News and Notices

In Episode 23 of The Choral Director’s Toolbox, host Dr. William Baker dives into The Naming of Voices, examining the history, assumptions, and consequences behind labeling singers as sopranos, altos, tenors, or basses.  Learn why misassigned voice parts can lead to tension, poor intonation, and ensemble imbalance – and how thoughtful, flexible assignments can unlock freedom and blend.  This […]

This week on The Choral Director’s Toolbox Podcast host Dr. William Baker reflects on the decline of civility in public discourse, shares a hilarious essay on swearing by 16-year-old Robert Shaw (yes, that Robert Shaw), and offers personal insight into language, leadership, and the rehearsal podium.  This episode also explores the many benefits of touring with your choir […]

This year, dozens of choral programs across the United States have closed their doors. Each of us has received messages from conductors saying things like:” I’d love to participate… but our choral program was just shut down after 129 years of vibrant activity.”” But there was one message that hit closer than all the rest. […]

Exploring Joan Szymko’s oeuvre reminds one of strolling through a beautiful garden. Over here is a gorgeous, fresh, and significant work called “At Such a Dizzy Height.” Scored for choir, solo voices, piano, violin, and cello, it would enrich any concert. Take another step, and you find something completely different, “Blow, Blow, Thou Winter Wind,” […]

Hello! My name is Juniper Duncan, and I am a choral composer and graduate student in the Library and Information Science Master’s program at Simmons University. I am currently running a study to learn more about the music information and music performance behaviours of choral musicians and directors of choirs, or patterns in how and […]