Prior to introducing new repertoire to an ensemble, choral directors should carefully evaluate their selections for potential vocal challenges as they prepare for the rehearsal process. To identify potential vocal challenges choral directors should look at and sing through each voice part and consider the following questions. Where did I have trouble? Where will my […]
ChoralEd: Selecting Appropriate Repertoire
When selecting repertoire for the choral ensemble a great deal of care and thought should be given to each song as this music will serve as your curriculum for roughly eight weeks of rehearsal. By selecting repertoire that is at the appropriate difficulty level, (as opposed to music that is too easy or difficult) you […]
ChoralEd: Self-Efficacy and Pitch Matching
Self-efficacy (one’s belief in their ability to succeed) is an important component when establishing a positive and productive choral environment. In Episode 33 of ChoralEd, Dr. Greg LeFils describes methods for developing self-efficacy and pitch matching skills in the choral ensemble. An inability to match pitch can lead to negative self-perceptions of musical ability resulting […]
ChoralEd: Accommodations for the Changing Voice
The voice change process can be a challenging experience for young singers. Episode 32 of ChoralEd discusses musical accommodations that can support singers through their respective voice change. Musical accommodations occur when the choral educator makes changes to the musical material to better support their singers. (1) Octave displacement is a common accommodation where the […]
ChoralEd: The Female Changing Voice
In the adventure that is the adolescent voice much attention is given to the male changing voice. While the male voice change is more drastic in terms of pitch fluctuation, the female voice change deserves equal attention. In episode 31, Dr. Jamea Sale discusses the phases of the female voice change and provides resources to […]
ChoralEd: The Boy’s Changing Voice, Part 3 – Maintaining Boys’ Interest in Singing
In Part 3 of Dr. Terry J. Barham’s discussion of the boy’s changing voice, Dr. Barham shares strategies for maintaining a boy’s interest in singing. Recommendations include, To watch ChoralEd, Episode 30 on YouTube click HERE.