Just filled with gratitude for Dr. John Kaess' presence as choir director.

He's such a wealth and depth for All Things Liturgical. And he's got the

real fire, too.

There is no one like him. I can't stop being amazed with him and amazed

to be in HIS Latin Mass choir. I just love him!

Yeah, we rehearsed tonight There is a tenor (I believe) head of some

Schola (Gregorian Chant), which one I do not know - maybe attached to

St. Augustine...but he is wonderfully accomplished and I almost wish that

significant parts of the Holy Triduum were just the men chanting - because

there is nothing like sung male chant. (strategically placed this eve, certain

outstanding vocalists diagonal and down (I was on steps) - tenors, sopranos,

doooood!!! Dr. K sang (way too little) bass this eve, great speaking voice,

great singer.

Drink in as much at possible at rehearsals and it's sinking in what certain notes

sound like (in my head) so the likelihood of

nailing them from the start getting high indeed. Singing alto is SUCH a blessing!

The main obstacle presently besides seasonal allergies is forgetting that I need

glasses when I read, cause it's so new...and I tend to forget to bring them.

When other sections run through their parts I try to always read and sing

softly...I'd hum, but this is the Latin language so every chance to mouth those

syllables and vowels is important. I like sectionals -additional opportunities to read.

I was also grateful this

eve for having had exposure to loud music - because the group was large, the

organ loud and ff at the end of the Gloria -- the Easter Gloria

at that! -- well, I obey. Not everyone is used to the Cathedral Sound (as Dr. K

called it).

Before rehearsal I'd had mom-time waiting while a child was at an appt, so I

played the axe and sang in the parking lot. It really helps...I remember Cos

(Mike Costello pianist) in high school, who had a very full schedule of advanced

courses + the oldest of 6 children and a job, "I practice every minute I get. If I

have 15 minutes, I practice." Carpe diem, this is my road.

I just love Dr. Kaess musically - I just love him and the opportunity to be under

his direction and to hear him play and to try to keep up with what at times is that

frantic-ness of him. His head never stops (I can tell); wealth and depth and fire.

Zooooooooooooooom!