Dean’s Column | November 2020

Dear Friends,

A new genre of humor is emerging: jokes about 2020. I recently heard someone say they were not turning their clocks back “because no one wants an extra hour of this year.”

I am not surprised that people want 2020 to be over. But, I do wonder why they expect 2021 to be better. There is little indication that things are going to get better in our world.

Because we actually control less than we’d like – and typically far less than we imagine – the peace and joy in our lives cannot depend on our circumstances.  Letting go of worry and control does not mean we do not care, it simply means we realize our limits and dependence.  For me, that has become a liberating place to reside.

This month brings the opportunity to “give thanks”. Let me affirm in particular that I am thankful for each one of you – friends and colleagues who inspire and draw one another – into the rich world of music. 

May you continue to find joy as you listen, play and share your music throughout our communities.

Warmly,

Judy Kohl, Dean

Past Overtones

Dean’s Column | December 2024

You’ve likely seen the roaring return of the organ at Notre Dame and the crowd of world leaders gathered to witness this monumental milestone. I think we would all be lucky to have such attentive and captivated congregations as we work through this busiest time of the...

Dean’s Column | October 2024

Thank you to everyone who attended the first event of our 2024-2025 season in Kenilworth.  We installed our newly elected officers and enjoyed being together for Evensong.  Thanks especially to our organist Dr. Eun Joo Ju, Rev. Dr. Bill Evertsberg, and those...

Dean’s Column | June 2024

A very hearty welcome to June 2024! So here is another month of the year that features more graduation exercises, Father’s Day, Midsommer Fests, summer usually begins, holiday travels begin, end of year choir season concerts/special services, choir appreciation...