I should probably apologize for this post up front. Sometimes I just get a form of writers-block in the sense of not being sure what to write about. So, while I don't have anything cool or profound to say today, maybe you'll find something positive in just reading about my feelings and observations regarding today's broadcast experience.
The song line-up today included two songs we sing quite often, one that we sing sometimes, and two new pieces--which was rare. The two new ones were primarily on today's program because we'll be singing them this coming Saturday evening at the ACDA Concert. And what better way to get them ready for a concert, then to include them on a broadcast?! The two new ones were "Oh Watch the Stars" and "And God Said the Day Shall Dawn". The "Stars" one is a spiritual from St. Helena Island, South Carolina that was found by a guy named Alan Lomax who "discovered a treasure trove of singing and story telling on these remote islands that echoed of the oldest African American traditions." It's a very beautiful song and I can just imagine our African American brothers and sisters singing about the stars, the moon, the clouds, and the sky as they faced incredible hardships right after the Civil War. At any rate, it was very rewarding to sing and the flute and clarinet and harp made the accompaniment extra beautiful.
The second song "And God Said" which comes from a musical work called "King David", was also a very beautiful piece. The lyrics themselves really didn't "move me" all that much, but the song itself with it's intricate harmonies was quite impressive.
Our audience today, despite the terrible snowy weather, was quite large and filled most of the Tabernacle. I believe a lot of the audience this time was made up of various choral groups who were here for the ADCA conference which starts tomorrow. Of course one audience member who is always in attendance for these broadcasts was there today. He sits on the top balcony row opposite of where the basses sit which is why I notice him every time. One day I'm going to get up the courage and go ask him his name and why he comes every week! But that was not today.
During the break I spent some time hearing how the weekend went for Wes, Ryan, & Andrew, and then we got back in our seats and performed the program! It all went well and I felt grateful to be there.
Afterwards, we worked on songs for the upcoming Concert, and then at 11:15, I got changed as quickly as possible, went to the library to help put music away, and then sped home with Willy to get to my church meetings on time.
And that was the choir experience for today!
Until next time, God be with you.
No comments:
Post a Comment