The Muskegon Chronicle
23 December 1937
In the last few weeks Greater Muskegon has been having a remarkable demonstration of the cultural resources within itself. Probably in respect to these resources it is not different from other communities. The significance is that it has provided itself with the processes for bringing them out and developing them. No program of imported professional talent for a community of this size could compare with that, in community service and development.
The climax was the presentation, for the second successive year, of nativity selections from Handel's great oratorio, "The Messiah" by the Muskegon Choral Union, an entirely local production, presented after only five weeks' rehearsals by a volunteer chorus and local soloists, yet in a manner to challenge the reverent awe produced by this great work. No community can repay in anything but sincere appreciation the service freely given by Conductor Paul Shulz, Orchestra Director A. M. Courtright and Accompanist Lambert Dahlsten.
During this same period student productions and recitals have challenged us, as always, with a realization of the amount of musical and dramatic talent in the student population of this community that is discovered, developed and brought out by the musical and dramatic leadership of our educational institutions. This appreciation is inadequate if not accompanied by a realization of that an abysmal sacrifice there would be of this buried talent were not our school system equipped to discover and develop it.
Most notable of the appearances was the joint vesper service by the Muskegon High school band and High school voice students, under the direction respectively of William Stewart and Mrs. Verna Luther, instructors. These organizations have been heard frequently in recent weeks, and have evoked enthusiastic approval.
In the field of drama, student organizations in all three of the Greater Muskegon cities and the Little Theater have given opportunity for the expression of the dramatic ability of students and adults.
The best way Greater Muskegon can realize how fortunate it is in this field is to try to imagine all of this activity that is giving expression to the best and finest in our people being withdrawn.