The Westminster Choir consists of about a hundred people. As a matter of course, such a choir was not built in a day. They put in a lot of effort. They practice regularly, twice a week for two hours during the semester. Also, they lodge together for teamwork during the vacation. ST decided to take part in their practice. As we entered the Han Kyung-chik Memorial Hall where their practice took place, we were welcomed with beautiful voices singing a song. Under quite a pressure, ST joined the choir to sing a song. The song of the day was ‘Cantate Domino’ by Vytautas Miskinis, and they showed a spectacular harmony of men and women. It was quite hard to sing along with their voice because their singing was great to follow and our singing ability was no match for them. The practice was performed to sing each part; Soprano, Alto, Tenor, Basso for a harmony. A professor who directs the choir kept giving detailed advises to the students in every part of the song. The more his advice, the more beautiful and harmonized the song. The atmosphere of the practice wasn’t totally formal, but quite informal and free. Amidst their intense practice, they freely talked about the song. While taking part in their practice, ST thought that the Westminster Choir was open to everyone who likes music and wants to learn about it. As we watched the members practice, ST could feel their passion and proud affection for being there as one of members of the choir.
There were many people joining the Westminster Choir for various reasons such as religion, recommendation by seniors, and curiosity. Whatever the reasons might be, they communicate with and become one through music. It will be a great chance to earn many things; even those who are not good at singing and feel distance because of religion can get something. The Westminster Choir considers chorus as a way of communication. They are waiting for you, with music.
