Article November 29, 2004 ISSUE

WORKING TO THE SOUND OF SILENCE

By David A. Cornell

RECENTLY MY WIFE AND I SANG IN THE BERKSHIRE CHORAL FESTIVAL in western Massachusetts. All 228 choristers were strong singers, and they willingly rehearsed five hours a day, Monday through Friday. This culminated in a performance of two major works with a professional orchestra on the following Saturday.

In a world that is often seen as divided along the lines of race, gender, faith, social class, politics, and economic opportunity, the chorus united in a common purpose to add a little harmony to the world. We shared one simple yet noble objective: To do our best to convey the beauty of the music before us.