Spring Session

The fun and challenge of Spring Session is that we move at break neck speed! Can't you tell?!
We have already introduced most of the songs and choreographed several and we're only in week 2. Please please make sure practice is getting in at home so we can move forward each week and no one gets left behind!

The Singers especially love "Surfin' USA".

This session, it is nice to also focus on narrative parts of the program as we honor the men and women who serve our country. Hopefully you can invite a veteran you know to our Friends and Family performance in May!

Lucky Shamrocks!

We got to sing at the Westchester Shamrock 5K for the first time! Despite the rain and cold and some choreography changes (due to small stage space), the Singers handled it like pros! 

The show must go on, right?!?

We were able to sing two numbers to help get the runners in the right mood for their race. We blended right in with the festivities of the day -- leprechauns and pots of gold -- with our lime green shirts!

Some singers even chose to stay to cheer on the runners and compete themselves in the Kids Run. What a fun day!

Join the Circus

SPOILER ALERT!!

One of our songs, "Bigger Isn't Better" requires some serious silliness! Mimes, tight rope walkers, acrobats and clowns, who knew we had all this and more right among our own group of singers.

 

 

This session it has been so fun to give each singer so many individual "parts" -- vocal solos, dance solos, speaking parts, acting bits, circus acts...it's all part of the show!

Props

One of the most fun aspects of performing is the props! All of a sudden, a dance, song or dialogue takes on a whole new dimension when costumes, set pieces and props enter the scene. Last Thursday's rehearsal was no different. We were able  to use our canes for the first time this session in "Accentuate the Positive" (going for a 30's soft-shoe theme). They were a big hit and no one actually got hit in the process (despite the required swinging and  twirling in the air)! The singers' pulled it off beautifully, staying focused on their choreography and not being thrown in the slightest. Very fun stuff.

 

"True Colors"

This week we had a wonderful first rehearsal of our Winter Session of YMS. Our theme this session is "True Colors" and we have chosen songs from many different genres that celebrate the special nature of each individual, being true to ourselves and respecting the good in others. This seems fitting as each week in rehearsal we support and respect and learn about eachother's differences and strengths and yet focus our efforts to come together to make a beautiful sound.
We gladly welcome Micaela Candela, our newest member! One of my favorite parts about rehearsal this week was the feeling of friendship and anticipation that was there. The kids seemed so happy to see eachother (after only a few weeks' break). We commented to them how important that feeling of support and friendship is when working together to sing. Especially when the purpose is to inspire and uplift others.
It was wonderful to see the singers come in and be so enthusiastic and ready to get to work on our new songs and dances. We sang through each song in a circle and even got started on some choreography. With our group consisting of so many "seasoned" members, it will be amazing to see what we can accomplish in the next 11 weeks!

Wrapping up the Session

Our Fall Session "Simple Gifts" wrapped up with a standing-room-only Friends and Family performance at the Walton Park Clubhouse and a heartfelt program at "Miracle of Christmas" live at the Metro Richmond Zoo. Performing for our friends and family is always a highlight as the kids have worked so hard and are anxious to share with those they love most!

Singing at the zoo the past two years has been am amazing experience. Luckily, the weather cooperated and bundled up, we were able to sing songs to bring Christmas warmth and cheer to hundreds gathered to watch the live nativity. The kids especially love the free donut and hot chocolate waiting them after their performance! This event always helps us remember the true meaning of Christmas and we are grateful for the chance to perform there.

Silent Night, Holy Night

Last night was most definitely one of my favorite Young Midlothian Singers experiences ever. We had the great honor of singing at St. Mary's Hospital in their Pediatric unit. Thank you so much to Lily Arevalo's mom who works in the unit and Abby's mom who coordinated the visit for us.
It truly felt like a "silent night" -- stepping out from the hustle and bustle and noise for a moment to focus on what really matters in a quiet hospital wing. A "holy night" where people were uplifted and spirits brightened and I felt like angels were all around in the form of your sweet children and the children we visited.
I wish that everyone could have joined us as we walked down the halls to see the tremendous service the kids rendered to the patients there (this I expected) but also to the parents and hospital nurses and staff. Due to privacy factors, we were not able to take any pictures but if we had, you would have seen teary mothers' faces holding their toddlers, smiling kids with tentative waves from their beds and several patients clinging to the jingle bell ornaments we were able to hand out. My favorite moment was outside the door of a sweet girl perhaps 9 or 10. As we sang the last verse of "Silent Night", tears ran down her face but she quickly worked to wipe them away as she smiled at us and her mom took her hand.
What a blessing it is to sing -- to bring joy and hopefully some measure of comfort, especially at Christmas time. What a blessing it is to work with your precious and bright children and watch them learn to share that brightness with others.
Best quote of the night...." We have totally got to do that again next year".
I whole heartedly agree.