I had prayed about it and felt that it was what I should be doing.
There are three parts to this audition process.
Part one was a sent-in application with an audition tape/CD with specific singing requirements recorded on it.
I was a bit nervous about this, as I hadn't really sang for a while.
Not since Oregon.
I know I had Divine help during my recording session with Kelly, and felt really good about my recording.
Even though I know my pitch went sharp due to nerves and a lack of accompaniment.
As I sent in the required items, I thought to myself, whatever happens, happens.
I got a letter in the mail a couple weeks later stating that I had passed the first part!
I was surprised, but very pleased.
It meant I was that much closer to being able to achieve my dream!
Part two was a music theory test.
I picked up the study material and began studying right away.
I was more nervous about this than I was about the first part since I have never been super awesome at theory.
But, this time around, it clicked.
When I went in to take the test at 8 months pregnant, I was worried my pregnant brain would keep me from remembering what I studied, so Seth gave me a blessing.
In order to pass, I had to get a score of 80% or higher.
I had never cared about the results of a test before like I cared about the results of this one.
As I was taking the test, I found things to be easier than I thought they would be, and felt I did well.
I had even gotten to take the test with an old friend from Twin Falls who happened to be trying out at the same time!
Two weeks later, I received a letter with my results.
I had passed!
I can't tell you how excited I was about this.
Then, the nerves returned when, two weeks after having a baby, I went to Temple Square to finish up the final part of the audition process--part three.
Part three was an interview with the choir president, and an in-person audition with the conductors of the choir.
During my interview it was heavily stressed that I needed to be able to dedicate 5 years to the choir.
I told them I could dedicate one full year (next May to May 2014), but I couldn't guarantee five years.
My in-person audition didn't go as well as I would have liked since my body wasn't where it needed to be after birth, so I felt this didn't help my situation much as far as making the choir was concerned.
But, I felt they understood the physical limitations.
I was so excited to meet Mack Wilberg, my favorite music arranger, and was even a bit giddy that I got to shake his hand.
Yes, I'm a nerd.
He even told me that I had "a very pretty voice".
Which also made me a bit giddy.
But, as I left the Tabernacle, I felt I wasn't going to make it.
Not because of how I sing, but because of the yearly time commitment.
Saturday, I got my last letter with my results.
Here is what it says:
"Thank you for your participation in the recent auditions for the Mormon Tabernacle Choir. You did very well and we were glad to have you participate.
We would love to hear you again and invite you to re-apply when you will be in the area on a more permanent basis."
So, my feelings were right.
Not going to lie, I'm emotional about this.
But, I'm so extremely grateful for the opportunity I never thought I would be able to have to try out.
I'm grateful for the help I received from my Father in Heaven during the process.
I'm grateful that I was able to see an old friend.
I'm grateful that I was able to meet and shake hands with Brother Wilberg and Brother Murphy.
I'm grateful that I now know I do have what it takes to be a member of the choir.
And, those positive thoughts are what I'm dwelling on.
If Seth and I move back here for any reason (because no one can say things will absolutely be one way or another even with plans that seem to be set in stone), I will try out again.
Hopefully, if and whenever that is, I will be able to make as much as a 20 year commitment.
Thank you for your support.
Love.
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