One of the reasons choral conductors insist that singers memorize their scores is that there is a connection between eye contact between conductor & choir and the cohesiveness of the ensemble (besides, who wants to look at the tops of heads buried in folders). However, note that in this wonderful performance from ACDA's 2011 National […]
Monday Motivation: Music as Virture
Music, like religion, unconditionally brings in its train all the moral virtures to the heart it enters, even though the heart is not in the least worthy. ~ Jean Baptiste Montegut
Sunday Inspiration: Tallis Scholars
A pleasant Sunday.
Saturday Respite: Thunderstorm
It’s Saturday. Breathe, relax if you can. Here’s an autumn thunderstorm for you.
Mind Your Business: Tour Legal Issues
“Consider every imaginable outcome in a tour. Have a plan for risk management – one that if tested in a court of law will prove you upright, fair, and in keeping with the highest order of excellence. While each state and institution has different expectations, what follows are a few important things to keep in […]
Stick Time: Power In Simplicity
A couple years ago, the tour program I was conducting included the William Dawson classic, “Ezekiel Saw De Wheel.” After one evening’s performance, a choral friend remarked, “I’ve been trying to do so much new music, I’d forgotten how powerful that simple piece is!” “Ezekiel” was in her choir members’ folders the next semester. […]