Written by: Emily Maple
What a joy to see new and old friends!
The Cardinal Chorale reunited yesterday for the first day of Workshop! Once everyone was settled in, we made our way to Walter Hall for our very first rehearsal as the 30th Edition of the Chorale. It’s always amazing to see how much we grow throughout the week.
After rehearsal, we split into our voice parts for voice checks. This gives the staff a better idea of each singer’s vocal qualities and how we fit into the ensemble. It also gave us time to bond as a section and really get to know one another.
We then had another full-group rehearsal, which allowed us to fine-tune the smaller artistic details in our repertoire.
Our lovely meal was provided by the Muskingum Dining Hall staff, who always make sure we’re well fed. We appreciate them and their endless hospitality!
We returned to Walter Hall for another group rehearsal—and to meet our Opus for the first time.
An Opus is a small group of about five singers and a few staff members who are given the opportunity to really connect on a personal level. Each morning, singers and staff have breakfast with their Opus. During this time, we come up with fun challenges and a (usually silly) “dismissal” at the end of the meal. Toward the end of the week, we even compete in the Opus Olympics! There are so many fun and meaningful things we do together as an Opus.
After a full and fulfilling first day, singers and staff tucked in for the night at the residence hall. We’re ready for another fun-filled day of music tomorrow!