Is it time for a break?

We're pretty sure you'll agree 2020 has been a year like no other! For the last few months we have closed down rehearsals, gone online with our choirs, learned a whole new set of choir-leading skills, not to mention all the tech we've needed to get to grips with. BUT, we've seen amazing results with community spirit, the joy of singing and solidarity stronger than ever before.

Phew! That's a lot.

So, with that in mind here's three great reasons why we think you should take a break in August, whether you're in the middle of summer or the depths of winter right now. The last few months have been FULL-ON. Here are some of the benefits of taking a break.

Time for yourself to relax and recharge

We've been hearing lockdown stories for months about people with a lot of extra time on their hands, but for many choir leaders, things have been as busy as ever - just different. Taking time out for yourself will really help you relax and do some of the things you love, such as reading a good book or getting out in the fresh air. This will help you return to choir (whether that's in person or virtually) with a fresh outlook and a renewed energy - great for you and your singers.

Absence makes the heart grow fonder

If you usually take a break around this time of year, your singers may well be ready for a rest from their weekly schedules too. With rules in many countries now more relaxed, people will likely be travelling and spending time with family and friends. You may find attendance drops. Taking a break can be the perfect way to inject some new energy into the choir so that everyone returns energised and raring to go.

Time to plan

As we've been discussing with many Total Choir Resources members, online rehearsals can be more demanding in terms of repertoire, as we are tending to teach simpler arrangements that are learned very quickly. Taking a break allows you to get ahead and plan out what music you'll learn going forward. You can also map out how you want your next term to be structured without the pressure of currently weekly rehearsals. Perhaps it's time for a creative new project or a celebration of a particular event or anniversary.

Don't forget that you have to look after yourself to serve your choir. Make sure your health and happiness don't get bumped down the list of 'things to do'. You'll feel better for it, and you'll do better for your choir.