Sometimes, I divide our large mixed choir into separate treble and bass ensembles to give them a different experience singing SSAA or TTBB repertoire. Great for programming and for variety in rehearsal, and for listening in a different way for blend and balance and color. When I resumed this practice a couple of years ago […]
Leadership
Choral Ethics: Christmastime Is Here
“Christmas is a season not only of rejoicing but of reflection.” Winston Churchill I’m rerunning some Choral Ethics blogs from years past with a few modifications where needed. Two of my MOST REQUESTED December Blogs will also be making their yearly appearances. In a few days, it will be Christmas Eve. Your plans have been […]
Choral Ethics: Why Music?
“Music is a moral law. It gives soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination, and charm and gaiety to life and to everything.” Plato Why do we love music? And why make it our life’s work? I’ve been pondering this question as I organize some of my ChoralNetters favorite holiday […]
The Conductor as Yogi: Stress Less, Accomplish More
“You are not a meditation failure; you just haven’t been taught yet.” Emily Fletcher A few months ago, I followed up on a book recommendation and read Stress Less, Accomplish More: Meditation for Extraordinary Performance. I was intrigued by the title but also by the high-profile endorsers (such as Mark Hyman, M.D.) and the fact […]
Choral Ethics: Being Grateful
I am taking a bit of a Choral Ethics break this week, and this is a repeat of an often requested Choral Ethics Blog. “I am grateful for what I am and have. My thanksgiving is perpetual.” Henry David Thoreau I always try to be grateful, and I remain grateful, despite much upheaval in our […]
Choral Ethics: What Cannot Be Said
“Music expresses that which cannot be said and on which it is impossible to be silent.” Victor Hugo It is the most wonderful time of the year, so the song goes, and it is, really. But it is also one of the most difficult times of the year. There are challenges we may face, despite […]