The Longs Peak Chorus recently received an invaluable boost in preparation for their upcoming competition, thanks to the expert guidance of renowned barbershop coach Jay Butterfield. With decades of experience and a deep understanding of barbershop singing, Butterfield provided the chorus with transformative insights during his coaching sessions.

"Jay Butterfield is one of the premier coaches in the Society and sure delivered," said Kevin Pape, the chorus president. "It’s a valuable opportunity to have the same coach work with us after a few months pass between sessions."

Butterfield's coaching centered on the importance of full engagement during a performance. "At the core of Jay’s coaching was the message that every member of the chorus must be fully occupied - in the moment - of the performance for its entire duration," Pape explained. "Even a momentary lapse into preoccupation detracts from the audience’s experience."

Ron Black, the chorus director, praised Butterfield's meticulous approach. "Jay brings to us a coaching at a very demanding level. He drills down to the smallest detail," Black said. "His manner of both commanding knowledge and a warmth of delivery is second to none."

The coaching session was arranged after the Longs Peak Chorus attended the Rocky Mountain District convention in April, where they signed up to be coached by Butterfield. Black, who has known Butterfield since 1993, made sure to secure his expertise for the chorus. "I was fortunate to be able to drive Jay from Cheyenne to the Denver airport that Sunday, and we talked up a storm," Black shared. "We realized he could attend our rehearsal in August, giving us another great opportunity for his expertise."

Butterfield’s sessions emphasized the importance of understanding every aspect of the performance, from the music and words to the interpretive plan. "To be 100% occupied or engaged, every performer must have a complete grasp of the music, the words, and the performance plan of any song," Pape added. "Nothing can be left to chance."

The impact of Butterfield's coaching is already evident, with the chorus showing remarkable improvement. As they prepare for their competition in September, the Longs Peak Chorus is confident and ready to deliver a captivating performance, thanks to Butterfield’s invaluable guidance.