Absolutely one of the most unforgettable and heartwarming experiences I've had this year, second only to the birth of my son. Reuniting with my fellow St. John's alumni under the guidance of the incomparable Mrs. Scarcella (a true legend, whose first name I still respectfully avoid using) was profoundly inspiring. Those two days were a spiritual journey, reminding me of the passion for music instilled in me by my revered TEACHERS. They reminded me that the music is in all of us; we sing free of charge as instruments of God. In my early years, Mrs. Scarcella taught me the value of dedication to my craft and the team/choir and purpose. Singing has always been a love of mine, though it had taken a backseat for many years. In many ways, I feel like Peter Pan in "Hook" when he goes back to Neverland and learns to fly again...How could I have forgotten this true love of mine? Collaborating again with incredible talents like Brad Naylor and Scott Bonasso rekindled that flame. Mrs. Scarcella, in particular, has been a figure in my life, shaping my path to success in countless ways with her lessons and mentorship. One thing I remember truly recall was how the first day of St. John''s Singers, we all expected to go into musical numbers. Yet, she only had us practice breathing and controlling our breath...We were confused. Yet now I realize, it's the mechanism to sing! It was like the legendary basketball coach John Wooden, 11 time national champion), would teach his players how to properly put on their socks and shoes the first practice each year. She taught us in a way that I still think someone should write a book about. I missed you so much, Mrs. S., Mrs. Parrish, Ms. B, and Mr. B. I will be joining a church choir immediately. LETS DO THIS NEXT YEAR!
What an overwhelming, joyful experience singing with all of you again - and under Mrs. S! This weekend reminded me of how rich so many of my friendships are because of music, and I’m so grateful to have that. Really hope we do this again.
Absolutely one of the most unforgettable and heartwarming experiences I've had this year, second only to the birth of my son. Reuniting with my fellow St. John's alumni under the guidance of the incomparable Mrs. Scarcella (a true legend, whose first name I still respectfully avoid using) was profoundly inspiring. Those two days were a spiritual journey, reminding me of the passion for music instilled in me by my revered TEACHERS. They reminded me that the music is in all of us; we sing free of charge as instruments of God. In my early years, Mrs. Scarcella taught me the value of dedication to my craft and the team/choir and purpose. Singing has always been a love of mine, though it had taken a backseat for many years. In many ways, I feel like Peter Pan in "Hook" when he goes back to Neverland and learns to fly again...How could I have forgotten this true love of mine?
Collaborating again with incredible talents like Brad Naylor and Scott Bonasso rekindled that flame. Mrs. Scarcella, in particular, has been a figure in my life, shaping my path to success in countless ways with her lessons and mentorship. One thing I remember truly recall was how the first day of St. John''s Singers, we all expected to go into musical numbers. Yet, she only had us practice breathing and controlling our breath...We were confused. Yet now I realize, it's the mechanism to sing! It was like the legendary basketball coach John Wooden, 11 time national champion), would teach his players how to properly put on their socks and shoes the first practice each year. She taught us in a way that I still think someone should write a book about. I missed you so much, Mrs. S., Mrs. Parrish, Ms. B, and Mr. B. I will be joining a church choir immediately. LETS DO THIS NEXT YEAR!
Thank you Janet and this wonderful musical memory!!
Wonderful!
What an overwhelming, joyful experience singing with all of you again - and under Mrs. S! This weekend reminded me of how rich so many of my friendships are because of music, and I’m so grateful to have that. Really hope we do this again.