The Beauty and Power of a Joyful Noise

The Arlington Ward Priesthood in Boston in the late 80's - early 90's had an amazing men's chorus. The sisters used to delay starting RS until after the a cappella hymn in PH opening exercises was done, just so they could listen to the men sing. We had every part covered, with 3 or 4 brethren improvising different parts each verse. It was an amazing experience to have the brethren be so much more musically gifted than the sisters, who were quite good in their own right.

My first church solo was at my cousin's missionary farewell; I was six-years-old. It's been probably about 5 years since my last solo in church. That's the worst part of my callings over the last few years. Nobody thinks of asking me to sing other than in the choir. I think they just assume I'm too busy - or that I am at the pulpit enough already.

Otoh, I've been in small branches and groups (and an occasional ward) where I felt like I was singing a solo - and my kids have mentioned numerous times that they also feel like I am singing a solo. I don't do quiet singing.

With all of that background, my favorite musical experiences at church have been: 1) sitting next to a bishop who couldn't carry a tune in a bucket but sang with all his heart, nevertheless; 2) singing in a ward choir with a sister who was totally tone deaf, knew it, but still loved music enough to want to praise God through song.

Truly, there is power and beauty in making a joyful noise unto the Lord.