It's more than singing...

Ok so this is my blog too... I guess its time for me to write something...

I happened to catch a show on PBS a few years ago called Amasong ... I was totally fascinated by it... made sure I watched every time it was on... it planted the seed for me for what I was looking for by way of community and support... I was still not out to my husband... only barely peaking out for myself... not ready to move yet, but it was like peering out of the closet and watching this community of women caring for each other... looking out for each other... supporting each other ... and making beautiful music together... empowering each other in Indiana of all places!!! come on thats almost like Nebraska!! and it gave me a imagine... a vision that replayed in my head of something I wanted in my life... something I wanted to be part of...

Here it is years later and I AM a part of that vision... I am amongst those women... I am a part of that complex musical instrument by way of singing with/working with/sharing with the women of VR... not only has it filled many needs for me, it has been life changing... given me strength to move and become myself... its hard for me to think of VR and not focus on these more serious things... these effects on my life...

There is a fundamental joy I get from being part of VR... the rush when we nail a song... we hit that part that has been so elusive... when the harmonies are right on... I had the opportunity to stand in front of the chorus this spring season... singing in Dilmano... 6 of us singing the first verse... and then having the entire chorus join in... powerfully... it was incredible... I am jealous that Leora always gets to stand in front of us...

On an everyday level... I love that VR fills my Tuesdays with so much laughter... I seldom leave without a smile on my face...

So what does all of this have to do with GALA Festival? Perhaps it doesn't have anything to do with it other than to totally immerse myself in the chorus experience for a few days in Miami... perhaps it is the prospect of filling a venue 10 times the size of what we are use to ... perhaps it is the desire to be in Miami in July (HAH!! can you say air conditioning?). perhaps it is the power of numbers and community that is felt when you are totally surrounded by people like yourself... not only GLBT's but singers... performers.. other lovers of this endeavor...

All I know is that I AM going... for all I know it will be a once in a lifetime experience for me and I just can't miss it!!

Cheryl, A2

Cheryl is a bisectional member of Voices Rising (used to be a first alto, promoted ;) to second alto) who holds the distinction of traveling the furthest to rehearsal every week. She is also the beloved treasurer of Voices Rising.