Anyone who watched the choristers play in a park at sunset with Windsor Castle in the background would have thought they were thirty ordinary kids. However, these young people are anything but ordinary. It is amazing as a chaperone and parent to watch the discipline and dedication these choristers have to their mission of sharing God’s word through music. Traveling with any group is always challenging - but traveling with this group was a gift. They are an extraordinary talented group of young women and men who genuinely enjoy being members of Christ Church Cathedral choir. No complaint was heard about rehearsal time for they know they are rewarded with the beautiful music they make as the sound rings through York Minster. Visitors to the Minster were greeted with the amazing music as well as moved by experiencing this music. As a chaperone, I was so proud of this choir and quite in awe of their music. I also was so happy to get to know these young people better. They worked hard together but they also really enjoyed being together as friends. You see lots of smiling faces on this tour in the pictures taken because there were a lot of smiles on this trip. We as a church should be very proud of the services they sang in England as well as how well they represented us. These young choristers, along with the men of the choir, are truly ambassadors of our church and we are blessed to enjoy their amazing talent each Sunday.
Amanda Naish
Thursday, August 14, 2014
Cherish Every Minute
This is the first time I've ever been out of the country, so everything felt more fun than if this was my second time. The plane was fun (and, as expected, the food on the plane was terrible). I also learned a lot of stuff on this trip. It might help me with my world history later in my educational career. I got to take tours of York, the Minster, London, Jorvik, Tower of London, Windsor Castle, and Castle Howard. My family has never been out of the country. So it was awesome being the first three to go out of the country. Also, I learned to cherish every minute of your life, because it doesn't last forever. England was really fun, but I'm just glad to be back in the land of the free and the home of the brave. My dad and brother really had fun because they probably cherished the time in England. They might not be able to go back to England. The cathedrals we sang in, I can't put that experience in words. It was just so fun. The history of it goes back to the Romans. Kings and queens maybe sat in those cathedrals. We didn't get to perform for the Queen, but I can only imagine if we did. This choir is one of the few boys choirs in the United States and has opened up a lot of opportunities for me, and probably for the whole choir. At my age, going to England would be like a desire, instead of something that could actually happen. So thank you to all the people that made this trip possible.
Virgil Lewis
Virgil Lewis
Where Did You See God Today?
Touring with the choir in England was a surprisingly moving experience for me. Watching God work through the voices of the choir and building relationships with others caused the spirit to stir within me. During evening compline, Dean Wade would ask, "Where did you see God today?" The kids would talk about people they met, friends helping each other, solos -- moments of God's gifts each day. So I asked myself, "Where did I see God?"
Taking part in services at York Minster -- the music, the smells, and the sermon -- all came together to move me to tears. This would be the norm for the next ten days. Almost always it was a particular song that brought me to this point. After the services as we walked through the streets, my son Alden, a chorister, would say, "I knew you would like that song the best." Talking with others I realized I was not the only one having this experience. On a daily basis people would stop and ask if we were the choir singing at the Minster. One evening, while walking down a back alley, miles from the cathedral, a young man stepped out of his apartment, out of breath from running down steps. As it turns out, he was from Cincinnati and he wanted to thank us for Evensong. He said he planned to attend the next evening as well.
It was times like this that I saw the Holy Spirit working, both in me personally, as well as through us as a group. This was evident in the people I met in the places we visited and also as I sat through services talking to those who came to worship. Their stories seemed more than just coincidence.
James Beers
Taking part in services at York Minster -- the music, the smells, and the sermon -- all came together to move me to tears. This would be the norm for the next ten days. Almost always it was a particular song that brought me to this point. After the services as we walked through the streets, my son Alden, a chorister, would say, "I knew you would like that song the best." Talking with others I realized I was not the only one having this experience. On a daily basis people would stop and ask if we were the choir singing at the Minster. One evening, while walking down a back alley, miles from the cathedral, a young man stepped out of his apartment, out of breath from running down steps. As it turns out, he was from Cincinnati and he wanted to thank us for Evensong. He said he planned to attend the next evening as well.
It was times like this that I saw the Holy Spirit working, both in me personally, as well as through us as a group. This was evident in the people I met in the places we visited and also as I sat through services talking to those who came to worship. Their stories seemed more than just coincidence.
James Beers
"Jesus So Lowly"
Since 2007, I have had the amazing opportunity to travel to England four times. Each trip has given me memories I will forever hold close to my heart. This summer, I was privileged to join the choir in York and in Windsor. This trip truly stood apart from the rest. Perhaps it was the growing friendships I’ve had since I was little, or even the fact I’m able to appreciate what our choir does for music ministry. Growing up, I thought music to be music, and nothing in between. But now I can see what the music we give out to the world really does. It changes people just as much as it does me. Music is a healing thing, which affects each of us in a different way.
A tradition of mine in 2007 is that upon the very first step into a cathedral, I look up at the different god-inspired ceilings which tell a story and intertwine with the music we sing. One of my favorite memories within the church had to be during one of my favorite piece of music, "Jesus So Lowly." As we were singing the third verse, -- a more quiet and distinct one -- I looked up at the ceiling and saw these brilliant golden swirls lightly tracing into these indescribable shapes, and I felt this overwhelming sensation believing it to be God. I almost broke into tears. I heard these ringing coming from the voices around me that shook the room, a feeling I will absolutely never forget.
One other memory that stood out vividly was my journey to the hospital, to be treated for tonsilitis, and having an amazing conversation with my two favorite people, the Ballings. I also got the chance to appreciate York for what it gave us and finally understood the miracle of finding this choir, because without it, I would not be where I am today.
Brennan Burke
A tradition of mine in 2007 is that upon the very first step into a cathedral, I look up at the different god-inspired ceilings which tell a story and intertwine with the music we sing. One of my favorite memories within the church had to be during one of my favorite piece of music, "Jesus So Lowly." As we were singing the third verse, -- a more quiet and distinct one -- I looked up at the ceiling and saw these brilliant golden swirls lightly tracing into these indescribable shapes, and I felt this overwhelming sensation believing it to be God. I almost broke into tears. I heard these ringing coming from the voices around me that shook the room, a feeling I will absolutely never forget.
One other memory that stood out vividly was my journey to the hospital, to be treated for tonsilitis, and having an amazing conversation with my two favorite people, the Ballings. I also got the chance to appreciate York for what it gave us and finally understood the miracle of finding this choir, because without it, I would not be where I am today.
Brennan Burke
Purpleman
A fixture on Stonegate Road in York, the Purpleman is perched on his purple bicycle with purple hair, purple skin, purple everything. A tourist attraction himself, our younger boy choristers became friends with the man as our paths crossed several times each day walking to and from the Minster. On our last evening in York, we stopped to chat and drop some coins in his collection. Dressed in their white shirts, ties, and blue blazers, Purpleman told the boys that it was quite the honor to be singing in York Minster. The boys high-fived him, and Purpleman continued to entertain the thousands of people passing by each day.
As chaperones of the Christ Church Cathedral boys and girls choir on the recent trip to York and Windsor, we had the unique opportunity to witness firsthand the impact our choir has on regular people, even purple people. Running from here to there, keeping up with music folders, and searching for missing boy choristers' pants sometimes kept us from seeing how big an impact they really have.
There was the English gentleman outside the souvenir shop who stopped to tell the boys he heard them sing at the Minster and how moved he felt by the music. Another man, originally from Cincinnati but now living in York, came out of his apartment as we walked to dinner to tell us he heard the choir singing at the Cathedral and asked if he could hear them practice. The front desk clerk at the hostel where all the kids stayed came to Evensong just to hear them sing. The waitress at the small Italian restaurant pleaded with the boys for them to sing after learning of their Minster engagement. They happily obliged to not only her delight, but the kitchen staff as well.
As parents and chaperones, there is nothing quite like hearing 43 voices blend seamlessly in the centuries old places of worship steeped in history and tradition. The real story, though, is that these boys and girls and men are touching lives around the world as they sing of God's glory, majesty, and love. The Purpleman got it right - quite an honor, indeed.
John Dailey
As chaperones of the Christ Church Cathedral boys and girls choir on the recent trip to York and Windsor, we had the unique opportunity to witness firsthand the impact our choir has on regular people, even purple people. Running from here to there, keeping up with music folders, and searching for missing boy choristers' pants sometimes kept us from seeing how big an impact they really have.
There was the English gentleman outside the souvenir shop who stopped to tell the boys he heard them sing at the Minster and how moved he felt by the music. Another man, originally from Cincinnati but now living in York, came out of his apartment as we walked to dinner to tell us he heard the choir singing at the Cathedral and asked if he could hear them practice. The front desk clerk at the hostel where all the kids stayed came to Evensong just to hear them sing. The waitress at the small Italian restaurant pleaded with the boys for them to sing after learning of their Minster engagement. They happily obliged to not only her delight, but the kitchen staff as well.
As parents and chaperones, there is nothing quite like hearing 43 voices blend seamlessly in the centuries old places of worship steeped in history and tradition. The real story, though, is that these boys and girls and men are touching lives around the world as they sing of God's glory, majesty, and love. The Purpleman got it right - quite an honor, indeed.
John Dailey
Incredible Privilege
Almost three years ago, the Cathedral music ministry received invitations from York Minster Cathedral and St. George's Chapel, Windsor Castle to sing in their hallowed and historic houses of worship. This article is a series of recollections by choristers and chaperones meant to highlight our recent tour experiences "across the pond." I encourage you to delight in the challenges, joys, daily disciplines, spiritual awakenings and new friendships we forged together. What a joy and incredible privilege it was to lead such a talented and dedicated team of musicians and parents!
Erich Balling, Canon Musician
Erich Balling, Canon Musician
Monday, July 28, 2014
Kindling Holiness
"Look!" exclaimed one voice. "What do you see?" I asked. "Real candles!" Standing in the Quire of York Minster Cathedral as we were about to begin rehearsal for Evensong, my eye was directed to the candlelit sconces that graced the choir stalls at measured intervals. In one of England's largest Gothic cathedrals, this relatively small detail had enormous impact. Rather than the small electric lamp stands so often found in other cathedral quires, the candlelit sconces at York cast a halo of light that shimmered with holiness and enveloped all in a glow of warmth and hospitality.
Our stay at York Minster was rich and full. In no time, the musicians of Christ Church Cathedral commanded the space with their signature warmth and and exquisite skill. Their gifts were beautifully matched with those of our host cathedral. The dean, clergy, vergers and countless volunteers of York Minister welcomed us each day and effortlessly folded us into the life and leadership of worship as if it were our home.
Each day, curious tourists were drawn to the Quire during our rehearsals and found themselves staying long past their intended departure so that they could attend Evensong. Day by day the numbers grew of those who said that they attended worship on our first day and were compelled to return to hear this lovely American choir. Faithful worshippers from across the world introduced themselves as we joyfully greeted familiar faces from Christ Church Cathedral who had arranged their summer travel to coincide with our residency at York. Choir members were often recognized throughout the town, thanked for their leadership of worship and cheered along their way.
Each night, as we gathered for our night prayers the choristers gave thanks for the gifts of the day and shared aloud where they had seen God. The kindnesses shown to us throughout the day did not go unnoticed. When spoken aloud, they seemed to inspire the choristers to also notice the many small acts of kindness offered by their fellow choristers, choir men and faithful chaperones. Their words of gratitude kindled a warmth not unlike the candlelit sconces of the York Minister Quire, and a sense of belonging grew.
Jesus said that the kingdom of God is like the smallest of seeds; yet when sown in the ground, it grows into greatest of trees where the birds of the air can make nests in its branches.
-Mark 4:30-32; Luke
Dean Carol Wade
Our stay at York Minster was rich and full. In no time, the musicians of Christ Church Cathedral commanded the space with their signature warmth and and exquisite skill. Their gifts were beautifully matched with those of our host cathedral. The dean, clergy, vergers and countless volunteers of York Minister welcomed us each day and effortlessly folded us into the life and leadership of worship as if it were our home.
Each day, curious tourists were drawn to the Quire during our rehearsals and found themselves staying long past their intended departure so that they could attend Evensong. Day by day the numbers grew of those who said that they attended worship on our first day and were compelled to return to hear this lovely American choir. Faithful worshippers from across the world introduced themselves as we joyfully greeted familiar faces from Christ Church Cathedral who had arranged their summer travel to coincide with our residency at York. Choir members were often recognized throughout the town, thanked for their leadership of worship and cheered along their way.
Each night, as we gathered for our night prayers the choristers gave thanks for the gifts of the day and shared aloud where they had seen God. The kindnesses shown to us throughout the day did not go unnoticed. When spoken aloud, they seemed to inspire the choristers to also notice the many small acts of kindness offered by their fellow choristers, choir men and faithful chaperones. Their words of gratitude kindled a warmth not unlike the candlelit sconces of the York Minister Quire, and a sense of belonging grew.
Jesus said that the kingdom of God is like the smallest of seeds; yet when sown in the ground, it grows into greatest of trees where the birds of the air can make nests in its branches.
-Mark 4:30-32; Luke
Dean Carol Wade
Friday, July 25, 2014
York Minster
My experience in York Minster was a once in a lifetime experience. The opportunity of being able to sing in a cathedral over a thousand years old is truly fantastic. After seeing the York Minster choir perform on Sunday, our whole choir was in true awe of the choir and the sound that could be made in the minster. And it was possible because of the wonderful hospitality shown at the York Minster. One of the biggest part of my experience in York was a change in vocal parts this year in England, as I shifted from the Cathedral Boys Choir to the Cathedral Men's Choir. It is a great experience learning the alto parts in pieces, but even better that I had the chance to be able to do that at York Minster. I also enjoy the trips to England, and the different cultures of the different cities we have visited.
Edward Naish
Edward Naish
Wednesday, July 23, 2014
Sharing the Gospel Through Music
Our time in York has been truly amazing. The Cathedral
Choir has been greeted extraordinarily well and made feel welcome
wherever we go.
Our days have included times of rehearsals, meal times,
excursions in and outside of the city walls. Each day, we sing Evensong
for hundreds of pilgrims and tourists, sharing the gospel of Christ
through music.
The choristers have worked diligently on their craft and as
a result have received high marks for their singing and presentation in
Yorkminster. Many have mistaken them for the Minster Choir! What a
tremendous place this is historically, geographically and so filled with
the Spirit of God. Thank you for your prayers and deep support as we
move forward in our journey.
Erich Balling, Canon Musician
Tuesday, July 22, 2014
Becoming Part of History
York, England is an intriguing city. Everywhere you turn, there is
some piece of history that murmurs with the past: the column that
stood in the Roman fortress, the ancient Monk Gate and the walls of
the city of York, the famous Shambles street, as well as streets made
with cobblestones.
York Minster Cathedral has its own history and secrets. Built in the
13th century on top of the ruins of the ancient Roman fortress, the
Cathedral houses Medieval stained glass windows, the vaults of past
Archbishops, and the beautiful painted organ pipes. Few musicians in
the world have conducted, sung, or played the organ in the Minster. To
be able to become part of the Minster's musical history is utterly
incomprehensible.
Erich, Kathleen, and I got the rare chance of being alone in the
Cathedral on Tuesday night. After finishing our practice and
preparation for Evensong the next day, we stood in the Nave of the
Cathedral at 10:50pm and were silent, looking up at the tower. You
could sense the walls, the artifacts, the windows, even the air around
you whispering history, expressing stories of the past. Over the
hundreds of years that the Cathedral has stood, many people have
worshiped God, have come to know Christ, have heard heaven-like music,
and have been laid to rest in this sacred space. To hear the silence
of the York Minster spoke volumes. To now have our God-given talent
and gifts to be a part of the Minster's musical history is truly an
honor and a blessing from God.
Soli Deo Gloria
Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father
of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. ~
James 1:17
Lisa Hall, Assistant Cathedral Organist
some piece of history that murmurs with the past: the column that
stood in the Roman fortress, the ancient Monk Gate and the walls of
the city of York, the famous Shambles street, as well as streets made
with cobblestones.
York Minster Cathedral has its own history and secrets. Built in the
13th century on top of the ruins of the ancient Roman fortress, the
Cathedral houses Medieval stained glass windows, the vaults of past
Archbishops, and the beautiful painted organ pipes. Few musicians in
the world have conducted, sung, or played the organ in the Minster. To
be able to become part of the Minster's musical history is utterly
incomprehensible.
Erich, Kathleen, and I got the rare chance of being alone in the
Cathedral on Tuesday night. After finishing our practice and
preparation for Evensong the next day, we stood in the Nave of the
Cathedral at 10:50pm and were silent, looking up at the tower. You
could sense the walls, the artifacts, the windows, even the air around
you whispering history, expressing stories of the past. Over the
hundreds of years that the Cathedral has stood, many people have
worshiped God, have come to know Christ, have heard heaven-like music,
and have been laid to rest in this sacred space. To hear the silence
of the York Minster spoke volumes. To now have our God-given talent
and gifts to be a part of the Minster's musical history is truly an
honor and a blessing from God.
Soli Deo Gloria
Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father
of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. ~
James 1:17
Lisa Hall, Assistant Cathedral Organist
Monday, July 21, 2014
An Eye-Opening Experience
My experience in York has been an eye-opening experience. Compared with
my trips to Lincoln and Ely, this has been just as successful a trip, if
not more. Our musical achievements have been breathtaking and our other
activities have been extremely entertaining and fulfilling. The
experience of singing in the Minster is like no other, as the acoustics
of the cathedral are extremely unique. Gardiner's Evening Hymn was
notable, as the volume required for parts of that piece is only enhanced
by the huge echo of the room. To see the faces of the congregation as
they listen to us sing is truly outstanding.
Connor Dellarosa
Connor Dellarosa
Tuesday, June 3, 2014
New posts from the 2014 Choir Tour coming soon!
The Cathedral Choir will be heading off to England July 18, 2014, through July 28, 2014. Check back here to follow their experience this summer!
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