The Tabernacle Choir has been in a fairly steady rhythm lately in preparing for our weekly program on Sunday and also preparing for our upcoming tour. And while my attitude towards the Choir is always in this "up and down" pattern, I find myself in an upswing--which feels good of course. There are probably a number of reasons for that.
First, having the new people join us always gives me a boost because I see their enthusiasm, I see how hard they work, how utterly grateful they are to be in the Choir, and how they see everything with a fresh perspective. It's all rather contagious.
Second, we've been singing some great songs lately. Just today we sang "Fight the Good Fight, With All Thy Might", which is one that we've not sung during my 10-year tenure here. I first sung it in Concert Choir at BYU back in the 90s. But since then, it's one of those pieces that has stayed in the archive. And it was refreshing to bring it back. Love the words, the energy, and the way it's put together musically.
Third, despite how I struggle with mentally preparing for a tour and all the things that go with it, I'm actually excited to go. I have an awesome roommate (Wes), I have never been to Mexico City (though I have some good friends who live in Mexico), and it will be good to just get away and temporarily make space for this musical missionary event. Plus, it's fun to get to know other choir members on tour since we actually have more than a 20 minute break to talk!
Speaking of tour, the songs are coming together nicely. We have 19 songs we're learning/reviewing and about six of those or so are in Spanish--meaning they are either completely in Spanish or there are verses of the songs that are in Spanish. The Missionary Department of the Church has distributed over 140,000 cards (think business type cards for size) to the various missions in Mexico and missionaries will be handing out these cards to those they come in contact with, inviting them to tune in (via YouTube) to watch the concert live-streamed. It also provides them with a link to go to, where they can learn more about the Choir and the Church in general. Word is that the missionaries have been excited to receive them and utilize them in their efforts to build friendships and spread the good Word.
Also speaking of tour, it's been very interesting (and, to be honest, a bit frustrating) to see how few details we've received about this upcoming tour. The detailed itinerary won't be released until June 6th--which is only a week from when we leave. (Keep in mind that with past tours, we'd get details months in advance). I can only surmise that this has to do with security. The less that the public knows as to our exact whereabouts and when we'll be certain places, etc., probably the more safe we'll be. I know that Mexico has had its share of media focus lately, and not in a great way. So I understand the precautions. That said, some of us like to take time to prepare for what's ahead of us by understanding the details. But anyway... I can't complain too much. I'm sure it'll all work out and we'll have a good/rewarding time. It'll be good to be with the Mexican people, to hear their beautiful language, and to sing songs that will hopefully uplift and inspire them.
Until next time, may God be with you.
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