For almost two years, I have had the pleasure of being a part of Endicott's student run A Capella group, ECHO. While this may seem to be a simple extracurricular activity, it has significantly shaped my role on campus.
1. Collaboration Leads to Creation
In contrast to my previous solo work, ECHO requires group collaboration to create our music. Unlike many groups, we do not utilize sheet music. Instead, we are taught our specific voice parts and make it our own. However, this process is not successful if we are unable to effectively collaborate, communicate, and blend. It is only with collaboration that we are able to produce harmonies that make our songs stand out from the original. Our songs are definitely our own.
2. However, Leaders Do Have an Impact
I have been lucky enough to have been in the presence of wonderful leadership during my first two years at Endicott. I've learned that a leader is someone who is responsible, shares ideas, and takes others' ideas into consideration. They are a friend, and therefore, respected.
3. Music Speaks the Words that Otherwise Go Unspoken
ECHO performs at Endicott's Relay for Life event every year, which raises money to fund cancer research. At Relay for Life, we perform songs such as "I Won't Give Up" and "Lean On Me." Last week, we sang "Till it Happens to You" at Take Back the Night, an event that speaks about sexual assault on campus. These songs speak to what our audience is feeling, or provide them with words of encouragement. In this way, our performances are powerful, because the music reminds us that we are never alone.
4. Joining Extracurriculars Truly Does Better Your College Experience
I came into college with no intention to sign up for any clubs first semester because I was afraid of becoming overwhelmed. Thank god I gave up that belief and signed up for an audition. Joining this group made me feel comfortable in breaking out of my shell and finding my voice by being myself. After just my first rehearsal, I felt that I had a place where I belonged on campus. If I ever feel overwhelmed or alone, ECHO rehearsals are my safe place and breaks from life. The friendships I have made here extend outside of rehearsal (and even across the globe when some study abroad). I feel that our group works so well because we genuinely like each other and enjoy spending time together.
Thank you to every member, past and present, for reminding me that I have value and encouraging me to push myself vocally and socially. We are not just an A Capella group, we really are a family.
