From Choir Class to Rock Stage

The 1967 vision of a new teacher transformed Royal Oak Dondero High School's choir into a ground-breaking force with its annual Pop Concert for the next 35 years.

Author and alumnus of Mr. Rick Hartsoe's program at Dondero, Pete Wurdock previews the March 7th release of his book, Love Will Steer the Stars:  A History of the Dondero Pop Concert and is joined by Rick along with Dan Palmer, another alum from the programs early days--who would go on to be the concert's chief arranger until Rick's retirement.

Topics include:

• Details on the book's launch at the original auditorium on March 7th at Royal Oak Middle School, 709 N. Washington Royal Oak
• Rick's early days developing the concert--and its initial reaction from staff and students
• Talent seeking talent, collaborating with instrumentalists--and shop teachers!
• Life-lessons, including teamwork and rigor and the enduring power of music

You can read more about Pete Wurdock and his books at: www.blueboundarybooks.com.