Sunday, September 11, 2011

Give My Regards to Broadway! Cause I'll Never Make It There!

Last night was a treat. The mixed quartet I sing in performed at our local performing arts center. Not on the grand stage in the theater, but in a small venue. We sang for the local high school's class of 1951's class reunion. It was fun.
We began our program with a rousing gospel number called, "Let All the World Rejoice." We followed up with "It Had to be You," "What a Wonderful World," another gospel medley called "Swingin' With the Saints." We took time out to introduce ourselves, and tell a little about each of us, then went into a medley of songs by Indiana composer, Hoagy Carmichael. We finished up our program with a tribute to America, which of course contained segments from several old patriotic standards.
We were a success. I figured those listening were pretty near 80 years old, and they seemed to be attentive and enjoy what we were singing.
I have contemplated giving up this group. I talked to them about it last night. Our soprano and alto were supportive of me if I decide to quit, but our bass was pissed off at me for even thinking about it. My only response to him when he snottily said, "why would you want to quit" was just that I didn't want to do it any more.
Then, while I was up there in front of about 75 to 100 people, looking out at them smiling, and tapping, some even singing along, I thought, "why DO I want to give this up?" So, maybe I need to rethink this through again. It takes a lot of energy, and I can truthfully say that after a performance, and the adrenalin rush wears off, I am pooped. I am, by far, the oldest one in the group. But I love to sing. I also sing in a men's gospel quartet. That's really where my loyalty and love is. That kind of harmony and music speaks to me. (And, I don't have to put up with the snarky bass, either.)
I will continue to ponder, and pray about this decision. It is not one I will rush into lightly, nor hurriedly.

Peace,
JE

3 comments:

Mellodee said...

Of course you must do what is right for you, but remember once you depart it's really hard to go back. I deeply regret pulling out of theater because I let a few jerks get to me. 'Course, that wasn't the same as your situation. Still, if any part of you still loves it, keep at it, at this point in our lives, new music opportunities don't come along anymore.

Wsprsweetly Of Cottages said...

Jimmy, please oh please take off that comment moderation thing. It's a pain in the rear!

Jimmie Earl said...

My Dears,
The comment moderation thing came off once upon a time, and within a few days I was getting a "butt load" of spam, so I put it back on. Sorry, but I have to leave it there.
I know, I know, I don't like them either, but I now understand their purpose. If Blogger was on their toes and up on their technology, this wouldn't be necessary. Others I know who blog have had the same problem.
Please don't stop commenting, though, Mona. I love what you have to say!

Hi, Mel!
Hope it's still raining in TX. Especially in Austin and Arlington.
JE