The Reunion
The Reunion was written in June of 2021. As the world began to reopen, we were all filled with a renewed sense of relief, hope, and optimism. Dreams of finally seeing each other again became reality, and this piece was written for the first time that Gettysburg Children's Choir had been able to sing together in person in 15 months. Throughout their online rehearsals, students
were asked to reflect on their experiences in Gettysburg Children's Choir through a number of discussion questions, including "What are you most looking forward to about singing together again?" and "What do you enjoy most about singing in Gettysburg Children's Choir?"
Students value the bond that they form with each other through singing in choir. They feel a deep sense of belonging with both their peers and their audience, and they appreciate the opportunity to use music to connect with other people and cultures. Core values of empathy, diversity, and social justice also emerged from their reflections. As one student wrote, "what we're singing isn't just a pretty song. It's an important message."
This piece was the anthem of our reunion at Gettysburg Children's Choir's 2021 summer camp, but it also captures how choral singing can have such a significant impact on the lives of singers, conductors, families, and audiences alike. Gettysburg Children's Choir's artistic director, Dr. Brent C. Talbot, frequently empowers his students by saying "Go forth and change the world!"
Students in this choir use their voices to make change in our world, and this piece is dedicated to them, to all that they have done, and all that they will do. They have only just begun.
were asked to reflect on their experiences in Gettysburg Children's Choir through a number of discussion questions, including "What are you most looking forward to about singing together again?" and "What do you enjoy most about singing in Gettysburg Children's Choir?"
Students value the bond that they form with each other through singing in choir. They feel a deep sense of belonging with both their peers and their audience, and they appreciate the opportunity to use music to connect with other people and cultures. Core values of empathy, diversity, and social justice also emerged from their reflections. As one student wrote, "what we're singing isn't just a pretty song. It's an important message."
This piece was the anthem of our reunion at Gettysburg Children's Choir's 2021 summer camp, but it also captures how choral singing can have such a significant impact on the lives of singers, conductors, families, and audiences alike. Gettysburg Children's Choir's artistic director, Dr. Brent C. Talbot, frequently empowers his students by saying "Go forth and change the world!"
Students in this choir use their voices to make change in our world, and this piece is dedicated to them, to all that they have done, and all that they will do. They have only just begun.