J.J. Wright ’14 MSM, ’17 DMA
Together, they hit new notes. As a doctoral student and director of the Notre Dame Children’s Choir, J.J. Wright ’14 MSM, ’17 DMA, grew close to a young student named Clare, a bond that strengthened over the years as Wright became director of the Folk Choir and Clare a Notre Dame student and choir member. Once, Clare came to him upset about how the group had adapted The Passion—a musical retelling of Holy Week that, to her, was perfect in its original form:
“During our conversation, I invited Clare to see adaptability not as a loss but as grace—to trust that the Spirit is still at work, even when we can’t predict success or even see where the road leads.
“She took that to heart, leaned into community again, and met with other students, the composers, and the lyricists, helping everyone wrestle together in faith towards the new version of the music. When she graduated as valedictorian, Clare wrote me a note saying that I had ‘high expectations but also high support.’ It was one of the most meaningful affirmations I’ve ever received.”
In this season of Advent, we return to a narrative we know so well but that meets us differently each year. As we grow and our roles shift from child to parent, from learner to leader, the ancient story takes on new life. Does it adapt and grow, or do we?
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Claire, with the help of JJ Wright, learned to stop looking at things through a keyhole and open the door to expand her horizon. This not only was helpful in the change of how the music was presented; but opened her perceptions in general. Although Mr wright knew Claire as a young girl to emerging into womanhood, widening her lens was the best lesson he gave her.
My name is Kathleen and I can understand what Claire’s feelings were when the Folk Choir seemed to change and I was lost. I had attended concerts, gone to the Sunday mass that they sang at but then it it changed and I was confused. That which was so familiar was now different. I am 79 years old and change is hard but know reading and hearing about Claire’s experiences I am beginning to under Stan that although the folk choir may be “different “ it still is a way to praise my Heavenly Father. Thank you so much for your reflections.
At 72. I also can learn from Clare. Thank you Alumni for providing these real life stories of Gods indweeling in our everyday lives
Thank you JJ for everything you do❗️ND’72🍀
My late wife (1-31-22) was a gifted pianist and church organist with a B.A in music from the former Marycrest College, in Davenport, Iowa We were married 55 + years. Congratulations to all you do in the music field and your wonderful reflections! May God continue to richly bless you!
F. R. Lalor, Ph.D. Iowa City, Iowa Home of the Iowa Hawkeyes
Like many of the comments here, I am 78 and have been struggling with the changes in music at our parish, St. Thomas Aquinas on the Purdue campus. This was a beautiful reflection on understanding that the music might change, but it is still a prayer that provides an opportunity for me to grow and be accepting of change. Thank you for these Adventure reflections.
Thank you I’m sure you have left the last thing. Impression on many.
What an inspiring story. God gave us so much talent to share.
J.J. has been giving through music is much more than beautiful sound. I’m proud of you, J.J.!