If you . . . Part 2

ask me which is the greatest of all musical instruments, I will always say, "The human voice, of course."

Because it is capable of so many sounds, so many variations of tone and color and pitch and volume.

Because to sing requires work, muscle control, energy, endurance, and guts.

Because singing has the person behind it. It is the person. No tool in front to protect you, no cello to sit behind or French horn to hold. No split reed or broken string to blame for mistakes or unbeautiful sounds. When you sing, it is you and your voice. That's it. You get the blame. Or you get the credit and the praise and the wonderful feeling of satisfaction that comes from singing well.

The human voice has the blessed capacity to engage the heart and soul--first of the singer, then of the listener--more than any other instrument.

I love those courageous singers who stand alone and sing. I have been thrilled by their songs. Thrilled and enthralled. Those are the best words for what I have felt.

I love those glorious choirs whose blended voices are so rich, whose depth of sound and harmony thrill my soul. High flying language, I know. I can't help it. It's true.

If you can see in the face of the singers that their hearts and souls are into the music, that is wonderful. But the human voice has the power to move listeners, even if the singer is hidden from view.