Podcast

In episode 37, ChoralEd host Micah Bland recommends the use of a harmonic chord chart when sight-reading new performance repertoire.  The implementation of a harmonic chord chart serves two purposes.  First, pitch and rhythm are separated from each other allowing students to focus on one musical element at a time.  This feature can be advantageous […]

Introducing music using a rote technique has its advantages in certain circumstances. However, possibly more impactful is connecting the sight-reading skills that are required in most state music standards with the learning of new performance repertoire. To begin, have students count the rhythm separately from the music. Concurrently with this step, students can begin to […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]