They have a program that they're calling OPERAtunities, wherein the organization commissions an opera to be performed entirely by children and adolescents. Since it's in Hawaii, the operas can range from focusing on old Hawaiian folktales and issues of Hawaiian import. I was put in charge of introducing and rehearsing the opera to the group. Luckily it was pretty sightreadable, and enough of the kids remembered me so that I didn't have to create that sense of rapport with them in this short time.
For a while now I have been reflecting a lot on my intent to continue my education and get a Masters in Conducting. I've been feeling - uninspired. I've been thinking that I'd be fine with just getting an office job and just doing music on the side.
This has made me rethink that.
The choir meets only a couple of times a week. Being a part of even just this rehearsal process has been an amazing experience. I have rehearsed them twice now, and both times I have gone home wanting to just come back and work. I have something that they haven't looked at before, that I basically have free reign to... and so little time.
It has reminded me of why I love music.
I love everything about it - even the theory of it (to some extent...). I love the atmospheres that it can create. I love, as conductor, the ability to introduce a piece of music and to take the singers through the experience. I love the feeling when they finally get it, and the piece really starts to jive.
I love the collaboration that comes from choirs, and I'm starting to realize exactly what being a conductor means.
It's not enough to simply know the score and stand in front of a group of people and wave your arms. In fact, it's really not about you at all.
It's about using every part of your musical self - your technique, your interpretations, your hand gestures - to create a warm, intelligent, musical atmosphere that allows your singers to express themselves to the best of their abilities. You are there to provide guidance and direction from the chaos. You are not the emperor - you are the catalyst.
I haven't felt this in a very long time. To leave from rehearsal wanting only to come back and rehearse some more. To make sure my singers are healthy and happy and loving every minute of it.
This is why I conduct.
