Once a year, the Mormon Tabernacle Choir says farewell to those in the choir who have reached the age of 60, or, who have served in the choir for 20 years (whichever comes first).
Today was that day.
I really didn't know any of the retirees too well. But I've had the opportunity to sit next to/sing with some of them which has provided time to get to know them a little bit. They are great people--and even those I didn't get to know or have a conversation with, I will miss their "hello's" and friendly smiles in the hallways.
I think the most poignant moment for me was when, during rehearsal, we had the retirees stand to be recognized. I looked over at one of the baritones and as we clapped, tears just started trickling down his face. At that moment, I had a choice. I could try and feel what he was feeling. Or I could keep that part of my heart closed. I chose the latter. I didn't want to even try and feel what he was experiencing. In reality, I couldn't anyway, because I wasn't him. But to tackle that reality is not something I wanted to do today. My time will come soon enough.
As one of the goals of this blog is to provide a behind-the-scenes look at the choir, I wanted to share how a Retirement Ceremony works.
Following the broadcast of Music and the Spoken Word, all of the choir members go back downstairs to change into their normal Sunday attire, put away their music folders, etc. While this is happening, the stage crew is busy clearing off the orchestra setup, and exchanging music stands for rows of nice cushioned chairs for each of the retirees to sit in. The non-retiring choir members come back up to the choir loft and sit wherever they'd like while the stage crew finishes setting up.
About 10:30 or so, the ceremony starts with President Jarrett giving introductory remarks to those in the audience (which consists of family and friends of the retirees--many of who came around 8am to see the choir rehearse, and then perform Music & the Spoken Word). Following the remarks and an opening prayer, each retiree comes to the front podium where President Jarrett gives them a plaque and Director Mack Wilberg reads a short 2-3 minute letter that the retiree wrote. These letters often include highlights of the retiree's experiences with the choir, what they will miss, the support they've received from family and friends, and sometimes a particular mention of individuals who have helped them in their journey.
When all of the letters have been read, the retirees stand up, face the rest of us in the loft, and get to hear the choir members sing "God Be With You 'Till We Meet Again."
It's all quite an emotional and tearful time for those leaving.
And even though I didn't know them too well, I'm sincerely grateful for their service and contributions over the years. They have helped touch countless lives with their talents and testimonies.
Next week, of course, we'll welcome in those who will take their place.
Until next time, God be with you.
(Pictures of the Retirement Ceremony, credit Facebook)
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