Journaling - October 28, 2025
Two Roads Diverged and I -
I took the one less traveled by,
and that has made all the difference.
---Robert Frost
Yesterday evening made all the difference in my life. I could have stayed home reading a book, or tuning into The Voice, instead I went to a quiet place of solitude. My alma mater presented "GLORIA!" An evening of CHORAL MUSIC featuring the University of Dallas Chorale. All I had to do was listen.
The program began with the University of Dallas musicians playing "Sonata XII in D-minor," (RV 63) by Antonio Vivaldi. It was followed by the Chorale singing "Ave Maria....Virgo serena, and "Gloria in D-major (RV 589). For the first time, the meaning of the words "And on earth peace to all those of good will," became clear. The orchestra played perfectly. The musicians and the Dallas Chorale tugged at my heart strings.
Ava Maok, soprano, is a sophomore in college pursuing a BM in Vocal Performance. She was a two-time All-Stater, as a 1st Chair Soprano 1 in the Texas All State Mixed Choir.
For a full hour, I heard not a word nor a discourse. There were no advertising interruptions. Nor were there any distractions, coughing, whispering, babies crying, or rude behavior from the audience. Throughout the night the voices resound, and the musicians played on.
From where I was sitting, I couldn't get a good view of the second Guest Artist. Her name was Kathryn Pina. She is a native Texas soprano based in Dallas. This season, she will make her debut at the Dallas Opera as Despina in "The Three Little Pigs." She has been featured in numerous performances throughout the state and another most notable role, Gloria in Glory Gone (Nathan Felix Opera Productions).
In conclusion, for the first time in a long time, I walked the path in the dark with my chin held high. I felt Heaven on earth.
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