For the first time, I am starting a semester at GRCC with an identical ensemble to last semester. No drops, no adds.
It’s a situation I’m very excited about. As I often say, the best part about the first semester of a vocal jazz group is the second semester. It just takes so long for a group to become comfortable as an ensemble. To learn how that particular group blends, balances, tunes.
Familiarity is a tricky thing. It can lead to complacency or even, epigraphically, contempt. But I think it can also be the most reliable way to pursue excellence.
I say, seek out familiarity. Seek it out week against week, semester by semester, year over year. Use it as a tool to achieve musical excellence.