If you’re a church musician, I’m guessing you’re feeling the pressure of this time of year with Holy Week and Easter just around the corner. This time of year, I would love more rest and pause, a very challenging task in such a hectic time. Sometimes I’ll remember the saying that “Comparison is the thief […]
Others
How the Sausage is Made in Sheet Music with Dan Forrest
In this episode, I have renowned composer and publisher Dan Forrest on the show to talk about the current state of the publishing industry. In addition to his own story about how he got involved in the publishing and composition world, as well as his thoughts about the history of music publishing, the changes due […]
The Conductor as Yogi: The Subtle Energy of Green
From gray to green. That’s how it is this time of year. The gray that characterizes the early months of the calendar slowly, surely, gives way to green, the color of spring. Writing this on St. Patrick’s Day, I see green everywhere and it instantly brightens my mood, enlivens my thinking, and lifts my energy. […]
The Importance of Routines and When to Ditch Them
Since I moved to Iowa City, Iowa in August 2022, much of the past several months has been establishing new routines. Even something as simple as where to go grocery shopping has taken some figuring out. With a new position comes new policies, procedures, and working relationships. Then there is emerging out of lockdown. Even […]
Raise Your Voice: March Magic
This is the eighth post in a series: https://choralnet.org/archives/666904 How is it March already? My students are giving their second trimester concert today and after that we will begin our themed music for our end of the year fundraiser. Our theme is Ocean Conservation. We’ll likely be performing lots of “water” songs, like “The Water […]
The Conductor as Yogi: Holding Space
“Holding space” is the practice of allowing room for someone to release their thoughts, concerns, or fears without judging them or feeling the need to offer advice or fix the situation. This is a valuable skill in our professional and personal relationships, a way of honoring and showing compassion for others so they feel heard […]