When I was asked this question, I had to stop for a moment and reflect. You see, I’m not sure that’s the right question. I don’t miss singing – for I do it every day to some extent. I do, however, miss singing with my brothers in harmony, and I DEFINITELY miss singing for an audience. Yeah, there’s no doubt that I’m a bit of a “ham” in that regard. I crave that look on people’s faces when they hear those chords ring – tapping their feet to the tunes, swaying back and forth. It makes them feel good, and that shows on their faces with the smiles that shine back at us.
I also miss the rewarding chills that overtake us when four parts generate five notes – that overtone that warms our heart and brings a smile to everyone within earshot. I miss the fun, the camaraderie, and the sheer joy of making a cappella music. Pure. Simple, yet complex. Whether an upbeat ragtime, or a slow and heartfelt ballad, the joy of music unites us all and adds positivity where it was previously missing.
I also miss the storytelling that is such an integral part of our craft. I miss the look of sheer delight when we sing a song that is familiar to our audience but sung in a way they may not have heard before. I miss the times we can get together to cheer someone up, or to remember a love one who has crossed over that bridge to the chorus eternal.
These are the things I miss most. What do YOU miss most?
