Standing in the back corner of the choir (fourth row, second from the end in the bass II section) is a great vantage point to notice the coming and going of the rest of the choir. I had plenty of opportunities to notice Rachel. The front row of sopranos rarely gets free time to break their concentration to pay attention to what might be going on behind them—and yet somehow I always felt Rachel knew exactly what I was up to.

The first time we really talked was at a holiday party following a week of December rehearsals and performances at St. Mary's Basilica in Minneapolis. We met in the kitchen of the Johnson's house, where most good conversations happen. Rachel asked me some short investigative questions, "You went to St. Olaf [College], right? Hmm..." and so on. Then we moved on to the other room to join in the singing of carols, as if we hadn't been singing all week... 

A close friend from the alto section came swiftly up and said, "Did I see that right or did the cutest girl in choir just come talk to you?" 

"Maybe," I said, and walked outside with a grin that told all. 

Our first "date" was at the National Lutheran Choir spring gala. Rachel, in her black satin dress, stopped to adjust my bow tie and I thought to myself, "Don't kiss her yet, don't kiss her yet..."  Later in a car in the parking lot, we spent the wee hours of the morning talking about everything from our families and college days of singing at St. Olaf College and Luther College to our common faith of grace and thankfulness. 

Two years later we would marry. Eric Whitacre's i thank You God for most this amazing day took the place of the sermon. Enveloped by our National Lutheran Choir family, we were able to share the sound of the choir with grandparents and family who otherwise may never have had the chance to witness the reason we found each other and the testament of the choir's commitment to each other.

In three short years, we have been to other NLC weddings and stood beside friends at funerals. We have celebrated births and consoled those who have lost their jobs. This choir is a family and choral music brings out the best in us. It allows me to be gentle and kind. It allows Rachel to be confident and safe. It allows us, while we are busy with chores and the chaos of everyday life, moments of music in which we can catch each other's eye, smile and nod slowly, communicating with a smirk and maybe a tear every now and then.

Rachel and Tim are expecting their first child in November 2010.

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