On 25th and 26th July, Jubilate choir held a two day, one night retreat session. Highlights of the retreat included talks by Sister Christina and Brother Derrick, a choral masterclass by Stephen Cleobury and, of course, games by Zac and Auggy.
The retreat opened with Sr Christina's talk, held at the CAYC, entitled "Why we do what we do". The session explored our various values, life goals and motivations in a bid to try to answer the question posed in the title of the talk. While it was too limited a time for answers, it certainly opened up new avenues for reflection and thought for us to think about our involvement in the ministry. As this was an open seminar, we had the opportunity to meet with and talk to youths from other parishes.
 
Br Derrick's session that night was equally thought provoking. Focusing on selected phrases from 'The Lord's Prayer', the session helped us to examine our relationship with god and each other. Through various ways such as songs, bible sharing and even charades, Br Derrick challenged us to reflect and rethink about our place in the church. Most memoriable was the final task of thinking about what we, as individuals wished for the choir and to write them down to be shared as a communal prayer. Having the chance to hear what everyone's hopes and dreams were meant the ability for all of us to forge a common goal for the choir, whether it be spiritual, musical or communal. It created a better sense of community as we knew that it isn't just the leaders that set goals and direction for the choir , but that it is the individual that makes up the whole.
On Sunday, the choir made its way to the Esplanade to attend a choral masterclass conducted by Stephen Cleobury, conductor of the King's College choir of Camsbridge. We had the opportunity of hearing two choirs - the Singapore Children's Lyric Opera and the Singapore Lyric Chamber Choir - sing and to learn from them as Cleobury gave tips on how to improve their singing and performance. Although the session was quite dry at times, we still managed to learn some things. Tips such as preparation, phrasing and audience engagement were found to be extremely useful.
Of course, the retreat was not all serious seminars and talks. There were quite a number of games organized by Zac and Auggy. Quite unforgettable games such as the Fishball game in which teams had to pick up fishballs with their teeth to find notes hidden inside them. Not as bad as the flying chicken of last year but still destined to go down in Jubilate history. There were plenty if the usual balloon popping games and even a Jubilate Idol session which let us hear the beautiful voices of some of the more quiet singers. Games designed to entertain and to build team spirit and bonds certainly met its goal.
 
At the close, it was an enjoyable two days retreat. Even though mishaps and sleepless nights happened, overall it was a roaring success. Kudos to Aloy and Tessa who were overall in charge of organising the retreat and managed everything so that things went on so smoothly and enjoyably. Why do we do what we do? Because it enriches our lives and the lives of everyone we touch through our actions or through our music. That's what it means to be a part of this ministry.
 For more photos, please visit: http://jubilatechoir.multiply.com/photos/album/13/Jubilate_Retreat_2009#
Written by: Irene
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