In his article, “A Time for Sowing: Planting your Musical Garden” (SWACDA Common Times Vol.26, No.3), Bryan Taylor draws a parallel between gardening and the church music program. He discusses several ways for the church choral musician to experience a sense of renewal. Here are just two points:
Look and listen beyond your garden. Looking at and listening to others’ produce is a good thing. Gather a file of great church choir recordings and learn from your regular listening sessions during the off season. Order copies of favorite works and increase your musical garden’s plant types. Suggestions include: St. Olaf College Choir, Mormon Tabernacle, Atlanta Sacred Chorale, and the National Lutheran
Choir. There are many others, I’m sure.
Water your garden. Learn to water and feed your garden in an appropriate manner. You personally need rest and proper nutrition. Take time for your family and yourself and get away from it all, knowing that God will tend the garden in your absence. You know he’s been doing it with you all along. And don’t forget to allow the choir plenty of rest. They have earned it.
(For additional articles on a dazzling array of choral topics, visit ChorTeach.)
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