08/03/05
To Whom It May Concern:
I am writing in praise of Denis Moreen. I have worked with Denis for two years and known of him for many. He is a wonderful pianist and musician, and a splendid person.
Denis accompanied Masterworks Chorale (San Mateo) during the 2003-2005 seasons and did an exemplary job. For a conductor, Denis makes life easy. He follows my beat, knows where I will start after each stop in rehearsal, and always whatever is most important for the chorus to hear. He is equally adept at piano reductions and open score reading. Further, Denis was invariably on time, pleasant and alert and involved. No mere note-pounder, he always found the musical value in what he played.
Denis often led sectionals for me, and often without advance warning. The singers enjoyed working with him and made good progress during these sessions. This was true whether the music was Gershwin or Haydn, thanks to Denis’ well-rounded musicianship.
All of his skills came into focus in performance, and Denis shined with particularly brightness in our concerts. This he manages without any sign of a swelling ego and without showing any frustration over less-than-ideal pianos or schedule interruptions. It will be a burden of a sort on whoever follows such a well-liked and admirable man in his position with Masterworks. I shall miss Denis, and I recommend him to you very highly indeed. Please feel free to contact me, should you have any questions
Sincerely,
Dr. Bryan Baker,
Artistic Director,
Masterworks Chorale
650-574-6218 or 650 574-6210