Joy!

Those of you who haven’t been reading this blog for very long should probably read this post before continuing...

Bearing all that in mind, imagine my joy when I came home from band practice and saw THIS waiting for me: I actually gasped.

It was like old friends meeting up again: Stephen had actually sent me a message while I was in the Faroes to let me know, but I thought it was his idea of a joke (albeit tasteless*), or just something they had int’ North. I sent my parents out looking for it, but they didn’t find it.

Until yesterday.

Dreams really can come true. I hope this story of love and loss and love again will inspire you to follow your own dreams.

On another note, I thought I’d upload this video from the Faroes. We had a guest conductor over from Norway for the band’s anniversary (see here) and we told him it was traditional to play a verse of Joy in The Salvation Army in our band festivals. As he stood up to conduct us, we started to sing our parts instead of play. It took us a little while to get going (as you’ll hear), but I think it sounds pretty cool. It only really worked because it just so happens that nearly all the girly instruments (cornet, horn) are played by girls, while the men are playing the big, tough, manly instruments (euphonium, bass). In the band rehearsal when we first practiced, I was like ‘Have you seen the euphonium part?’ but I think I got it... I know I’m quite loud, but I was standing right next to the microphone!

Enjoy!

*unlike Yoghurty Special K.

Before and After

Firstly, HAPPY NEW YEAR! (Somewhat late, I know!)

BEFORE

Ok, so we’re here. Today’s a day I’ve been really excited about, but now I’m a little nervous. Those of you who read my blog regularly will know that it’s always been a dream of mine to get a gospel choir going at my church (Salvation Army) – not just because I love gospel music, but because I think it’s something that others will enjoy, invite their friends to and get excited about. And we all need a little excitement, don’t we?

Well, I started making plans a year ago, but for various reasons (me being out of the country was a big one), it got pushed back and back, and I didn’t know whether it would be possible at all.

But here we are!

The first rehearsal is tonight. Reaction to posters, leaflets and invitations has been really positive. I’ve been preparing, but I have NO idea how many people are going to be there tonight. Fifteen would be a good number, I reckon. Yep, I’d be very happy with fifteen.

So, here goes nothing!

AFTER

Ten minutes before the rehearsal was due to start, there were two of us.

But I was trying to keep positive.

Five minutes before the rehearsal was due to start, there were five of us.

But I was trying to keep positive.

And then, just as the rehearsal was due to start, fifteen others came, meaning we had twenty singers, and a very happy John!

The rehearsal went really well – it was great to see so many people there. The sound was great, and people really seemed to be enjoying themselves. I know I did. Obviously the true indicator is how many come back next time, but I’m hopeful. And thankful that so many people were prepared to give something new a go.

Let’s see where this takes us!