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April 1, 2001 Dear MOS, I would like to begin with enormous thanks for your inspired performance of the "Mass in B Minor." As I am writing these words it is exactly one week after the concert and the music is still resounding in my mind's ear. You were astounding that Sunday afternoon, and while I have been touched by the many expressions of gratitude from so many of you, it is I who should offer the greatest declaration of appreciation to you. Certainly, the majority of you (and hopefully all of you) have experienced a personal growth through this entire rehearsal/performance process that will continue to enrich your lives, but consider for a moment what you've given me. A conductor's "instrument" is his or her ensemble, and you have just presented me with a "new and improved" instrument. Obviously, I am interested in keeping this gift. A short "r and r" to Florida last week allowed me the opportunity to "clear my head" and "rest my body" for a few days. Therefore, imagine my surprise when during a visit to the Kennedy Space Center I found myself once again thinking of you. I was reminded of President John F. Kennedy's challenge to America after a rather embarrassing beginning to the space race with Russia (remember Sputnik?). He not only wanted us to take the lead in space exploration, but he also set a goal of placing Americans on the moon before the end of the decade! In many ways that seemed unthinkable, and yet it happened. It happened because Americans pulled together in a shared purpose and rose to the challenge set before them. Now, while I don't place our B Minor performance in the same category with the first manned moon landing, I do see some similarities. Each pursued a goal far beyond the status quo. Each was a group effort that required considerable individual contributions in order to be a success. Each involved a desire from the participants to be part of something greater than they. It is my hope that we will decide as an ensemble to continue to seek ways to grow and push beyond our perceived limits. We can do this; not only with the music we perform, but also in the way we approach the music. Each rehearsal provides us an opportunity to set and meet goals. May we never be satisfied with less than our best. If forty years ago President Kennedy and America had been satisfied with our standing in the space race, we might never have placed men on the moon. And if we had been afraid to tackle the "B Minor Mass" we would not now be able to count it as an important part of our life experience. To achieve we must first dream. Remember that great music may sometimes be a window through which we can glimpse the divine. Let's open some more windows. Affectionately, |
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