Choir Sings its Way Through England

Though the average listener might not notice, many of the choir boys (and men) will be quick to tell you that, despite the sense of awe and wonderment many performers feel in the soaring space of Grace Cathedral, the lack of a proper ceiling, unfortunately, swallows up much of the musical sound produced below. 

 

But within seconds of hearing the choir's first performance in Salisbury Cathedral, my reaction was, 'Wow...this is how they're supposed to sound.' Not to detract from their usual stellar performances in Grace Cathedral, but as someone who does not consider himself to be particularly spiritual, I can say, without hesitation or exaggeration, that listening to our mens' and boys' voices fill the naves of ancient English cathedrals is likely the closest I'll ever get to God.

 

Of course, the performances are the focus of the trip; but as a chaperon, you find yourself worried about a hundred and one other things. Fortunately, over the course of eleven days, we managed to avoid any major illnesses, bouts of homesickness, or significant meltdowns as we explored Shakespeare's home in Stratford-upon-Avon, the Roman baths at Bath, and the eternal monoliths of Stonehenge. Our itinerary, as you can imagine, was even more jam-packed than I'm letting on, but the boys met each day with vim and vigor (once they were able to rub the sleep out of their eyes). 

 

And I am so, so thankful that the other three chaperons on our trip--Helen Huber, Chloe Banks, and Lee Bruner--maintained an unparalleled level of patience, competent planning, and CSB's own particular brand of caring justice. Without them, I might have felt compelled to make an early Brexit.

 

All in all, the trip was a smashing success, and I am very thankful to have been a part of it. It takes an immense amount of support and planning to make these tours happen, but to echo the sentiment shared by Dean Malcolm Young at opening chapel, the looks on the faces of the various congregations while our boys sing let us know, in no uncertain terms, that it's all worth the while. If you ever get the chance, please come show your face at Grace Cathedral and hear our boys sing--just be sure to lean in a little.

 
(Photos: Nicky '18; Grace Cathedral Choir of Men and Boys at