19 years ago I walked into a college voice studio for the first time. As a high school student (and colossal fool) I had searched high and low for a college where I could major in music Ed and not take voice lessons. After all, I was a choir guy and we’re ensemble singers! Who needs solo voice lessons? Leave that to the performance snobs! But inside I knew the real reason...I didn’t want to sing because I didn’t think I could. Like REALLY could. I was insecure, embarrassed, and felt like I could never measure up to those around me. So I scoffed at it instead.
I was, nevertheless, unsuccessful in my quest, and having loved everything about Cornell College I was determined to keep an open mind and positive attitude. I walked in and was greeted by the warmest smile, biggest handshake, and most contagious belly laugh I’d ever heard! A gentle giant in a mock turtle neck, jeans and a blazer as he so often wore. It was only after a short time and Doc’s gentle guidance, encouragement and belief in me that I experienced a confidence in my voice and in myself that I had never felt before. He took me under his wing, a nobody from Washington State without a lick of classical voice experience and helped me grow with phrases like “Foreman, you have the perfect Tenor physique...barrel chested and no neck!” and “let’s try some vocal Tai Chi”!
I can’t tell you all the songs we sang or the exercises we employed, but I can clearly recall the laughs, the love and the feeling that I belonged in his studio. I WAS a singer and I COULD measure up. I wasn’t embarrassed by my voice and I was proud to call myself a singer.
Once hired after college as a high school choral director, I couldn’t wait to introduce Doc to my students. I wanted them to know what I knew and experience the man that had such a profound impact on my life. I wanted them to hear, first hand, all the weird singing analogies we grew to love, to see the same excitement and joy in Doc’s face, to see his big grin, when they had a breakthrough! We brought Doc in as many times as we could for solo festivals and clinics. He was the consummate professional and was so giving of himself to his students, even when his health began to fade.
The last time we talked I had the joy of sitting with him on his front porch. We laughed through our Covid masks about fond memories and new experiences with my students. And our last topic: how we could have a singing clinic this fall, outside of course, so he could work with my students again! He never stopped serving and he never stopped dreaming of ways to serve. We had hoped for something this October and agreed to play it by ear. With that, I walked down his driveway, looked back and told him I loved him. He replied, “Love you, brother!”, and smiled...
I am a better husband, father, teacher, mentor and friend because of the four incredible years I spent in Dr Thull’s studio. I am filled with joy recalling the many accomplishments we had together and the memories we made as colleagues in the vocal world. And though sad at today’s news, I am encouraged in my belief that Doc is now whole, free from pain, and in the presence of his Father in heaven.
Students and former students, if any of you experienced anything in my program that was good and honest and pure and even remotely impacted you in a positive way, know that it was in large part due to the significant role Doc played in my life. You and I are better because we knew him.
So tonight, tomorrow and in the countless interactions with others I hope to have in the future, I will smile more, I will laugh more, I will encourage more and I will make sure my students always know vocal Tai Chi.
Love you, brother!