" I truly thought I was going to be in pop music. And then I joined a choir to meet girls, and everything changed in the first rehearsal. "
- Eric Whitacre

The quote suggests a momentous shift in direction when someone initially aimed for a career in pop music but unexpectedly found themselves drawn towards choral singing, which completely altered their path and opened up new possibilities. The speaker mentions joining a choir with the intention of meeting girls, only to have everything change dramatically from that first rehearsal experience.

At its core, this quote reflects how life can take unpredictable turns due to unforeseen circumstances or simple chance encounters. It highlights the importance of being open to unexpected opportunities and the value of embracing new experiences, even when they diverge significantly from one's initial goals. The speaker’s revelation underscores the idea that sometimes the most profound transformations stem from small decisions made with other intentions in mind. This shift not only changes the course of their musical journey but also enriches their life beyond expectations.

Eric Whitacre is a renowned American composer and conductor, best known for his innovative approach to choral music. He has earned international acclaim for his unique compositions that blend traditional vocal techniques with contemporary styles, often incorporating digital elements. His work in founding the Virtual Choir project brought choral singing into the digital age, allowing singers from around the world to collaborate remotely through video technology. Whitacre’s quote encapsulates a pivotal moment of discovery and transformation in his own musical journey, illustrating how he moved from pop music aspirations to becoming one of the leading figures in contemporary choral composition.