Notes from the Choir Loft

Reflections, reverence, and a little irreverence. Just before mass begins, there's a fleeting moment of stillness. A breath, a glance around the sanctuary, and a rush of thoughts that come uninvited but welcomed. For years, these musings lived quietly in the mind of a choir member until they began to take the shape of emails to a beloved priest. Now, they've found their place in this tender and deeply human collection of reflections. Notes from the Choir Loft is a love letter to faith, friendship, and the sacred ordinary moments that pass unnoticed by many but linger deeply in the hearts of a few. Told with wit and candor, these vignettes invite readers into the quiet magic of church life where hymns echo, candles flicker, and real connection happens far beyond the liturgy. Part memoir, part confessional, and wholly authentic. Whether you're part of a choir, a churchgoer, or simply someone who has ever paused to wonder about your place in the world, these notes will feel like an old friend.

About the Author :
Karen Willough, songwriter and longtime choral singer grew up in New York and graduated from Stuyvesant High School in Manhattan. After completing undergraduate education at the College of New Rochelle, she went to New York University for graduate studies in Psychology. She quickly discovered that the field was not for her and bounced around in an assortment of jobs while continuing to study music and pursue a songwriting career. Karen met music producer michéal Castaldo when they were both members of the Songwriter's Guild of America, at offices located in New York. He produced several of her original compositions. After living on another continent and traveling to over 25 countries, Karen returned to where she belongs-the world of music. Karen sang with Capella Sint Jan in The Netherlands for several years, before establishing herself in the US. In 2012, Karen began singing with one of Chicago's most prestigious choirs under the direction of Paul French. She also studied with the incomparable Beckie Menzie, who introduced Karen to the world of cabaret. Karen made her solo recording debut with "Tra le tue Braccia." It was followed by the duet "World without You" with Chicago jazz musician Michael Jones, who also plays trumpet in the song."Scrumptious," Karen's first CD/EP includes "Truly Scrumptious" from the film "Chitty Chitty Bang Bang." The song also features a flugelhorn solo by Caleb Mitchell, graduate of the renowned music program at DePaul University and trumpeter for the group "The Right Now." Karen continues to enjoy her love of travel and has now visited over 40 countries. She presently resides in Europe.