You know that feeling, when you're in your own world and nothing really matters? Like you are running a hundred miles an hour and nothing can touch you? That's how I feel when I sing.
I have been blessed to be a part of the Lenoir Rhyne Youth Chorus for almost ten years now, and it my absolute favorite thing on earth. We rehearse every week, perform two concerts, and tour every year. It has been the most amazing experience and has become a part of who I am.
Our Christmas concert was this Tuesday. The morning started off rough. I was recovering from what I assume was a 24 hour stomach bug. I prayed all morning that I would be well enough to perform. I would have been devestated to miss it! I got some rest, took a Zofran (my best friend and partner in crime) and began feeling much better. Nana and Kayla both came to the concert and spent the night. They made it so special for me. That's what's so great about my family. We celebrate each other. When one of us succeeds, we all do.
The concert was one and a half hours of pure joy. There is nothing more beautiful than hearing 110 young people lifting their voices to prais God. I am a Meistersinger, the group for older kids, and also a Chamber Singer. The Chambers are a select group of voices, only about 10-15 strong. Ms. Jowers chooses those that most exemplify musicality and dedication to participate. I was so excited to sing as a Chamber this year! We did all Christmas music for the concert. We sang everything from traditional carols to hymns to pieces in other languages. But, the thing that they all had in common was the thing that links every human heart on this earth together. They all glorified God and the wonder that is the holiday season. As we sang of the miracle of Jesus birth, I felt complete peace and contentment in my heart.
The last piece we sang was O Come All Ye Faithful. It is a very common song to sing during the holiday season. But, if you really listen, it has such a beautiful message. It made me really stop and listen to what it was saying. 110 Minisingers and Meistersingers filed out of the risers and into the aisles of the church. During the third verse, as the congregation continued with the words, we sang a beautiful descant. I'm a first soprano, I live for descants. When you sing it, and your vebrato voices fill the space... there's nothing like it.
LRYC has become a huge part of who I am. It's something that is unique to me. Out of all the band kids in my family, I am the only chorus kid. Well, I'm actually both. But choir is where my heart is. I definitely got the love of voice from my mom. She is an amazing singer! She often tells me stories of her high school choir, The Counterpoints, and I am thankful that we have that in common.
Ms. Jowers is one of the best people I know. She teaches us to love and appreciate music, not just notes on a page. She teaches us of a world where music is alive and palpable, where every note you sing is an opportunity to touch someone's heart. This last year, as her husband has begun and won his battle with cancer, I have seen a beautiful example. I will always be thankful for LRYC and what it has taught me. Whether it's a tour abroad singing in Canterbury Cathedral or a concert in a small church just a few miles down the road, every note is special to me.
With Love,
Sarah
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