Elizabeth Parcells In Memoriam

After just now seeing her obituary in the 1/2/06 newspaper, I was struck by its length and her beautiful face. I never read papers but my husband had brought one home Then I read: "...she died of cancer on 12/29/06 at home, the day after her 54th birthday..." Well, I just had my 54th birthday on 12/28/05 also (as well as my 20th wedding anniversary) and so the connection I have with Elizabeth is that we were born on the same day. I have always sang first soprano when I was able to and asthma wasn't a deterrent. She lived a dream I only dreamed. I am learning from reading these heartfelt stories about your loved one that she was a beautiful person as well as masterful singer. I am proud to share the same birth date with her and look forward to listening to her music. Highest and best blessings.

***
"Some people look at the muddy bottom of the swamp, others look at the lotus flower on the watery surface, it is a choice." -Dalai Lama

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From: Lydia Kavina
Sent: Wednesday, January 04, 2006 3:33 AM
To: EParcells@aol.com
Subject: Re: sad news about Elizabeth Parcells

Dear friends,

I am so sorry to hear the sad news. I loved Elizabeth
very much.

Lydia

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From: Ruth E Harcovitz
Sent: Wednesday, January 04, 2006 8:13 AM
To: charlie@elizabethparcells.com
Subject:

Dear Family of Elizabeth Parcells,

Please accept my condolences upon the death of lovely the Elizabeth. Betsy and I both studied with the same voice teacher at new England Conservatory, although I was a few years ahead of her. I remember how excited we all were for her when she won the Metropolitan Opera Auditions. She was always a sweet and lovely colleague. I still remember how beautifully she sang the role of Norina in "Don Pasquale" at NEC. I also remember her lovely Jenny Lind recital in Jordan Hall. She was an extraordinary singer, not only with her limpid tone, but with her individual musicality. She was a kind and generous colleague, and when I was in Germany on my own opera audition tour, I stayed with her in Frankfurt. Cathy Bowers was there at the same time, so we had a fun reunion. While I was there, she got me a ticket to hear her Olympia in "Tales of Hoffman". Her singing was, again, extraordinary. I heard her sing Zerbinetta in Boston with the Boston Lyric Opera. Again, outstanding.

You, her family, have had an angel in your midst, as have we, her musical colleagues. She is most certainly singing with the angel choir.

I hope you will establish a vocal scholarship in her memory at New England Conservatory, to which her friends may contribute.

I embrace you all with my heart and prayers.

Ruth Harcovitz

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From: Charles Horner Jr
Sent: Wednesday, January 04, 2006 6:13 PM
To: charlie@elizabethparcells.com
Subject: Obit/website

Hello all -- Thank you for this website and the preservation of the delightful music that Elizabeth gave to the world. I had the privilege to sing in the chorus on two different occasions when she sang "Mozart's C-Minor" mass and listen spellbound to her performances of the "Exsultate, Jubilate" and "Alleluja". Our world is a better place because of her talent and the fond memories will live with me for the rest of my days. She was truly a Diva!

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From: Marie Lamb
Sent: Wednesday, January 04, 2006 9:55 PM
To: charlie@elizabethparcells.com
Subject: Condolences and thanks

I never knew your sister, although I knew about her as a fine singer. I found out about her passing from someone on one of the opera lists I belong to. I extend my sympathy at the passing of your sister, who I gather was a wonderful person as well as a wonderful soprano. However, I also thank you and her for the great website.

Not only is the music absolutely lovely, but Elizabeth's insights are very wise and show what she learned from years of singing. It shows what kind of lady she was that she wanted to share her voice and her wisdom with everyone, even though she knew she was not long for this world. Benjamin Britten used to say that "a voice is a person," and surely Elizabeth's great voice reflected the fine person she was. It's sad that she is gone, but we are all lucky that she was here, and we're also lucky that she continues to teach us and to give to the world through this site. Thank you for keeping it available; it's a great tribute to her.

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From: Adrienne Kirsten
Sent: Thursday, January 05, 2006 5:39 AM
To: charlie@elizabethparcells.com
Cc: 'Martha Sharp'
Subject: sad news

I was very sad to hear of Betsy's death. I knew that she had been struggling for quite some time. My mother (Martha Sharp) and Betsy were colleagues and fellows at Tangelwood together. I guess that was the first time I met Betsy - at Tanglewood, I think in 1976. I was 6 years old and had fun running around the beautiful parks and climbing trees while my mom and Betsy had rehearsal. We met again in Germany where both singers were engaged a few years later. When I decided as a young adult to become an opera singer myself I still had clear memories of Betsy from when I was a kid. At that point I just remembered her as the nice lady who was friends with my mom, but soon Betsy's artistry would also make a lasting impression on me. My mother had recordings of Betsy whom she was seriously impressed by, which she shared with me. I was so awed by her beauty of tone and obvious love affair with each note and phrase. The seeming ease with which she sang became an ideal for me and I often listened to these recordings when I felt "stuck", to remember how great singing should sound and feel.

I also have Betsy's recording of Christmas songs with guitarist Felix Justen which we hear every Christmas season. The first time I hear her voice again at the beginning of each Advent I'm inevitably moved to tears for the purity and beauty of what can only be described as the sound of a soul.

I've finished my studies and started my career a few years ago. Still Betsy's singing continues to inspire me. It is rare to hear a singer with such integrity in the voice and intelligence in presentation. She will be sorely missed.

Betsy and my mother took up contact with each other again about a year ago which is when I heard that she was so sick. Around the time of her Carnegie Hall concert? I took the opportunity to write to Betsy then and tell her about the far-reaching effects of her singing and what an influence she had had on me. I never heard back from her but I hope she got my message.

My deepest condolences to you and your family and to those who were lucky enough to know Betsy better than I did.

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From: James Patterson
Sent: Thursday, January 05, 2006 9:34 AM
To: charlie@elizabethparcells.com
Subject: Elizabeth

I was fortunate enough to meet and perform with Elizabeth at a benefit performance a number of years ago and like everyone else was struck by her amazing combination of talents. That connection led to many hours of “singer talk” and eventually to plans for us to perform together in Huron City for Red Letter Days which remains my fondest performance experience. Elizabeth was so relaxed and happy on the Huron City stage and was obviously adored by the many folks who made the journey to attend our concert’ and she did a huge amount of work for all of the facets of that concert including digging up literally stacks of almost forgotten music for me to consider. Her attention to detail and style were monumental and her determination to perpetuate this glorious music was quite infectious.

What I remember even better than the performance however was the way that

Elizabeth embraced me and my entire family. We spent almost a week as guests of her family in a small farmhouse on the grounds of the Huron City Museum near the main house, and spent hours walking the beach and knocking balls around the old golf course. My little boy caught his first fish that week and the picture of him proudly holding it is one of my favorites. My parents came to visit us there and my Father and Elizabeth’s dad really hit it off as they strolled around the golf course with Charlie proudly pointing out interesting features here and there. I will

always remember “Betsy” frolicking with family members at a large family gathering following the concert. She was totally relaxed and at peace in that wonderful setting and I realize in retrospect that those experiences were a large part of what kept her so totally grounded as a person and artist. She knew that singing was only a small part of what life had to offer her and she didn’t let it get in the way of really “living” her life

The last time I saw her she was very ill but as always we laughed and talked about our very similar views on singing and performing and when it was time for me to leave, even though she was very weak she insisted on getting up from her bed saying “just to show you that I can” to give me a very special hug goodbye. It was typical of Elizabeth and was the nicest gift she could have given me.

I learned more from her about bravery and graciousness in the face of adversity than I can express and I will miss her!

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From: Charlie Parcells
Sent: Thursday, January 05, 2006 2:05 PM

The funeral service was yesterday. Jim Patterson sang The Lost Chord. There was a choir of singers from the Rackum Symphony Choir, Michigan Opera Theater Chorus, the church choir and others. They sang Mozart's "Ave verum corpus", "How lovely is Thy Dwelling Place" by Brahms, and Randall Thompson's "Alleluia". The

Grunyons, the close harmony group our father sang in for 40+ years, sang an Amen at the end. Sincere thanks to all the musicians who participated. Then the presiding minister suggested that, since this was Elizabeth's last production, may be it was the right moment for applause, so the house erupted, bravos all around, one last time.

This morning 10 of us drove to Huron City, the family farm, to bury Elizabeth in the family cemetery. There were a couple dozen local friends waiting for us on the road when we got there, much appreciated. Now we're sitting in the North farmhouse with family and a few friends and will be on our way back to Detroit soon.

The support my family has gotten from everyone has been a huge help and we've been reading and appreciating all the mail.

I've got some Betsy stories that I'll post here when we're back in Detroit.

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From: Carole Charnow
Sent: Thursday, January 05, 2006 5:35 PM
To: charlie@elizabethparcells.com
Subject: From the Boston music community

Dear Charlie,

We have just read the obituary of our dear Betsy in The Boston Globe and the news has hit the opera and vocal music community like a freight train. We are all totally devastated.

Randolph Fuller (your father will know him as the President of our company) wanted you to know that there will be a special tribute to Betsy that will include a variety of her vocal performances after the Met Broadcast on Saturday on WHRB, the Harvard radio station.

We are also planning to dedicate our spring production of Lucrezia Borgia to her beloved memory. We all remember her stunning performances for our company (formerly known as Boston Academy of Music). She will never be forgotten.

Randolph and I are planning to make donations to the Interlochen Academy in her honor.

The thoughts and prayers of all of Betsy’s many Boston fans are with you.

Sincerely,

Carole

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From: GLADYS
Sent: Thursday, January 05, 2006 5:49 PM
To: charlie@elizabethparcells.com
Subject: Elizabeth, a voice of an angel

I had the pleasure of meeting Elizabeth through my son Pette Moore. I want you to know that my heart is saddened to hear of her illness that ended her stay here with us. However, you now have your own personal angel to watch over you. God bless you and the family. Love Gladys.

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From: Hannah Vogler [mailto:hannah@colossalcolon.com]
Sent: Thursday, January 05, 2006 6:06 PM
To: charlie@elizabethparcells.com
Subject: Elizabeth

Dear Charlie and Family,

I burst into tears when I read of Elizabeth's death, and have been trying to find words to express my sympathy.

Although I never met her, I came to "know" Elizabeth through her bright and eloquent messages posted on the ACOR colon cancer discussion list. She was an incredible asset to all of us in the colon cancer community, and it is incomprehensible to me that we must all live without her. There are so many who will suffer because she is gone, unable to read her kind, articulate words and thoughts. So often I read her messages and thought that her response was exactly what I wish I had written. She will be so missed, and although I don't think she wouldn't want it, all of our lives will be less joyous because she is gone.

Please extend my deepest sympathies to your family. I already miss Elizabeth, as I know you do as well.

Hannah

Hannah K. Vogler
Co-Founder, Secretary/Treasurer
The Colon Club
(501)666-1990 office/home

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From: Charlie Parcells
Sent: Thursday, January 05, 2006 8:30 PM

At our sister Ann's wedding reception Elizabeth performed an aria, in Italian I believe. For the occasion she sang it as an aging Swedish soprano with a thick accent she couldn't hide because of too much to drink. Betsy used the piano as a prop for slips and stumbles and every manner of stage faux pas before pulling herself together and finishing on a high note. She had her own Cosmo McMoon at the piano. It was side splitting, scary, funny and I asked if we could see more of the same in the future. She said absolutely not, shh..., no talking about it because the opera business doesn't have much going in the sense of humor department.

In the early days of Elizabeth living in Europe there were several times when she came home to visit and we hadn't heard her perform for a long time so we'd badger her until she'd let us take her to a piano bar. It was cheap thrills watching the bushwhacked house pianist struggling to rise to the occasion and always fun to hear Elizabeth belting one out.

There was a concert of her voice and guitar duo in Germany where about 8 people showed up, which was a shame according to Betsy, because it was one of their better performances. To celebrate the good playing Elizabeth and Felix, the guitarist, took the entire audience out to dinner.

Our brother Fred is a long time member of a New York band called Black 47. Elizabeth happened to be visiting home and the band was performing nearby. She sat in for some backup vocals. It was amazing to hear Elizabeth's sounds blending with a rock band and I asked why we never hear it. She said the smoky rooms and hard travel schedule are too punishing for her kind of instrument and again, shh..., the opera people people might not approve.

On a visit to Europe I spent some time back stage. One of her colleagues told me that being in a production with Elizabeth was like a music lesson. I enjoyed going to Elizabeth's rehearsals when there was a chance because they usually were music lessons and it was something to see when she could raise the bar and improve everybody's game. When she did hometown recitals she'd sometimes take time between sets to give the audience background about the composer, his intentions, and what we should expect to be hearing. She wanted everybody to work at it.

I followed her to the dressing room before an Olympia performance at Michigan Opera Theater. On the way in I asked the security guy behind the glass how many people were in the building working on the production. I believe he replied something around 250 (this would include singers, orchestra, back stage, ushers, the works). After we got to the dressing room Elizabeth teased me about being a numbers guy but took the opportunity to make a point--that when she's taking her bows it's on behalf of ALL those people, because if they aren't there doing their jobs her moments won't be so grand.

Elizabeth wanted everybody to come along for the ride. I've enjoyed every minute.

Charlie

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From: Keith Kibler
Sent: Thursday, January 05, 2006 8:41 PM
To: charlie@elizabethparcells.com
Subject:

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From: Paul Rosendahl
Sent: Thursday, January 05, 2006 10:55 PM
To: charlie@elizabethparcells.com
Subject: No Subject

Charlie,
I only knew Elizabeth electronically.....from the Cancer Support Chat and talking on line. We had some great discussions about opera. Even with this rather impersonal contact, I quickly realized that she was a person with great abilities and great charm. She was obviously very bright, and her singing was simply wonderful. The world suffered a great loss at her leaving, but she will live on in the hearts and minds of many people.
Be well,

Paul Rosendahl

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From: Bret Holloway
Sent: Friday, January 06, 2006 4:55 PM
To: charlie@elizabethparcells.com
Subject: Condolences

My thoughts are with you during this sad time. I knew Betsy through Cathy Bowers. Betsy was (it goes without saying) a singular talent and courageous person. I am attaching a photograph of Cathy & Betsy together. It still makes me smile to see the musicianship and brainpower fused in that single hug.

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From: Elke
Sent: Saturday, January 07, 2006 8:36 AM
To: charlie@elizabethparcells.com
Subject: Last days...

It happened to be due to certain circumstances that I spent the last couple of days of Elizabeth's life in your house. Never in my life before I struggled with such deep emotions and it really took some time to put everything in the right shape of words which are still hard to find anyhow.

In your house I realised again how important it is to be surrounded by a strong family and a bunch of friends! She was a part of that and I was deeply impressed to see how much she was fighting despite of all the pain she was suffering of.

Gathering all her energy she succeeded in having all her beloved family and friends around her for Christmas – I think it was a great day for everyone! After that all her strengths seemed to be gone. On her birthday her father took us to the Pancake House where we had her favourite crepes with cherries which she couldn't enjoy any more because of her weakness.

It was a few years ago that I got in touch with Elizabeth's music through Felix - the music teacher of two of my kids. We also learnt about her illness and I was lucky to attend their concert at Carnegie Recital Hall in New York with my daughter Fee. This was overwhelming, the music and the the way she addressed herself to the audience in order to draw the attention to the need of a colonoscopy screening – my decision was taken:

I hereby promise to fulfil one of her last wishes by making an appointment for a colonoscopy!

Be sure, dear Parcells Family, I will never forget the great experience I made regarding the way you maintained the warm atmosphere around Elizabeth while playing her music or putting her nice pictures on the wall. I'll also remember Felix playing guitar all the time even she had fallen asleep...Even as a non – musician it stroke my heart very deeply!

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From: Dean S Smith
Sent: Saturday, January 07, 2006 10:59 AM
To: charlie@elizabethparcells.com
Subject: Sharing our sorrow

Dear Charlie and family-

Carol and I just returned from our Christmas adventure with our daughter and her family in Virginia so accept our late condolence. At this moment I really can't find the emotional thoughts appropriate to share with you over the passing of a beautiful and talented family member. We will always cherish those few personable times we enjoyed with Elizabeth.

Sincerely, Dean And Carol

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From: will
Sent: Saturday, January 07, 2006 2:19 PM
To: EParcells@aol.com
Subject: RE: sad news about Elizabeth Parcells

I’m very saddened by this news; I had no idea. I went to Elizabeth’s site and read through the many letters written to her memory. Somewhere someone pointed out that her music, though she is gone, will LIVE. This is a beautiful truth.

My thoughts are most definitely with you my friend. I hope you’ll remember to flag me when a scholarship or something similar is established in her name.

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From: Gailyn Sadurski
Sent: Sunday, January 08, 2006 4:59 PM

Dear Charlie -

I wanted to tell you how sorry I am for your loss. I only recently came upon Elizabeth's website and it has been a total inspiration and help to me. Last week I was ready to send an email to Elizabeth thanking her for her incredibly clear and well communicated ideas about breath and singing and noticed the "In Memoriam" and was struck dumb.

That same day I had listened to a few of her recordings via the web. What an incredible voice!

My mother passed away just three years ago, a student of Oberlin and Julliard. I miss her terribly and I thought her voice the voice of an angel. I hope she and Elizabeth are singing together now!

My thoughts and prayers,
Gailyn Sadurski
Born and raised in Pontiac, MI and now living in OH

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From: Julie Herzog
Sent: Monday, January 09, 2006 11:12 AM
To: charlie@elizabethparcells.com
Subject: Memoriam

Hi Charlie. My mother has stage IV colon cancer, diagnosed 10/04, and I have been a member of the ACOR colon cancer list-serv since about 1/05. I wanted to write but desperately feel a loss for words. I read every one of Elizabeth’s postings with much anticipation and satisfaction, regardless of the topic. Her words were an inspiration to all of us – survivors and care givers. For the last several months, I have thought time and time again after reading her posts how nice it would be to have a book with all of her postings in it to give to people battling colon cancer (or really any life-threatening situation). Her postings are in the ACOR archives but I would love to see them all in hard print in one place. I am sure I will turn to them again and again as my mother’s battle continues. Your sister was quite an inspiration – she will continue to live in each one of our hearts. My best wishes to you and your family for strength and comfort in these times of loss.

With love,

Julie

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From: Mary Ellen Geist
Sent: Monday, January 09, 2006 6:25 AM
To: EParcells@aol.com
Subject: Re: sad news about Elizabeth Parcells

To the Parcells Family:

Sending love and prayers from all the Geists.

Rosemary, Woody, Alison, Mary Ellen and Libby

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From: Elizabeth Printy
Sent: Monday, January 09, 2006 1:53 PM
To: EParcells@aol.com
Subject: the sad news about Betsy

I was extremely saddened to read of the death of your sister. She and I were in the same class of ' 74 at the Conservatory. We lived doors away from each other on the same floor and took many classes together. As freshmen, Ginny Piquette, Debby Martin and I were always kept in a fun-loving spirit by Betsy. Her humor could get us rolling with laughter, and she could tell a great tale, sing a song with her guitar or offer us basic wisdom about life. When meeting her in the halls or on the street, she always had a happy, beautiful smile. And what a beautiful voice!! I remember her singing Strauss' "Standchen" with exceptional ease and a light, chiffon texture. After Betsy went to Europe, we never saw one another again. But I'm thankful for the friendship we were able to share while at NEC.

I send you and your family my deepest condolences. God bless you, and may you all be reunited in Heaven one day.

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From: Bill Welch
Sent: Monday, January 09, 2006 2:36 PM
To: charlie@elizabethparcells.com
Subject:

Hi Charlie,
Thank you for extending the news about Betsy to our family.
I'm glad she passed at home as she wished. She was a wonderful person. I carry many playful and fun memories of her from summers at the lake years ago.
Fondly,
Bill Welch

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From: Ran Blake
Sent: Monday, January 09, 2006 2:50 PM
To: Fred Parcells
Subject: Condolences about Betsy

Dear Fred,
How sorry I am to hear about Betsy. All My best regards.
Ran Blake
JD

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From: The Alcantaras
Sent: Monday, January 09, 2006 9:04 PM
To: charlie@elizabethparcells.com
Subject: Elizabeth Parcells

Charlie,

I'm sorry that our family could not be there last week. I'm glad that we got to see Elizabeth before Christmas when we came over with the St. Stephens Carolers. One of my fondest memories of Betsy involved St. Stephens Carolers, just last year. We sang Silent Night at the Burwell's party and Bill had her sing one of the verses while we filled in the background. Chills up and down during that verse.

God bless you, Betsy, and all of your family.

The Alcantaras
Tony, Christine, Adam, Robert and Nathan

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From: Dianne Ruth
Sent: Monday, January 09, 2006 9:45 PM
To: charlie
Subject: My Friend Betsy

To the Parcell's Family:
We have lost a truly wonderful lady, friend and performer. "Betsy" was a Grosse Pointe friend and classmate at The Liggett School in the late 60's. We lost touch when she went to Interlochen and then moved overseas, but in 2000 we found each other in The Thumb of Michigan (of all places) when she was getting Huron City Museums organized and I bought Breakers on the Bay Beach Resort and Lakefront Restaurant in Port Austin. Elizabeth's legend will carry on and she will be missed by all!
Sincerely,

Dianne Dossin Ruth
Liggett Class of 1970

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From: Susan Ross
Sent: Tuesday, January 10, 2006 12:47 AM
To: charlie@elizabethparcells.com
Subject: Elizabeth blessed us all

Dear Charlie,
Elizabeth's great heart has been such an inspiration. She met challenges with grace and compassion, transcending her suffering to share the gifts of her blissful voice, courage, insight and sense of humor! For those of us who met her through letters on the ACOR list, and the magic of her music on the Web, she gave a shining example of how to truly live. Thank you for providing this opportunity to express gratitude - most assuredly, Elizabeth lives on now in the beauty and caring she created.
Yours,
Susan Ross

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From: Cynthia
Sent: Wednesday, January 11, 2006 6:37 AM
To: charlie@elizabethparcells.com
Subject: Re: sad news about Elizabeth Parcells

It has been been over a week now since I learned Elizabeth passed away. Equally long I have been trying to share my memories of her with you, only to end up staring at an empty email I had started, being sad, distressed over her passing and scared for my dad who is fighting the same battle she has so bravely. This being also how we met, on the ACOR list…And now, what can I say that has not been said already? What words, superlatives, can I use that have not been used by others before me when describing Elizabeth? None. I can only repeat: wise, warmest, funny, courageous, gracious, generous, most caring, honest, most eloquent.

With the privilege of meeting, getting to know a true angel, comes the pain of having to let go when heaven asks them back. My heart goes out to all that will now have to miss Elizabeth: list mates, friends, family, sisters, brothers - Charlie, thank you for doing this, for keeping her close through this website; the music, the pictures, the stories -, Ric, especially her father and last but not least the sweetest child in the world - her little niece.

With love
Cynthia

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From: leonardjlehrman
Sent: Wednesday, January 11, 2006 4:52 PM
To: Pro Musicis
Cc: charlie@elizabethparcells.com

Dear John Haag,
Thank you so much for putting Betsy's obit in the Times last Sunday. We dedicated to her memory the performance at Christ Church Babylon last Sunday of Mozart's "Ave Verum Corpus." I was proud to have been a participant in some of her musical achievements, and only hope that more people get to hear more and more of them in years to come.
Thank you again.

Sincerely,

Leonard J. Lehrman

A Bittersweet Community Service Concert

Fifty grade school students, mostly children of Chinese immigrants, sat in neat rows wondering

what to expect. In the front of the classroom hung an American flag and a poster that read, "Music speaks what cannot be expressed, soothes the mind and gives it rest, heals the heart and makes it whole, flows from heaven to the soul."

When the coloratura soprano began to sing art songs to the

music of an acoustic guitar, the students began to fidget.

So foreign was the music to their ears, they didn't know how else to respond. Then slowly but surely the artists won their hearts. Soon they were listening with rapt attention, instinctively enjoying the beauty of music they had never heard before. The chemistry between artists and audience was palpable.

Soprano Elizabeth Parcells from Detroit, winner of the 1977 Pro Musicis International Award, and her longtime collaborator, guitarist Felix Justen from Germany, had performed in Carnegie Hall's Weill Recital Hall the night before.

The following morning they were performing a Pro Musicis community service concert for inner-city children at Saint Joseph School in Manhattan's Chinatown.

By means of simple questions and stories, Ms. Parcells opened their minds to her music. What she did not say is that she has been ill with advanced colon cancer and considered this performance to be her farewell concert."

Elizabeth Parcells died peacefully on December 29, 2005 with her family gathered around her.

John Haag, Executive Director

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From: Erin McSheffrey
Sent: Friday, January 13, 2006 12:30 PM
To: charlie@elizabethparcells.com
Subject: My time with Elizabeth

I met Elizabeth at your home in November of 2004 and we talked at length about her alma mater, New England Conservatory.

Most of the family was in town to celebrate Fred's 50th birthday, but it seemed that it was Betsy to whom everyone's attention was directed. We had tea, we reminisced about her days at NEC, and spoke about Gunther Schuller. Betsy seemed very happy talking about her years in Boston, and asked me many questions of the school - if a certain teacher was still there, if the alumni office had heard from a classmate...she seemed pleased that I had invited myself into your home to talk about her NEC education. For that afternoon, the only time I knew her, she made me feel as if I were a part of your family. From that brief encounter I understood why the family hovered so close to her. People came in and out of the room, joining our conversation, her niece showed us some gymnastics moves, the phone rang off the hook for her - and through it all Betsy, tired and worn from medicine, became energized, and remained interested, engaged, and polite.

I have heard people talk about her voice - the voice of an angel - on many occasions. I have heard recordings and can only imagine what hearing her sing in person must have been like...a voice of infinite clarity and perfection unlike any other. For those of you who had this honor I am envious. Still, I consider myself fortunate that I had the small moment we shared.

I hope you all find comfort knowing that Elizabeth is a beloved alumna and that the NEC community remembers her fondly. Our greatest sympathies.

Erin M. McSheffrey
New England Conservatory

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From: Denice Karamardian
Sent: Friday, January 13, 2006 1:12 PM
To: charlie@elizabethparcells.com
Subject: Betsy and NEC

Oh, my!! I have just read about Betsy's death, after having been thinking of her out of the blue this past month. My heart just froze!

Betsy is a light that shines through my memories of NEC; mostly within the context of the early music department under the direction of Daniel Pinkham. I believe that Betsy's example as a human and as a singer has stayed with me over the ensuing years as an inspiration. She really lightened the experience for me; her infectious laughter and her light hearted - non-diva like - persona come to mind whenever my memories drift back to conservatory days.

As a teacher, I have consciously drawn from the memory of Betsy's liquid voice while guiding a student through a running passage of Mozart or Handel. I have recalled some techniques she gave me for Baroque ornamentation (which I have used in jazz improvisation as well).

And because I also knew Fred during those years, I remember thinking - what an incredible family!! Not only in terms of talent, but as human beings! And often when I think of the state of Michigan, the Parcells family jumps into my mind and I have wondered what Betsy and Fred were up to (picturing Betsy in Europe).

All these many years since NEC, while I have lost touch, Betsy has represented for me the best of all best qualities. I am not at all surprised to read of the impact she made on so many other lives.

To the Parcells family, I salute you and thank you for sharing Betsy with us all. May she live on in all our hearts and souls and music!

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From: Jennie Morgan
Sent: Friday, January 13, 2006 8:31 PM
To: charlie@elizabethparcells.com
Subject:

I was a roommate of Elizabeth's during our years at NEC - she was always such a positive influence on me, a cheerful presence in the apartment which we shared with 3 other women. My favorite memory of her is the performance that we did together in Jordan Hall - we put on the opening act of Ariadne Auf Naxos - her Zerbinetta was such a delight, ( I was the Prima Donna) - we had such a good time together doing that - I still have some pictures of the cast of that performance. My other fond memory is of her participation as a finalist in the Met Opera competition singing Zerbinetta's aria - I have never yet heard anyone sing that aria any better than she did. Her kindness to me when I was lonely and her support of me as a colleague were priceless. I haven't seen her or spoken to her in many years, but she never left my heart.
My deepest sympathies.

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From: Carol Chatfield
Sent: Saturday, January 14, 2006 11:52 AM
To: Charlie@elizabethparcells.com
Subject: Remembrances of Betsy

I was terribly shocked and saddened to read of the death of Betsy in the New England Conservatory Notes. What a terrific loss to the music community!

Betsy was in the class one year ahead of me and I admired her greatly! Her vocal technique and artistry were beyond her years. She was blessed with an incredible instrument, but she worked very hard to become the artist she was, ever growing and ever improving. She had terrific stage presence and charm, on and off stage.

I got to know Betsy better when we toured Europe the summer of 1972 with the New England Conservatory Tour Chorus. Betsy and I were sometimes roommates. (It was generous of her as a sophomore to agree to room with a freshman!) I have many fond memories of that trip! Betsy would take out her guitar and sing folk songs at the homes of our host families. The families all loved that special gift!

Early on in my Conservatory days, I had been singing in the mezzo range. My teacher, Susan Clickner, said I was NO mezzo! I declared I couldn’t sing high, and she replied , ”That’s because you don’t know how!”

She advised me to seek out and listen to other sopranos at school, who had good high notes. Betsy came immediately to mind. I timidly asked her if we could spend some time in a practice room together, working on, and talking about how it felt to sing high notes. Many sopranos would have declined, but not Betsy! (And Betsy was all ready a rising star at school and to think that she would take time to work with me!) She did spend time with me and generously offered any knowledge she could. She helped me not be afraid to experiment with my voice to find the right placement, etc.

I did find my top notes and transitioned to being a soprano. I shall ever be grateful to Betsy for helping me find my top notes, which have served me well to this day. Betsy also talked about John Moriarty’s wonderful diction course, which at the time was offered during the senior year. At Betsy’s urging, I took the course a year early, which made preparing for my senior recital less daunting. Betsy showed me a notebook that she kept with the words to every song she sang. Above the song words she wrote in the phonetics in IPA and below, she wrote a word-for -word translation of each song. It’s then that I realized how hard Betsy worked to get every nuance of what she was doing right. It wasn’t all just God given!

In our time together, Betsy also talked a lot about her Interlochen days. I had never heard of Interlochen, but catalogued it in the back of my mind. Years later, as my son was considering going into music as a string bass player, at my suggestion, he attended Interlochen which was his springboard into studying to become a professional string bass player. He too, had a good Interlochen experience, with excellent training. He then was accepted into Eastman School of Music, graduated, and is now a professional bass player in the DC area. Thank you, Betsy for sharing about Interlochen!

I only saw Betsy a few times after our days at NEC, but did manage to catch a recital that she did in Jordan Hall some years later when I happened to be visiting Boston at the time. Her voice, which I could have recognized blindfolded, had blossomed! But there was still that identifiable purity, clarity and artistic expression that made Betsy’s performances stunning!

I have spent time on Betsy’s web site, since learning of her death, and have been so impressed with her courageous fight against a terrible illness. And wasn’t it just like Betsy to try do good, with something so terrible? Betsy touched many lives with her beautiful voice and then lovingly supported others who shared her illness! My deepest sympathy to all of Betsy’s family! Betsy will be sorely missed, but may her good works and music live on!

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From: Stephen Reed
Sent: Saturday, January 14, 2006 5:14 PM
To: charlie@elizabethparcells.com
Subject:

Dear Charley,

One of the best long walks I ever took was through Arnold Arboretum with Betsy, back during our student days NEC. I remember her sense of fun and good cheer, and the beautiful sweetness of her voice. Bless you and your family in your loss.

Stephen Reed

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From: Evelyn Schuette & Felix Justen
Transcript from January 4, 2006 memorial service at Jefferson Avenue Presbyterian Church in Detroit, Michigan

(Remember Betsy's tranquility and strength...)
May the choirs of angels come to greet you
May they speed you to Paradise
May the Lord enfold you in his mercy
May you find eternal life. Amen.

Wasn't that solo of Jim's just uplifting? It is one of Betsy's favorites — and she just adored Jim. She told me several times she suffered from "Bass envy" and she was simply delighted with her idea to have only this one solo sung at her memorial service, and that would be by a bass! Tough luck sopranos!

I have been reading the letters sent in to the website every few hours, and encourage you to do so as well, they just keep coming in. There are so many wonderful thoughts expressed by so many of you here today, and also from around the world. Such a tribute to our Elizabeth!

I first met Betsy when I was living in Germany in 1981/2. Our mutual mentors, the exuberant duo, Mac and Marion Johns, came to visit in Frankfurt and mentioned that I should meet this fantastic soprano from Grosse Pointe who was also living in Frankfurt but was currently home on holiday. I then remembered her from when she so brilliantly sang the Mozart c minor Mass, and I was a little alto in the University choir who happened to be standing right near her. He told me about a concert she was giving in Grosse Pointe. As I was going home the following week, I was able to attend it and will never forget the Bellini opener.

She always said to me later, "never warm up in front of an audience, come out and just go for it!" After the concert, which was like nothing I had ever heard, I nervously introduced myself to this great artist in her gorgeous gown with major 1980's hairdo. We agreed to meet the next week in Frankfurt at this little Italian place we both knew, across the street from my church job, Romanella's, at noon, well before the lunch rush so we would have time to chat before they closed at 3 for the afternoon break. Well, she walked in wearing overalls and a comfy sweater with her hair down straight, and we starting talking at prompt noon, talked right through the afternoon closing (they didn't chase us out but kept bringing us Italian coffee as it was my regular place) and right into dinner! I ended up being late for the church choir rehearsal across the street at 7:30. I never did fall sleep that night for all the coffee buzz! And believe me, we ALL know who did most of the talking!

Our mutual friend, Janice Meyerson, has written: "She had a rare combination of pure ethereal spirit, reflected in her angelic singing that she shared with the world, and on the other hand, a totally practical, down to earth side, full of folksy wisdom that we will all treasure. Her grace throughout her life was evidenced also in the way she handled death. I can't imagine anyone braver that Betsy and always with a sense of humor and a twinkle in her eye."

About 6 weeks ago, I was over and Betsy was propped up in bed, and she had been asking Rick to tidy up the room a bit, you know how things can get a bit cluttered, and she was one who appreciated order in all things. Rick was such a schweetie, did her bidding and put everything back in its place, and then left us alone to our girl talk. Betsy then made the elegant sweep of the room like an opera diva taking a grand bow, and said... "and here I sit.... in my FENG SHUI!"

She always said how fortunate she was to have such wonderful parents, sisters and brothers, and their spouses, Ellen, Al and Bob. She adored little Clairchen and loved ordering gifts for her, snuggling, and playing games. Her beloved Rick is everything anyone could wish for in a partner, steadfast and true with a sense of humor that kept her on her toes!

We all know that Betsy sang in many great concert halls, festivals and opera houses. Her website is a testimony to her career and incredible abilities. I always loved hearing about all the stories and dramas of her singer's life in Europe and could listen for hours (which I did!). Some were totally outrageous like when she had to sing upside down, or jump off a tall upright piano and ended up cutting herself badly. Once, there was this terrible director in Frankfurt (there were more than one!) who was screaming at the opera cast after a piano tech rehearsal, he ranted and raved about how the rehearsal was the absolute worst he had ever experienced in his entire career. He went on and on as the cast cowered. When he had finally finished, there was a short silence, and then somebody in the back piped up "Oh, come on now, it wasn't THAT bad." That was the end of him! Leave it to Betsy! Charm and grace always!

But she also took time for smaller events: a high school graduation, church services and events, participation in concerts for friends, military hail and farewells, even Presbyterian pastor installations, teaching and coaching, and advising young potential singers - right into her last days, not to mention the marathons of Christmas and Easter Masses for years and years, 4 masses back to back! Then a short break and another one at 5 pm! It was my great privilege to work with her for so many years. I am forever spoiled and as I have told her repeatedly, it just isn't Christmas for me, without her "Carol of the Birds. " Coo-roo, Coo-roo Betsyleinchen! I still have a Christmas card she made for me with angels in it from 1989 that says: Merry Christmas! Coo-roo Coo-roo! DO YOU BELIEVE IN ANGELS? I DO!

Her father has asked me to read a letter to Elizabeth from her accompanist, Felix Justen. Felix and I also know each other since our days at the Frankfurt Conservatory since 1981 or so. A few years later he became Betsy's guitar accompanist, and they have shared a 20 year collaboration of concertizing and recording and simply being friends. Felix is a part of the Parcells family, Mr. Parcells' "Sohn." He has traveled back and forth over the years, spending time in both Huron City and Grosse Pointe. He was here for a week just round Christmas, but had to fly back. He has written a beautiful letter that expresses what so many of us are feeling about our own angel...

Felix Justen: For a long time, you, whose death we grieve today, were the focal point of my life: my teacher, my example, my mentor, my friend. You, like no other, embodied the virtues of dependability, precision, discipline, integrity, artistic honesty, and professionalism. No vanity, pride, or arrogance influenced your work: all that mattered were substance and expression — in other words, art that passes through the artist as medium, rather than emanating from within the artist. As cherished friends, we had the good fortune to have a true and deep understanding of each other, supported by trust and loyalty.

Our relationship was an artist's dream come true. Together we drew from the endless resource of art, making music to stir the soul. Your music moved many souls. It is embedded in my heart, which is forever changed: therefore, you will always be with me, whether I am practicing or composing, teaching or playing. You will always accompany me, consciously or unconsciously: I will feel a word from you, a gesture or a glance from your attentive understanding and loving heart.

And also a word to your family, from one who is inconsolable that he cannot be with them in this hour — particularly to you, Charles, fatherly friend....

Angels are never long as guests on this earth, and we can only feel wonder and awe at how they work in us and influence us. We must be grateful for the destiny that has allowed us to be with them for this measured amount of time. Elizabeth was such an angel. Let us be thankful that she has now gone in peace to her home in heaven.

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From: Fred Parcells & Ann Benoit
Transcript from January 4, 2006 memorial service at Jefferson Avenue Presbyterian Church in Detroit, Michigan

FRED- Are we talking about Elizabeth Parcells the world famous opera singer or Aunt Elizabeth, my daughters Aunt? I thought we were talking about my sister Betsy. Then there was Bets; someone who had the bedroom next to mine who played guitar and sang folk tunes when I was growing up. We could talk at length about any one of these people. Today we are talking about all these people. Betsy had several full lives all rolled into one. Bets and I were the musicians in the family. Being the noise makers we were relegated to the two back bedrooms. I was into fish and my room became a show place for many exotic salt water creatures. The bathroom we shared became the back room for my aquatic wonderland. I was constantly washing fish equipment in the sink and bathtub which invariably left a ring of green slime, Bets never complained about the left over residuals of my underwater hobby. Even then, a consummate professional. About the time gets started getting good at performing her renditions of Buffy Saint Marie, Joan Baez, and Joni Mitchell, I was just learning the trombone. She tells of my early routine. Dah-Wah Dah-Wah. Not exactly inspirational; But again she only encouraged me. Bets was a natural teacher. She showed me how to read and write music. We would sit at the piano and make melodies to poems from a children's book. Our first masterpiece went something like this: I eat my peas with honey. I've done it all my life. They do taste kind of funny. But it keeps them on the knife.

Betsy was a miracle baby. She had cancer when she was 1 1/2 years old. It was the 50s and she had a 10% chance of survival. She lived and sang with the voice of an angel for 50 years. How do you explain that? God sent an angel and gave her a voice. A voice with healing power. Maybe it saved her life and gave her the fearless conviction and strength which carried her to the unworldly heights she achieved as a person and as a coloratura soprano. For her it was one in the same. When she was diagnosed with cancer 2 1/2 years ago, she started a web site so other cancer patients could listen to her music. It made them feel better. She posted words of encouragement on the ACOR Colon Cancer listserve. Here are some quotes from her friends on that bulletin board: "To the family and friends of Elizabeth Parcells, I am only one of hundreds that looked forward to every word written by your dear Elizabeth. As you know, she was a frequent contributor to the ACOR Colon Cancer listserve. She charmed, inspired, and comforted all of us. She delighted us by sharing her music. We all feel as if we knew her personally....She provided such encouragement and strength to other ACOR Colon Cancer list members -- always optimistic, always seeing the bright and beautiful side of things."

During the summer I got to spend a lot of time with Betsy, Instead of the usual foray to the farm, I sat with her in her room, each of us at a computer. We worked on websites. Betsy told me then, she had plan A and plan B. Plan A was to get to Thanksgiving. Plan B was to get through Christmas. I asked her how she dealt with all of this. She said in the back of her mind, she always knew. She also said she knew where she was going. Not surprisingly, she implemented both plan A and B. Always the consummate planner. She stayed conscious all day on Christmas. She was determined to see Claire open all the gifts, many of which she had herself ordered on-line. After Christmas I could see her starting to let go. She would be awake for an hour a day. Once in a while she opened her eyes to see where she was. She's gone now, but only to us. Right now she is rehearsing with Mozart for his 250th birthday celebration.

Brother DAVE says, as a child I always looked forward to the times I got to spend at our summer home in Huron City playing with Betsy. Her love of life and nature was insatiable and infectious. There was nothing she would not do whether it was body surfing Lake Huron waves during a north blow, helping me search for crawfish in Willow River, or exploring new places to ride our horses. Betsy was always ready and willing to go. But the most vivid memories I have are of when she would pull out her guitar during a bonfire on the beach and break out in folk songs like The Owl and the Pussy-Cat, Long Distance Lover, and finishing with the best rendition of Summertime I have ever heard. Huron City will never be the same without her.

ANN: Elizabeth, affectionately known as Betsy to her family, was and still is the greatest sister anyone could have, with the exception of Katy who is an equally wonderful sister.

At Betsy's concerts, I was often asked if I could sing, to which I answered, not like Elizabeth. I was then asked if I was jealous, and the answer was always a resounding no. I pointed out that Stars need an audience and I was her best fan, always clapping the loudest. I traveled to Europe and around the United States to hear her sing and counted myself as the luckiest of sisters. Betsy and I had some of the greatest adventures together.

I was in Europe when Betsy got a last minute call to do a concert with Leopold Hager, in France. She was asked to replace a famous singer, Herman Prey who got sick at the last minute and could not sing. The day after Betsy was asked to sing, she came down with a bad cold. When we flew to France, her ears plugged up and she could barely hear. The concert was at a famous festival and took place in an old, dusty barn. Betsy is allergic to dust.

She was always the trouper. At the rehearsal, Betsy could barely hear the orchestra. She was singing by the wave of the conductor's baton and the music in her head. The orchestra was so amazed at her performance that they lightly tapped their bows on the music stands. She could not hear them. When she turned around to see them tapping she graciously acknowledged their praise.

We retired to our room and slept until concert time. She kept saying, "I can't do this." and I kept saying "Yes you can!" I finally asked, "Don't you think you can?" She responded; "Tell me I can do it!" And I replied, "Yes you can!".

Her singing brought the house to their feet shouting and clapping for an encore. She sang again even better than the first time. The papers, the next day, called her a Rare Bird and took credit for "discovering" her after being angry the day before the concert that an upstart American student was taking the place of their beloved Herman Pry.

Through her life, Betsy was always a gracious, loving sister and friend. She always took the time to be encouraging to everyone around her. She is missed; however her spirit is still here and will always be with us all. When you listen to her music, look in your heart, she will be there smiling as you listen.

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From: Sara Jane Welch
Sent: Sunday, January 22, 2006 1:26 AM
To: Charlie@elizabethparcells.com
Subject: Our beloved Betsy

        You could say I've known Betsy (as "Betsy") all of my life, or, being slightly older than me; she knew me since I was a baby. Our families have been friends for at least 2 generations that I know of. I knew her mostly from summers on Lake Huron; my family and theirs going back and forth between our places on the lake. My big sister and she were pretty tight pals. For each of my siblings there were one or two peers in their family to have summer fun with. Many of my memories of her are as being a part of an impressive family, who shared life as a closely knit whole; discussing important issues and memories; always punctuated by laughter. I also remember basking in her attention when I got it, both then and more recently.

        A couple of years ago I stayed overnight at her father's and her house. Even in sickness she was, of course, a gracious hostess. She let me stay in the room right outside her and Rick's bedroom. Early in the morning I asked her to read something I'd written that was imperative to me to write well. I was about to rush off and read it out loud to people. Her feedback was salient and precise, helping me to attain more elegance in the awkward parts. She reminded me to project my voice, as I'm often a soft-spoken person. She told me as well to keep writing. I was touched by this as I felt her time was so precious. That's just one of the fine memories I have of her grace and soulfulness. Somehow her death has also inspired me to keep singing and playing guitar. She was an inspiring teacher, artist, and a healing influence. I believe she was a gift to this temporal world and left it a better place than when she got here.

        As a child, some of my memories during the school year were of being dragged to her concerts in Boston. I didn't have an ear for opera until, as an adult, I heard her sing. In the meantime I'd had some singing lessons myself and what I heard come out of her little body completely blew my mind. The sounds, overtones, chimes; all harmonious, that she created made her voice larger than life itself. She was on a hill facing Lake Huron and I knew she was singing to the horizon. What a treasured memory that is! I feel so fortunate to have been there, in the presence of one who could harness greatness, to glean what I was able to from her. My next bout with Karaoke will have to be in her honor, for certain.

        In present times, when I first learned of Betsy's death, the first memories that came flooding back to me were like various snapshots of her smile, then glimpses of her laughter. It was comforting and made me feel as though she is OK. I remembered some of her jokes and quips; her sense of humor, sometimes corny, sometimes raucous, and otherwise. Then I began to "hear" her speaking voice, just sitting by the lake shooting the breeze. It flowed peacefully and easily, cool like the gentle lapping of waves on the shoreline on a hot, humid day.

        I remember bonfires on the beach, swimming, sand castles and picnics. Later in life, I remember her singing "Happy Birthday" in German, for no apparent reason. She was a person who was able to express herself on many levels. Which reminds me; I still have some pressing questions for Betsy; as in, did she like "pop" music, or was it like fingernails on a chalkboard to her? Did she like Sheryl Crow's voice and music or did she think Crow was aptly named? Crow's remake of "The First Cut is the Deepest" helped me to get out my tears and my words for Betsy, that had been stuck in my throat.   Probably that is due to the fact that it was in hearing Betsy sing that I was first riveted to the sound of Opera. I guess I'll never know what Betsy would think of that, but I am grateful for this website and her remarkable family, so that I can continue to learn about her and from her.

        Thank you Betsy for being here and please know that I'm clapping and standing as you take your bow.

Lovingly,
Sara Jane Welch

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From: Mary Hughes
Sent: Tuesday, January 24, 2006 12:31 AM
To: charlie@elizabethparcells.com
Subject: Betsy

I first met Betsy and the rest of your family when I joined my cousins the Welches on one of their many excursions to Huron City from Harbor Beach. Betsy and my cousin Katie were very close friends who enjoyed riding horses and swimming in the lake. Many years later, Katie and Betsy still delighted in their time spent in and around the lake. Katie's younger sisters Sue and Sara and occasionally myself sometimes joined them in the lake.

One time many Parcells siblings plus my cousins and I spent time at our cousin Ivan's private airstrip where some including, I believe, Betsy roller bladed. Laughter and good conversation were of course part of it.

Two years ago when we came to Harbor Beach close to Thanksgiving, of course Betsy and other members of your family were included in our family Thanksgiving celebration because all of you are like family. At the time, she knew that her time on this earth was limited, but managed to remain optimistic and full of fun.

I had enjoyed listening to Betsy's recordings but had never had the chance to hear her in concert. Last year, thankfully I had the chance to hear her at Carnegie Hall with Felix. What a thrill it was to finally see and hear her perform! Several of Betsy's friends from all over were in the audience. Although her program was wonderful, it was her encore of Summertime which was the highlight for me. Never had I heard it sung so beautifully and with such control. I doubt that I ever will hear it sung anything like that again!

After the concert, Betsy invited people up to her suite and took time to speak to everyone. Later she e-mailed me how overwhelmed she was at the number of people who traveled to New York just for her concert. It spoke well for how much she was loved by so many people.

My heartfelt sympathy goes out to each of you. Please know that you remain in my prayers.

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From: Ann Moore
Sent: Tuesday, January 24, 2006 8:44 AM
To: charlie@elizabethparcells.com
Subject: Elizabeth

I have been a member of the Calvary Church Prayer Group in Stonington, CT, since September of 2004, during most of which time (if not all), Elizabeth (and Charles) have been on the list of people for whom we pray. Each was just a name to me, although Mary Hughes (who gave us the names) told of Elizabeth's wonderful voice and indomitable spirit. It is not long that I have been on-line, and connected to sound for less than one day. What a blessing it was for me to be able to hear Elizabeth, posthumously, in concert.

We do not know why some prayers are answered (to our liking) and some are not, but from what little I know of Elizabeth, the world was richly blessed not only by her life, but by the spirit with which she faced both life and dying.

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From: Ferenc Liszt
Sent: Tuesday, January 24, 2006 9:06 PM
To: charlie@elizabethparcells.com
Subject: Sublime Mozart

In a hot summer night of 1997, I couldn't sleep and was listening the classical radio program.

After a wonderful Rahmaninov's 2nd Piano Concerto played by Vladimir Ashkenazy, the announcer said: "Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart: Aria da Concerto Vorrei spiegarvi, o Dio!, K418". The soprano was Emila Ravaglia.

I remember exactly my feelings listening that Music: it was a sense of royalty, power, lightness, brightness...

Time later, I heard Elizabeth's version, which has remained my favorite above all others. I love to think, that Elizabeth's voice is the same timbre as Aloysia Weber's one, the soprano who Mozart loved and wrote this magic Aria for.

In those days, when we all are celebrating the 250th birthday of Mozart, I would like for everyone, to remember the Genius throughout Elizabeth's voice, singing this lovely, seraphic Aria...

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From: K Olive
Sent: Sunday, January 29, 2006 11:36 AM
To: charlie
Subject: Betsy

My deepest sympathies are with you and your family as you mourn the loss of Betsy. My Michigan heart, which interfaces with all of my life, is very sore.

Betsy and I have known each other our entire lives, since she was born 26 days after I was. Betsy and I probably grinned at each other from our baby blankets on the floor while our mothers visited. My mother and her father had already known each other for years, in fact, they had dated each other a bit when they were of the dating age. Betsy's mother, Fran, became one of my mother's best friends. Our families' histories have long intertwined on the shores of Lake Huron.

When I was 9, my dad's job transferred him from Detroit to New York City. We made the move, giving up our year-round friendships and extended family relations. My child's brain coped by deciding that my parents had promised we'd move back in a year. I then approached them to ask why we weren't packing up to go back. They looked puzzled, then astounded, then sympathetic. I was very gently told that we would only be able to go back each summer for the month of August. Ow. Still, I had summer to look forward to, and for several years, I felt more truly connected to all that was good only during the summers. Later I discovered similar feelings of well-being when I was in church: another sanctuary and safe haven. My grandmother, with whom we stayed each August in her cottage by the Lake Huron, had the gift of making us feel at home. I was more at home in her gardens, trees and in the lake than anywhere else on earth.

My mother, meanwhile, was also gaining her sustenance for the coming year from her 1 month back "at home." This included numerous trips to Huron City to visit Charles, Fran, and their growing collection of youngsters. Our families would trade kids back and forth for days at a time, so Betsy and I played all our made up games at our place and at hers. Because we were age-mates, I knew her best. She was always the friend I'd known the longest in my whole life, and I looked forward to seeing her each summer.

Eventually we grew up. Once I left my parental home to start life on my own, trips to Michigan were not as regular for me. I would go when I could, and stay as long as I could. Betsy was also gone for many years, in Germany singing. Even in that we shared a common thread: I had lived in Germany as an exchange student for a year, so we both became fluent in the same foreign language. This gave us more stories to share, and share we did, whenever I could manage the trip.

A few years ago, when I took my mom to Michigan for a much needed visit , Betsy and I took our usual long walk to catch up on each other's news. Towards the end of that wonderful hour or so, she confided that she had discovered she had colon cancer. I cannot describe the blow to my soul that this was. We hugged and cried and hoped beyond hope that she would be victorious against it. And in fact, I believe she was!

I miss her now and I always will, until we are together forever in a better place. The peace of the Lord has enveloped my aching heart, and I pray for each of you, that you will also be comforted each day as you face the pain of losing Betsy in your earthly lives. Please hug your father for me, and each other, as you grieve.

Katie
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From: Karen Kramer (Stanford University Program in Berlin)/.
Sent: Wed March 8, 2006 8:44 AM
To: charlie@elizabethparcells.com

I met Elizabeth only a handful of times, but they were unforgettable. Especially two stand out: The time she sang the first two concerts of Leonard Lehrman and my musical memory of Emma Goldlman, e.g. , at that time just finished and nonetheless still a work in progress. She did it at the Stanford Berlin villa for my students and local friends, and also in a performance Cafe. The second, unforgettable event, was when I convinced many of my friends to come hear her in the

Berlin / Theater des Westens show, "Wiener Blut", which she told us would incite a heated scandal, as indeed it did. It was too daring, too stark, too ironic, too critical for the mostly aging theater crowd that had come wanting to have their hearts throb at old tunes. Instead, Betsy's "Wiener Blut" was a caustic exposé of an era, celebrated through critical modernization of its themes. Stark, strict set & costumes: I have in my memory's eye a pure white stage dotted with black grand pianos. As the badly treated chamber maid, Betsy's limbs went absolutely stiff like a plastic doll and she popped her eyes out with mock shock when she was drug about the stage. It was an ironic, empowering gesture. The performance and production were marvelous, highly praised by the artist friends I invited (and to whom it had never occurred to set foot in the Theater des Westens, associating that musical theater only with trivial entertainment). One of the most vocal opponents that evening, a woman whose schrieks of anger coming from the wings identified her to me (an acquaintance whose energy I liked but whose positions I did not share) was the lively and emphatic founding member of the Cold War-era teachers' initiative called, "Berliner Lehrer rufen die Lehrer der Welt"; she was frothing with anger at this rude production. Others, including my party, were giving a standing ovation: Suddenly Strauss's music had become for us valid, worth a hearing. The audience was torn right down the middle and making no bones about it. Having taught theater for many years, and having seen many Berlin productions, good and bad, I feel that Betsy's "Wiener Blut" was one of the truly innovative and important productions of the era.

We lost touch with Betsy after a few years, preusmably she was no longer in Germany. I was very saddened to hear of her death. What I will always remember is the resilient woman we became so fond of, and, of course: the incredible purity and beauty of her voice.

May she rest in peace.

With Best Wishes,

Karen Ruoff Kramer
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-----Original Message-----
From: Gerald Moore
Sent: Sunday, April 02, 2006 6:05 AM
Subject: Re: With deepest Sympathy

Dear Charlie,

As a voice teacher and vocal coach who has been lucky enough to work with some of the biggest names in the business, I will always have a special fondness for the singing and artistry of Elizabeth Parcells.

I first heard Elizabeth when I was in my late teens, and BBC Radio Three broadcast a concert from Salzburg with her singing two of the most difficult Mozart concert arias for coloratura, "Mia Speranza adorata" and my favourite, "Vorrei Spiegarvi, oh Dio". I was immediately impressed with the secure technique, beautiful tone and depth of musicality that I heard and went on to search out any recordings I could find of this singer, who had become an instant favourite. Of course, as a teenager who loved high notes, that is what drew me to Elizabeth's singing at first, but as I grew older and many coloraturas were gradually dropped from my list of favourites, she remained firmly there, as she had the ability not just to sing high notes and roulades, but to spin an elegiac legato line in lieder-a complete artist and not just a canary. It was said of Adelina Patti that she was never greater than when she was singing a simple song, and this is a compliment I feel applies very much to Elizabeth. My favourite example of this is her recording of "The Last Rose of Summer", which she sings exquisitely-each verse shaped differently, the phrasing a model of musicality, delicately shaded, and with those unique qualities of plangency and melancholy she possessed, which lend themselves so well to the song.

We corresponded about singing during the last year or so of her illness, and I found her to be such a warm and generous person. I shall miss her, but I am so glad that there is such a rich legacy of her recordings being made available to fans and students of singing. I play her recordings to many of my singers, especially the younger generation, and hope to contribute in helping her to achieve the wider recognition she most certainly deserves.

Gerald Martin Moore
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From: joan svoboda
Sent: Wednesday, July 05, 2006 5:10 PM
To: charlie@elizabethparcells.com
Subject: sorry to hear of her death

I didn't know her well because I was a very shy student at both interlochen arts academy and new england conservatory, but she was one of the most crystalline voices I have ever heard, as a student, professional violinist, or audience member in the world's great opera houses. I remember her smiling when I saw her, and that when she smiled, her eyes sparkled. I'm very sorry for her loss and I wish you
comfort in the richness of your memories.

Sincerely,
Joan Svoboda
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From: Catherine Rooney
Sent: Monday, August 21, 2006 8:41 PM
To: charlie@elizabethparcells.com
Subject: In Memoriam Guestbook

Hello,

My name is Catherine and I'm a 23 year old coloratura soprano from Toronto, Canada. I was searching through YouTube for clips of the doll song from Les Contes D'Hoffman and stumbled across Elizabeth's clip. I was immediately inspired to go to her website where I read the sad news that she had passed away. My father has recently been diagnosed with terminal colon cancer, and as I sit at my computer listening to Elizabeth's recording of Tu Virginum Corona from Mozart's Exultate Jubilate I'm struck with an immediate connection with her and with her family. I wish you all the best and Elizabeth's awe inspiring recordings will continue to inspire young singers like me and to also spread awareness about this preventable disease.

Thank you Elizabeth.

Catherine Rooney
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From: Ms. Kyle Lynn Haswell
Sent: Monday, December 04, 2006 1:04 AM
To: charlie@cdsdetroit.com

Subject: Elizabeth Parcells

Dear Family of Elizabeth:

I wrote to you on 1/4/06 after reading Elizabeth's obituary and realizing we shared the same day of birth, that she had died the day after, and how it touched me.
I just wanted to thank you for the beautiful website. It has taken me this long to get high-speed internet and just tonight I was able to download many of her songs to listen to and how emotionally powerful, beautiful and serene those have been.

I am nearing my 55th birthday, the one that Elizabeth didn't get to have, and I am more appreciative of my life. This past year my aunt, a cousin my age, and my only sibling, my brother, Dana Haswell, died (he in a car accident coming home from my cousin's funeral in August) and the grief has seemed enormous at times. Listening to Elizabeth sing just now has touched my soul and I am profoundly grateful that I saw that obituary, kept her website in my favorites, looked at many photos of her, and finally can hear her lovely voice and feel comforted.

Thank you, and know that on my birthday on December 28th, as I turn 55, I will think of Elizabeth and wish for her family peace of mind and loving kindness. God bless you.

Sincerely,

Ms. Kyle Lynn Haswell
--
Highest & Best Blessings Upon You
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From: Doug Marsh
Sent: Sunday, December 31, 2006 5:14 PM
To: charlie@elizabethparcells.com
Subject: Elizabeth Parcells website

What an awesome website and tribute to Elizabeth Parcells. My wife and I happened onto your website quite by happenstance while doing a web search on the life of Jenny Lind. It was remarkable too that we happened into Elizabeth's website on the one year anniversary of her leaving this life. After listening, reading, and being quite mesmerized by this remarkable woman, I felt prompted to write and tell you how much we enjoyed Elizabeth's website. The many remarks of friends, relatives and her own memoirs speak volumes to Elizabeth in what can only be described by one who didn't know her as a wonderful life of achievement.

My wife and I are both singers. Though not having the life experiences of Ms. Parcells, either educationally or on the international scene, from our singing experiences and perspective we can best understand and be appreciative of the scope of Elizabeth's talent and achievements in the classical music world. When asked of my wife's singing ability I love to say that she is the one the angels turn to listen to....Surely, your Elizabeth has them listening as well. lol

One of our sons went through chemo/rad therapy for lymphoma at the age of 11 and has been disease free now for 19 years. The heartache, sorrows and tribulations of going through these things with someone you love is not lost in the telling here. Thank you for sharing Elizabeth by maintaining this remarkable site for others. I hope someone will someday make a movie of Betsy's life. I would love to see it. Her life story deserves a wider audience than the "net" community and I have already recommended it to several friends to visit. It has been a true joy getting to know you, Betsy......

Our love, Doug and Denise Marsh
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From: Derek Mathis
Sent: Tuesday, January 16, 2007 12:40 PM
To: charlie@cdsdetroit.com
Subject: My memories of Elizabeth (Betsy)

Dear members of the Parcells family: I am so sorry to hear of your loss! I knew "Betsy," as everyone called her back then, during the years she studied at the New England Conservatory in Boston. There is too much to share about my memories of her, but I will try to include some of my favorites.

Betsy's sense of humor: the anectode someone shared regarding her line "Oh come on, it wasn't that bad!" after the "rehearsal from hell" rings true, and gave me a good laugh. Betsy was a lot of fun to hang out with. During those years, every Halloween there was an "official" NEC halloween party. I remember one year, Betsy dressed up as the most hilarious Statue of Liberty, wearing white sheets and some kind of improvised head-dress, and, literally, carrying a torch. Several of us went to one of the popular deli restaurants in Boston afterwards, still in our costumes of course. I still chuckle when I picture her there in the restaurant with us; of course we were the center of attention, for better or worse.

Betsy's generosity: many people may not realize this, but Betsy was an excellent teacher. She gave me voice lessons for a time (I was a flute major) because I was considering switching to voice. She refused to charge me because she wanted the teaching experience. As I read her many interesting and insightful comments on her Website, it brings back any number of conversations I had with her during those years. I for one wish someone would write a book about Betsy, incorporating her ideas and her legacy, both personal and professional.

Lastly, I must share my impressions of Betsy's singing (of course). I will never forget hearing her for the first time; she was someone who had "something special. An acquaintance during those years described her singing as "heartbreakingly beautiful." I for one agree. A couple of other impressions. One Sunday afternoon, I turned on my radio at home (in Brookline, MA) only to discover that the broadcast of that year's Met Regional Auditions was on. Moments later, Betsy came on and sang "Je Suis Titania" from Mignon, and brought down the house. My roommate and I immediately decided to go downtown and hear the 2nd half of the program at Jordan Hall. During the second half, Betsy charmed the audience with an aria from Puccini's "La Rondine." On another occasion, when I learned Betsy was to sing in a concert version of Mozart's Der Schauspieldirector, with the Boston Symphony at Tanglewood (with the wonderful Reri Grist, conducted by Seji Ozawa), several of us got in a car and drove out to Tanglewood to hear her. What a thrill! Of course Reri Grist was wonderful, but, in my opinion, Betsy stole the show with her delightful rendition of "Bester Jungling," which included dazzling coloratura as well as hilarious comic-opera "business."

There are so many other occasions I wish there was time to describe: her interpretation of the role of Mozart's "Zaide" and her incomparable rendition of "Ruhe Zanft." The world premier of Donald Martino's "Paradiso Choruses," in which Betsy sang the role of Beatrice -- unforgettable! Her performance in Strauss's "Ariadne auf Naxos," when, of course, the audience went nuts after "Zerbinetta's Aria."

Finally, I must add that, in addition to my sadness in hearing of Betsy's passing (unfortunately we had been out of touch since she moved to Germany and I to Washington, DC), I am amazed, when I listen to her recordings, how her singing and musicianship developed during intervening years. I was astonished at her emotional depth in "Maria Stuarda." Her legato line and sensitivity of phrasing are simply "as good as it gets." And I was stunned at the beauty of her interpretation of "Wir geniessen die himmlischen Freuden" from Mahler's 4th Symphony (for some reason I never expected to hear Betsy sing Mahler). It is quite simply the most beautiful version of that piece I have yet heard (OK, I'm biased). It is also one of the most beautiful recordings, of any piece, that I can think of.

Derek Mathis, Williamsburg, VA
(Betsy knew me by my former name, Dana Wood.)
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Sent: Tuesday, May 22, 2007 1:34 PM
To: charlie@elizabethparcells.com
Subject: my condolences

I only now found out about Elizabeth's death. I am so sorry and please accept my condolences for your loss. I met Elizabeth only briefly in Frankfurt at the Opera (can't remember what I was rehearsing), but I will never forget her. All through the years, I have thought of her and wondered where she might be singing . I met her so briefly but she stayed in my memory. We were both singing the same repertory and she was so friendly and good-natured. I hadn't realized that she was from Michigan (I went to the Univ of Mich and worked with Eugene Bossart as well-I even sang with the Grosse Pointe Symphony and the Detroit Opera). I am five years older than her so our paths never quite crossed. I sang lots of Queens at the Vienna State Opera and then went to Munich and Frankfurt. Now, I am a voice professor at Boston University (also, I hadn't known that she went to New England Conservatory). Our paths only crossed that one time, but she made an impression for a life-time.

I also came down with breast cancer in 2003 but fortunately am now much better and able to work. My heart goes out to you because I have some idea of what she must have endured (I lost my mother to breast cancer in 1978). I hope that the passing years have made you and your family's suffering somewhat less acute. Thank you so much for the beautiful web page and thank you, Elizabeth, for being such a wonderful artist and noble human being. You are a great inspiration and I only wish I could have known you better.

Sincerely,
Sarah Arneson
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From: Martin Copeland
Sent: Thursday, June 07, 2007 9:55 PM
To: charlie@elizabethparcells.com
Subject:

Have come to love Her Last Rose of Summer on U tube.

When ever I feel down I listen to it.

A beautiful interpretation, beautifully sung.

(I am also a singer and know a fabulous voice when I hear it).

Sorry for your and the worlds loss.

Martin
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From: Rosebearer
Sent: Wednesday, June 20, 2007 12:22 AM
To: charlie@elizabethparcells.com
Subject: Elizabeth Parcells website

Dear Charlie- I had known of Betsy's death last year, but had no idea that there was a website. What a glorious legacy to leave especially for NEC school mates like me who had lost touch with her and had only a glimpse of her music making as time went on. I was in a blue mood tonight and finding her site only by accident I listened to "There's no place like home" and immediately felt soothed and strengthened! I plan on returning many times and will tell as many other music lovers as I can to visit often! Please don't ever take this off the internet! What a blessing for us all! With gratitude and condolences to you and your family!

D'Anna Fortunato

New England Conservatory,'73
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From: Frank Moscatelli
Sent: Wednesday, August 01, 2007 8:57 AM
To: charlie@elizabethparcells.com
Subject: Elizabeth

Dear Mr. Parcells,

Where to start? So many things to say. …. I first stumbled on your sister’s amazing website whilst searching Mozart’s “Et in carnatus est” for a friend who recently performed it in church. And oh my was I quickly overwhelmed by what I saw, read, and of course, heard!

My wife and I have been life-long lovers of the human voice. Our one guilty pleasure is a subscription to the Metropolitan Opera in NYC. I cannot tell you the number of times we emerge from performances dejected by the quality of the singing. What a tragedy your sister was never given the opportunity to debut at that house, and that so many fellow New Yorkers, and visitors too, have been deprived of experiencing this great American soprano. I suspect I will not be able to attend another performance there without thinking of this, and of your sister’s singularly beautiful voice.

What a magnificent gesture of generosity her web page is. Sharing all those performances for everyone to simply “…hear the music”. Elizabeth’s, if I may, “A forse é lui” from La Traviata has displaced my all time favorite rendition. Of course I won’t identify the other soprano, but you’d recognize her name! And I have listened to dozens of different recordings of the work.

Elizabeth’s reading of Mozart’s “Vorrei spiegarvi” has already been mentioned by someone on the webpage. I can only add adjectives like sublime and ethereal. The aria is considered to be Mozart’s most perfect by many commentators. Very difficult to sing, he knew that he was writing it for only the most perfect soprano voices. In his time there was only one, his beloved (and loved) sister-in-law Aloysia Weber. There is no doubt in my mind that he would have included Elizabeth Parcells in that group.

As is well known, it is often the simplest melodies that most vividly display the vocal quality even more effectively than pieces that dazzle. In this vein, I have listened to Elizabeth’s “Home Sweet Home” and “Last Rose of summer” so often now that I have memorized them!

In addition to the sheer volume of superb music, the web page is astonishingly effective in showing us the total person your sister was. Gifted artist? Of course one has only to click on any of the performance links. Consummate musician? Just look at the way she shapes the overall effect in the rehearsal of “Home Sweet Home” with her piano accompanist. Special human being? What bravery she displayed during her illness. What beneficence in helping her fellow sufferers of that horrible disease. What charm, dignity and above all, sense of humor and fun! During my work day – or even late into an evening - when I feel my spirits need lifting, I just click on the video of Elizabeth singing along, a capella, with your Dad’s close-harmony group amongst family and friends at home. It never fails to bring a smile to my face.

You had a singularly precious sister, Mr. Parcells. It would have been a privilege to hear her in performance and even more so to have known her personally. Compliments to you for your effort in keeping her alive to the throngs of us who never experienced her, condolences to your family, and finally to Elizabeth: Brava La Parcells!

Frank Moscatelli
Professor of Physics
Swarthmore College
Swarthmore PA 19081
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From: Robert Konkers
Sent: Wednesday, August 29, 2007 8:44 AM
To: charlie@elizabethparcells.com
Subject: Elizabeth Parcells

Dear Charlie

I am so sorry to hear that Miss Parcells died in 2005. I only found out by accident that she is no longer here as I did an internet search to see where and what she was singing. I have never met her nor have I heard her in concert or opera. However, I do have a CD of hers (a Jenny Lind Recital)which I cherish. I am quite a collector and have thousands and thousands of CDs of great singers. You can imagine that some CDs in my collection get completely forgotten, however the real great artists whose intepretations stand out from the many recordings I have of the same pieces, I call the real great ones. Although Miss Parcells was perhaps not a household name like Joan Sutherland, Beverley Sill, Maria Callas or Renee Fleming to name some of the greats, she always makes it to my CD player and I truly love her singing especially in the scena of Beatrice di Tenda.

With kindest regards

Robert Donkers
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From: Philippe G. Ledermann
Sent: Saturday, July 19, 2008 12:17 PM
To: charlie@elizabethparcells.com
Subject: Hommage to a great woman

Greetings from Germany,

I discovered Elizabeth Parcells today on youtube and was immediately fascinated. Such a brilliant and precise performance for instance of the bell song (Lakmé)... I Think I never heard a more impressive performance, maybe except from Mado Robin. So I begann to look for more about her and found her homepage.

It´s tragic that she passed, but she left an immortal trace of beautiful music in this world. I don´t know much about her, but obviously, she was an exceptional woman, brilliant and simoultaneously kind, gentle and sensitive.

As I saw the first video, where she was singing with only a piano, I thought she was somebody like a music teacher and had absolutely no idea of her, but in my opinion, I immediately realized she belongs to the greatest like Maria Callas and I went extremly curious to see and hear more. Although I cannot even read music keys, I think that music is an essential need and one of the greatest achievement of mankind.

Now I´m just discovering who she was, I feel sad not to have known more about her for many years and also that I couldn´t express her my admiration, congratulate and send her encouragement.

I feel deeply moved by her tragic destiny and wish to express my condolence to her family. Thank you for distributing her performances on the web, in that way, she will still be alive for the rest of the world.

Philippe G. Ledermann
----------------------------------------------------

From: Karyn
Sent: Saturday, July 26, 2008 2:23 AM
To: charlie@elizabethparcells.com
Subject: Elizabeth Parcells website

Hi Charlie,

I am an opera student and came across your sister’s videos on you tube while researching a part. I was so impressed and then very saddened to learn that she had passed away. Thank you so much for keeping her music and videos on line to share. Elizabeth was obviously VERY talented. She makes it look so easy! And she seems to have had a great sense of humor (from the way she did the Adele role.) My voice teacher broke out in laughter when she heard the ending of the “Audition Aria.”

Even though she is no longer her with us, she has a new fan! Thanks again.

Karyn Lea Drennen
Inland Valley Opera Company
Temecula, California
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From: Mark Williams
Sent: Tuesday, February 03, 2009 1:51 PM
To: charlie@elizabethparcells.com
Subject: A Shining Star

Four years and a bit the singing world lost a giant of a voice and from what I have gathered from sifting through the website like a book worm in the public library a giant of a person. I am a late bloomer of sorts, I just started taking operatic singing lessons after raising a family and I am presently in my 54th year. In my thirst for knowledge and wisdom, I happened across elizabethparcells.com and found the pot of gold at the end of the vocal rainbow.

I wish I could thank her personally for her singing legacy and wonderful teaching videos and audio clips, but I’ll pass that on to you. Thank you.

I have been encouraged and excited by the teaching materials found here in so many different forms and are implementing these morsels of voice and life lessons in my own rehearsals and performances (as few as they are at this stage), but I look forward to the future polished with Elizabeth’s garnishing. I am moved to tears literally as I absorb her musical history and life and pray that God will bless me with even a small portion of her discipline and joy for an art form as pure and personal as standing on your own two feet, opening your mouth and letting the air pass over the vocal chords to produce sounds that somehow move and inspire the listener.

Mark Williams

Kitchener, Ontario
Canada
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From: Jeffrey Drummond
Sent: Saturday, October 16, 2010 11:57 AM
To: charlie@elizabethparcells.com
Subject: Elizabeth Parcells website

Dear Charlie,

When Betsy was in her last year at the N.E. Conservatory (1976??), I was dating her wonderful roommate, Cathy Bowers. Betsy was a delight as a friend. She was funny, fun, emotionally available, and of course already a great singer.

Betsy was very down to earth, and modest and humble to everyone. She once explained to a few other students how she had landed a radio appearance (Betsy was wonderful in the appearance) by slowly moving the station towards the idea and then towards a time and then to schedule it. Yet she never mentioned her own gorgeous voice as the most important factor! The very opposite of a mythical diva’s conduct in every way.

I’m very sorry for your loss, and send my love and best wishes to Betsy and to her family and friends.

Sincerely,

Jeff Drummond

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From: Brushwooder
Sent: Saturday, October 23, 2010 4:44 PM
To: charlie@elizabethparcells.com
Subject: Elizabeth Parcells website

Werter Herr CharlyMeinen Glückwunsch zu dieser schönen Homepage. Elizabeth Parcells ist leider viel zu früh verstorben, doch dank Ihrer Homepage macht sie den Menschen über ihren Tod hinaus große Freude. Mit freundlichen Grüßen

Johannes Kulmer

Germany
Gelsenkirchen

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From: Gilberto Chaves
Sent: Sunday, December 26, 2010 2:35 PM
To: charlie@elizabethparcells.com
Subject: Sing expertise

Hello Charlie,

I'm a singer form Brazil and I've found the great artist Elizabeth Parcells on you tube 4 years ago, I've cried a lot with her singing, and cried a little bit more when I knew she is with the Lord.

In these 4 years my carrear growd up eand now I have some sing students... I'm asking for your permission to translate some texts form the web page to portuguese and give it to my students, of course without change any idea of sing and giving all the credits to you and Elizabeth. I'm working on the "A little treatise on singing" right now.

Well, I decided to ask for your permission because I feel that Elizabeth would like to let you know she is helping people and having her work alive in other parts of the world.

Thank you both for the website, I'll never be grateful enough... you both changed my life and my singing!

I hope your doing well and wishing you a great new year,

Regards,

Gilberto Chaves

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Home Singing Notes Symbol Memoriam The performances presented here are not for broadcast, sale, reproduction or for any but personal listening use. All rights to this music are property of the artists, of which they retain ownership. EP charlie@elizabethparcells.com

Home Singing Notes Symbol Memoriam
The performances presented here are not for broadcast, sale, reproduction or for any but personal listening use. All rights to this music are property of the artists, of which they retain ownership. EP
charlie@elizabethparcells.com