It is the phrase "Men Singing Peace" that drew me to this group a few years ago; this phrase that pulled me out of 25 years with the Portland Opera Chorus to focus my full attention on conducting. So what does this mean? For me it's creating an inviting, often amusing environment where men who have sung for years and men who have sung very little can come together to make music.We create harmonies that go beyond the listening ear, while building a community of men with different backgrounds, ages and opinions sharing a common understanding that music is good. Singing together is good. And that perhaps our voices together make a difference in building peace in our time.
In fall 2007, Susan Dorn began her 4th full season as Satori's Artistic Director. She has performed in cabaret & musical theater, concerts & recitals and was a member of Portland Opera Chorus for many years.
Susan has a BA in Music from University of Portland, and has taught voices classes throughout the Portland area.
Of music, Susan says: "I believe that music, especially Choral Music, has the power to change the lives of both Performer and Listener. It is a language that can bring us peace & love as well as tears and sorrow. What is certain is that music can move people on a level that few other activities can.
My philosophy about singing is this: I believe that music is a universal language much as math
is a universal communication tool. By uniting voices together we create a powerful message of unity, peace and beauty in our families and communities.
Every season & concert brings a different focus to our music: International, Pop, Classical;
we sing it all. While the theme is not always peace, the atmosphere we create is. Through the whole process we have fun, make lasting friendships and grow as singers.
I hope you'll think of sharing our experience in Satori as we continue to embark on this ever changing adventure.
Kris has been playing the piano for some 30 plus years! At age 11, she was performing as a choral accompanist. Classically trained, she accompanied several choirs in both school and church, and many instrumental and vocal soloists throughout middle and high school. She is a flutist as well, performing with the Portland Youth Philharmonic throughout high school and college.
At that time, Kris branched out into rock and roll, ragtime, and contemporary piano music, playing in several groups along the way.
She worked as a professional accompanist in college, playing at numerous weddings, funerals, and parties. She has taught both flute and piano, and conducted children’s choir in church. As the proud mother of two, Kris encourages her children in their own musical pursuits, which include a daughter who performs as a vocalist, and a son who is studying piano. She and her husband (who sings!) reside in Gresham. This is Kris’ first year accompanying Satori.