viewing the others , all muted except our director . But the steepest learning curve came just prior to Christmas when we were all charged to become recording artists ! Each of us had to set up two devices : one would play a video of the director and play the music of the piece which we would hear through a headset or earbuds , the other device would record each of us singing . The actual set-up took a long time : we had to figure out where to put the devices , how to stabilize them , find a blank wall , set up lighting , put on makeup that had long been ignored , turn off the phone , and put a sign on the front door so no one would ring the bell . All that had to be sorted out before the actual singing occurred . Who knew I sounded so terrible ? As a good choir member , I was very good at using the people around me to keep on key and in time . Listening to myself alone was definitely an ear-opening experience . Waiting silently , yet engaged , through the ninetythree seconds of the soloist at the beginning of the piece , and remembering that the camera is recording everything , resulted in many takes being required . I have new appreciation for real recording artists who make their living in this way . I was only doing one song — it ’ s a lot of work ! The director assured us that the magic of the production process would indeed create something we would be happy to share with family and friends ( and fans ?). It certainly was an interesting and challenging endeavour , and stretched me both creatively and technically . In the end , it made me smile for having completed it . I began this article referencing studies that identified the positive effects of learning and creativity in our lives . Personally , these two experiences enriched my life , brought me joy , and , I believe , endorse the benefits of lifelong learning . I end with a quote from Sophia Loren that goes even further in celebrating the role of creativity . “ There is a fountain of youth : it ’ s your mind , your talents , the creativity you bring to your life and the lives of the people you love . When you learn to tap this source , you will truly have defeated age .”
Linda Manwarren began teaching in Montreal in 1973 and continued her teaching career with the Calgary Catholic School District until 2007 . Since then she has worked short-term contracts with Calgary Catholic , Abu Dhabi , and St . Mary ’ s University , Calgary . As of December 2019 , Linda is now really retired .
I find the pieces fit more easily after some adjustments .
news & views SPRING 2021 | 45