The African Choir Experience
Yes, I have done it, I have finally joined the dancing/singing Imiliwaha church choir. Thank goodness it’s Lent now and there is no dancing!! Of course I was welcomed with open arms and lots of Congratulations! We sing all in Kiswahili, with no notes or printed books. Practices consist of singing and writing the words down as fast as you can. The nuns, especially voice Number 1, where I am, are like a bunch of middle school girls, laughing, talking in class and even passing notes (which I think are just about the songs, but it is STILL passing notes). We practice every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday—which is necessary since there are no notes and we must memorize the melody and write down the words. And, this being Africa with no sense of time, practice usually begins a half hour late every time, so I make sure to bring a reading book while I wait. You’ll be happy to find out I have not adjusted to the African time schedule, I’m still on time to everything.
I have sung 2 masses now and will be singing this Sunday. I’m dreading when the Easter season comes and we add dancing to the singing—I can sing just fine, but my body rhythm is crap. Oh, well, it is an experience and it’s another thing to keep me busy from morning until night.
Hi Sara, I tried sending a note awhile ago but it didn’t work. I’m not too computer savvy.My kids would be shocked to know that! My choir at church can’t wait to see the dancing (Cara wrote them and told them she would teach them).We’re hoping to get-together with your parents and give them one of the 2 movies Cara sent home. Tim didn’t have time to down load both of them. Can’t wait till you two get home. Mary