In
Memoriam
In
Memoriam
Elizabeth Parcells
1951 - 2005
Elizabeth died on December 29th, at home with her family, after 2 1/2 years battling cancer. If you have a
story to share about Elizabeth, as a colleague or a fan, her family would love to hear it. Please email charlie@elizabethparcells.com
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From:
Daniel Aggas
Sent: Sunday, January 01, 2006 7:45 AM
To: charlie@elizabethparcells.com
Subject: Elizabeth...........
Elizabeth will always be
Betsy to me. she said it was ok to call her that. Betsy touched my heart and
soul in many ways. First, she was like my own private diva. I was first a fan
from afar. I met her while attending Grosse Pointe Memorial church and also got
to know her wonderful mother, Fran and her distinguished father, Charles. I
remember being WOWED the first time I heard Betsy sing in church. I believe she
sang O Holy Night and Rejoice Greatly. I was hooked! Then later, Betsy did a
concert at Orchestra Hall in Detroit. She needed a page turner for her pianist.
She knew I did a lot of page turning for the organist at our church, William Deturk, and asked him how she could reach me. I happened to be in the
building
right then because I work there as a Building and Grounds manager. I SAID YES!
It was my chance to see and hear Betsy sing " up close and personal". I also had
the privilege to be involved with Michigan Opera Theatre and be in some
productions with Elizabeth. Magic Flute was my favorite as was Tales of
Hoffmann. I remember being at a rehearsal, after Betsy had amazed the cast
with one of the Queen of the Night arias, and walking over to her and start to
talk. I talked with her for several minutes. When our
conversation ended, one of the guys came up to me and said, " Did you get
her autograph?". I said "Oh heck no, I have known her for years. We
were just talking about LIFE!" He responded by only saying, "You KNOW her?" I
said, "Yes, She is my Number 1, private diva. I was very lucky to have
known Betsy. Her trials through her illness have been an inspiration to
many. She was a big part of my friend Jim's life as he suffered too from
cancer. She was there when
he died. She told me it was something she needed to be a part of. We
were all glad she was there and part of his life near the end. I know
Elizabeth is singing on, with the angels. She will always live in my
heart. I will NEVER forget her and our conversations. I will also
never forget her glorious sound!
Thanks Betsy .....................for letting me be a little part of your life!
Dan Aggas
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From: Margret
Johannsen
Sent: Sunday, January 01, 2006 2:31 PM
To: charlie@elizabethparcells.com
Subject: Elizabeth
Dear Charly Parcells,
Let me express my heartfelt sympathy at the loss of your (sister). I have
never met her personally. But last year I made her acquaintance through her
website and her wonderful interpretations of
songs composed by my
mother Felicitas Kukuck, several of which are based on lyrics which I wrote. And indeed
they are unrivalled. Knowing how my mother wanted her songs to be sung, I am
sure that she would have been absolutely thrilled by these performances. She did
own a CD which Brigitta Nyffenegger, a student of Elizabeth, once gave to my
mother. But she probably never had the chance to listen to the recordings of
her compositions. But if she had, she would have said: Yes, this is what I had
in mind when I wrote the music. And I too, as the writer of the love song
lyrics, I am charmed. As I wrote in an e-mail to Elizabeth October last year,
the many facets of her voice, womanly with a breath of girlishness, almost
virginal in "Grab mir Geliebter," teasing virtuoso in "Er hat entdeckt," so
intimate and full of warmth in "Als ich mein Herz an dich verlor," and her
congenial formation of the tempi in "Treibhaus," this is simply fantastic!
Josef von Eichendorff wrote:
Schläft ein Lied in allen Dingen, die da träumen fort und fort. Und die
Welt hebt an zu singen, triffst du nur das Zauberwort.
Elizabeth will live on in her music.
Yours
Margret Johannsen
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From:
Visnja Tijardovic
Sent: Sunday, January 01, 2006 3:19 PM
To: charlie@elizabethparcells.com
Subject: memories
Elizabeth was my mentor and friend. She
always knew how to find something positive in every situation. She knew that
happiness comes from within. Her performances were amazing and her voice
floating and clear. Elizabeth's knowledge about life and music was endless.
She will be missed dearly.
I will always love you Elizabeth!
Visnja Tijardovic
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From:
John Carroll
Sent: Sunday, January 01, 2006 3:44 PM
To: Charlie@cdsdetroit.com
Subject: RE: Elizabeth Parcells
Dear Charlie --
Thank you so much for contacting me and letting me know that Elizabeth has died. She was an amazing singer, profusely admired by so many people -- including some
of the most well-listened, discriminating ears (both fans and musicians) in the
world. She was a singular and phenomenal artist who is missed greatly.
She and I began chatting via email several years ago, and then again more
recently last year after she became ill and decided to create her Web site.
It was such a brave and generous decision she made to put all her music out
there for the world and to articulate her legacy. In our discussions of the
site, both the lofty goals and the minor details, it seemed to really give her
purpose and joy and was a way for her to reach out to the world again using her
music, even while she was essentially confined to her bed. I sensed she was
surprised at the outpouring that resulted -- perhaps she hadn't realized there
was such tremendous affection for her beguiling art and that uniquely pure
voice. Not to mention pent-up frustration from fans with so few recordings of
Elizabeth available commercially. The mother lode of live material she dearchived and published on the Web is remarkable and her commitment to doing so
a testament to her generosity and will.
One of the greatest things about the internet is its ability to connect people
with shared interests from places all over the world who would likely never have
met otherwise. I never met Elizabeth in person, we never even spoke, but I am so
thankful that I was allowed glimpses of Elizabeth and her fascinating life. In
her writings to me I saw her smart, no-nonsense personality, generosity of
spirit, and dedication to higher ideals of art, music, and humanity.
I send condolences to you and Elizabeth's family and friends for what I know is
a tremendous loss. I hope you can find some peace and satisfaction knowing not
just of all the joy she brought to so many people in the world through her
artistry when she was alive, but that the magic of her song will continue to
affect people for decades to come.
If I can help in any way, let me know.
John Carroll
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From: Pauline
Martin
Sent: Sunday, January 01, 2006 4:05 PM
To: charlie@elizabethparcells.com
Subject: RE: sad news about Elizabeth Parcells
I am so
sorry to learn this sad news!
I’ve
attached a photo that was taken at my home as we rehearsed our 2002 concert for
the Pro Mozart Society of Greater Detroit. DSO Principals Donald Baker (oboe),
Theodore Oien (clarinet), Karl Pituch (French horn) and Robert Williams
(bassoon) performed an orchestral reduction, arranged by
Heartfelt
sympathy!
Pauline
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From: Daniel
Sent: Sunday, January 01, 2006 5:54 PM
To: charlie@elizabethparcells.com
I never met Elizabeth. Like many; I heard of Elizabeth by the fabulous reviews
of music critics on her fabulous technique and art.
When the Web site was up, I contacted her. She replied to me, to my surprise. She was funny, gracious and caring.
I want to thank you and her for all the wonderful music and joy, you have given me through her music.
Daniel Verrastro
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From: Dina
Soresi
Winter
Sent: Sunday, January 01, 2006 6:05 PM
To: charlie@elizabethparcells.com
Dear Charlie,
It is hard to put into adequate words a proper appreciation of Elizabeth.
She was a vibrant and courageous spirit and had the uncanny ability to find the right words to express what she wanted to convey with humor, precision and extraordinary insight.
I was privileged to have witnessed some of her master classes and was struck by the manner in which she could help these young students achieve a better understanding of what they could do to improve. Always truthful, but always able to coat her words with positive and productive suggestions which never demolished, but helped the student focus on higher sights in their art, and gave them in a few strokes the hints that would lead them to make it better. She had an amazing ability never to hurt and yet to be thoroughly honest.
As an artist, she was ever-striving, finding better and truer ways to serve her art. She was born with a voice of beauty, but initially of "limited range" (in her own words), and worked diligently and intelligently, with the help of her chosen teacher, to extend it - never forcing (for "that was not the way"), and by dint of her efforts managed to increase her ability to sing what at first was only an A to Eb's and F's above high C. What I want to say, is that Elizabeth achieved her amazing ability to sing as she did....she did not merely rest on the ability given to her by God. And because of this she knew how to encourage and help others acquire greater flexibility, range and eventually, artistry. She walked the path and was therefore able to help others find it.
Finally, in hearing her in performance, and now on the website, one hears a consummate artist singing songs and arias which will forever be a beacon of light to young striving singers and to professional performing artists, as well. As we listen to this site (which we can only be deeply grateful to have access to), our hearts and minds can be lifted by the beauty of Elizabeth's performance, the artistic truth of her interpretations, and the impeccable attention to serving the composers' intentions with her beautifully honed instrument. This is a true memorial to Elizabeth - one to which we can return, ever thanking and blessing her for what she was able to achieve on earth - and what she can consistently give in inspiration and guidance to students and professionals who wish to avail themselves of it….lessons for those who are studying, and sheer joy to those who only wish to hear and be uplifted.
Dina Soresi Winter
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From:
Pam Hebding
Sent: Sunday, January 01, 2006 7:29 PM
To: charlie@elizabethparcells.com
Subject: Grateful to have been touched by Elizabeth
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.
My sister has advanced colon cancer. She is about the same age as Elizabeth.
We were having one of the difficult life and death conversations last week- on
December 28th. She told me that she did not know how to face the coming time in
her illness and she did not know what to expect about her quality of life.
Elizabeth's words and advice came to my ears, and I began to tell her what I
knew of Elizabeth's life- before and throughout her illness. It was a story
about living in the face of death, of fighting with every tool at her disposal,
and of accepting hospice so she could be comforted in her final days while
spending her time with her family.
Elizabeth's story is inspirational and provided certain comfort and guidance to
my sister.
I thank Elizabeth for her love, courage and honesty with strangers, and wonder
if she understood the fine legacy that she would leave to those facing her same
battle. If you have not had a chance to read her writings, I hope you will go
through the ACOR archives so you will realize the extent of her gifts to us all.
My deepest condolences to you all,
Pamela Hebding
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From:
Suzanne
Sent: Sunday, January 01, 2006 8:13 PM
To: charlie@elizabethparcells.com
Subject: Heartfelt Sympathy
Dear Charlie, Ric, and family......I am deeply saddened to hear about Elizabeth but so happy to know that her final wish was granted and that she was surrounded by all of you. I want to extend heartfelt condolences from all of us at Colon Cancer Alliance. Elizabeth profoundly touched our lives.
I last
spoke with
On many other occasions we talked about living simply – something that I never expected from such a graceful, accomplished soprano. Your sister defied the norm. I had assumed, that other than colon cancer and flannel pajamas, we had little in common. I couldn't believe that she grew up on a farm. She reminisced that she had relished being a normal child and talked about climbing trees, riding her horse, and swimming. She felt the farm went a long way to curing her. She said it was to everyone's happy surprise that she grew into a healthy young lady. She was ready then to follow her star and live her life.
What an amazing life that was….how fortunate we have been to share in her graceful journey. She inspired and touched my life like no one else. I count my self extremely blessed to have known her and will never forget the grace and dignity that she brought to this horrid disease. As I read of her death I was thinking "And flights of angels sing thee to thy rest" and of what a beautiful voice has joined that flight. May you be surrounded by peace and comfort in the coming days. With love and tender thoughts, Suzanne
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From:
Walter Godwin
Sent: Sunday, January 01, 2006 8:43 PM
To: charlie@elizabethparcells.com
Subject: Elizabeth
I
am really distressed to learn of Elizabeth's death. She was such an inspiration
to so many, many people. She was so upbeat and vibrant in spite of what she
faced. There will never be another Elizabeth. I have had her on my prayer list
for months.
Walter Godwin in Louisiana
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From:
Kate Murphy
Sent: Sunday, January 01, 2006 9:14 PM
To: charlie@elizabethparcells.com
Cc: Colon Cancer Discussion List
Subject: Great sadness
Although I know
Elizabeth would not have wished it, I am deeply saddened by her death. She has
been a wonderful gift to the ACOR Colon Discussion List, especially in the last
few months after she decided to enter hospice care.
She provided such encouragement and strength to other list members -- always
optimistic, always seeing the bright and beautiful side of things.
I know that she suffered from extraordinary pain that couldn't be treated with
ordinarily pain medicine because of her allergies. Still she found
ways to cope and kept writing to the List. Her emails were eagerly read by list
members and gave us all much hope.
Her music was a special gift to me this spring when I came down with shingles --
and severe pain. Some nights I played her CD just to get to
sleep.
And, her gift of buddy bracelets and colorectal cancer prevention awareness at
her Carnegie Hall concert in February was truly marvelous. What a
special person she was!
We will miss her so much.
Kate
Kate Murphy
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From:
Erika
Sent: Sunday, January 01, 2006 9:19 PM
To: COLON@LISTSERV.ACOR.ORG
Subject: Re: the light of Elizabeth Parcells
Dear ListMates:
I'm quite certain that everyone on this list is just as shocked, devastated,
upset, and saddened at the (yes) shocking news of Elizabeth's very bright
light being extinguished - by this damned disease.
I don't think her leave-taking was unexpected......it's just that it seems
incomprehensible to me that she won't have a wonderfully enlightening response
to every upcoming dilemma that is posed on our list. How can this be?
I'm so sad --isn't everyone? I didn't know Elizabeth; but Elizabeth snuck into
the core of my being and I loved her. Her never-ending cheer and
support for others was just too wonderful and uplifting. I always read her
posts....and always felt better.
What do we do now without Elizabeth? We try --just try -- to be as deeply
supportive of others as she always was for everyone. She would want that.
Today, I went into the archives to re-read some of her posts. She was
UNFAILING in her optimism and support. I don't know how she did it. Her
last post to us was a Christmas wish to all of us....
When I grow up, I want to be just like Elizabeth.
Thanks, Elizabeth, for being the very best YOU that you were. You gave so freely
of your love to all of us.
We'll all, I know, miss you terribly.
Love to all,
Erika in Denver
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From:
Rol Sharette
Sent: Sunday, January 01, 2006 9:24 PM
To: charlie@elizabethparcells.com
Subject: We love you, Betsy
Ah, to have lived as an Elizabeth Parcells must be to rejoice at the sounds and interpretations that spring from one's mind, spirit and voice, all the while sensing the deep impression of emotion and spirituality to be seen in the eyes and expressions of one's audience. Bev and I spent many glorious times listening to that wonderful voice and watching the rapt attention it produced among any who were on hand -- including ourselves.
Our entire family was struck by her presence and focus when we first met as, at close to 20, she was just developing the incredible soprano voice and musical discipline that would make her, over the next thirty years, an inspiration to those of us who aspired to such an accomplishment as she lived with each day of her life. My aging mother, a soprano herself, absolutely loved to hear Betsy sing, and was overcome with joy the day she and father Charlie stopped by unannounced at her senior residence to see her and sing for her. Why did they do this? Because they knew Marion and knew how much it would pleasure a 90 year old to enjoy a few minutes in such musical splendor.
Our kids adored Betsy also, both as an admired singer (a craft Ric, Dave and Denise had all practiced) and as a friend and a model to which they might aspire. Like everyone, they were entranced when they listened to her sing, in person and on recordings and personal tapes we were able to collect. What a treasure her website has proven. Bev wrote to her in November to tell her this and to express her regard for Betsy's concern for others in her quest to warn them of the cruel nature of the malady to which she was destined to lose her battle.
Like her mother, Fran, Betsy is one of those folks we will forever keep in our hearts, thinking about her at the odd moment when a musical phrase or a remembered comment is brought to mind. My computer, as it does so often, is playing her soothing voice as I write this. I feel we have lost an irreplaceable treasure. Yet we can still enjoy her presence in this unique way.
What a remarkable world we live in -- and what remarkable people make it worthwhile. We love you, Betsy, and treasure your music and memories.
Our family sends our love to Charlie, Anne, Katie, Charles, Jr and David now and for as long as Elizabeth's voice can be heard and remembered -- a very long time indeed.
Rol Sharette
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From:
Frederick Fuller
Sent: Monday, January 02, 2006 12:17 AM
To: EParcells@aol.com
Subject: Elizabeth
I, too, am greatly saddened by the news of Elizabeth Parcells' passing. As a trumpeter with the Milwaukee Symphony for 32 years, I found great inspiration in her performances and in helping me with my battle with colorectal cancer through her participation on the ACOR Colon Discussion List. She had great wisdom and artistry and will be greatly missed by all she touched.
Fred Fuller
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From:
Patrick Clampitt
Sent: Monday, January 02, 2006 12:45 AM
To: charlie@elizabethparcells.com
Subject: I'm so very sad
I attended every concert I could when Elizabeth sang. I love her website and I will never forget her kindness as she helped me up and down stairs. I was weak from M.S. but we didn't understand what she was facing at the time. She was always a giving person who thought more about others even when she was in bad health. I will miss her. Pamela Clampitt
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From: Yvonne Steiger
Sent: Monday, January 02, 2006 4:46 AM
To: charlie@elizabethparcells.com
Subject: Elizabeth
Dear Charlie,
I am deeply sad, tres, tres triste. What a loss. I read your mail this morning. Yesterday I had to think so much at her: Our time running up and down the scales of 'Die Fledermaus' presentation, because they were playing this music at the french radiostation. And there she was in front of my inner eye, saying hello to me. Coinsidence? I don't think so.
She's forever here with me, deep in my heard.
I take you in my arms and cry with you, when you allow it. I know she is well now.
Lets remember her in her humor and force till we see her again, one day.
Je vous embrasse avec tout mes affections,
amitié
Yvonne
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From:
Karen Walton
Sent: Monday, January 02, 2006 6:41 AM
To: charlie@elizabethparcells.com
Subject: My Deepest Sympathy
It is with a heavy heart I write this about the most beautiful courageous lady whom I never had the pleasure to meet personally, yet with her gifted writing and voice and the ability to touch everyone's' heart on this board with her love and humor. I never heard complain about herself even to the end. My deepest sympathy to all of Elizabeth's family and close friends, another angel in heaven, Rest peacefully Elizabeth, you were my inspiration and courage as I battled the beast too.
Luv always Karen Walton
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From:
John MacInnis
Sent: Monday, January 02, 2006 8:19 AM
To: charlie@elizabethparcells.com
Subject: Elizabeth Parcells - Req. In Pace
To the family of
Elizabeth Parcells:
I did not know her at all, but I saw the Obituary in the paper today, 1/2/06.
I just wanted to thank you for sharing her voice with those of us who like good
music. I ran thru her website today.
If you have a recording of "O Holy Night" which you can share on the website,
that is one of my favorites.
I am so sorry for her early death.
I will make a donation to charity in her memory.
John R MacInnis
Northville.
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From: Larry Kirwan
Sent: Monday, January 02, 2006 8:58 AM
To: charlie@elizabethparcells.com
Subject: For Betsy
Hi
Charlie:
One of the most unique and stirring moments of performing onstage with Black 47
stage occurred one night while singing James Connolly. As often happens in that
song, I get lost in the events and in trying to recreate the personality of a
great man; there is a long instrumental section in the middle where Black 47
evokes a fife, drum and brass band from the turn of the 20th Century. At one
point I began to be aware of overtones that eventually melded into what I took
to be the fragments of a beautiful voice. By this time I was speaking
Connolly's words but now the voice began growing in
power and cohesion. I had
no idea what was happening but stuck to my guns - after all, the show must go
on. And then all at once the power and the joy of the voice surged forward and
lifted the song into a place it had never been before. I couldn't turn around
and lose focus, but as the song reached a climax I knew it could only be one
person aiding us - Betsy Parcells in full flight.
She sang with us a number of times after that, most notably on Our Lady of the
Bronx where she added the Bach version of Ave Maria to a long instrumental
coda. I recently listened to the live recording from Wetlands on the On Fire
CD. What can I say? She added her trademark spirituality, joy, exuberance,
drama and sense of fun and we'll always have that track to remember her by.
One last piece of advice she gave that has stood me in good stead regarding
vocal exercises: "don't leave your best performance in the dressing room, save
it for onstage." I think those words best sum up Betsy Parcells for me. She
had enormous talent but in the long run she was a trouper. Whatever else
happened the show must go on, after all there's magic to be created. That was
Betsy's life and what a life it was. Even though she's departed this plane,
many of us will continue to hear her overtones.
Larry Kirwan
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From: Ralph Richey
Sent: Monday, January 02, 2006 9:03 AM
To: charlie@elizabethparcells.com
Subject: memories of Betsy
Even though Betsy had written to me that she
was terminally ill, I had still hoped that some miracle would allow her to stay
with us a little longer.
Every person has hopes and dreams and no one gets to realize them completely.
When an exceptional person departs this world, those who are left behind should
be thankful for the brief joy they were given and not be sad for the unrealized
promise. Betsy was exceptional, and through her art she brought joy and
inspiration to many people. She has left us a lot of beautiful recordings that
will allow a part of her talent to live on. Those who knew her will miss her
terribly.
My condolences to her family and friends,
Ralph Richey
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From:
Susan Larson
Sent: Monday, January 02, 2006 9:39 AM
To: charlie@elizabethparcells.com
Subject: I'll always hear Betsy
I'm so sorry for your loss. What
a woman Elizabeth was. She was a colleague of mine and a fellow lyric soprano,
and I would be misspeaking if I didn't admit that in my younger days I was
jealous of Betsy's soaring high notes and spinning cantilena, her musicality and
soulfulness.
I can still hear her in my mind's ear, singing "Ruhe Sanft," and the airs from
"Maria Stuarda." If, God forbid, her voice stops ringing in my mind, I have a
clip Betsy sent me, of her performance of Mozart's "Allelluia," in my favorites
folder on my computer, she sings it faster and cleaner and with more luminous
joy than anybody. Thank you, all ye Gods and Muses, for loaning us Betsy
Parcells.
Susan
----------------------------------------------------
From:
Dennis J. Tini
Sent: Monday, January 02, 2006 10:44 AM
To: charlie@elizabethparcells.com
Subject: My appreciation and condolences....
Dear Mr. Parcells and Family,
My sincere condolences to you and your Family regarding the passing of dear
Betsy.
Her wonderful spirit, incredible kindness and exemplary talent are a continuing
beacon of light for us all.
I still marvel at the performance we shared of the Mozart Grand Mass in c minor,
K.427 many years ago.....(I think Elizabeth's first concert of this signature
masterpiece in her repertoire).
Betsy's artistry, depth of communication and marvelous expressivity are
intrinsically woven in my memory.
My appreciation and sincere sympathy. - Dennis January 1, 2006
----------------------------------------------------
From:
Joseph Pehrson
Sent: Monday, January 02, 2006 10:59 AM
To: charlie@elizabethparcells.com
Subject: Note about Betsy Parcells
Hi Charlie,
As a composer, I had worked with Elizabeth in my early formative years in Grosse
Pointe, Michigan, and later on a Vocalise in New York, which she later premiered
in Michigan in the 1980's.
I remember early years with Elizabeth trying out my beginning efforts in writing
for organ and voice, as well as accompanying her at piano for Parcells family
gatherings at their Summer retreat. These are nice memories.
Betsy was steeped in the classics, but always seemed interested and receptive to
new work. Her voice was especially suited to chamber settings where concert
music and, especially, new music, is effectively presented. There was a certain
bell-like clarity to the Parcells sound that seemed distinctive, inimitable.
Later, I learned that she worked with many of the same musicians that I had,
including the theremin virtuoso Lydia Kavina, who premiered and performed a
piece of mine for solo theremin in the U.S. and Russia. Betsy appears on one of
Kavina's CDs, as I recall.
She also was fairly closely associated with a friend whom I met later in New
York, Leonard Lehrman, and she had presented premieres of his work in Germany in
the earlier years. So there have been many cross-currents.
My condolences to the entire Parcells family on this terrible loss.
Fortunately
we have the memories and the wonderful website as a tribute!
Joseph (Joe) Pehrson
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From:
Fernando Salcedo
Sent: Monday, January 02, 2006 11:12 AM
To: charlie@elizabethparcells.com
Subject: Elizabeth Parcells
Dear John,
I am writing today with great sadness! I never had the pleasure to meet Ms. Parcells, but did communicate with her frequently via email. What an amazing human being she was and a superb artist with the voice of an angel. In so many ways, she was more than a singer I admired; she was a mentor. She encouraged me to study voice and find a teacher in my local area and I did. Ms. Parcells was right; singing is a joy and those of us who have the talent should share the joy it with others! I will miss her so...
My thoughts and prayers are with her friends and family. I will never forget her and she will always remain one of my favorite and most admired performers.
With deepest sympathy,
Fernando Salcedo
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From:
Klaus Weber
Sent: Monday, January 02, 2006 11:18 AM
To: charlie parcells
Subject: Memories
We are really sad to learn about
Elizabeth's death and extend our heartfelt condolences to all of you. She will
be always alive in our memory when we recall the good days we enjoyed with her a
couple of years ago. When she showed up and performed with Lydia Kavina and the
theremin the ether music in our living room or we gathered in an historical town
in the Rhine valley to listen to her voice and guitar event.
Ingrid & Klaus Weber
Hamburg/ Germany
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From:
Rosemary Burns
Sent: Monday, January 02, 2006 11:44 AM
To: charlie@elizabethparcells.com
Subject: Elizabeths passing
Hi, Charlie,
I am so glad you emailed me but it is with heavy heart that I read of
Elizabeth's passing. She has been greatly on my mind and I desperately wanted
to see her. I have had family that have been ill and I have had to tend to
that. I am so distressed that I did not get to say good bye to her. I will
have to talk with her via her spirit and prayer.
I will get over to the funeral home on Tuesday .
You have my greatest sympathy at losing such a wonderful person in your life. I
have too and will always remember her wonderful personality and classic style.
Sincerely,
Rose Burns RN
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From:
Nancy Roach
Sent: Monday, January 02, 2006 12:07 PM
To: charlie@elizabethparcells.com
Subject: sad news about Elizabeth Parcells
Elizabeth and I conversed over email because of our common geography and love of music. I grew up in Grosse Pointe and sang in my church choir, and listening to her music brought me great peace and joy. We met on the ACOR colon list, where her posts gave tremendous solace to many on the list. While we never met in person, she has touched me deeply. Her passing has left a big hole in the world.
Much love, many tears,
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From: Rachel Watkins
Sent: Monday, January 02, 2006 1:05 PM
To: charlie@elizabethparcells.com
Subject: the voice of an angel
Dear Charlie,
I worked as an assistant with John Haag at Pro Musicis and had the privilege last season of helping out for her recital at Carnegie Hall. This was my first time to hear her voice. I was taken aback by the immediate beauty of her golden, bell like voice. She sang with confidence and strength and I could tell that she was a believer. The voice of God was within her and I am so glad that she shared that gift with us.
God bless you all and I wish you peace.
Sincerely,
Rachel Watkins
-----------------------------------------------------------
From:
Pette Moore
Sent: Monday, January 02, 2006 1:32 PM
To: charlie@elizabethparcells.com
Subject: From Pette Moore
Charlie,
I'm so sorry to hear about Elizabeth. Being in the army, it is almost impossible
to communicate with my friends and family back home in Michigan but you all are
always in my heart. I am in Iraq for the second time and I had hoped to see all
your smiling faces when I returned, just like the first time. This time, will
not be nearly as warm without Liz's smiling face around.
Sometimes when people are gone from this earth, it is very difficult to find the
words to remember them by. That is not the case in this instance. Elizabeth gave
me my first real, up close and personal opera experience. He beauty extended far
beyond her voice. She had a wonderful way with words that always kept me
inspired. Her teachings, both professional and on the personal level, proved
always to be totally correct.
Some things you all don't know about me... I have done much with music since I
left the U.S. Opera is a very major part of my life, even with the army as my
primary employment. I have experienced performing in front of great audiences
all over Europe and the Caribbean. I have felt the things that she felt, the
things she told me I would feel once I reached that certain point in my singing
career. I have nine months left in Iraq and when I leave here I am going back to
Germany to further study music and continue where I left off in My singing
career. I am sure it will take me very far in Life. It already has and I owe it
to two people who were near and dear to me. Two people who looked past all the
opposing odds against me and gave me all the things I needed to make it in this
life. One of those wonderful people was Alden Schell, the other, Elizabeth
Parcells. I loved them both...I still Love them. Although the two of them are
gone from me now, they will live with me forever. I will always hold the
knowledge they gave me. It has molded me into who I am today and that is
something I will never forget.
I love you Liz.
--
Pette L. Moore U.S. Army Signal Corps
-------------------------------------------------------------
From:
Nick Limansky
Sent: Monday, January 02, 2006 1:46 PM
To: charlie@elizabethparcells.com
Subject: Elizabeth's Passing
Dear Charlie,
I was so saddened to hear of Elizabeth's passing. Although I did not know her
personally, (we had only emailed back and forth this past year concerning her
website and music) I enjoyed corresponding with her about her thoughts about
music and the art of coloratura. She was a most gracious, generous and charming
person and I consider myself blessed to have been able to know her on any level
at all. I have known of her singing since the late 1970s when I heard her
Metropolitan Opera audition and have always felt that she was one of America's
finest singers. Humble, yet assured, she always sang with intelligence, great
musicality and poise. Her website was not only a wonderful learning tool for
other singers but, for people like me, was a delight for its examples of her
singing. In one of my emails to her I mentioned that I planned to discuss her
singing and art on a page in my website - a promise I intend to fulfill this
coming year.
Please know that my thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Nick Limansky
------------------------------------------------------------
From:
Peter Hölzel
Sent: Monday, January 02, 2006 2:02 PM
To: charlie@elizabethparcells.com
Subject: In remembrance of Liesel
*Dear Charlie, dear Parcells family
We feared it for long. And when Liesel not answered my last mail, we feared even
more, being aware, that this brave women,
our wonderful friend Elizabeth would loose the battle. But this does not
diminish our grief, now she has lost.
Since we knew her, many years ago, she was part of our life as a wonderful
person and a unique artist. We are so sad, that we never again will embrace her
after concert to congratulate. What an admirable last performance: Her homepage,
this legacy accomplished with fading power and singular braveness.
It is a great solace, the family stands together. We hope You can console
one another and above all Your father.
**She has a memorial in our hearts. We will not forget her.
Ulla and Peter Hölzel, Idstein, Germany
--------------------------------------------------------------
From:
Leonard J. Lehrman
Sent: Monday, January 02, 2006 11:10 AM
To: EParcells
Subject: memories & photos of Elizabeth Parcells to share
Dear Charlie,
I don't think I have ever met you, but your sister has been in many ways one of
the most important and most wonderful people in my life. I use, and shall use,
the present perfect tense, not the simple past, for she was not simple, and is,
I feel, still present - and perfect in so many ways - even though now she has
passed. I can share with you only a small corner, of what would have to be an
enormous canvas, to describe how much she shall be missed. But I will try.
It was early in 1980, in Augsburg, that I met Elizabeth, working together on
Francis Burt's crazy and delightful opera BARNSTABLE. She made the quirky and
difficult coloratura role of the maid sound like child's play. Later that
spring, I coached (or rather she coached me) and accompanied her in 3 Mozart
songs (Das Veilchen, Abendempfindung, and An Chloe), and performed them with her
in a Kleine Goldene Saal concert, the memory of which I shall always cherish.
Performing them again over the next two months in three concerts devoted to
Mozart's 250th birthday (Jan. 15 at Long Beach Library, Feb. 5 at North Merrick
Library, Feb. 12 at Great Neck House), I shall of course be remembering and
thinking of her.
In the summer of 1980, Richard Strauss's family withheld the rights to
Augsburg's planned production of SALOME with a controversial director, resulting
in a hole in the schedule. Betsy and I proposed that it be partially filled
with a concert production of my one-act opera, KARLA. The proposal was
accepted; a German translation was written; and five other singers were
recruited. She and they spent company time rehearsing the work with me.
Unfortunately, the
lead baritone took ill, and only a short excerpt from the work could be
performed, but Betsy, baritone Richard Charles, a flutist, and I managed to fill
in the rest of the program with short pieces of mine, including several written
for Betsy, for the occasion. These included "Answer to a Child's Question"
(Samuel Coleridge), "Spiele" (Peter Maiwald), and "The Cautious Struggle"
(Anon.), all receiving their world premieres. She also sang Lyuba's Aria from
my first full-length opera SIMA.
This past July, at her request, I made and sent her an untracked CD made from
the tape of that concert, containing all these pieces, and offered tosend her a
CD with tracks as well. She wrote me on 7/24/2005: "I got the CD just fine and
it is in the lineup for processing. I don't need separate tracks as I have a
WAV editor that does the job of spitting tracks just fine. I have started a
Contemporary page where they will go." Unfortunately I do not see that page on
her website - in fact I'd been eagerly awaiting it, planning to write her as
soon as it appeared - and only hope that that part of her legacy will not be
lost....
In the spring of 1984 I managed to put together a production of SIMA in Berlin,
in German. The soprano cast as Lyuba, the Russian Jewish orphanage supervisor,
proved inadequate to the task, and we flew Betsy in from Frankfurt to sing it.
She was marvelous, and elevated the morale of the entire cast. (I am attaching
photos of her from that production.) That's when I started calling her "Betzkele."
Two years later she was in Berlin again, singing WIENER BLUT at Theater des
Westens. Having been Studienleiter and Kapellmeister there from 1983 to 1985, I
had a large apartment around the corner, with a guest room, which proved very
convenient for her to stay in. (She also insisted on getting out a mop and
cleaning up the apartment: my [first] wife had served me with divorce papers the
previous November, and it was a mess - as was I. And she helped me organize a
party at which most of the furniture got sold, prior to my returning to the
States after 7 years. She stayed in Europe a bit longer....)
While Betsy was staying with me in Berlin, my collaborator, the writer Karen
Ruoff Kramer, and I put the finishing touches on the first version of our E.G.:
A Musical Portrait of Emma Goldman. Betsy performed the title role in the first
two performances - first for the Berlin chapter of U.S. Americans for Peace, and
then at Stanford University in Berlin. I later played the videotape of Betsy's
performance for Ronnie Gilbert of the Weavers, who loved the piece, and the
role, but said "I can't sing like that." The range wasn't just too high, but
too wide - though Betsy of course made it all sound easy. Only one singer has
been able to take the role Betsy created and run with it - in 35 productions in
5 countries, from 1987 to 1994: Helene Williams. July 14, 2002 I married
her. (Music from the song "Where Do I Belong?", from E.G., was the
processional at our wedding.)
Helene & I also had the pleasure of giving the NY premiere of a set of Lewis
Carroll settings by Joseph Pehrson, which Betsy had premiered with the composer
during their student days together in Michigan. I see her website now has a
photo of the two of them together, and take special pride in having helped
effect a rapprochement and resumption of long-dormant communications between her
and him.
Helene & I performed in concert tours of Europe in 1989, 1990, 1992, 1994, 1996,
1998 and 2000, making contact (and once staying) with Betsy there on a few of
those trips. I adored her singing with guitar, and at her request this
past year sent her a number of songs I had written, for her to perform with
Felix Justen--too late, unfortunately.... I did have the pleasure of hearing
their very last NY performance at the St. Joseph School last Feb. 24, and then
having lunch with them and their colleagues afterwards. The sadness,
beginning with her announcing in a July 9 email that she would not be singing
again, has been almost to much to bear.
I wrote her that I was hoping to be in Michigan for the National Opera
Association convention this week, and wanted to see her. Unfortunately, though
the organization has included me in their program several times (E.G. in 1990,
Blitzstein in 1995, 2001 & 2005), they did not choose to do so this time. And
even if I had gone, I guess I would have just missed her.
Missed her indeed. How much we have missed her, miss her now, and will always
miss her. But I do hope her legacy shall continue to grow and flourish for
years to come, as more people become aware of her website, and more materials
are added to it. It has been an honor to be even a small part of it.
Please let me hear from you whenever you are able to do so, and let me know what
if anything I can do to help. Whatever I can do I will.
Sincerely,
Leonard J. Lehrman
---------------------------------------------------------------
From:
Promusicis
Sent: Monday, January 02, 2006 12:28 PM
Subject: Sad news, Pro Musicis artist Elizabeth Parcells died on Dec 29th
Dear Pro Musicis Artists:
With deep sadness I have to write that Elizabeth Parcells, soprano, died
recently. She was selected for the award in 1977 and remained a vital member of
the Pro Musicis family for nearly 30 years. Pro Musicis presented her in 23
recitals (Boston,
San Francisco, New York, Paris, Rome, Valesne), including her
farwell performances in Weill Hall and Saint Joseph School in February 2005.
Father Merlet is unable to attend her funeral and asked me to represent the
Foundation. Her father was thankful that someone from Pro Musicis was coming and
asked me to overnight with the family after the funeral in their home. It will
be my honor.
John Haag
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
From:
Janice Meyerson
Sent: Monday, January 02, 2006 3:39 PM
To: charlie@elizabethparcells.com
Subject: from Janice Meyerson
Dear Charlie,
Please accept my condolences about your family's loss of your beautiful sister. I hope you are finding the strength to get through all this--Betsy's own strength was so remarkable; I hope that can be an inspiration to you in the coming days and weeks. If you would like to share any of the following with your family or on her magnificent website, please do. Am thinking of you all at this terrible time.
It was my good fortune to know Betsy for 32 years, since our school days at the New England Conservatory and Tanglewood, where we sang many concerts together--she the soprano, I the mezzo. Though we weren’t in touch continuously, our paths did crisscross around the world, and we were part of each other’s lives for several periods of time. She had a rare combination of pure ethereal spirit, reflected in her general worldview and, of course, 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. She was so generous when I was in Frankfurt, where I stayed in her apartment and she showed me all the ropes about living in Germany, since she had been there for a few years already. I still remember the tremendous success she had at the Frankfurt Opera as Olympia in "Tales of Hoffman" and many other roles.
Her grace throughout her life was evidenced also in the way she handled death. I can’t imagine anyone braver than Betsy—and always with a sense of humor and a twinkle in her eye. She couldn’t stop telling me how fortunate and grateful she was to have such a wonderful family--her father (and her mother, may she rest in peace), siblings and their families, and Rick--and how she wanted everyone to know that she had made peace with what was going to happen to her. "I believe that hope is something that is tangible, that you can reach out and touch," she said to me about 2 weeks before she died. Last year, she told me that her brother was helping her to create a website, where her performances would be available, and that it would be her legacy. I think that Betsy's legacy goes way beyond her beautiful singing; it is also her spirit and strength and character that she leaves as an inspiration to us all. May her memory be a blessing.
Another anecdote, this one lighthearted: Some terrible director started screaming at the cast in Frankfurt after a piano-tech rehearsal about how the rehearsal was the worst he had ever seen or experienced in his whole life. His tirade went on for 10 minutes, while everyone cringed in terror. At the end, there was a short silence, and suddenly a voice was heard from the back of the room: "Oh, come on, it wasn't THAT bad." The voice, of course, belonging to our Miss Elizabeth. Everyone roared with laughter, and that was that for the nasty director.
Charlie, please know that my thoughts are with you and your family at this time.
Janice Meyerson
---------------------------------------------------------------------
From:
Maria Janis
Sent: Monday, January 02, 2006 6:24 PM
To: charlie@elizabethparcells.com
Subject: Elizabeth Parcells
To the family of Elizabeth Parcells,
It's with sadness that I learned of the death of our wonderful Pro
Musicis artist and friend, Elizabeth.
As a board member of Pro Musicis for many years, my wife Maria and I
send you our prayers and sympathy.
Her gift of music will remain with all of us and her public. Her
wonderful spirit will not be forgotten.
With my warmest wishes,
Byron Janis
------------------------------------------------------
From:
Charles Hayden
Sent: Monday, January 02, 2006 7:40 PM
To: EParcells@aol.com
Subject: Re: sad news about Elizabeth Parcells
I am proud to have met Elizabeth twice and to have attended
her concert in New York.
She impressed me greatly, and I am better for having known her. My sincere
condolences
to the Parcells Family. They have great reason to be proud.
Sincerly, Charles Hayden
------------------------------------------------------
From:
Chancellor Wyman
Sent: Monday, January 02, 2006 11:37 PM
To: charlie@elizabethparcells.com
Subject: MOT Opera Camp
I had the pleasure of working with Elizabeth in two instances and I remember not only her exceptional musicianship, but her willingness to give of herself to the students that she was coaching at the time. It was unselfish music-making, the best kind, and the younger singers whom she inspired were the better for it.
My heart goes out to your family and you will be in my prayers.
---------------------------------------------------
From:
Tony&Norma
Sent: Tuesday, January 03, 2006 6:17 AM
To: charlie@elizabethparcells.com
Subject: Elizabeth
Dear
Charlie
I am so very sorry to hear that Elizabeth has gone.
I only knew her through email; we wrote to each other while my partner Tony was
fighting rectal cancer and Elizabeth continued to write to me in the months
after his death.
She was so kind to me; although she was suffering she had concern for my grief.
I shall miss her and my thoughts go out to you in your loss.
I have attached the last email I had from her to show how she was always caring.
Norma
Hi Norma,
Just to say it, and not to impose my beliefs on anyone, but I do believe this
life here is one chapter in the story. We spend a lifetime becoming the
individuals we are, growing and developing. It is hard to think all that ends
with earthly death. The "lights out" theory would only be comforting if we were
trying to escape.
We only experience what we can see and touch, but we humans are visionaries
too. We can imagine and attach images to what we dream of, putting our ideas of
continued existence into pictures we can understand, like a trip around the
world. Sounds plausible to me somehow. Our loved one is on a journey, away for
awhile. We will see him again. Bon Voyage for now. It is that we miss their
presence with us that hurts. Pain of separation.
But is it really true? Does our existence extend beyond this phase as our
tradition teaches? Well, there it's up to your faith and conviction to decided
what you believe, but I have a feeling we are going to find out when the time
comes anyway. I'm just curious to know if my faith has been justified or not.
Isn't it an exciting adventure, a sense of anticipation and deep curiosity to
ponder it!
I've lost friends and family along the way that I so sorely miss, living on
their memories, wondering why death is such a cruel necessity to life. It just
doesn't seem fair. But those are the rules of engagement here. And grief is
unavoidable. What gets me through the night I guess is accepting the rightness
of the world, even when it pains me.
I don't know if any of this helps you, I'm just thinking, you know, and getting
through, like you. I feel how hard losing Tony is for you and want to connect
good energy to you for your comforting. You are a strong person and I think you
are on a very good path to life. Wish I could do or say more to help during the
tough part.
Love, Elizabeth
------------------------------------------------------------------------
From:
Celia Bengry
Sent: Tuesday, January 03, 2006 9:43 AM
To: EParcells@aol.com
Subject: Elizabeth's passing
Dear Charlie,
We were enjoying the holidays up north when we got the call about Betsy. We of course knew of her struggle but it was a shock, nonetheless. Betsy was an inspiration to me as she was to countless others. Her voice was a living thing. There was such spin and light. Thank goodness that sound lives on in her numerous recordings. Having the chance to sing alongside her on occasion was such a delight and I am so grateful I was able to tell her that those experiences made me a better singer. When I became a new member of Jefferson Avenue Presbyterian Church Betsy and her father became Associate Members. I have sung for many years at the church and, when "introduced" to the Session, I was honored by their appreciative applause. I remember saying that I NEVER dreamed my voice would be acknowledged when Elizabeth Parcells was in the same room! I regret I never took the time to study with her. There was always "next semester"....I appreciate all the information on the website and will take my time to "study" there. It's true that the world is just a bit darker without her glorious voice lighting it but we can all be grateful for her legacy that lives on in her recordings, her friends and her family. What an amazing addition to the heavenly choir! God bless your family and God bless her soul.
Rose Randall-Bengry
---------------------------------------------
From:
David Daniels
Sent: Tuesday, January 03, 2006 9:51 AM
To: charlie@elizabethparcells.com
Subject: Elizabeth
I conducted for Elizabeth a number of times: operas in Boston
and
concerts with the Warren Symphony. She was a consummate musician.
David Daniels
-------------------------------------------
From:
Mariana P Wagoner
Sent: Tuesday, January 03, 2006 10:01 AM
To: EParcells@aol.com
Subject: Re: sad news about Elizabeth Parcells
ONE
OF MY FAVORITE MEMORIES IS WHEN BETSY WAS A SMALL CHILD IN HURON CITY.
SHE HAD MEMORIZED AN ENTIRE RECORDED MONOLOGUE OF SHELLY BERMAN, THE GREAT
STAND-UP COMIC OF THE 1950'S. SHE AND I WERE TAKING A WALK ACROSS THE GOLF
COURSE AND SHE STARTS THE FORTY FIVE MINUTE RENDITION. i THOUGHT I WAS HEARING THE REAL SHELLY. SHE HAD EVERY LINE,
EVERY INTONATION, EVERY PUNCH LINE DOWN PAT.. HOW OLD WAS SHE...MAYBE SIX OR
SEVEN. BUT I KNEW RIGHT THERE AND THEN SHE WAS DESTINED FOR A GREAT
CAREER IN THE PERFORMANCE WORLD. AND WHEN WALT AND I MOVED TO BOSTON IN
THE LATE 1960'S BETSY WAS AT THE NEW ENGLAND CONSERVATORY. WE WOULD OFTEN
GO DOWN TO THE LENOX HOTEL WHERE GLADYS THE 80 YEAR OLD PIANIST PLAYED AND BETSY
WAS SINGING HER HEART OUT. MUCH LOVE, MARIANA AND FORTH IN THE BAR.
------------------------------------------
From:
Philip Morehead
Sent: Tuesday, January 03, 2006 10:16 AM
To: charlie@elizabethparcells.com
Subject: Very sad
I knew Betsy during her Boston years, when I was a student at
New England Conservatory and when I worked at Tanglewood. I did several concerts
with her, most notably the premiere of a song cycle by Robert Selig at
Tanglewood and a concert in the style of Jenny Lind that we did in Boston and in
Worcester (her recording was based on this concert). She had a remarkable voice
and was a phenomenal musician. I lost touch after Boston. I am greatly saddened
to hear of her struggles and premature death and convey my deepest sympathies to
her family.
Philip Morehead
Head of Music Staff, Lyric Opera of Chicago
------------------------------------------
From:
Thurston Smith
Sent: Tuesday, January 03, 2006 7:39 PM
To: charlie@elizabethparcells.com
Subject: condolences
Dear Mr. Parcells,
I first heard Betsy sing while she was a student at New England Conservatory, where I was then the registrar. Mark Pearson, her teacher at the time, asked me to come to hear this amazing student sing. I sat with Mark in the theater as Gunther Schuller conducted the fine student orchestra. As she sang “O Luce di Quest’ anima,” I knew that I was hearing a very rare voice, and a very rare talent.
That summer, at Tanglewood, my life-long partner, John Clement Adams, wrote a set of songs for Betsy. As a young composer, he made the music almost impossibly difficult for the voice. One song ends with the phrase, “I am a child again,” sung pianissimo on a high d-flat. Betsy showed up every morning with a thermos of tea in one hand and the score in another, eager to rehearse with John. The performance was stunning, a great success. Later on, we heard Betsy whenever she sang in Boston. Her Zerbinetta there was remarkable, as were her cartwheels while singing!
John and I are deeply saddened to hear of Betsy’ passing, and we send to you, and to all her family and friends, our sincere condolences. The thrilling shimmer of the “Parcells sound” will live on in her many recordings, and in the minds of all who heard her.
Thurston Smith
Santa Rosa, California
-----------------------------------------------
From:
Ken&Jeanie
Sent: Tuesday, January 03, 2006 9:24 PM
To: charlie@elizabethparcells.com
Subject: Betsy Parcells
To All of Betsy's family,
I was so
sad to see she had passed away, She was always beautiful inside and out. I can
remember her singing on the porch at Seven Gables (Stella
music box) when we were there to see Mrs.
Lucas with my grandmother, Helen McKim. We never minded how long Grandma took
if we knew Betsy would be at the big house. We learned more about arias and
singing those two summers, and she made it look so easy we were sure we could be
stars, also. Then she went away, but wrote grandma often and we saw a whole new
world through her eyes. She will truly be missed by anyone whose life she
graced, no matter how briefly as she truly was one of those special people who
always was positive about life experiences. The poem Mrs. Lucas wrote
about her so long ago still is true "Blessings we lost-and found again.
All these within our hearts we prove Listening to beauty in the voice we
love."
------------------------------------------------------------
From:
Kyle Haswell
Sent: Wednesday, January 04, 2006 1:08 AM
To: charlie@elizabethparcells.com
Subject: Thank you for this inspiration
Dear Family and Friends of Elizabeth:
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.
Ms. Kyle
Lynn Haswell
Rochester
Hills, Michigan
***
"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
---------------------------------------------
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
---------------------------------------------------
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
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
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!
Charlie Horner
---------------------------------------------------
From:
Marie Lamb
Sent: Wednesday, January 04, 2006 9:55 PM
To: charlie@elizabethparcells.com
Subject: Condolences and thanks
Dear Charlie,
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.
Marie Lamb
WCNY Classic FM, Syracuse and WAER Jazz 88, Syracuse
-------------------------------------------------
From:
Adrienne Kirsten
Sent: Thursday, January 05, 2006 5:39 AM
To: charlie@elizabethparcells.com
Cc: 'Martha Sharp'
Subject: sad news
Dear Charlie,
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.
In gratitude,
Adrienne Kirsten
------------------------------------------------------------------------
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!
With Love,
Jim Patterson
--------------------------------------------------------------------
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.
Charlie
----------------------------------------------
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
Carole Charnow
General Director
Opera Boston
-----------------------------------------------
From:
GLADYS
Sent: Thursday, January 05, 2006 5:49 PM
To: charlie@elizabethparcells.com
Subject: Elizabeth, a voice of an angel
Dear Charlie,
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.
---------------------------------------------------------------
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
-----------------------------------------------------------
From: Charlie Parcells
Sent: Thursday, January 05, 2006 8:30 PM
I'm Elizabeth's big brother.
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
-------------------------------------------------------------
From:
Keith Kibler
Sent: Thursday, January 05, 2006 8:41 PM
To: charlie@elizabethparcells.com
Subject:
Betsy had a voice seraphic, and I know I will hear it again,
Keith Kibler
--------------------------------------------------------------------
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
-------------------------------------------------
From:
Bret Holloway
Sent: Friday, January 06, 2006 4:55 PM
To: charlie@elizabethparcells.com
Subject: Condolences
Family and Friends of Betsy Parcells,
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.
I have to imagine that somewhere there is a very lucky choral director.
Bret Holloway
----------------------------------------------------------------
From:
Elke
Sent: Saturday, January 07, 2006 8:36 AM
To: charlie@elizabethparcells.com
Subject: Last days...
Dear Parcells Family,
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.
Next day we had to leave – one day before she passed away!
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!
My deepest condolences and sympathy – you are always in my mind!
With love
ELKE
Limburg in Germany
-------------------------------------------------------------
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
--------------------------------------------
From:
will
Sent: Saturday, January 07, 2006 2:19 PM
To: EParcells@aol.com
Subject: RE: sad news about Elizabeth Parcells
Dear Fred,
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.
W.
-----------------------------------------------------------------
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
------------------------------------------------------------
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