Charles Olegar

Charles was the most remarkable of teachers. I had the honor of serving as cantor for the Grand Rapids Choir of Men and Boys, and what I learned from Charles, I was able to take into my own classroom later on as a choral music teacher. Charles was my model for what an instructor of young children should be, and I owe a great deal of whatever success I may have achieved to his example. There will never be another like him.

Wow, seeing all those photos brought back some great cherished memories. Charles was a witty, jovial man, with a passion for music, especially the English tradition of the Men and Boys Choir. He was the best boy trainer I have ever seen. I learned a great deal from him while I learned to develop the Countertenor voice. First, with the Battle Creek Boychoir, then with GRCMB in Grand Rapids, where I still sing. He left us a wonderful legacy in Grand Rapids, and Scott Bosscher, Martin...

Charles taught me to not to just listen to music but to love it with my fellow choristers. Such a profound and positive impact the GR Boys Choir had on my life. Sorry to see this gentle giant leave us.