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After years of searching I think I've finally found the true meaning of Christmas -- right here in Waukesha. There's nothing to prove that I was at Christmas at Carroll, no photography allowed, but that doesn't mean it wasn't a blessed event. I wonder, if Jesus were born today would the birth be recorded with a digital camera?
The two hour performance by the Carroll College Wind Symphony, Concert Choir, Women's Ensemble, Vocal Collective and Chamber Ensembles was flawless. A couple thousand people together in one room and no cell phones rang. No microphone problems because there weren't any. No amplification was needed because no one in the audience was talking. We didn't even applaud until the concert was over.
It was the best ten dollars I ever spent. To get my ticket on concert day yet still find seating front and center! My thanks to all the people who thought they'd miss something by sitting in the front row. I sat so close I could feel it. The Wind Symphony conductor even sat next to me between his sets. I was just one of many who felt that close to the experience -- the audience stood on five occasions to join with the choirs in song. If someone would have led us in prayer I would have done that too; though I'm not sure they didn't, the concert was very spiritual.
I can't imagine the hours of preparation something like this would take. Thirty-four songs or readings in six parts. Four conductors with over 120 vocalists and instrumentalists - some with dual roles. A two hour concert using five different areas of the Shattuck Music Center and not one miscue. Not one sour note. Not one dropped instrument or tipped chair.
The concert was about the miracle of a birth and, like birth, it was flawless.
There's just one more chance to catch the Christmas at Carroll College concert before December 2007. The last performance of the year is at 7:30 tonight, 12/3. Get there an hour early to buy your tickets, and try to sit in the front row!
