Journey Behind the Notes: TCATS #258 - Christmas Concert

I always find it a little daunting when approaching the task of writing a review of the Christmas Concert each year. But in actuality, it's not a review, but rather a prioritization of my thoughts and impressions about the experience I had from the point of view of a choir member. (For an actual review, you can go HERE, and HERE. And for some cool video footage, HERE.) That said, this year's concert was a grand event and the audience absolutely went crazy over the beloved guest artist, Kristin Chenoweth.

For five nights, choir members had the opportunity to observe Kristin--which included time at rehearsals and at the concerts themselves. Here are the words that come to mind to describe her: Spontaneous, gracious, loving, happy, thankful, committed, confident, smiley, and funny! She's a very in-the-moment person and I don't know anyone who didn't fall in love with her as a person and as a performer. At age 50 (though looking much younger), one might think she wouldn't be as vibrant as she is--but she certainly lives up to her reputation as one who delights and who brings a smile to those watching and listening to her.

There were several laugh-out-loud moments with her during rehearsals. Just

one: after singing one of her numbers, she went up to Mack Wilberg to give him a high-five. Not anticipating that that is what she'd do, Mack's first response was just to hold out his hand. To which Kristin laughed, took his hand, and then came right in to give him a big hug. Reserved, Ms. Chenoweth is not :)

For me personally, along with enjoying our guest artist, this concert had become a project of upping my game. This was due in no small part to being completely inspired by several of the "1st years." The two in my carpool, Alan and Willy, and then the great friend I sat by during rehearsals and the concerts themselves, Wes, were completely dedicated to learning the music. And not just learning the notes and

Me and great friend Wes

the rhythms, but learning the words themselves--despite the fact they would have a teleprompter to lean on. I quickly came to the mindset of "gosh, if they can do this and be so dedicated, then why can't I?" So, more than I had for the last couple of concerts, I spent oodles of outside time memorizing and memorizing the 15+ pieces, all the while thinking of my 1st-yr heroes. And, to be honest, having everything memorized without having to rely on the prompter is a huge payoff because then, you are more likely to hone in on the meaning of the lyrics and truly enjoy the moment.

What was my favorite concert moment? I think it was the ending. I mean, there wasn't a song I didn't enjoy singing (OK, well, maybe I was a little tired of singing "Hymn of Praise"), but "Angels from the Realms of Glory" is such a magnificent finale. The choir members are singing, the dancers are beautifully and physically expressing the grand Christ-centered feelings we're all feeling, the orchestra is going all out in divinely playing, the guest artist is putting her whole soul into singing and expressing, the bell ringers are ringing.....and it all just culminates into a few minutes of pure grandeur. I get chills every time! Add to that all of the delightful, smile/laugh-producing Kristin moments and you get a Christmas Concert that I will always remember.

As a runner-up, the song "Angels Among Us" was a stand-out to me. Mainly because of the people I thought of, and the feelings it invoked. There have been so many awesome, loving people who have helped me and my family this past year through various challenges, and I truly consider them angels. I also know that my sister Mary, beyond the veil, is also an angel who continues to comfort and uplift many. So as I sang that song, I enjoyed thinking about all of these angels who have been such a source of strength and love.

Until next time, God be with you. And Merry Christmas!
(some photos above courtesy DeseretNews)

PS: Some photos below for your viewing pleasure.