PrayerSong Debut

Today was the day. Our booking had been confirmed, our songs learned, our polish spit shined, our travel itinerary laid out. We met in the parking lot of my apartment complex, loaded drums, flute, maracas and cowbell along with music stands and black binders into the trunk, checked the directions, and headed to 490.

It was a glorious summery day. I joked that I had been praying it would not snow, but I sure hadn't thought to ask for such a warm and beautiful day. Why didn't I think of asking! Fortunately, the good Lord smiled and just gave us a gorgeous day anyway.

We chatted about odds and ends of things on the way there while we navigated the Thruway and turned onto Rte 33. It seemed a short ride even though it was a good hour, and soon we were headed for the tall brick building with Roswell Cancer Institute written in huge silver letters on the side. We pulled up, unloaded the music paraphernalia, handed the keys to the valet, and tromped into the lobby, a bit nervous.

There was a gentleman playing the piano (his time would be up as ours began), and we listened with awe as he spun whole melodies from a simple tune printed on a lead sheet. We discussed where we would stand, then hit the ladies room. I checked in with the head of volunteers. They asked us again about what we would sing, and I introduced the group.

Our pianist joined us just as we were setting up, and suddenly we were on. We stood near a tall multicolored metal sculpture and gazed up a good four stories at balconies overlooking the lobby. Behind us was the information desk and before us stretched a large lobby area filled with various seating arrangements. To the left a small coffee stand, to the right, a short hallway and the entrance doors.

Its a bit disconcerting singing to a moving audience. People entered and exited, had conversations, interacted with the ladies at the information desk. I wasn't entirely sure anyone was pay attention, but as we got into the first zippy Latin rhythm song, several people sat on benches to listen. We got polite applause.

The more we sang, the more faces gathered at the balcony rails. Several people came up to chat when we ended a song, always to express their gratitude for our music. It was most encouraging. The more familiar songs like My Favorite Things from Sound of Music or Button Up Your Overcoat had people tapping along. Now and again someone would walk in and just stand in front of us listening for ten minutes or so, then move on. And the smiles. There were lots of smiles on lots of faces. Outright grins on some of them.

I prayed for them as I sang (and sometimes got a bit lost). I prayed that their day would be brightened, that they would feel the peace of God, that they would feel His healing touch. The longer I sang, I more comfortable I felt, the more I loosened up. Yes, most of the music was right. Yes, it did bring smiles. Yes, people heard us. Yes, this was a helpful thing.

Afterwards I checked in with the head of volunteers. She was very enthusiastic. When could we come again? Could we come every week? Please call and set up times to return. We were well received and welcomed to come as often as we wished.


There was general excitement as we debriefed in the car on the way home. Things we will do differently next time. Music ideas. Singers we can invite to join us. Other places we can contact. We are over the initial hump of being uncertain, inexperienced. We have a lot of work to do, but it will be easier now.

I smile. It's good. Now I can hunker down and get serious.