

It is our job as Sinfonians to abide dis-cord as we seek final harmony in these dailyproblems. Always thoroughly talk throughproblems, for from understanding andacceptance comes the wisdom with whichto bring resolution. Then, when final har-mony is attained, it is through finding thebest in each other.

Be true in all endeavors Brothers, untilnext we meet!

Fraternally Yours,In Phi, Mu, and Alpha,

Benjamin “Twitchy” Strack, Delta Iota (Western Michigan) ’05National Collegiate Representative

Page 2

From the NationalCollegiate Representative

Operational UpdatesChapters: 230Colonies: 12

Omicron Theta (New Jersey City University)Iota Eta (Central State University)Delta Zeta (Oklahoma City University)Pi Kappa (Langston University)Florida Eta (Florida Atlantic University)Zeta Pi (Loyola University)Eta Iota (University of Louisiana-Monroe)Iota Beta (North Carolina A&T State University)Theta Phi (Eastern New Mexico University)Pi Nu (Jackson State University)District of Columbia Alpha (Univ. of DC)Xi Beta (Benedict College)Nu Theta (Kennesaw State University)

Alumni Associations: 19Collegiate members in Good Standing 5,206Collegiate members on Suspension 738Collegiate members (total) 5,944Percentage of total collegiate suspensions 12.42%Total amount of outstandingper capita tax owed to Sinfonia $88,150.22

Publication InformationThe Red & Black is published as an informational

newsletter for the Fraternity’s chapters, colonies, facultyadvisors, governors, committeemen, and national officers.

The Red & Black is printed bimonthly, September toApril. Photographs and articles from your chapter arehighly encouraged for upcoming issues of The Red & Black.Please send the articles and photographs to editor@sinfonia.org. The deadline for theJanuary/February issue is December 1, 2010.

Editor/Layout: Jeremy M. Evans, Delta Nu

Lyrecrest Staff:Chief Operating Jeremy M. Evans, Delta Nu ’98Officer evans@sinfonia.org Ext. 108

Director of Daniel E. Krueger, Xi Pi ’96Alumni Engagement krueger@sinfonia.org Ext. 104

Director of Collegiate William C. Lambert, Iota Alpha ’05Programs & Education lambert@sinfonia.org Ext. 101

Retreat Coordinator Drew B. Lewis, Theta Tau ’08& Programs Associate lewis@sinfonia.org Ext. 103

Administrative Kimberly J. DailyAssistant daily@sinfonia.org Ext. 100

Controller Tonya R. McGuiremcguire@sinfonia.org Ext. 105

Executive Assistant Debra L. Celuchceluch@sinfonia.org Ext. 107

Shipping Clerk Jon W. Raderrader@sinfonia.org Ext. 106

Did You Know?Want to see the National Archives? Many of the

resources and items available for viewing in the archiveshave been scanned and are available to be viewed at ourwebsite: www.sinfonia.org/history

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Page 3

(from, “Director,” page 1)chapters if the President works hard to be available for his chapter.However, in other chapters the Vice-President has the most demand-ing job of all. Which approach is right? Currently there is no answerbecause the resources that outline the responsibilities of office are notreadily available.

Aside from problems with not understanding certain jobs, manyfraternity brothers can’t clearly answer general questions about Phi MuAlpha. Why is Phi Mu Alpha a social fraternity? Why is the Objectso important? Is it necessary that we maintain a single-sex status?These are questions that the average Sinfonian doesn’t think about ona day to day basis, but are still very important in explaining why theFraternity operates the way it does. The National Exam is currentlythe only genuine tool we have to teach our brothers how the Fraternitycarries out general business. Beyond that, members have very little togo on to understand more about this brotherhood; a brotherhoodwhich deserves the loyalty we’ve vowed.

There are ways for brothers to learn more about Sinfonia.Unfortunately, as I’ve said, the only real way to do so is to travel all theway to the National Headquarters or to a large scale national event.While it’s great to have brothers come to big events, it shouldn’t bebecause they have so many questions that needanswering. It should be because they want the expe-rience Sinfonia on a large scale.

My primary goal in this new position is to creatematerials that can be widely distributed to brothersto help them understand more about all aspects ofour Fraternity and to increase the quality of educa-tional materials already available.

Ultimately, all brothers should be able to easilyunderstand how to work together to carry outFraternity business. Our chapters can’t afford tospend time re-defining job responsibilities of variousoffices with each change in administration. Weshould be able to easily and readily answer questionsabout why the Fraternity operates the way it does,not only to themselves or another brother, but tonon-Sinfonians as well.

I’ve already been working on renovating theNational Archives Museum here at Lyrecrest, addingseveral more display cases and even another displayroom. Soon, I plan on creating resources for developingmodel probationary programs, resources with information

about our Object and coat of arms, and manuals for each chapter offi-cer position.

While we work on these new materials, I strongly encourage youto use the means that are already available to learn more about theFraternity. We must be in the mindset of being as familiar as we canwith that which we cherish. Not only does this ensure that we are arefamiliar with our Fraternity, but it is one of the greatest things we cando to honor Phi Mu Alpha. So for now, do what you can to absorbfrom that which is already available. You can talk more to your alum-ni or Province Governor, read from the Fraternity writings under the“Resources” link at www.sinfonia.org, or even start more conversationswith your brothers about what it means to be a Sinfonian. Let discus-sion inspire your curiosity further. Most importantly, keep an eye outfor the new resources I hope to have available in the coming months.

Your education about our esteemed Fraternity started on the nightyou received your probationary pin. Why does it have to stop there?There is so much to learn about Sinfonia and brothers shouldn’t haveto work so hard to have their questions answered. You can soonexpect to see more materials available to help brothers understand howto develop, maintain, and sustain our cherished brotherhood.

~Will Lambert, Iota Alpha (Alma) ‘05

Will has completed many projects in the Fraternity’s Archives, including adisplay case for this important artifact from the Alpha Chapter room.

Visit www.sinfonia.org/history to view historical archives, writings of early Fraternity leaders and much more!

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It’s my pleasure to write to you from anew seat here at Lyrecrest, your nationalheadquarters. As I begin my eighth year onthe Fraternity’s national staff, I am thought-ful about what’s gotten me here, and what’sgotten our Fraternity to its current stronglevel of success.

In the 112-year history of ourFraternity, young men of music haveadvanced the cause of music in America in

numerous ways. Our activities serve as an outward reflection ofour inward values; because we value the role of music in America,we strive to maintain its influence, help to foster its presence andexpand awareness of its importance on our campuses and in ourcommunities around the country.

But how do all of these activities come about? What exactlydoes it take to manage the day-to-day affairs of a Sinfonia chapter?I maintain that behind any strong chapter is a group of leadersexhibiting strong Sinfonia spirit and dedication to our cause, andI’m writing today hoping you will ponder this concept of leadership andask yourself where you fit in.

Great leaders are the oil that helps the Sinfonia gears to spin.Picture him with me–that Sinfonian superhero in your chapter orprovince that really gets it, and who goes out of his way to help elevatehis chapter to new heights. Without these men, great ideas never gettraction; our wheels simply spin. Without them, chapters run in place,copying and pasting last year’s activities, priorities and recruitment phi-losophy. Without strong leaders, chapters would never put themselvesthrough the vital process of self-examination and scrutiny. Withoutthese men, our chapters, and our Order, will never grow.

Leaders help to motivate, inspire, and encourage brothers. Nodoubt you’ve been there–bogged down with Sinfonia work and schoolwork, juries and projects, reading assignments and papers–when a leadercame along to give you the piece of encouragement or drive that youneeded to keep pushing, keep trying, keep becoming more. That com-mitment to giving of one’s self for the betterment of those around us iswhat makes us Sinfonians, and it should come as no surprise to see ourleaders exhibiting that selflessness.

Leaders also help by holding brothers accountable. Sometimes,that means having an uncomfortable conversation, confronting difficultrealities alongside our brothers and gently correctingtheir behavior. It’s easier (and certainly more fun) tosweep issues like this under the rug and “keep thepeace.” But don’t we owe each other more? Don’t weowe each other honesty? Don’t we owe it to oneanother to help each other become more manly, moresincere, and more noble? Good leaders take seriously

the responsibility to help those around them develop into everythingthey were meant to be. They value helping people in their progress as aSinfonian over “keeping the peace.”

When it boils right down to it, I believe leadership is about servant-hood. We serve our organization and one another by doing what’s rightinstead of what’s easy, and always working to drive the cause of Sinfoniaforward. We serve each other because of our bonds of fraternal love.We serve music in America because we know of its great impact in ourlives and the lives of those around us.

So, you ask, what do I want from you? Take on this mantle of ser-vant leadership. Challenge yourself to get involved in your chapter innew ways. Ask your chapter’s officers what they need help with. Helpout with one of your chapter’s committees. Consider running forprovince office. In all things, never forget the mentality of a servant; wedo these things not for our own glory and position, but for the uplift ofMankind through Sinfonia.

Brothers, do these things with all your might, and we will see evengreater success from within our Order. I’m sure of it.

~Jeremy Evans, Delta Nu (Bradley) ‘98

Page 4

From The Editor: Lead Through Servanthood

Great leaders are the oil that helps the Sinfonia gears to spin.Picture him with me – that Sinfonian superhero in your chap-ter or province that really gets it, and that goes out of his wayto help elevate his chapter to new heights.

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“The mutual welfare and brotherhood ofmusical students.”

Dear Brothers:This is the text from the first page of

Sinfonia writ for four little Sinfonia ser-mons. Although the sermonizer, I take myseat right in the midst of the Sinfonia audi-ence and listen to the message. Thethought that I should like to drive home sothat it will sink deep into the hearts of allthe brothers is that of personal responsibili-

ty. Without this sense there can be no mutual welfare, no brotherhoodof any class of men. Wrapped about the idea is all that Sinfonia everwas, is today, and ever will be.

Our very genesis was not really a beginning after all, but indeedthe product of a personality–Father Mills. In allits growth our fraternity has been nurtured byloving hearts and counseled by wise heads. Menhave felt a personal responsibility. If its future isto be one that shall command admiration, asense of personal responsibility must be its ever-constant attendant and guide. By this I mean aprofound realization of duty on the part of eachone of something beyond mere self. I mean one'sself projected–an ego that consciously reaches out after God the Fatherand touches man the brother. For a man’s personal responsibility neverstops with himself. It has a three-fold significance and embraces him-self, his brother, and his God.

The Sinfonia is what each man is; no less, no more. Its dimensionsare the size of the Sinfonian. Its height is your ideal; its breadth, yourintelligence; its depth, your feeling; its weight your work. If you have ahigh ideal, a broad intelligence and deep feeling, and you do muchwork for Sinfonia you will understand full well what personal responsi-bility means. Let us print in big type the dimensions of a trueSinfonian:

IDEAL. INTELLIGENCE. FEELING. WORK.

IDEAL. First, brothers, get a high conception of life itself. Takeaccount of what an individuality means–not arrogance and self-conceit,but honesty and self-respect. Now, think of an ideal, then speak outabout it, and next work for it. Let it be as practical as a high ideal canbe. What? How do you like the sound of the best men among musi-cians, or the best musicians among men? No, the best men amongmen! That is a splendid ideal, is it not? Such men must possess stabili-ty. You, yourself, should seek it for yourself. Do you know it ofttimesis the accumulation of a series of other virtues? The gentler ones, suchas sincerity, sympathy and sacrifice. Remember these virtues when you

speak of the ideal sincerity, sympathy, sacrifice. Is there any higher typeof man than found in that happy combination of a good, great manand a great, good man? Do you not recognize the elements of sincerity,sympathy, sacrifice and stability in such a one? It is destined for few todo great deeds but it is meant for all to be good men. Remember thetrue words of a wise man who wrote, “It is not what those around usdo for us that counts - it is what they are to us.” Improve, if you can,on even this ideal of good and great so that you will get to think on thehighest plane and move along righteous lines. Try it. It gives a fellow aboost to personal responsibility.

INTELLIGENCE. An ideal to be worthy must be born of intelli-gence and feeling. It must take into consideration the mutual welfare ofall. It must not be selfish. It should study men before it attempts toshape men. It should sympathize with men before it seeks to summonmen. Sinfonia spells brains as well as heart. It does not say that everyman shall admire everything in everybody who is a Sinfonian. This

would smack of insincerity. It means something on the level–practicaland helpful; for in Sinfonia it is designed that every man should studyeverything in everybody in order that he may know him better–that hemay recognize his virtues by praising and trying to emulate him anddiscern his weakness and shortcomings by sympathizing with and try-ing to help him.

If intelligence demands both honest praise and heartfelt sympathyfor one’s fellows in Sinfonia it also calls, and in a loud voice, for fair-ness–fairness in judgment and action, but especially so in judgment, forif that be fair the act to follow will be right. If the historian had toldme to write a message of but one paragraph it would have been this:meet the fellows half-way. Intelligence calls for fairness. The idea, thespirit of conciliation is the most beautiful revelation of the divine inman's intellect that I can think of. Listen to the other fellow. Do notbrowbeat him. Do not ridicule him. Do not ignore him. Show thefair spirit. Give up every little whim or prejudice of yours up to thatpoint where the surrender would carry with it the very vitals of a greatprinciple. Prune off the trivials, the caprices, the prejudices on yourargumentative tree. Be reasonable and you will win the other man.Can you find anything in that marvelous mind of Abraham Lincolnstanding out more striking than his fairness to all: “with malice towardsnone, with charity for all, with fairness in the right, as God gives us tosee the right, let us strive on...” See how concisely and eloquently

(see, “Burrell,” page 8)

5Page

Fraternity Education: Burrell’s 1909 President’s Letter

If the historian had told me to write a message ofbut one paragraph it would have been this: Meet

the fellows half-way. Intelligence calls for fairness.

Editor’s Note: In the spirit of this issue’s theme of Fraternity education, this President’s Letter is reprinted here. We hope that your chapter willread, reflect and discuss this letter and talk about the ways in which the message is still relevant to our chapters and members today.

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The Gamma Theta Chapter has experiencedgreat success over the last academic year! In the 2009-2010 school year, our chapter initiated sixteen proba-tionary members, and in the Fall 2010 semester, wehave taken a class of twenty-three probationary mem-bers. Additionally, the brothers of Gamma Thetaworked diligently to assist in the rechartering of theSigma Omega Chapter at the University of Texas atArlington, which has already become the second largestchapter in Province 32.

The Gamma Theta Chapter was fortunate to win theAmerican Music Challenge with the performance of twen-ty-four pieces of American music during the last academicyear, and we plan to continue striving to advance music inour great nation. Also, we had the great pleasure of con-ducting a Mills Music Mission during spring 2010 It wasan incredibly rewarding experience to be able to share ourmusic with many of the patients at Arlington MemorialHospital in Arlington, Texas.

Our various committees are working tirelessly to makesome great things happen for our chapter and for the com-munity. We have been able to put together some wonderful

service projects and fundraisers, including: • Adopt-a-Block to clean areas of our campus• Fight for the Music, a project designed to raise money

to fund music programs for underprivileged schools, inspired by an initiative created by past National President Dr. Daryhl Ramsey, Lambda Omega(Carson- Newman) ’67

• Working with our probationary members to organizevisits to the Nelson Center, a rehabilitation center forphysically, sexually, and emotionally abused children inthe Denton area

Additionally, Wesley McCall, ’09, chapter Historian, isputting together a registry encompassing seventy years worth ofchapter history that includes every single Sinfonian ever initiat-ed or transferred into the Gamma Theta Chapter since itsfounding on May 19, 1940. Such an undertaking has neverbeen attempted in the history of our chapter, and the compila-tion of nearly 1,500 names is an undertaking that he has madehis primary project while serving our chapter as Historian.

The brothers of the Gamma Theta Chapter wish nothingbut the best to our brothers across the country.

~Wesley McCall, Historian

CNewsewsNews ampusFrom

Gamma Theta Chapter University of North Texas • Denton, Texas

The chapter sent members to Fall Brawl and theProvince Leadership Workshop. We also hosted recruitmentevents including a bonfire and ice cream social (both in con-junction with Kappa Kappa Psi and Sigma Alpha Iota), ameet-and-greet session with pizza, and an ultimate Frisbeegame. Collegiate and alumni memberssang the nationalanthem at Albion’s Homecoming game.

On a more solemn note, we performed a memorial

service for departed alumnus Charles Crupi, ’03, a retiredAlbion English teacher. Finally, we presented a memorial scrap-book to our former sweetheart, who is the granddaughter oflate Beta Iota alumnus Melvin Larimer, ’51, who as Albion'smusic director restarted Sinfonia on Albion’s campus

We are looking forward to our fall concert, which will fea-ture vocal and instrumental music performed by our members.

~Tom Dukes, ’10, Historian

Beta Iota Chapter Albion College • Albion, Michigan

This semester, the Colony has been reinvigorated withnew officers and members. The colony is busy complet-ing the first step of the Phase I process. Last May, we hada successful Brotherhood Retreat in Dahlonega, Georgiaon a three day camping trip. Many bonds were made, aswell many jokes and unforgettable memories. Early inthis last fall semester, the colony ran two recruitmentevents. The first was the Second Annual Phi Mu AlphaCookout. The cookout has already started to garner areputation with the KSU School of Music as a gen-uine good time. The second event was a grand nightof bowling. The recruitment events helped pull inone member to the Colony.

The colony has also started something that we hope tohave become a colony tradition, known as “Thursday Throw-down”. The colony gets together every Thursday evening forsome kind of social event. The first throw-down involvedUltimate Frisbee. The event drew three new members.

Currently the colony is 15 members strong and lookingforward to a joint Mills Music Mission effort with the KappaGamma Chapter at Berry College. Current colony PresidentJon Brown says, “ Our colony shows potential, and we lookforward to joining the greater whole that is Phi Mu AlphaSinfonia.”

Jon Brown, President

Nu Theta Colony Kennesaw State University • Kennesaw, Georgia

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CNewsewsNews ampusFrom

On Saturday April 17, 2010, the colony participated inits second Mills Music Mission. Members of the colonybrightened the day of many residents of Kutztown Manor.“Performing in a Mills Music Mission is one of my favoritethings about being a Sinfonian” commented PaulGospodinsky, the colony president. Being able to go to anursing home and sing for strangers is something trulyremarkable. The MMM is an excellent way to dispel the mis-conception of the loud, disruptive social fraternity. It is some-thing truly unique within the Greek system.

The preparation for such an event is something thatbuilds character and responsibility. Colony member NickWatson said, “Being a Sinfonian is more than just a weeklymeeting where a bunch of guys talk about doing stuff togetherand singing. Phi Mu Alpha is committed to improving thelives of everyone with music: leaving the music and perform-ing in such an unrestricted environment was a great way of learning how we act as a group before we push through to

the second part of the colonization process.” Unfortunately, we did not hear any memorable or

humorous comments from the patients or caregivers thatwe heard during our first MMM in fall 2009. We didreceive a lot of compliments on our singing; many of thecaregivers and patients were very impressed. We had overtwice the amount of music prepared as compared to lastsemester at the fall MMM, and the residents of KutztownManor seemed to respond more actively to our songs.

Commenting on this aspect of the experience, colonymember Adam Odenwelder said, “One patient was so movedby our singing that she felt compelled to dance while wesang.” The Mills Music Mission is not for us, but rather it isfor the people who will appreciate a kind gesture. The powerof Sinfonian songs truly touched the hearts of many duringthe morning hours of April 17, 2010.

~Adam Good

Pennsylvania Beta Colony Kutztown University • Kutztown, Pennsylvania

On September 24 the brothers of the Alpha KappaChapter in collaboration with Samuel Kittle, ’08 sang a sere-nade to Christina Smith, Sam’s girlfriend of two years. Thiswasn’t a typical serenade. The brothers helped Sam plan theproposal to his girlfriend. They held a practice proposal dur-ing their regular chapter meeting on Sunday September 19and sent numerous emails during the week to finalize plans.

On Friday September 24 Sam took his girlfriendChristina to dinner. Meanwhile the brothers met in theSchool of Music to warm up. The brothers proceeded toOhio University’s College Green to get set for the proposal.

Around 6:30pm, Sam brought his girlfriend to the

Kissing Circle, known as the campus landmark where OhioUniversity couples share their first kiss or meet to go ondates. The brothers slowly snuck up behind Sam andChristina and began to sing, A Serenade to a Girl. Sam gotdown on one knee and asked her to marry him. With tearsin her eyes she said, “Yes!”

The brothers then sang an arrangement of the song MyGirl. The brothers replaced the words “My Girl” with“Chrissy.” The brothers made a dream come true for a girland made an unforgettable night for Sam, Chrissy and all thebrothers involved.

~Sam Kittle, Historian

Alpha Kappa Chapter Ohio University • Athens, Ohio

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(from, “Burrell,” page 5)Lincoln puts it. His were the words of a victor of victories and a masterof masteries. A worthy model, a fine example for Sinfonians, for allmen! When one speaks of a Sinfonian he means a man–a fellow musi-cian–you. Whereas before you may have lived isolated in your work, inyour pleasures and pains, your conquests and defeats, your hopes anddespairs, now you have company. The force of the idea of brotherhood has made itself felt upon you. Has it? Have you got in its way? Do youmeet the other fellow halfway. Among honest, intelligent men thishalfway business is a great meeting-place, for it has all the sweetness ofthe lover’s tryst and all the surety of the soldier’s rendezvous. It is prettysafe ground. One may come from the east and the other form the westof the broad field of opinions shaking their fists at each other and whenthey start off again, lo! They go arm in arm marching due south.Fairness warms men up. Try it. It gives a fellow a boost to personalresponsibility.

FEELING. I have said that an ideal to be worthy must be born ofintelligence and feeling. “The greatest thing in the world is love.” Maywe not think of it as God’s own feeling in man? If every Sinfonian feltit what a brotherhood would be ours! Do you love your fraternity?What does this mean? Love for fraternity may sound abstract, but it isnothing of the kind. It means love for men. It means love for oneman + one man + one man + one man and so on until you have cov-ered all your fraternal obligations to every other man. A desire and astrife to meet these is proof of your personal responsibility in your fra-ternity. Some men ask, “How shall I get the fraternity spirit?” Learnto love men. Every man thinks more of himself in the end if he thinksmore of his fellow-men in the beginning. This is the right procedurein order to have the right kind of fraternity. Some men, it is true, havethe peculiar knack or the blessed power to show more loving kindness,more fraternal spirit than others, but if this love for the mutual welfareand brotherhood of musical students be alive in your heart it will beseen in the glow on your face, felt in the warmth of your hand-claspand heard in the ring of your voice. Have you sown your heart withseeds of love? Try it. It gives a fellow a boost to personal responsibility.

WORK. Intelligence that possesses the ideal and the feeling oflove that sustains it must produce good works. Its visible expressionmust be seen in works for ΦΜΑ principles. The continued and per-manent success of our fraternity depends upon us all, but “all” is madeup of units. Speak aloud this word–unit–and shout the first syllable. Itis this part of the word that I want to emphasize. No one can do allthe work, but u can do some of it. If u do not do something for yourfrat it is because u have no capacity for work, and no love for men, andit may be u lack both. If such be the case I suggest that you dwell for amoment or two on the second syllable of our little word “unit.”

Ofttimes the reason for failure to work for something or somebodyis not because people think too much of themselves, but because theyforget to think of others. They remember to be personal, but forgetthe responsibility which is a part of the whole. If a chapter does notget along well it is because some man in it is sick, peevish or out ofgear. It may be you. It may be I. Speak aloud these last four words.Do it now, and then take a look inside. Is the Sinfonia machinery atwork? With regularity? Look sharp; for the smallest piece of mecha-

nism out of order in agreat machine will do alot of damage. It maysmash the whole engine,hurt other things inblowing up and even killthe owner. If you are notworking for Sinfonia it isbecause you do not loveyour brothers. Do notsay you can not, but righthere go back to the littlesermon on Fairness. Yourattitude impoverishes theSinfonia. You become apauper in your fraternity–taking everything and giving nothing. Sucha man is like seaweed on a ship's hull and retards her progress over theseas. In order to get along yourself you simply cling to what is doingits best to move ahead. Sooner or later such a man will be scraped off.

Now, then, let every brother find his work in Sinfonia and set outto do it. If a good thing has been started, put your shoulder to thewheel and push. Think of what has never been done that would begood to do, and try to find a way to do it. Now turn back to the littlesermon on Ideal. Avoid growing sleepy, indifferent, careless and spite-ful. You have a personal responsibility in this matter. Unless you dowhat this demands to build up Sinfonia at least one of our great aimswill never be accomplished by Sinfonians–the advancement of music inAmerica. No one save a man working with high ideals, broad intelli-gence and love can hope to reach this end. His musicianship alone willnot avail him.

I might name many very different things in one’s apprenticeship inSinfonia for his life work that would be good for him to do. I think Iwill. Attend all meetings, and be prompt about it. Read the by-lawsand the constitution, and see that you live up to them. Officers,enforce them; study the ritual and master it. Let every man do quickand complete work on his committees. Speak in meetings; don't talk.Answer letters immediately. Keep promises. Think up new ideas; tellabout them and work them out. Most of all, fellows, show a willingspirit for work and enter into it with zest. Let us tune ourselves up tothe highest key of brotherhood and so make a veritable SymphonyOrchestra of the minds and hearts of America’s musicians and herlovers of music, and then shall we drown this old world’s sharps andflats. Go back to the little sermon on Love.

The Sinfonia will grow, my brothers, as you grow because theSinfonia is you. The word is of eight letters. The spirit is of you whichcan never be spelled out except in life itself. The mutual welfare andbrotherhood of musical students will decline and die if you are selfish,careless and indifferent. Sinfonia will become not something, butsomebody, as you grow into a living, loving force in the great, bigworld. Try it. It gives a fellow a boost to personal responsibility.

More than ever is it good to be a Sinfonian, for “Once aSinfonian, always a Sinfonian.”

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Want to read more? Check out www.sinfonia.org/history for more great resources!

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Since assuming the mantle of RetreatCoordinator & Programs Associate from WillLambert, I have poured considerable effort intoevaluating the retreat program, seeking to buildupon his successes and further refine the essence ofhow stepping away from the rush of the materialworld can make us better men. Having just fin-ished my undergraduate degree, I understand alltoo well the ways that collegiate life can draw uponour time, energy and finances. Truly, even I felt

that my obligations as a brother were at times more than I couldendure. However, I found that making the sacrifice to be with mychapter brothers provided life lessons and relationships not available inthe classroom. One such sacrifice I found beneficial was the opportu-nity to go on a chapter retreat. Let me give you some insight intowhat a retreat holds for both you and your chapter.

The Lyrecrest property, acquired in 1970, serves not only as theoffice space for the national staff, but also as home to the history ofour great brotherhood. Fraternal artifacts such as the Alpha Chaptercharter and the wreath layed upon Father Mills’ gravesite at the cen-tennial ceremony adorn the main floor of the house. You are able toview not only our active chapters, but the scope of every chapter everchartered on various maps throughout the building. On retreat, youwill sit in the same meeting room where National Executive Committees present and past have charted the course of the Fraternity.You will be able to peruse the records of your chapter going as far backas 1960, as well as make copies for your records should you wish.Lyrecrest North, acquired in the 1999, holds what will be the fraternalmuseum, displaying the growth of our Fraternity from the first meet-ing of the Sinfonia Club to the present day.

As impressive as the history of our brotherhood and nationalheadquarters is, even more so is the opportunity for enhancing your

chapters’ brotherhood here at Lyrecrest. My job as RetreatCoordinator & Programs Associate is to ensure that you and yourchapter brothers receive the best possible experience during your stay.As I said earlier, stepping away from the rush of life can be a great wayto focus on the brotherly bonds in your chapter. At its’ heart, theretreat program is the best way to shore up the issues that your chapteris having at home. With discussions about your chapter’s strengthsand weaknesses, we will work to lay a solid foundation for your chap-ter. By participating in exercises and team-building games, the valueof trusting fellow brothers will present itself. Through delving intofraternal writings, we will re-immerse ourselves in the spiritual idealsthat make being a Sinfonian a unique quality in a world full of stereo-types.

There are many reasons to come to Lyrecrest for a chapter retreat,but perhaps the most pertinent is the promise of exalted experience.Stepping away from campus and living with our chapter brothersoffers us powerful potential to bond in a way not possible as we passeach other in the halls of our music buildings. The ability to performa Mills Music Mission in the city of the national headquarters makestangible Father Mills’ passion for using music to improve the lives ofothers. The impromptu appearance of local National ExecutiveCommittee members and other national staff members serves as areminder that the experience of Sinfonia is not simply a social club forcollege students, but a lifetime dedication to our Object. At the end of the day, it is what we choose to do, rather than what isrequired, that defines our character. Our commitment to Phi MuAlpha Sinfonia is no exception. Like any discipline, what you get outof Sinfonia depends entirely on what you put in. It is my hope to seeyou and your chapter at Lyrecrest in the coming year. On and everupward for the good of the Order!

~Drew Lewis, Theta Tau (Austin Peay) ’08

From the Retreat Coordinator and Programs Associate

Upcoming Fireside Conference EventsSinfonia Fireside Conference Midwest:

April 8-10, 2011Butler University

Indianapolis, IndianaSinfonia Fireside Conference West

Details coming soon

Check www.sinfonia.org/fireside for the latest info!

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Job Opening At Lyrecrest!Have you ever considered spending a year working for the

Fraternity? Looking for an unique job after college? Would you enjoyleading and facilitating groups of brothers from across the nation? Doyou want a flexible and fun work experience that would apply toalmost any future endeavor? This may be the opportunity you arelooking for!

Job Title:Retreat Coordinator and Programs Associate

Responsibilities include:The Retreat Coordinator and Programs Associate shall be responsi-

ble for all chapter and province retreats and other weekend Fraternitygatherings at Lyrecrest. He will maintain the Fraternity’s colony pro-gram and perform membership records duties. He will serve as the pri-mary contact at the national headquarters for collegiate members.

Eligibility:Must be a Sinfonian in good standing possessing a Bachelor’s

degree in any field. Experience with Mi crosoft Office a must.Must have a vehicle and be able to lift at least 50 pounds.

Benefits include:Competitive salary, free housing and utilities, health/dental

insurance, trip to the 2012 National Convention, great profesionalwork experience and the opportunity to meet and interact with broth-ers from all over the country.

Hours:Full-time-plus, with adjusted work week schedule centering

around weekend retreats and events at Lyrecrest.

Application deadline:March 1, 2011

Term of employment:August 1, 2011 — July 31, 2012 (position turns over annually)

This position is ideal for a graduating brother with an outgoingpersonality who is looking to gain valuable work experience and is

interested in working at the national headquarters. The experiencegained through this position serves as a great starting-out point for anyyoung professional.

Past Retreat Coordinator Sean Leno, Phi Omega (Dayton) ’00,describes his experience this way:

My time as Retreat Coordinator at Lyrecrest provided me with a valu-able new skill set and a truly one of a kind work experience. Theopportunities given to me for both personal and professional growthwere unparalleled in quality and value. You, just as I did, will experi-ence the Fraternity on a level never before imagined, gaining the“insider’s” view of a large, successful organization as well as meetingand interacting with the Brothers that keep this organization moving.

Past Retreat Coordinator and Programs Associate MatthewDowning, Beta Lambda (Muskingum) ’04 had this to say about his timeat Lyrecrest:

Rarely in life do you get the chance to know you’ve positively affected the lives of others. As the Retreat Coordinator and ProgramsAssociate, I was challenged and privileged to meet and work with over500 Sinfonians. Though my time of service to the National Fraternitywas relatively short, I know I accomplished some of my lifetime careergoals. I was extremely lucky to work for an organization I feel pas-sionate about helping to elevate others and work towards benefitingsociety through music. The memories and experiences I have gainedfrom my work at Phi Mu Alpha are truly irreplaceable.

To apply, please send résumé, cover letter, contact information forthree references, and a detailed history of Fraternity experience to:

Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia FraternityNational Headquarters

Attn: Retreat Coordinator & Programs Associate Search10600 Old State Road

Evansville, IN 47711-1399

Searching for Next Year’s Retreat Coordinator and Programs Associate

Don’t Delay! Application Deadline isMarch 1! Apply today!

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Jeremy M. Evans, Delta Nu (Bradley) ’98, hasbeen selected by the National ExecutiveCommittee as Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia’s ChiefOperating Officer. In this national staff position,Brother Evans fills the vacancy left by RyanRipperton, Alpha Rho (North Carolina) ’95, whoserved the Fraternity in this capacity for over sevenyears.

In February 2010 the National Executive Committee initiated itssearch for the next leader of the Fraternity’s national headquarters staff.In keeping with its plan for executive transition, the position wasopened to all members of Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia in good standing.Over the past seven months many applicants were considered, and sev-eral rounds of interviews were held to ensure a thorough process andthe selection of the best possible candidate. After interviews with anumber of highly qualified candidates, the National ExecutiveCommittee unanimously voted to employ Brother Jeremy Evans asChief Operating Officer.

Brother Evans was initiated into the Delta Nu chapter at Bradley

University on May 5, 1998. In 2002 he joined the national staff forone year as Retreat Coordinator. In 2004, he returned to the nationalstaff in the role of Director of Programs and Services. Since 2007Brother Evans has served as Assistant Executive Director. In his time atthe national headquarters Brother Evans has gained a high amount ofexperience in event facilitation, Fraternity operations and personnelmanagement. Since 2005 he has overseen the programming and facili-tation of the Fraternity’s Leadership Institute and has been instrumentalin the implementation of the 2006 and 2009 National Conventions.Brother Evans has also worked diligently in the fields of risk manage-ment and publications to increase the quality of the Fraternity’s opera-tions.

In 2008, he received his master’s degree in Public ServiceAdministration at the University of Evansville. Jeremy finds uniquepleasure in working with brothers to solve complex problems and issuesin their chapters, and he’s excited to bring his experience in that field tothe role of Chief Operating Officer. He resides in Evansville with his wife, Tara.

Page 11

Jeremy Evans Hired as Chief Operating Officer

Life Loyal Sinfonian was created to recognize the brothers of Phi MuAlpha Sinfonia who have lived our ideals and want to strengthen their connec-tion with the Fraternity. Almost 700 Sinfonians have become Life Loyal andyou are invited to do so as well.

Life Loyal Sinfonians receive:• A bold lapel pin to display your membership at any Fraternity function.• A customized wallet card and membership certificate.• A lifetime subscription to The Sinfonian. • A reusable 15% discount coupon to the Sinfonia Store.• Discounts to nationally recognized businesses, such as Hertz and

Downbeat Magazine.• Membership recognition in The Sinfonian and the Life Loyal

Sinfonian website, as well as national Fraternity events.

We know the importance of having Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia in our lives.There’s no better way to reaffirm your commitment than through becoming aLife Loyal Sinfonian and preserving the legacy of our Fraternity.

Visit www.sinfonia.org/lifeloyal and signup today!

Graduating Brothers: Be Life Loyal

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Visit www.sinfoniastore.org for these great deals and more!

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