Between the Staves: Choral Questions, Candid Answers, is fresh take on the classic advice column—this time for all things choral music! Modeled after the beloved “Dear Sally” format, this blog will answer your questions about choral music education, performance, and leadership. Whether you’re curious about vocal technique, rehearsal tips, repertoire selection, or the “other” side of our profession (business, fundraising, scheduling, recruiting, communication, audio engineering, etc.!), Between the Staves will have you covered. Have a question that you just don’t know who to ask or maybe it’s something you feel like you should know but don’t? Between the Staves will have you covered. Need to ask for advice but need to be anonymous? Between the Staves will have you covered. This month we start with:
How do you recharge and reenergize for the second half of the school year?
Halfway there! Whether your fall semester was filled with triumphs, challenges, or a mix of both, you made it through. Hopefully, the break provided you with much-needed time to rest, unwind, and recharge. Now, the dreaded ‘first day back’ looms ever closer on your calendar (Sunday scaries, anyone?). So, how can you recharge and reenergize to kick off the second semester on a positive note? Here’s what four choral music educators have to say:
Ashton Humphrey, 10th year teaching
Croatan High School, Newport, NC
To reenergize before diving back into the second half of the year, I take time to reflect on the progress we’ve made and the joy of making music together. It also helps put my mind at ease knowing that I’ve already set a firm musical foundation, allowing my classes to pick back up with ease—much more smoothly than starting fresh at the beginning of the year. I spend a bit of time exploring new repertoire, which always excites and motivates me for the months ahead. A little self-care goes a long way, too—whether it’s getting outdoors, connecting with friends, or simply resting. Returning to school feeling refreshed and inspired is the best way to set the tone for a successful second half!
Blake Glass, 5th year teaching
Western Hills High School, Benbrook, TX
Saint Matthew United Methodist Church, Fort Worth, TX
To recharge for the second semester, I make it a priority to step away from work and spend time with family. I teach in the DFW metro area but am originally from Tennessee, so I fly home for a week as soon as my Christmas Eve services are finished. During the first part of the break, I focus on relaxing, seeing friends and disconnecting from work. Later in the week, I shift gears and start preparing for the second semester of school. I finalize repertoire, score study and prepare all my scores for each choir using forScore on my iPad. Thinking about how I’m going to teach a piece and having it ready to go for my students helps ease anxiety for the intense UIL contest season here in Texas.
Brenda Gregory, 42nd year teaching
Siegel High School, Murfreesboro, TN
The first artistic semester is particularly draining, so I re-fill my cup during the break by shutting down and engaging in activities that bring solitude and peace. Reading and meditating are at the top of my list, as well as reflective journaling and listening to music. A great massage and a mani/pedi is always part of my self-care plan during this time, and a little after Christmas retail therapy is, by all means, good for the soul!
Chris Maunu, 20th year in choral music
Pacific Youth Choir, Portland, OR
Gearing up for the second half of the year means jump-starting my creative energy. Although I’m always inspired by my students’ ability to revitalize my musical soul, I never count on motivation to simply materialize. Taking action by listening to new repertoire, revisiting goals set at the beginning of the season, and envisioning subtle ways to infuse newness into my process get the juices flowing. This results in the mindset needed to dive back into the rehearsal or classroom space, ready to guide my youngsters to new heights.
Need more resources? Consider these articles:
“Reflective Practice and the Choral Director” by Emily Mason; The Choral Journal , June/July 2019, Vol. 59, No. 11 (June/July 2019), pp. 63- 70.
“Feeling the Burn? How to Ignite Your Passion as an Educator” by Joyce J. Click; ChorTeach, Vol 15, Issue 2; Winter 2023.
To access past issues of the Choral Journal, log in to your ACDA account at www.acda.org and then click on Publications. Have a problem? Let us know by emailing
Have a question for Between the Staves? Send it in by clicking the link below!
No question is too specific or too big-picture—ask away, and let’s all grow and learn together!
Between the Staves is an initiative of the ACDA Education and Communication National Standing Committee. For questions, contact John McDonald at
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