The Desert Oasis Quartet announces personnel changes that took effect earlier this month of March.
After the quartet reformed in 2008, Bob Fincher became the group’s tenor and spokesman. However, he resigned from the group late last year to focus on other commitments he had made.
In January 2009, longtime lead singer and founder, Daniel Burritt, resigned to pursue other interests and spend more time with his family. Daniel had been the group’s only lead singer in its ten-plus year existence.
“I will miss these two individuals and all they brought to the quartet,” says current baritone and pianist Nathan Maack, “Each one brought something special to the group and their voices and presence will be missed but never forgotten. They continue to be friends and both Ron and I support the directions they have taken.”
Nathan Maack and Ron Brinkman (bass) continue with Desert Oasis as co-owners. Nathan handles the music and performance aspects of the group and Ron handles the business-end of things.
In November 2008, Desert Oasis welcomed Bud Burt to the tenor position. He along with his wife currently lives in Wickenburg, Arizona, but is considering moving back to the Phoenix area. He has sung in different quartets throughout his life so is no stranger to the four-part harmonies. Bud is over 80 years old and enjoying every day.
In March 2009, Desert Oasis asked Gary Burt, Bud’s son, to join the group as the lead singer. Gary and his wife live in the Phoenix area. This is Gary’s first job in a quartet and is doing a tremendous job.
Sunday, March 29, the new Desert Oasis lineup sang in two Bible Study classes at their home church as part of their “Sunday School Tour.” Both classes seemed to enjoy the singing. Three songs were sung in each class, At Calvary, Have Thine Own Way, and Since Jesus Came Into My Heart.
