Thanksgiving, while an American holiday, is in family of festivals from across the world that celebrate the harvest. It’s a time of gratitude, and a time of family.
Sometimes I think it’s my favorite holiday; setting aside the American additions of televised athletic conflicts and impending consumerism, the holiday, at its core, is about holding gratitude for your family.
Which is why I take a minute on Thanksgiving morning to let my current families – my ensembles – know how thankful I am for them. I’m thankful for the humans in every choir I conduct, and I’m thankful for the opportunities we have to make music together.
Thanksgiving is a time to remember all the families you’re thankful for. The one you were born into and the ones you make. Take a minute to express it. It’s a gift.