To Life Immortal
Yesterday was the first time I chant/sing. I got to church early and sat up front during Orthos. I was nervous because the only thing I know is 'Lord Have Mercy".
When Divine Liturgy started and I stood with the singers, I saw they had music and lyrics for the day. Good thing I can sight read a little; I used to play oboe and viola in Junior High. I was standing next to a loud alto and I tried singing what she was singing for a while very softly. I'm a tenor and couldn't sing as high as she.
I really felt blessed doing this and as time went on, I got over my nervousness and sang with more courage. By the time we got to the Lord's Prayer, things felt more familiar and the altos really helped me out. One of the choir member's granddaughter was acting up in the pews; it helped break my self-consciousness and made me smile.
After services, the choir lady told me I did good for a first timer. She was very happy I helped and they really need tenors. I'm glad I did it; It was fun new experience and I learned about the different tones and music of the Church. I also have more respect for chanter/singers/choir members. It is not easy to get up there and sing and remember the tones and everything.
We all had a great time. More people should volunteer and try it at least once.
Yesterday was the first time I chant/sing. I got to church early and sat up front during Orthos. I was nervous because the only thing I know is 'Lord Have Mercy".
When Divine Liturgy started and I stood with the singers, I saw they had music and lyrics for the day. Good thing I can sight read a little; I used to play oboe and viola in Junior High. I was standing next to a loud alto and I tried singing what she was singing for a while very softly. I'm a tenor and couldn't sing as high as she.
I really felt blessed doing this and as time went on, I got over my nervousness and sang with more courage. By the time we got to the Lord's Prayer, things felt more familiar and the altos really helped me out. One of the choir member's granddaughter was acting up in the pews; it helped break my self-consciousness and made me smile.
After services, the choir lady told me I did good for a first timer. She was very happy I helped and they really need tenors. I'm glad I did it; It was fun new experience and I learned about the different tones and music of the Church. I also have more respect for chanter/singers/choir members. It is not easy to get up there and sing and remember the tones and everything.
We all had a great time. More people should volunteer and try it at least once.
