I read aloud a few pieces of information about each senior in my ensemble at our final concert. One is: what is your favorite moment of your time in the Aces?
The favorite moment is never from an average Monday night rehearsal. It’s a moment from retreat, or a tour, or a concert. It’s from the events with high stakes, significant energy expenditures, and deep commitment.
Why do we, choral conductors, work so hard to create so many of these big events in a year? It’s because we teach every day, but our students remember the big moments. If we can link those favorite moments to the important lessons we teach, then we do a better job of ensuring those lessons are retained.