Your OHMI Memories

The Power and Blessing of Music

The power of music can never be underestimated, and OHMI’s gift of promoting music’s power in the hearts of its participants is unparalleled.  The first year my daughter and I joined OHMI, I was thrilled that parents could participate with their children.  Little did I know that singing in the Concert Choir would provide many years of blessings to follow.

Our very first Christmas concert left me breathless, not only from nervous excitement, but also from listening to all the musicians share their amazing talents with the audience.  I was completely blown away by the compelling performance of the Symphony Orchestra and was moved to tears by the violin soloist.   I knew then that this was no ordinary homeschool music program.  It set a standard of excellence that held the bar high, expected integrity and distinction from its students, and equipped them for greatness.

Another favorite concert memory was performing “Baba Yetu” with the combined choirs and the Symphony Orchestra.  Singing “The Lord’s Prayer” in Swahili catapulted my heart to faraway places where people of every tribe, tongue and nation worship the Lord in their native languages.  It was probably THE most powerful performance for me as a choir member, and my daughter and I continued to listen to that practice cd long after our concert attire was hung in the closet.

During our three seasons of participation, OHMI was not just another extra-curricular activity or a music class credit for my high school daughter.  It became a venue for learning the things I had forgotten after high school and a chance to pursue the unfulfilled dreams of a child who loved to sing.  It continually challenged me, endlessly entertained me, bountifully blessed me and powerfully changed my life.  Today, as a member of my church Worship Team, I still apply the techniques and principles I learned at OHMI.  I think fondly of and still pray for the dedicated instructors, directors and conductors who devote countless hours to their students, young and “older” alike.  A simple “Thank You” is not enough.  Happy Anniversary, OHMI!    -Julie Allar

Vocal

I was able to be in the OHMI Concert Choir for three years in high school, and it was an absolute blast. Being able to get together and sing with other homeschoolers, having concerts, and going to competitions was a lot of fun.

I really enjoyed being in Advanced Choir during my last year of high school. Advanced Choir was definitely the best part of my senior year.

It’s hard to pick any one favorite moment, because every week and every rehearsal was so much fun! But if I had to choose, I’d say the best times were before performances, when Advanced Choir would practice together. Sometimes stress can cause friction, but with our group, we always seemed to have the most fun when we were excited to perform.

OHMI was a great experience for me, and besides the musical education, I was able to build some great, continuing friendships with some awesome people. I’m very thankful for the opportunity I had to be a part of OHMI’s first ten years!  - Matt Stouffer