When preparing for an eisteddfod/competition, remember to keep on working on your strengths. As a choir one can start fixating on every little thing that is wrong and how to fix that; to the extent that you completely neglect to “exercise”, or spend time on, your strengths.
Fixating on every little error makes for a fearful performance – singers become so scared of making mistakes that Joy is replaced by a sterile anxiety.
“Sparking Joy!” is what we aim for. Actively look for the many moments of joy in the harmonies, in the sound, in the rhythms, in the spots where the text touches your innermost being.
If each singers finds joy, the choir sparks joy.