Setting a purpose with your ensemble is a valuable thing to do first thing in the year.
Actually, second thing. First thing should be singing. But maybe halfway through your first rehearsal, pause to breathe and talk purpose.
Having your own reasons for being in a choir is great – but we can have a unified purpose, too. Defining that purpose clearly as the rehearsal process begins is the best way to make sure at least some of every person’s work is toward that common purpose.
What is a good purpose? Here are some I use:
- Learn to sing close harmony together.
- Expand the realm of music we love and respond to.
- Camaraderie.
- Build practical musical skills.
- Develop a lifelong love of music making that we will each continue to tap into after this year is over.
- Singing together.
Simple or complex, personal or universal: the point is to establish a purpose we can all rally around.
What is your purpose for your choirs? Are they the same for every choir?