Have I ever mentioned that I'm in a community choir? It's a combination of the Russell Sage College Choir, the St. Augustine Church Choir, some musical types, and me. I've sung with this choir for the last few years, and I've been introduced to challenging music that I wouldn't ever have a chance to sing otherwise.
Tonight we sing Haydn's Creation at the Troy Music Hall, and I can't believe I'm lucky enough to be singing this music.
I love choral music. I love challenging harmonies. And I love recognizing the utter miracle that it is when the piece turns out well. All of the divergent personalities, every level of musical talent, the boring rehearsals - it all works into something amazing. Connie Willis' latest story, "All Seated on the Ground" is all about the accord that can come with singing. I'll have to go to the library and find her quote about church choirs; when I do I'll post it.
I won't be able to sing with this choir again, at least not for a year or two. I'm going to be teaching an early-morning religion class to the teenagers at church come September, and there's no way I can do evening rehearsals. So I'll savor tonight, and hope that I don't come in too early on the last song. Really really really hope.