I am back in my apartment after a long and rewarding first full day in the city. I had to do a surprise “test run” into Manhattan to find my roommate so that I could get keys to my apartment that actually worked! Turns out I grabbed the wrong ones. So, after traversing the subway, getting my keys, and coming back to Brooklyn, I changed into my concert blacks and headed right back out to the Nederlander. It’s a good thing I got an unlimited month long pass- I’ve used the subway five times already!
Sitting in the Amazing Grace pit orchestra was an unforgettable experience! I met briefly with Joseph Church, the conductor of the show and the author of a book on music direction that I am using for my research. We will be following up with a longer interview at a later date. The keyboard 1 and keyboard 2 players were very welcoming and kind to me; I got to see their books up close while observing the conductor and following along with a rehearsal score. In a rush this morning getting my key situation figured out, I forgot my notebook- I jotted down every observation I could once I returned to my apartment. Essentially I realized that Broadway pits are just better paid, more musically skilled versions of what we do at Northwestern! Jokes were made, fun was had, and the casual-while-still-professional environment was something that really struck me. It felt like I was stepping into the Cahn auditorium pit for a performance of Waa-Mu…at least, until the first downbeat when I proceeded to be blown away by the seemingly effortless orchestral sound of the musicians. The finale was particularly moving, with incredible vocal arrangements by the music director. Every audience member was on their feet once the iconic song began, and there was not a dry eye in the house by the end. I was also very impressed by the orchestrations throughout the show. They added a much-needed layer of musical complexity to the sound. I am looking forward to seeing this show later from the house and following up with Joseph Church on his educational history and process.
After Amazing Grace, I got dinner and amazing cookies with my friend Marin! It was great to see a familiar face after two days of strangers and self-sufficiency.
Tomorrow is the first day of WE ARE THE TIGERS rehearsal! Look out for another post after that!