For me, the return of cooler weather coupled with shorter days, a bit of rain and school starting again is a sure sign that it’s fall and time to get started on new activities after a summer of travel, gardening and enjoying family and friends. One of my favorite fall activities is singing with Aurora Chorus. I love returning to our rehearsal space at PSU and seeing my sister singers, getting my music packet with songs for our upcoming concert and hearing a first run through of each song. There is energy and excitement in the room as over 100 women study their music and anticipate the shared experience of performing the pieces for our audiences at our concert “Secret Gardens of the Heart” on December 15th and 16th.
In addition to singing, this year I have a new role in the community of Aurora singers. I’m serving as the chair for the Aurora Chorus Board of Directors. In this capacity I’ll be working with our new Executive Director, Jaclyn Leeds, and other board members along with our conductor, Joan Szymko, to strengthen our organization, reach out to an expanded audience and recruit new singers. For over 20 years the Aurora Board has been tasked with the responsibility of keeping the organization vital, financially sound and relevant to our community. It’s a big job but I take to heart the message from one of our upcoming concert pieces that suggests, “…reach out a hand, no need to fear cause all we need is right here” [Sam Turton].
Whether you are a current or former singer, an Aurora fan or someone who recently found us on the internet, I extend a warm welcome to our current concert season. I look forward to hearing your ideas and suggestions for our organization and appreciate your support. I’ll see you at rehearsal or in the audience!