Making a Joyful Noise: Our Experience in Choir

Making a Joyful Noise – Matthew Carey

Growing as a Musician and a Person Singing in St. Elisabeth’s Choir

Singing with St. Elisabeth’s choir was a hugely enriching part of my college experience. I started singing on Sunday mornings just “making a joyful noise.” While I was nervous the first few weeks, and my voice was rusty from not having sung in a while, I quickly found choir singing grounded me and gave me something to look forward to each week. Walter Aldrich is a master vocal instructor, with a profound understanding of the human voice and an amazing ability to teach singing technique. Under his guidance I grew both as a musician and as a person. Thursday night rehearsals got me away from our small, sometimes suffocating campus, and provided peace during hectic weeks. Singing and attending services at St. Elisabeth’s added depth and richness to my Sunday mornings. I have been so inspired by my experience that I have encouraged other Lake Forest College students and my family to join the choir for rehearsals and services. I have been pleased to see how much the choir has grown under Walter’s leadership. If you are not yet singing with the choir, I highly recommend you start! Thank you to Walter, to the other choir members, and to the larger congregation for these two wonderful years with you all.Matthew Carey, May 19, 2024

Singing at St. E’s – Abigail Pribble

Being a part of St. Elisabeth’s choir has been a joyful experience. When I first joined, I was an inexperienced singer who had never been part of a church. Immediately, my fellow choir members embraced me with kindness and warmth. I could not imagine a better introduction to the community, and I immensely value the time I spend with the group during rehearsals.

I look forward to Thursday evenings spent with the choir and the peace it provides during the routine weeks of the semester. Under Walter’s tutelage, we have grown as a group, bonding while we share in learning and developing our skills as singers and musicians. I am grateful that participating in the choir has enriched my relationships with members of the church, and I would encourage anyone to come to sing with us!

A Symphony ofBelonging – Tobi Ellis

Finding My Voice and Family at St. Elisabeth’s Choir

Singing with St. Elisabeth’s choir has been a meaningful experience since I joined in March of 2023. As a blind trans man, I have often struggled to find a place where I feel like I belong. Music has been a lifeline that has saved my life on more than one occasion and given me a profound sense of belonging.

From the moment I joined, everyone in the church welcomed me with open arms. The warmth and acceptance I felt from the congregation, have been nothing short of life-changing. Walter Aldrich’s exceptional guidance as a vocal instructor has not only improved my singing technique but has also helped me grow as a person. His understanding of the human voice is unparalleled, and his ability to teach is truly inspiring. Father Adam has been a beacon of support and wisdom. Finding positive role models has been a challenge for me for years, but having people like Walter and Father Adam in my life has made a massive difference. They have provided me with the strength and encouragement I needed to face challenges and always give me a reason to smile during tough times.

The choir has become my family, offering me peace and grounding during chaotic times. Thursday night rehearsals are a highlight of my week, providing a much-needed escape and a chance to connect with others through music. Singing and attending services at St. Elisabeth’s have added depth and richness to my life, making Sunday mornings something I eagerly look forward to.

I am incredibly grateful for the love and support I have received from this church. The impact it has had on my life is immeasurable, and I am proud to be a part of such a caring and inclusive community. If you are not yet singing with the choir, I highly recommend you start. The sense of belonging and the joy that comes from being part of this wonderful group is something everyone should experience.

Thank you to Walter, Father Adam, the choir members, and the entire congregation for making me feel like family. Your kindness and acceptance have made all the difference in my life.