Starting in September, Barnet Choral Society returned to live rehearsals, following almost four terms of Zoom singing since May 2020. What a pleasure to be back singing together in person!
We’ve now sung through most of Verdi’s Requiem at least once and are ready to do a real deep dive into the notes, rhythms and dynamics ahead of our concert on Saturday, 13 November.
You might be wondering how singing together indoors works in a post-COVID world. Our measures include spacing seats at least one metre apart, encouraging masks during non-rehearsal time, taking temperatures at the door, shorter rehearsals and keeping the windows and doors open. It’s all taken some getting used to, but it’s also meant being able to be together, which feels like a real gift after so many months singing on our own in front of a computer, tablet or phone screen!
Our membership’s response to our return to live rehearsals has been overwhelmingly positive. Individuals highlight the pleasure of singing together in person and a great sense of looking forward. There is, understandably, some nervousness and trepidation as well as, on the other hand, a keenness to return to normality, sing closer together and dispense with masks sooner than later.
We can’t deny it’s not the same as before. Many of us miss the social interaction before rehearsals and during break time. Having a chat is challenging in a hall while wearing a mask and keeping a sensible distance apart. However, we are taking each week as it comes, based on what we learn about the virus. Our members’ and visitors’ safety is our greatest priority.
If you’d like to join us to sing Verdi’s Requiem, it’s not too late. It’s an ambitious piece, which sounds best with as many voices as possible. We rehearse on Wednesday evenings between 19:45 and 21:45 in Barnet. The first term is free. Click here to contact us with any questions you may have about joining.
Brilliant day working on Verdi’s Requiem. We were able to eat our picnic lunches outside in the glorious sunshine