Eugene Gleemen celebrate 100 years

Anyone who’s attended sporting events in Eugene has likely seen the National Anthem performed by the men in yellow — the Eugene Gleemen. Others have attended their shows, singing along to early rock and doo wop numbers such as “Blue Moon,” “Blue Suede Shoes” and other popular oldies.

The group’s fare is diverse, says Gleeman member Ron Bush. “We sing selections from recent to traditional, including Broadway, gospel, folk, classical, sea shanties, rock & roll, country and more.” The lineup changes with the seasons: spring, fall, Christmas and even Valentine’s Day.

 

“The Eugene Gleemen is woven into the tapestry of the community, past and present,” Ron says,
adding that the song “The Oregon Trail” was written for them and that,  “We still sing it as the final number at concerts.”

The National Anthem is another tradition. Older members recall their rendition playing on television to end the broadcast day. “Then, we  knew that Mom and Dad would tell us that we had to go to bed.”

 

Another tradition of the nonprofit Gleeman is community service. Proceeds from concerts support gifts to local school choral groups. During the holiday season they sing for residents of retirement communities — who love to sing along.

 

You may know a Eugene Gleeman without realizing it. Member Jeffrey Ogburn is host of “Jazz Sunday” on KLCC. Dr. Richard Loescher is “Riccardo the Remarkable,” a magician who performs free shows for nonprofits, schools and care facilities. Other members include a local florist, a financial advisor, a real estate broker, an attorney.

Family is an important part of the Gleemen. Picnic, holiday and romantic Valentine performances find attending families singing (and dancing) along. Several Gleemen have followed their fathers and grandfathers in joining the group, including dentist Dr. George McCulley. Many have been members for many years. Gerry Keeney has been a member since 1962.

 

Family ties do not exclude professionalism. The group is proud to have Dr. John Jantzi of the U of O Music Faculty as Musical Director, and professional musical accompaniment at rehearsals
and concerts.

 

The longest performing group in Oregon, the Gleemen’s motto is “For the Sheer Joy of Singing.” Ron says they also sing for the companionship, health benefits, the fun of performing around town and social interaction. “There are so many reasons to sing!” he says.

 

Men of all ages are welcome to join. The Gleemen’s goal for their upcoming 100-year anniversary is, “To continue our 100 years of tradition.” Specifically, says Ron, “That goal is
to have 100 members when our 100th Anniversary arrives.”

If you love to sing but haven’t sung in a while and feel a little rusty, no worries: the Gleeman have a no audition policy. Just show up at a rehearsal, held Tuesdays 7-8:30, starting Sept 6. Learn more at eugenegleemen.org