Ever notice how a particular song can take you down memory lane? Or how a song moves you and makes you want to dance, uplifts you, or makes you cry? Music triggers memories, can make you emotional, have a healing effect, and even be an act of service.
I’ve always enjoyed singing and started when I was in the glee club in elementary school. I would later join my High School choir and take voice lessons for a semester in college. It wasn’t until I joined the School of Practical Philosophy’s choir in New York that I learned singing could be an act of service. Composed of student volunteers, the choir practiced each week in preparation for a performance at the end of the year. We shared our voices and sang to entertain and uplift our audience.
Self expression and the ability to touch others through song is something special. When I listen to beautiful music and outstanding voices, for example, I am moved and uplifted. My husband and I were amazed by the choir at The Cathedral of the Assumption in Louisville, Kentucky. We had the pleasure of hearing them sing during midnight mass last Christmas. They sounded like professionals!
Now, my husband and I are members of a local choir in Ohio. We volunteer our time and voices. With weekly rehearsals plus regular practice at home, it can be a lot of work, but overall it’s fun and rewarding. It helps that we have such a dedicated choral director who inspires and challenges us to do our best. Oftentimes, I’m moved by the inspirational songs we sing, and I hope the audience is touched too. Having a positive impact on others through song is a blessing.
We performed our Spring concert in May, and the chorus is taking a break for the Summer. While I appreciate the hiatus, I look forward to the camaraderie in the Fall and continuing to sing as an act of service.
