For those of us sitting in Sydney wondering how our colleagues were getting on in New York, here is a report from Naomi, written after, she confesses, too little sleep.
Well, here we are. The morning after the Big Event. There was such a long build up to it. Then the long flight. Then the getting together for rehearsals with 300 people from 13 choirs. The adrenalin shot up instantaneously.
I found the rehearsals exhilarating and exhausting. I felt somewhat on edge and very aware of the comfort of Carlos’ relaxed and warm style of directing us. I wondered whether this was taking us to uncomfortable heights. Are we coping? How will we measure against some of the big voices around us?
And then the big day came. In Carnegie Hall, first the general rehearsal with the orchestra, then a short break, then the concert.
Just standing there, soaking up the atmosphere of that beautiful, historic hall and reflecting on the greatest voices and sounds performing on the stage on which I was standing, sent shivers down my back.
And then Maestro Griffith lifted his baton and ‘Selig, Selig ‘ sounded softly through the hall, and I sensed immediately the power and joy of the Manly Warringah Choir. Yes, it was an amazing experience to sing in that hall. Yes, it was so good to sing that gorgeous Ein Deutsches Requiem again but for sheer enjoyment of singing, being moved by the music and identifying with its meaning, the event in the Cardinal Cerreti Chapel is the winner. I know from conversations I had that many of us share this view.
So these for me are the two highlights:
First, comments made by members of other choirs in chatting at the post-concert dinner, and I almost quote: “I could feel that you guys were so well prepared” (thank you, Carlos!) and “It was great standing next to people from your choir and being supported!”) And second, the camaraderie amongst us twenty MWCers. Hugs, laughter, sharing the New York experience, getting to know some folks better – that was precious.
I think I can speak on behalf of all of us in saying: it has been an awesome experience; it will be fabulous to return to Sydney and the MWC.
And those of us in Sydney eagerly await your return, to hear more of this wonderful experience, and, of course, to have you all singing with us again.