MTC Week #134 - King's Singers & Tour Thoughts

The challenge before me in writing this blog post is that I have so much to say! But I think I'll divide all of my thoughts into two segments so as to not be overwhelmed and to not make this too long.

I'll start with the here and now and then go back in time.

This weekend we had the privilege of singing with the internationally acclaimed King's Singers as we presented our Pioneer Day Concert and our Music and the Spoken Word program this morning. A little bit about them:  The King's Singers were founded in 1968, named after the King's College in Cambridge, England. Since that time, singers from this ensemble have come and go. But today, the group is comprised of the following:
 
David Hurley (countertenor 1) – (since 1990)
Tim Wayne-Wright (countertenor 2) – (2009)
Julian Gregory (tenor) – (2014)
Chris Bruerton (baritone 1) – (2012)
Chris Gabbitas (baritone 2) – (2004)
Jonathan Howard (bass) – (2010)

We thoroughly enjoyed hearing them sing this weekend. For me, the highlight was hearing them sing a collection of primary songs arranged by Ryan Murphy. Truly delightful with tight harmonies and honest emotions! The older I grow, the more I come to appreciate these simple primary songs that remind me of my cherished beliefs and the things that matter the most.

As I observed David, Tim, Julian, Chris, Chris, and Jonathan during rehearsals and performances, I could tell by their mannerisms, facial expressions, and actions, that they were all quite different from one another. AND YET, they work together, seamlessly, as one. As they rely on, and count on, one another, their differences work for them and truly magical music is produced. 

Something to think about perhaps, in this world of increasing intolerance.

One last note on the concert. Several of the songs we sang made me think about our pioneer forefathers. And I just want to express my gratitude to them for all of their countless sacrifices and for pushing through the persecution and hardships with a deep and abiding faith in Jesus Christ and a Heavenly Father who's love they felt and relied upon.

As for our European tour!

We were asked by the Church security team not to make any social media posts while we were actually ON tour. I'm sure you can think about reasons why that was a good idea, though it was difficult not to share experiences and thoughts real-time. That said, tour was amazing and I firmly believe the Choir and Orchestra were successful in accomplishing their overall goal: to help others of all faiths and backgrounds feel inspired, feel God's love, feel better, and feel happier. And for members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints who attended the concerts, to let them know they are certainly not forgotten--that the members of the Choir and Orchestra representing the Church came to them because we love them and are grateful for all they do. 

At the end of the day, that's what was most important. The sites were amazing, the halls we performed in were grand, and I plan to share some of those things next week. But overall, I'm just very thankful to have been a part of sharing light and peace through music to the people of Europe.

Until next time, God be with you.