Although I have only sung under Tim Shue for two seasons with Sonnenberg Station, our paths have intertwined for a number of years. We both have a connection to the Summit Choral Society in Akron where I still sing and where Tim served on the staff for a time. With Summit Choral, I was able to perform alongside Sonnenberg Station and Honeytown in various concerts and became aware of Tim’s amazing musical talents. When Tim directed a boy’s ensemble from Summit Choral, he sometimes called upon men in the adult choir to participate in his rehearsals to provide a mentoring example and to demonstrate the generational connection that music can provide. I had the chance to see that happening again this spring as Sonnenberg Station performed concerts that included young men’s groups from area high schools.
Tim is just a fun person to be around. No one can deliver a zinger quite like him.
Here’s a typical scenario:
- Tim looks slightly away from victim, keeping the victim in his peripheral vision while facing his main audience of listeners.
- Tim delivers a wry (but well-meaning and light-hearted) comment about the victim, usually in a way that requires a bit of thought for the victim to realize that it pertains to them.
- Tim freezes with a very slight smile, twinkle in his eye, and sometimes tongue literally in cheek.
- Tim remains frozen, with only sideways glances toward the victim
- When realization hits the victim, laughter en(shue)s.
It has really been a blessing to sing with Sonnenberg Station, and Tim’s efforts made that all possible. He has wonderful musical gifts but shares them with humility. He is a leader but also a servant, and he is a person who thinks deeply about life and his place in God’s world but also tells “Dad” jokes.
Thanks, Tim for the ways that you’ve brought joy to listeners and singers alike, and for transitioning the group into the capable hands of Tim Yoder. Continue to touch lives the way that only you can.
-Bill Cook