Rehearsal Observation
I went to observe Minnesota Chorale's bridges program working with African Voices. It wasn't what I expected at all. I thought that it would be mostly teaching us about african music and how to transfer it into our choral programs. Instead, it was really a rehearsal for the chorale's African Voices concert that was open to the public. I was sitting in the middle of the chorale, and was encouraged to sing along.
The most interesting aspect of this was that the guest artist gave us text sheets and we were taught by wrote. I could see everyones frustration in the chorale with not being in the normal zone of comfort for them. Kathy worked with the guest instructor on running a smooth rehearsal.
I can see many challenges in having a guest come in to work with your choir, especially with large culturally differences. She facilitated the rehearsal in moving smoothly while not invading on the guests authority. The guest artist would sing a line, but it was in a sound that we are not used to and very rhythmic. Kathy would often listen if we were having problems and relay the line to us, so we could hear it in a "western" sense. This seemed very helpful. I was amazed at the way she could translate and find other ways for the chorale to understand material without becoming frustrated or angry.
It was a completely different side of Kathy than you would see in chamber singers. The way that she can change her expectations with each environment is truly amazing. This was a useful thing to observe and gain an understanding of its importance.