“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 […]
Self Care
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 […]
Choral Ethics: Arrogance and Ignorance
“Always do right. This will gratify some people and astonish the rest.” Mark Twain My late Mom always said arrogance and ignorance are a deadly combination. As a coloratura soprano, nothing irritated her more than someone telling her how to sing or what to sing, unless they were a director or conductor she was working […]
The Conductor as Yogi: Concentric Circles
Sometimes I have singers stand in two concentric circles—the smaller one within the larger one—and sing from these new vantage points. The larger circle may be those who have stronger voices, more confidence, allowing their sound to flow through the smaller circle and across the space, leading the way by providing comfort and security. But […]