For 30 years we met twice a week for the nine month
church choir season. Thursday nights we rehearsed for 60 to 90 minutes,
depending on whether or not we were preparing for a cantata. Sunday mornings we
had the privilege of enhancing worship with an appropriate anthem.
Others would come and go but most of
the time we were the only ones on our part. Some Thursday nights we would
settle into our seats next to each other and let out a big sigh. Then we would
unload our difficult week on each other and sigh again. Soon we would be
occupied with polishing the week’s anthem and learning the new ones for
upcoming weeks. The music both distracted us and lightened our mood and we
would part with a cheerful “see you Sunday” and a song in our hearts.
Other Thursday nights we had a good
week and started with smiles and cheer all around. Those nights we would start
to giggle like school boys when one of us made a comment on a phrase in our
music or, more likely, made a silly mistake. Sometimes, the circumstances led to
full on laughter made worse when we failed to come in on time.
Over 39 weeks of rehearsals, we had
plenty of time to get to know each other well. While the sopranos learned their
part, we had time to share our thoughts, our joys, our triumphs, our fears, and
our sorrows. We also had common struggles and blessings working on other
aspects of our church. When he was upset with someone or something he expressed
it with a sly grin so you knew he wasn’t angry just exasperated.
30 years, 39 weeks a year, 2 hours a week creates
friendships between people who otherwise would probably not have known anything
about each other. Intense concentration, performing music that impacts a
congregation, and many deep conversations creates special memories and a valued
friendship.
Ken’s health took a rapid downward turn in the fall
and this week he went home to join the heavenly choir. Rest in peace Ken. Save
a spot in the tenor section for me - right next to you.
