Latest Blog Posts

“Gossip is the art of saying nothing in a way that leaves practically nothing unsaid.” Walter Winchell I hate gossip. In fact, I hate it so much when someone is spreading any ugly rumor; I refuse to acknowledge they’ve spoken. This doesn’t mean I don’t listen to gossip; I just refuse to join in the […]

Pro Musica Chroma from Seattle Karen Thomas, Conductor; The University of Louisville Cardinal Singers Dr. Kent Hatteberg, Conductor ACDA National Convention, Dallas, March 2013

ChorTeach is ACDA’s quarterly publication for choral conductors and teachers at all levels. It is published online, and each issue contains four practical articles. If you are not already a member of ACDA, you can join as an Associate for $45 per year and receive access to ChorTeach and the Choral Journal online. The Summer […]

Thinking beyond borders Every family has its lore- the stories that are told and retold at family gatherings. One of my parents’ favorites is how, when asked what I wanted for my 5th birthday, I told my mother in total earnestness that I wanted a passport and an atlas. To her credit she got me […]

This week, I made a couple of videos to share some ideas about what I’m doing to keep my students motivated as we prepare for our March adjudication. Click here for the rest!

“I never considered a difference of opinion in politics, in religion, in philosophy, as cause for withdrawing from a friend.” Thomas Jefferson In the last two weeks, I have had five people contact me about politics. I don’t mean friends or family or acquaintances sharing Facebook stuff but CHORAL DIRECTORS wanting advice about how to […]

Going Beyond Words w/ Stan Schmidt Show 2317 – In Memoriam Weston John Noble This week on Going Beyond Words, and ACDA Radio you should take time to listen to this very Special Edition as we all take time to remember another sustaining member of the ACDA and a true American Choral Legend.    While one […]

Choral Clarity Presents: Valentine’s Day is a special day for those who are “in love” and can be a miserable day for those who feel all alone.  In our choir family, nobody should feel alone. We can spread love throughout our room and try to make everyone feel special. Here are 8 Last Minute, “on the […]

ChorTeach is ACDA’s quarterly online magazine for choral directors and music educators. The articles in each issue are gleaned from ACDA state and division newsletters and from submissions. ChorTeach is specifically designed for those who work with amateur singers and are looking for practical material to apply to classrooms and rehearsals. Below is a preview of the articles […]

One of my favorite musicals of all time is “The Sound of Music”.  I never tire of watching it with my students and teaching the lessons it offers us the teach. I’ve watched more times than I can count.  I know every line.  I’ve done the Salzburg “Sound of Music” tours.  I’m a fanatic. One […]