Have you ever considered implementing an instrumental-style chair test system in your choral ensemble? In Episode 57 of ChoralEd, Travis Rogers shares a method for encouraging constructive competition through an approach he calls the challenge system. Similar to a chair test approach found in an orchestra or band, Rogers’ method invites students to challenge their […]
ChoralEd, Common Audition Mistakes
In choral music, honor choir auditions are a common feature. However, students often prepare for these auditions by rehearsing extensively with others or utilizing a recorded track that features their part being sung or played. While these musical aids are beneficial in helping the student learn their part, overreliance on these resources can lead to […]
ChoralEd, Fun Choral Warm-ups
For summer 2026, ChoralEd briefly transitioned from its typical podcast format to releasing five fun warm-ups for the choral ensemble. 2. Pizza Hut – sung to the tune of “Ram Sam Sam” with lyrics changed to fast food establishments. 3. Choral Improvisation 1 – Improvisation based on a harmonic chord chart. 4. Choral Improvisation 2 […]
ChoralEd, A Democratic Approach to the Choral Rehearsal – Dr. Robert Jordan
In a previous episode of ChoralEd (Episode 39), Dr. Robert Jordan shared a democratic framework for repertoire selection. In Episode 55, Dr. Jordan expands on this philosophy discussing a democratic approach to the rehearsal process. To foster student ownership and agency, Dr. Jordan encourages feedback from students by recording and listening back to portions of […]
ChoralEd, Basic Audio Recording
In the twenty-first century, knowledge of audio recording equipment has become an essential tool for every choral director. From submitting national and state honor ensemble auditions to creating learning tracks for at-home practice, producing a quality audio recording is now a pedagogical necessity. Despite its importance, many directors lack the technical expertise and confidence to […]
ChoralEd, The Audio Mixing Board (So Many Buttons!)
Congratulations! You’ve successfully setup your sound system. Unfortunately, you’re now faced with possibly the most daunting task. . . the mixer and its thousands of buttons and knobs. Episode 53 of ChoralEd briefly discusses the various mixer buttons and their uses. Some of the more common buttons, knobs, and faders on the mixing board Include […]