Cass Tech Harp and Vocal Ensemble
Velma Froude was born on July 7, 1912, in a nurturing environment that fostered her early love for music. At seven, her mother, Florence, recognized her talent and enrolled her in piano lessons, laying the foundation for Velma’s lifelong musical journey. By the age of 11, Velma had not only mastered the piano but was also teaching younger students, showcasing her remarkable skill and dedication. By 14, she was performing for audiences at local schools, captivating listeners with her musical prowess and growing confidence. In 1926, Velma enrolled at Cass Technical High School, where a new opportunity awaited her. She was introduced to the harp, an instrument that was just beginning to gain traction at the school. Within a year, the harp became her foremost passion, and she immersed herself in its enchanting melodies. Her dedication and talent soon led her to perform with both an all-state and a national high school orchestra. The pinnacle of her early career came at age 17 when she had the prestigious opportunity to play at Carnegie Hall—a dream for many musicians. Following her graduation, Velma's exceptional abilities did not go unnoticed; she was invited back to Cass Technical High School to teach harp, sharing her knowledge and inspiring the next generation of musicians. In addition to her teaching responsibilities during the day, Velma often led evening classes, tirelessly dedicating her nights to refining her skills and arranging music for various performances. Despite her demanding schedule, Velma persevered and graduated from Wayne State University, further solidifying her credentials as a music educator. From 1947 until her retirement, she continued to teach harp on weekends and during the summer sessions at Michigan State University. Her influence extended far beyond her classroom; under her rigorous leadership, Cass Tech's renowned Harp and Vocal Ensemble—a distinctive combination of female voices accompanied by harps—gained national recognition for its innovative approach and artistic excellence. Velma Froude's legacy as a passionate educator and talented musician continues to inspire many in the field of music.
Patricia Terry-Ross began her enchanting journey with the harp at Cass Technical High School, where her passion for music was ignited under the expert guidance of Velma Froude. It was within the nurturing environment of this prestigious institution that Patricia discovered her profound love for the harp, setting the stage for her future endeavors. She further cultivated her talents at the esteemed University of Michigan, where she earned a Bachelor's degree and a Master of Music degree. During her academic years, she learned from the distinguished harpist Ruth Dean Clark, whose mentorship shaped her musical style. Additionally, Patricia explored her vocal talents with the gifted Rosemary Russell, broadening her artistic versatility. Determined to enhance her musicianship, Patricia pursued further graduate studies with the legendary harpist Lucile Lawrence at Tanglewood, a renowned summer music festival celebrated for its exceptional faculty and outstanding performances. Lucile Lawrence, known as Professor of Harp at Wayne State University and Principal Harpist for the Michigan Opera Theatre Orchestra, imparted invaluable knowledge and insights that enriched Patricia's approach to music, allowing her to refine her technique and deepen her artistic expression. Throughout her illustrious career, Patricia has performed with the Detroit Symphony Orchestra on multiple occasions, captivating audiences with her skill and passion for the harp. Her commitment to music education earned her significant acclaim; she was recognized as the Detroit Public Schools Teacher of the Year and was a finalist for the Michigan Teacher of the Year during the 1992-1993 academic year. This recognition highlights her exceptional teaching abilities and reflects her unwavering dedication to inspiring and nurturing the next generation of musicians, ensuring her love for music resonates with her students.
Lydia Cleaver is an exceptionally talented harpist whose musical journey began at Cass Technical High School in Detroit, Michigan. Under the expert guidance of Patricia Terry-Ross, Lydia developed her foundational skills on the harp, which sparked her passion for the instrument. She pursued her higher education at the prestigious University of Michigan School of Music, where she earned a Bachelor of Music in Music Education, a Master of Music, and a Specialist degree in Harp Performance, studying with the renowned Dr. Lynne Aspnes. Throughout her career, Lydia has graced numerous stages with her performances alongside various orchestras and choral ensembles throughout the Midwest region of the United States. Her impressive collaborations are a testament to her versatility and talent; she has shared the spotlight with iconic artists such as Aretha Franklin, Diana Ross, Eartha Kitt, and Mickey Rooney in a range of stage productions, including memorable performances in "The Wizard of Oz" and with the renowned ensemble Mannheim Steamroller. As a featured soloist, Lydia has captivated audiences with her performances with esteemed organizations like Vocal Essence in Minneapolis, Minnesota, the Livonia Symphony Orchestra, and the Birmingham-Bloomfield Symphony Orchestra. Her artistry is showcased in powerful works such as William Grant Still’s "Ennanga," which highlights her ability to convey deep emotional resonance through her music. Lydia's contributions to the field have not gone unnoticed; she is listed in Marquis Who’s Who of American Women, a recognition that reflects her impact and standing in the music community. Additionally, she has been honored with the King-Chavez-Parks Visiting Professorship from the University of Michigan, further solidifying her role as an influential figure in music education. In 2007, Lydia embraced the opportunity to take over the harp program at Cass Technical High School, demonstrating her unwavering commitment to nurturing the next generation of musicians. She continues to inspire her students with her passion for music, ensuring that her legacy as a teacher and performer endures.