Mr. Harler, mentor, supporter, educator, beautiful conductor, friend. The reason I moved to the U.S. was because I wanted to become a choral conductor. But when I first arrived, I had a negative experience: my English was—well, there was no English. Even though I did well in classes, I didn’t feel like I belonged. I even considered doing something else.
Then I met Mr. Alan Harler. It was at an ACDA Conference in Boston. I had read about Temple, and when I saw his name tag, I approached him to ask about the choral program. We sat for coffee, and he ended the conversation by inviting me to audition. I was floored! A few months later, I was auditioning for him, Mr. Poch, Janet Yamron, and Dr. Cornelius, my choir mentors.
I owe him so much. The Bach motet performances under his direction were transformative.
Mr. Harler never treated me with condescension. He was honest and demanding, but he never, ever looked down on me. (FYI: he’s one of the few people who could make fun of my accent without making me feel bad.) And that’s because he truly made me feel accepted, respected, empowered. He loved Puerto Rico. He really got us!
I owe him more than words can express. I’m sorry I didn’t get to say goodbye, but I’ll always remember his laugh and his wise advice.
Descanse en Paz, maestro.