Five Lessons in Harmony

What choir singing taught me about life, fellowship and happiness

- Reem Khokhar

VOICES RING THROUGH a cold winter evening, singing a mellow song. A thread of ‘oohs’ interweave before a section of male voices begin to utter the lyrics. A few seconds later, an additional layer of voices chime in, amplifying the richness of sound. I am at rehearsal with a choir I have performed with for nine years. I began choral singing in school, but it is only as an adult that I learnt to truly appreciate the music and the value a choir has brought to my life.

The song we are singing— ‘Inscription of Hope’—derives its lyrics from an inscription found in a cathedral in Cologne, Germany, where Jewish families, fleeing persecution, hid during World War II. It is a reminder of hope and resilience, even in times of deep despair. I believe through any trial, there is always a way.

Articulated by a multitude of voices raised in unison, the message resonates with depth and power, reminding me of the many lessons choral singing has taught me, and how a choir is a remarkable metaphor for unity and harmony. Here are some of them.

Listen intently

How often do we truly listen to others, without being distracted by our own thoughts on how to trump their opinion, or drown out their voices by being more strident? In a noisy, cacophonic world, our ability to listen, absorb and respond thoughtfully is important.