songs we sang

So we did Cantique de Jean Racine today.. amazingly beautiful piece, and John's organ playing was just as amazing. I forgot everything I know about rythm this morning and flubbed two thirds in the song, but thankfully both were buried by tenors so it wasn't noticeable.

We also did a Creek song called Heleluyan.. wish we did more American Indian music here.

One of the women I sit next to sometimes causes me to feel self conscious.. she has such an amazing voice, beautiful, witty, funny and just great to be around, but she also can be a bit of a musical snob sometimes. During one of the last songs today I finally decided to stop straining and just sing like I need to - it feels so much better, and sounds a lot better when my voice isn't restrained. John encouraged me not to hold back, since that tightens my vocal chords and can damage them. I told him I wasn't comfortable singing loudly because I'm afraid I'll hit a wrong note or something.. but he said just do it.. it will come with time.

I hope I can work with another vocal instructor this summer.. even if it's only a few lessons.

affect/effect

Ok, when is either used? Every time I need to use the word I am confused about how to spell it.