A Brief History of Conducting a Choir and Firing Up a Canon

When I first moved to Grande Prairie, Alberta, in August, 1988, part of my new employment was the position of Conductor for the College/Community Choir.  This was a group of adult singers, about 50 of them, who rehearsed together every Tuesday night for 3 hours.  Although I was excited to conduct this choir, the experience would end up as one of the worst in my professional life.  

When I was hired in the spring of 1988, I had no idea whatsoever of the political hornet's nest I was inhabiting, until one dear friend advised me that the "bag ladies" were after me!!!!  BAG LADIES?  They were, indeed, and numbered about 25 - 30, at least half of the choir membership.  Feeling the urge to sing elsewhere, with a conductor who was one of them, they departed unceremoniously after our last concert.  

Although my stint as conductor was not very successful, I did meet many new friends who have enriched my life in this city.  One of those new friends, Judy, someone who likes to fiddle with new cameras, volunteered to show me all the ropes involved in operating a camera and uploading photos.  

So tonight my photographical education began, and who knows what the future will bring?  I promise not to put too many cat pictures here, because they only sing when they purr, and I don't really call that "real" singing.  And besides, my niece (who gave me the camera) despairs after reading too many cat tales...she prefers turtles.

Oh, by the way, this year I am singing in the College/Community Choir, along with my friend Judy, and it is so nice to watch our wonderful conductor doing all of the work!