ALICE BECKSTROM HARMONIZES A PASSION FOR MUSIC AND COMMUNITY

Alice Beckstrom made her way to Midland like many others in the community, when her husband was transferred for work. She soon discovered that the area not only had a symphony but also a beautiful symphony hall. Inspired by her mother, a voice coach, Alice’s love for music began early, accompanying her mother's students on the piano.

Now a soprano lead of the West Texas Symphony's Chamber Chorale, Alice has taught voice for over 30 years and runs a vocal studio from her home. Her musical career took a significant turn in Houston, where she joined the Houston Symphony Chorus, deepening her appreciation for choral and orchestral synergy.

“Hearing the symphony and the voices blew me away,” she reminisced. “I said, ‘I want to do that.’” This experience deepened her appreciation for choral and orchestral synergy. In Midland, Alice found a vibrant musical community and was thrilled by the world-class Wagner Noël Performing Arts Center. “I'm passionate about getting people involved because there's so much we can't do as a chorale because we're not large enough,” she explained.

Alice dreams of grand performances, such as Mahler's "Resurrection" Symphony, and actively mentors young musicians. As Chorale liaison to the West Texas Symphony Board of Directors, she advocates for community engagement and stronger alliances with colleges, schools, churches, and theaters.

Beyond symphony performances, the volunteer-based Chamber Chorale collaborates with groups such as the Big Spring Symphony Orchestra and Midland Festival Ballet. Since the pandemic, the Chamber Chorale has worked to rebuild its numbers, seeing a bright future in community partnerships. Alice believes the symphony provides opportunities for all ages to learn and perform, enriching the local area with music.

Joining the Chamber Chorale is an accessible process. It involves an audition where candidates sing a song of their choice, undergo vocal exercises, and demonstrate sight-reading skills. Despite the emphasis on professionalism, she assures potential members that the experience is fun and rewarding.

“Good music elevates people,” she concluded, inviting everyone to experience the transformative power of lending their voice to live symphonic performances.

Inspired by Alice's story? DONATE NOW to support the West Texas Symphony and enrich our community!