Jaen

As we entered the countryside on our journey the Jaen province, I noticed the mountain sides lined with carefully planted rows of olive trees peaking over the burnt-orange tiled roofs. Mile after mile, olive groves dominated my view; striping the hill sides creating waves of different patterns. Our tour guide, Marianne, pointed out that these scenic mountainsides were also littered with fortresses still standing tall on the peaks just as they did hundreds of years ago. Seeing the more recent agricultural growth alongside the enduring historical structures was like viewing Spain's history through the land. Needless to say, this hour long drive flew by filled with great views and conversation.

After walking down a small street paved with cobbles, we reach the Jaén Cathedral: our venue for the night. While the massive exterior caused many jaws to drop, no one could have expected the beauty that was awaiting inside. The ceilings, pillars, and alters were adorned with intricate moldings and lifelike depictions of holy figures. But nothing compared to the carefully carved 16th century choir stalls that we had the privilege of singing in. During our reheasal, two by two we walked past the pews, standing in front of the main altar to hear the magnificent voices fill the air and echo off the etched marble walls and ceilings. Not only was it amazing to hear, but also to see. It was truly a moving experience to watch the joy on my friends faces and tears well up in their eyes as they heard our choir like never before. The experience of hearing a holy text such as Ave Maria sung in such a thoughtfully ornamented space such as the Jaén was absolutely breathtaking.

The same look of wonderment showed up on the faces in the audience later that night. The concert was absolutely magnificent, with smiles and tears filling the packed audience.  The night ended with a standing ovation and an encore performance! We piled back on the bus to return to Granada for one last evening, and packed our bags to prepare to head to Córdoba and Seville the next morning.

-Emma Rollins

Emma Rollins is a freshman double majoring in music and business.