When Mary (our director) was asked to start a Sweet Adeline group, she responded with, “ Sure, what is it?” Shortly thereafter the La Re Mi Chapter was founded in Laramie, WY. She started as a singer, then soon became involved in Chapter Administration as Chapter Sec. and Chapter President. She was appointed Assistant Director and was invited to be part of the Region 8 DMA (Director of Musical Activities) Faculty. She eventually accepted the position as Chorus Director. Her long career in Sweet Adelines began in 1968. Mary directed the chorus for approximately eight years.

A change in her life brought her to Pocatello, ID. She soon joined the Pocatello Chorus, sang with them for three years, while simultaneously directing the Magic Harmony Chorus in Burley, ID. She directed this chorus for nine years. Mary was asked to be part of the Music Faculty in Region 24 and has been on the music and leadership faculty ever since. The travel time to Burley became too much so she once again sang with Pocatello Chorus. When the directorship position was open, Mary was voted by the Pocatello Chorus to be their new director. She began directing this chorus in 1993 and is still currently the Director today

Mary has extensive music training and continues to attend upper division classes at every opportunity. Some of Mary’s training and background is:

• DMA (Director of Musical Activities) Faculty in Region 8
• Music and Leadership Faculty in Region 24.  (since 1984)
• Vocal training at the University of Wyoming, University of Arkansas, and Idaho State University.
• Vocal symposium at Banff Canada
• Director training at Regional Sweet Adeline Schools
• IES (International Education Symposium) every year (sponsored by Sweet Adelines Int’l)
• Mary continues her own vocal training and also teaches voice.

"Music is the language of the soul"
Mary Liston