President, Cindy Lou Beherns
Cindy Lou started her love of singing in high school and continued on as an adult. While she was living in Minnesota for 32 years, she was a member of the Sisters of Song and sang at her church. She has been with The Chorale of Southwest Florida for seven years and also sings with Christus Victor Lutheran church and with The Lyrical Ladies of Estero. Cindy Lou worked in education for 25 years in Minnesota and was a drama advisor, director, and producer of many shows at the High School level. She has also used her talents to design posters, manage ticket sales, and create the programs for the largest school in Minnesota.
What brings her joy?
while singing, of course!
Vice President & Treasurer, Bob Ritchie
Bob has been a singer for decades, having been a member of the Huntington Chorale Society (NY) under the direction of Andrew Householder, who directed at NYU in addition to the HCS. He also sang with the Fairfield County Chorale (CT) under the direction of David Rosenmeyer, who also serves as the Associate Conductor of the prestigious Oratorio Society of New York. Both chorales offer a broad range of classical and contemporary choral music. Bob also brings a sound financial background as a senior executive with several large global financial institutions. Holding a BS degree in Business Administration and Economics, an MBA degree in Finance, and an MS degree in Accounting and Taxation, and with over 30 years of experience in operations, audit, and compliance, he brings a solid business perspective to the board.
Assistant Treasurer, Rita Korn
I have been a singer since I was in high school. I have been playing a clarinet since 5th grade. I was in marching band, chorus, pep band and the pit band for the musicals. in 1973 our band was invited to go to the World's Fair to perform. That always will be a highlight in my life. I kept singing at church when I became an adult. I have been in the mixed chorus near my community. I also have performed in the musical "Fiddler On The Roof. " Currently I am singing with the Belles of Harmony and The Chorale. I absolutely love to sing and see the faces of the audience light up when I hit the high notes!
Director of Music, Ruth Lindmeyer
Ruth studied Music Education at the University of Minnesota, completing both undergraduate and graduate work with an emphasis on vocal music, and has over 40 years of experience. She is certified to teach orchestra and band for grades K–12 and has presented numerous workshops for music textbook companies and elementary classroom educators. Ruth’s vibrant energy inspires and uplifts our members, creating a joyful and engaging musical environment.
As a child, I can remember always singing. My dad always sang mostly musical tunes to the children, and my mother played classical piano. When my sister and I were very young, we would sing harmony to popular songs for small audiences. In third grade, my music teacher would ask me to sing the part that we were learning to the class. These experiences gave me the confidence to continue singing in glee clubs and Chorale groups for the remainder of my life! Before joining The Chorale of South West Florida, I sang with Seaglass Chorale of Kennebunkport, performing a range of music that included classical, Gershwin, Opera, Broadway, and other popular pieces.
Director at Large, Karen Marcus
Growing up in Cleveland, I was surrounded by all types of music. I took piano and voice lessons and sang in my temple choir, high school choir, and college chorus. Recently, I’ve been in a women’s group where we participate with children with disabilities and perform a few times a year, as well as visiting senior facilities monthly. I love going to musical theatre and going to the orchestra. I love singing in The Chorale of South West Florida and am thrilled with all the new friends I’ve made.
Secretary, Mona Kotchmar
Mona is a native of Bonita Springs and enjoys music. She has learned the recorder and key transcription. She brings straightforward energy to the Board.