The TMC organization has changed the format of its board meetings for the 2015-16 season, to create a stronger sense of community among board members, and keep the mission of the Toronto Mendelssohn Choir top of mind at every meeting. One of the first agenda items is what we call “a moment of inspiration,” during which time someone in the room shares a story of how the Toronto Mendelssohn Choir has touched them or someone connected to them.
This month, it was my turn for the “moment of inspiration.” During that time, I recounted my own “how choral music changed my life” story, and how important singing in choirs had been to me as a child and young adult, leading me to two music degrees and a myriad of roles within choral organizations in Montreal and Toronto. One of reasons choral singing became and remains a significant part of my life has to do with the deep sense of community that the choral music experience can engender. I believe the Toronto Mendelssohn Choir does this in spades.
Our singing members rehearse together week after week (and sometimes night after night!) to pursue the highest level of artistic excellence. Our Board and staff work long hours to support and further the mission of the organization. Our donors and volunteers are generous and passionate about their commitment to the TMC. I don’t believe any of this would be possible if the Toronto Mendelssohn Choir wasn’t able to create strong emotional ties with our audiences, our supporters, our choristers and alumni, and other community members.
Thank you for being part of the TMC community and believing as passionately as we do that choral music has the power to change lives. I hope you enjoy reading the stories about our community that make up this edition of Voice of Mendelssohn.