Rehearsal Notes

Dr. Clark Roush, Endowed Chair for the Performing Arts

It Takes a Village
This familair phrase seems to best capture the things in my heart this evening. I am writing this blog post as I reflect on the phenomenal performance of "Elijah" the York College Concert Choir gave earlier today. I could not possibly be prouder, and yet, I must share the "glory." With the biblical precedent of "give honor to whom honor is due," I must thank some people.

First - thank you to all of the past Concert Choir members who helped me build a program recognized for its choral artistry. If we had not built what we have, I would not have received the invitation for us to participate. All of those intense rehearsals, tours, concerts, etc... - wow, were they worth it. You would have been so proud if you could have heard us!

To my current students - as usual, I committed you to something and then you just had to do it. Thank you for making the process as enjoyable as the product! You have grown SO much this semester, which will reap great dividends next year when I need maturity - vocally, spiritually, mentally, and emotionally. I know you will deliver, because you always do! Thank you for making one hour of every school day absolutely fabulous. I hope you realize how proud I am of you, and how much I love and respect you. 

To an administration that supports our efforts in a multiplicity of ways I offer my most sincere gratitude. I truly have it better than many of my counterparts in other places - I try to remain aware of this. I also appreciate your physical attendance at our concerts, your budgetary support, your logistical help (God bless Todd Sheldon), and your belief that who we are and what we do is central to York College. 

To my colleagues at YC - every one of you that contributes to what my singers become, thus allowing them to have an impact on my risers. I hope you realize that even though I'm often in the spotlight, that I truly bow for all of us. I am acutely aware that I am not the sole creator of who these students are becoming. A particular debt is owed to those who assist in my singers' performance development: Amy Fraser, Dr. Adrienne Dickson, Dr. Gayleen Nestor, and John Baker. You are incredible people to work with, and your support of what I do is not ancillary - it is crucial. I am blessed to work with you!

To the wonderful "posse" that follows us and supports us, I say "thank you!" It is so rewarding to see YC students, faculty, staff, family members, and the like at our events. I am blessed, and the way you support my singers' efforts is important to both them and myself. 

To my beloved Queen - you share so much of me, and do so with such grace and dignity! You are the one God used to truly teach me how to love. Your pride in what I do and your unwavering belief in me are anchors in my life. I do more than thank you - I adore you!

To the music - what a difference you make in our lives. Thank you for touching us, making us think, moving us to tears, and for making us better - not just as performers, but as people. Thank you for blessing us with a gift we can return for the benefit of so many.

To my ever faithful God - you have blessed me more than I deserve. You have called me to Your college, to do YOUR work, with the wonderful people YOU send me, and then YOU grace my efforts beyond belief. You are truly a good God, and I cannot think of a more rewarding career than offering You through music to as many people as YOU will allow. 

My most sincere appreciation to all who helped make "Elijah" become a reality. It was an incredible experience. It seems fitting to end with words from two of the epic choruses in "Elijah" - "Thanks Be to God," and, "Lord our creator, how excellent Thy name is in all the nations!"