Benefits of Singing in a Chorus
“…choral singing delivers a significant boost to positive mood. It also lifts self-esteem while reducing feelings of depression. It enhances one’s sense of purpose and meaning, and increases sensitivity toward others.” (Pink, Daniel H., When)
Even on a Friday morning in a Greenline rehearsal at Brimmer and May? Observationally, I would say yes, and I base that on an actual observation. Recently, I sat in on a Greenline rehearsal conducted by Scott Koven, Middle and Upper School Choral Director and accompanied by Eric Kamen on the piano. During the class Mr. Koven put his group of approximately 30 Upper School students through their paces in preparation for the singing of “The Star-Spangled Banner” at Homecoming. He worked piecemeal with various sections of the chorus—soprano, alto, tenor, bass (and any voice that might be in-between)—and piecemeal with various sections of the national anthem until his students produced the sound he sought. He did this with energy, with a meticulous ear and a meticulous attention to detail. He did this by giving firm, specific direction such as a description of the shape of the mouth, a modeling the quality of the sound, and an example of the pronunciation. He offered frequent positive reinforcement and encouragement. He reminded them of the teamwork involved (paraphrasing here) : ‘It’s about the group; it’s not about me (my conducting); sync with the person next to you, with the people around you.’ He sought excellence—and his students sought it along with him. They sang, they worked, they sang some more.
Did they benefit measurably from this collaborative singing experience—maybe not measurably at the time, but they did bring “purpose and meaning” to their rehearsal and the mood in the room was very positive, even at 10:30 on a Friday morning. Kudos to Mr. Murray for putting a Greenline block on a Friday morning. Kudos to Mr. Koven for his skillful conducting. Kudos to the students for their engagement and wonderful voices. For the students in this group, this choral singing opportunity is a great way to finish out a week of school on a high note. (Pun intended.)
Brimmer and May School
69 Middlesex Road
Chestnut Hill, MA 02467
617-566-7462
Chestnut Hill, MA 02467
617-566-7462
As an inclusive private school community, Brimmer welcomes students who will increase the diversity of our school. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, sex, gender, gender identity and expression, disability, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, or any other characteristic protected from discrimination under state or federal law, in the administration of our educational policies, admissions practices, financial aid decisions, and athletic and other school-administered programs.