This session featured a panel of 12 conductors who had contributed chapters to the new book titled Conducting Women’s Choirs: Strategies for Success (GIA Publications). Each author spoke for about five minutes on the most salient points from their chapter. Debra Spurgeon, editor and co-author introduced the panel and spoke of the status of women’s choirs today. She was followed by Jeanette MacCallum who introduced the music of the Venetian Ospedale composers. Hilary Apfelstadt spoke on Canadian composers’ contribution to the women’s choir repertoire. Mary Hopper related her experience in building community in the ensemble. Iris Levine spoke on the joys of working with community women’s choirs. Sandra Snow addressed philosophical issues related to single gender ensembles. Shelbie Wahl spoke on the importance of singing texts and music composed for women by women composers. Lori Hetzel relayed how she works with a voice teacher in her rehearsals to build vocal technique. Joelle Norris addressed the need to build confidence in young singers. Lynne Gackle relayed her experience with adolescent girl’s voice change. Phillip Swan spoke about the issues he faces as a male conductor working with an all female choir. Janna Montgomery addressed the special acoustical needs of the women’s ensemble, and Sandra Peter demonstrated seating and placement of the women’s choir.
(The ACDA National Conference is just one of the many benefits of membership in the American Choral Directors Association. Join ACDA today.)
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