A Musical Tribute to Carlie
On a cold Wednesday morning in November 2019, the Austin chapter of the Texas Federation of Music Clubs held a special tribute for Carlie Burdett to showcase her original music and poetry. Her family was invited to attend, and they were seated in the front row together to enjoy the performances hosted at the First Unitarian Universalist Church of Austin.
The musicians brought her music to life while feeling her absence at the same time. It was a wonderful tribute to Carlie, who cared deeply for her fellow musicians in the Wednesday Morning Music Club and for the Texas Federation.
The performances of Carlie’s music featured Let Me Grow Lovely, words by Karle Wilson Baker and music by Carlie Burdett; Waiting for the Dawn, words and music by Carlie Burdett. Both were performed by Carla Johnson, soprano, and Carolyn McColloch, pianist.
In addition, three Robert Frost poems were featured that Carlie had set to music: Tree at My Window, Acquainted with the Night, Stopping by the Woods on a Snowy Evening. They were performed by Russell Gregory, baritone, and Carolyn McColloch, pianist.
Lastly, Isabelle Lipovski, pianist, performed Carlie’s arrangement Adagio Peace Medley, which beautifully combines some of her favorite hymns with Beethoven’s Sonata.
The session also included a salute to the armed forces as well as a brass quintet, in addition to some other poetry and readings.
The tribute was an exceptional way to honor Carlie’s talents, and her family was very touched by it. For more information on Wednesday Morning Music Club, click here, or the Texas Federation of Music Clubs, click here.
