Page 16 - Summer 2016 Contact issue 38

“They say that exercise is great because it produces “Joining the choir has given me the opportunity to
endorphins that make you feel much better – and thank God through singing. I love singing not only to
that’s true for singing as well! However jaded I might God but also to the congregation to show His love in
feel on the way to a HK choir practice, the tensions me and to make it enjoyable for them with my smiles.”
slip away as soon as we start singing – and that’s true Deirdre
fellowship and teamwork. I like that Stuart and Jill
create a lovely balance between fun and hard work “John and I have been involved in the music ministry
and some occasions have been really outstanding – for over 30 years. We count it a privilege to serve the
Good Friday always seems to stand out for me Lord in this way and have been blessed to be a part
somehow… and this year, the duet between Naomi of this ministry.  We have been supported by close
and Erica was really memorable – we are truly friends that we have met through the choir.  Over the
blessed with a wide range of talent; young and old.” years the music ministry has grown considerably and
John Harmar-Smith it thrills us that this is something we can do as a family
with our son Jonathan being involved too. Â The choir
“I have been a member of the High Kirk Choir for and music ministry has played a very important part
over a year. I joined because I sang in the choir at my in our lives and we believe the best is yet to come in
last church and really enjoyed the camaraderie and the choir.”
the shared enjoyment of the experience. As a young John and Carol
man I feel there should be more young men involved
in the choir. Sadly this isn’t the case and I would
encourage more young men to join as even at one
stage I felt the stereotype of any church choir was
older men and women with a small group of younger
ladies (as this is all I have experienced in any church
choir I have seen). I would like to help encourage to
break this stereotype. As someone who lacks
confidence and has low self-esteem I feel music helps
me in a big way. There is a sense of achievement that
comes when, after all the practicing, the end result can
feel wonderful, not to mention the social aspect as
everyone works together. Not forgetting how good it
is to be led by someone who knows the importance of
kind leadership and good teaching. Stuart isn’t a bad
spud and keeps our spirits up with his good nature
and quick wit. His own passion for music really comes
through and helps encourage us further. I look
forward to all the songs we will be singing in the
future as a choir.”
David Johnston