Showing Up for One Another
I had the pleasure of attending BUA’s first-ever early music concert last Wednesday evening. The event was in Marsh Chapel, with its soaring ceilings and stained glass forming a beautiful and fitting setting for the music. We heard from Sonus, BUA’s early music instrumental ensemble, whose performance featured a harpsichord and several other period instruments. We heard from Vox Caeli and Polytropos, BUA’s select choral groups. We heard from a number of soloists and combinations performing pieces mainly from the Renaissance but some stretching as far back as the first century AD. There was so much to celebrate: the virtuosity that was a product of years of hard work; the incredible range of music; the blending of performance and music history; the beautiful partnership between teachers and students.
I want to draw attention to another special thing about that Wednesday night: the audience. Many of the performers’ families were there, but they were not alone. Sitting halfway back in the right seating area, several dozen students had come to support their classmates, on a night when I’m sure they had homework to do and other places they could be. Other students, faculty, and staff were peppered around the chapel. It makes a real difference. I can still remember where my best friend and my chemistry teacher were sitting in the audience when I performed in a musical as a senior in high school. And I know from talking to some of the performers from last week’s concert that they appreciated the support from their friends and teachers.
This is a habit we need to foster. In busy lives, we need to prioritize showing up for one another – at concerts, games, plays, art openings, and club events. It is one way we build community. It is an expression of kindness toward one another. And it’s a lot of fun. See you in the audience.