The busiest and most stressful month for most choral singers is December. The reason for this, of course, is the huge number of holiday rehearsal and performance responsibilities that must be met, added to the already increased “busyness” imposed on everyone’s schedules at this time of year. It’s a shame that all the activity often leads to accompanying stress, because with the wealth of beautiful choral music being heard and performed, this should be, especially for us choral musicians, a time of enormous satisfaction and fulfillment. 

While it may be impossible to remove all the stress from our lives during this intense season, I think we can find a way to allow our music to accomplish in us what we all know it is so capable of doing – thus providing that much desired satisfaction and fulfillment mentioned above.

How do I suggest we do that? Well, I don’t have a list of the “ten most effective ways to relieve stress.” I’m just going to suggest one simple approach. Go to your rehearsals already having done the necessary individual study that will allow you to make a positive contribution to the ensemble. Go with the intention of being fully engaged in the rehearsal. Leave your other concerns and responsibilities outside the rehearsal room door. I’ve always believed one of the most remarkable things that can happen in a choral rehearsal is when everyone is working together toward a shared goal, knowing that it will be met only if all contribute fully to the process. If we all listen carefully to everything happening around us and give our best effort to being a positive part of the sound in each moment, I think we will depart the rehearsal enriched, refreshed, and encouraged. 

We need to remember what a privilege it is to share beautiful choral music with others during this time of the year. If we do that, we may be able to actually relieve some of the holiday chaos around us!