Cheri A. Emahiser
The SaddleBrooke Singers have begun rehearsals for their December concert titled “A Hollywood Hollyday!”
We have started practicing some wonderful music, most of which you will recognize from holiday movies. We can’t wait to sing for you the tune, “Somewhere in My Memory” from the movie Home Alone.
Our Director Is Fabulous
Once again, our director, Tanya Elias, has made exciting song selections and the choir is enjoying becoming familiar with the music. Our initial rehearsal showed we have room for improvement when it comes to some of the timing and accuracy. But Tanya has a wonderful way of inspiring the choir to master even the most difficult musical pieces. Always encouraging, motivating, and smiling, she uses an amazing variety of techniques to engage us and keep us on track.
For right now, we’re all a bit unsure of ourselves. Is that the right note? Should I have been singing a staccato beat? How in the world will I ever get that scat rhythm mastered? However, with Tanya’s excellent direction we will not only become comfortable with the music but be able to incorporate her instructions around dynamics, phrasing, and expression.
The Bond Beyond Music
Rehearsals aren’t just about music; they’re about camaraderie. During breaks, we singers share stories—about our day, our families, and our love for music. The heart of any choral group lies in unity. As voices blend, individual identities dissolve. Beyond the technical aspects, choral rehearsals are a space for building community. Singers often form strong bonds through their shared love of music.
Community and Connection
This sense of camaraderie is essential for creating a cohesive and emotionally resonant performance with sopranos, altos, tenors, and basses merging into a single entity—a living, breathing instrument. The room swells with sound—the culmination of hours of practice, passion, shared purpose, our love for music, and a desire to harmonize.
We Hope You Can Be There!
“A Hollywood Hollyday!” will be performed on Sunday, Dec. 8, at 4 p.m in the DesertView Performing Arts Center. Learn more at saddlebrookesingers.org.