EVMCO

Scott and I had the privilege of attending the East Valley Mormon Choir concert at the Mesa Arts Center last Friday evening.  My sister, Celsea - who sings like an angel, is in their concert choir and so we went on a double date with my parents to watch her in concert.

The EVMCO is an independent nonprofit organization with the main goal of providing excellent musical training and experience for LDS people in the East Valley.  They have several ensembles including a Symphony Orchestra, East Valley Mormon Choir (adults), Concert Choir (ages 14-18), Youth Chorus (ages 10-14), Children's Chorus (ages 6-10) and Sunbeam Chorus (ages 4-6).

We had prime seats for the concert (which was sold out) - right in the middle on the floor.  The concert was INCREDIBLE.  I was expecting it to be good but it totally knocked my socks off!  During the second number, "I Know That My Redeemer Lives," (adult choir with orchestra) I had tears streaming down my face.  The spirit just filled the room - I had one of those crystal clear moments where there is no question or doubt that Jesus Christ lives and loves me.  I felt so uplifted!

Then some combinations of the different youth and children's choruses sing.  They sang "He Sent His Son" and "My Heavenly Father Loves Me."  These are two of my favorite Primary songs...more tears gushing down my face.  Those sweet, clear voices were divine - the children's testimonies shone!

They sang a darling version of "Pop Corn Popping" -so sweet and whimsical.

Then the tiny little Sunbeams came in and sang "Little Lambs so White and Fair."  These little ones were absolutely DARLING!  The little girls were dressed in white collared blouses with navy blue jumper dresses (little ruffle on the bottom), white knee-high socks, and Mary Janes!  The little boys were all wearing navy blue slacks, white shirts and plaid ties.  It was obvious that they had worked very hard - they stood there with their arms straight down to their sides and watched the conductor and sang their little hearts out.  I have never seen kids that age hold so still for something like that.  (Okay, one little guy in the front had a wiggle in his leg and foot that just couldn't quite be contained but his arms were DOWN to his sides!)  I cannot convey how precious these children were!  (Okay, this is the Primary president speaking here - so I really get into precious children).  :)

Between numbers the conductor talked a little about how important it was for these children to learn about music, singing, concerts, and how to behave in a concert hall.  He talked about how much garbage kids are exposed to everyday and how we need them to be involved in uplifting activities like this.

I realized that I want that for my family.  I would like our home to be a little more refined...cultured.  I think we have a long way to go.  I definitely have plans for Stephen to be part of that little Sunbeam choir next year....

If you live in the East Valley, you MUST go see their next concert (May 19th) "O America."  (I get goosebumps imagining that one).  If you live in Orange County, CA, you are in luck they have another choir there - OCMCO under the same directors.  The OCMCO's next concert is March 31st.