I loved all of the Christmas songs the Tabernacle Choir got to perform today, but I think the one I enjoyed the most was "Es ist ein Ros entsprungen" or, translated "Lo, How a Rose E'er Blooming". While I'm not a huge fan particularly of the title, the song itself--the tune--somehow embodies all of the good things about Christmas. Somewhere along the way when I was smack dab in the middle of my teenage years, Mannheim Steamroller's version of this song made an impression on me and tied together all the positive things about Christmas--which has carried over into my adult years. So, as I sang it today, I felt good and was hoping that others were feeling good listening to it.
Also, it's very rare that the Choir does anything a cappella. It just takes too long for a choir this size to work on and perfect an a cappella song. So when we performed this song today without any accompaniment, the experience seemed to make it all the more special. The happy feelings were a bit deeper--a bit more meaningful. It's almost like a cappella singing (particularly when it's a slower moving piece) causes each singer to have to rely on each other a little more than usual because we're much more exposed. As Bro. Wilberg would say "there's no where to hide". We each have to do our part very well.
Speaking of "very well" AND our conductor Bro. Wilberg AND things that are rare, our conductor gave us a compliment today that I don't think I've ever heard. He said our performance today was "exceptional". I turned to Wes and asked "Did he really just say that?" Haha. Yes, yes he did.
In other news, this next week is THE week! Our busiest week of the year. Rehearsals Tues and Wed, with performances Thur, Fri, and Sat. And Sun of course. I feel like we're ready. Some of the newer choir members will undoubtedly still be looking over their music right up until Thursday. But they are doing great. We'll all get there.
A shout out to all of my fellow choir friends today who were extra loving and supportive. Compliments, hugs, well-wishes, comical commentary, and genuine concern about current life challenges--all of these things were given and received in abundance. Such good people. And on top of that, I got a nice text after the performance today from my wife who continues to support me in this musical journey (and puts up with all of my being gone this coming week). Thanks Jenn!
Last thing: if you weren't able to see last year's Christmas Concert, it will be shown on TV throughout December. Check out this link for details. Regarding this concert, guest narrator Neal McDonough said "Creating this show of Christmas, and talking about the things that I love most, it’s truly a highlight of my career,” said McDonough. It’s so emotional and so powerful what we say on stage. The whole true meaning of the show is all about family. I am just so honored to be part of a show, alongside a world-class group, that really talks about life. It’s about kindness and forgiveness and realizing that it’s not about us, it’s about the greater good. For me to be able to express how I feel onstage, it’s such an empowering feeling because I haven’t really had that ability to be able to speak about how I feel about life and how I like that to be with my art. It’s an inspiring, humbling, fantastic feeling.”
Until next time, God be with you.
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