Jubilate Deo omnis terra. (Sing joyfully to God, all the earth.)
Upon winging their way to the western USA, choir members gathered to rehearse for three days at a church in Brownsville, Oregon. They greeted each other generously with grins and guffaws, glad to be together after months of lonely practice alongside Bluetooth speakers. To be sure, after three days of serving with rigor as conscientious choral musicians, the overall level of energy was in a state of wane. A new member in the bass section spoke candidly: “It’s a lot of work; it’s tiring because you’re doing one thing all day long.” One of the new tenors had this takeaway: “It was less taxing than anticipated … not monotonous. It felt very productive.”
Give me, for shelter, shadow of Thy cross.
A highlight mentioned by multiple choir members was the food served by our talented cooks. Indeed, this sustenance played an outsize role in our music making, furnishing calories to sustain forty living instruments for many hours of intense physical, spiritual, and social activity. Sincere thanks to Darlene Kauffman and her team!
I am the candle of the Lord, and truth and love more powerful than sword!
Wendell is our gracious conductor and did well to keep the choir engaged while using the rod and the goad sparingly. “You be the little engine that could.” Many characteristics of musicality were explored while interacting with deeply meaningful texts and music. Kristin, our spirited vocal coach as well as full-time alto, provided helpful tips and exercises for shaping the choral bubble. “Embrace your inner cow.”
Upon those who dwelt in the land of gloom a light has shone.
As we embark on the tour, we are grateful for the rich, focused time of preparation we could spend as a choir. It was a time of bonding — with our section mates, our conductor, our God, our repertoire. We anticipate also bonding with our audiences in worship, wonder, and friendship. “There are two places we love our people — onstage and offstage.”
The Lord almighty grant us a quiet night and a perfect end. Amen.
Matthew Miller
Tenor 2