Meet Marea Glade, a dedicated Communication Disorders major and the vibrant president of BYU Women’s Chorus. With a lifelong passion for singing, Glade has been an active member of the chorus since her freshman year, performing alongside 190 other talented women. This involvement has not only nurtured her musical talents but has also been instrumental in her personal growth and spiritual journey.
According to Glade, her participation in the Women’s Chorus has enriched her academic experience. "Spending time doing something I love makes everything else fit better," she shares. The skills she’s developing as president—like organization and leadership—complement her studies. She has also seen how singing has helped her in her studies, particularly in phonetics, which she uses to enhance her singing technique. This synergy between her major and her passion for music has helped her understand the intricate connections between communication and performance.
Balancing her responsibilities is no small feat, especially during concert weeks filled with rehearsals. Glade emphasized the importance of time management, noting that she’s learned to prepare ahead to navigate busy periods effectively. By working to balance her schedule between extracurricular activities, class, homework and more, she learned a lot about prioritization and self-care. "It helps me to step back and appreciate being part of something special," she said.
Beyond the practical skills she’s gained, Glade’s testimony has been strengthened through her experiences in the chorus. The emotional and spiritual connections Glade has formed while performing hymns and sacred music have helped her deepen her relationship with God. Sharing music with her fellow chorus members fosters a sense of community that reinforces her beliefs and reminds her of God’s eternal plan.
"Being a part of the Women’s Chorus and doing extracurricular activities helps to remind me that there's a bigger picture," she said. “There is more going on. I love school but sometimes it's a little harder to make friends and connections when you're going to school and you're studying. Taking time outside to meet people do something enjoyable together makes a big difference. It helps me focus on the Savior more, especially in the Women’s Chorus because I get to sing about the Savior.”
As she applies to graduate schools to pursue a career as a speech-language pathologist, Glade reflects on the meaningful connections she’s made through the chorus. "Singing with the Women’s Chorus not only allows me to engage with my peers but also deepens my sense of community and faith," she said. The friendships forged in the chorus have been a source of support and encouragement for Glade, particularly during the challenging times she has faced as a student.
Glade encourages fellow students to explore extracurricular activities that spark their interest. "You never know how much you’ll love it until you try," she said. Being involved in the Women’s Chorus has allowed her to grow in ways she never anticipated, helping her balance her academic and spiritual life while reinforcing her commitment to her studies and her passions.
For Glade, the Women’s Chorus is not just an extracurricular activity; it is a vital part of her student experience, helping her to navigate her college years with joy and purpose. The importance of service and leadership within the group, and being of service to others, has been a profound aspect of her college experience.
"It’s about more than just singing; it’s about lifting each other up," she said.
The Women’s Chorus will be debuting a new piece by Daniel E. Gawthrop titled “Mary and Elizabeth” on November 9 at 7:30 p.m.