Why join a choir?

Our summer choir at St. Alban's has been a tremendous experience. Alas, summer is drawing to a close, and it is almost time for us to pause summer choir until next year. I have reflected on how the summer choir has affected me, and I think it is a good starting place as we return to rehearsals for parish choir at the end of this month. 

Scripture tells us, "Are any among you suffering? They should pray. Are any cheerful? They should sing songs of praise." (James 5:13) In my many years of singing and directing choirs, I think this verse demonstrates the power of being in a choir. Summer choir has allowed me to meet and connect with people in a short period of time. I have witnessed strangers become friends during this time.  Choir is a community where we can support each other.  This is not just my anecdotal evidence. Cornell University published a study where they found, "Choral singers report having stronger relationships, spending more time with friends, and making a bigger effort to get to know others in their communities compared to the general public. Further, nearly three-quarters of singers say participating in a choir boosts their optimism; 80 percent of choir singers expect more good things than bad things to happen to them, compared to only 55 percent of the general public." 

Read About the Cornell University Study Here

Optimism in such a time as this?  We could all do with a healthy dose of optimism.

While singing in a choir can be group therapy, it isn't our primary purpose.  We are called to lead the congregation song in praise. In those moments, that is where the beauty of choir is incredibly evident.  This season, the choir will be joined by various instrumentalists including members of the Charlotte Symphony. I'm particularly enthused about the Carolina Brass Quintet joining us in November, and we will have brass playing on Christmas Eve.  And the choir will be even better with you in it!

Here's the ask: If you feel a nudge to come join us, I humbly invite you to join. Previous experience in a choir is not required. We welcome everyone within the St. Alban's community and beyond. We rehearse on Wednesday nights not only to practice the music, but it also allows to connect with and support each other.  If you would like more information, please reach out. We can have coffee or lunch to discuss this further. music@saintalbansdavidson.org

Parish Choir will begin weekly rehearsals on Wednesday, August 26^th from 7:00-8:30 p.m.