Latest Blog Posts
Rounds: More than “Row, Row, Row”
(From the interest session “Catch as Catch Can,” by Joyce Click. Presented during the 2012 Central Division Conference) When looking for repertoire that provides a wide variety of contrapuntal opportunities, look no further than rounds, canons, catches, and part songs. These devices can be used at all levels of choral instruction to improve harmonization, […]
No surprise here: music teaches fractions
Music teaches fractions? Yes, and a whole lot more. We at ChoralNet like to celebrate whenever big time news outlets feature music prominently. This from NPR: Math teachers know that fractions can be hard for the average third-grader. Teachers at a public school in San Bruno, Calif., just south of San […]
Barney Sings
Take a break, church musicians. Enjoy Andy’s fix for Barney the soloist in a choir concert:
Bach’s ‘Et Resurrexit’ – by the Swingle Singers
This was an Easter surpise for me:
Superb video: Conducting gesture and musicality
Don't miss this special interview within a mini-documentary titled Demystifying Conducting: The Connection Between Gesture and Music. In the video,Alan Gilbert, music director of the New York Philharmonic, demonstrates and discusses the role of a conductor. The computer graphics are spectacular and so is the content. Special thanks to Brian Galante for […]
ACDA Smartphone App is Now Available
ACDA members now have yet another fabulous benefit available to them: ACDA Smartphone App! This application includes ACDA’s exclusive “First Listen” program, a “Choral Library” featuring reviews of new music, a quiz section, ACDA News, ChoralNet, and a direct a contact feature. You can download this App directly from your smart phone device. iPhone users […]
Choral Caffeine: Humor in the Choral Rehearsal, Part 1
Having never really grown up – as evidenced by my converse sneakers and the “Cars” posters & LEGO toys all over my office – I am of the opinion that a little levity in a rehearsal is a good thing. It looks as though Stephen Sieck shares that sentiment. His article, “Humor in Choral Rehearsals” […]
Choral Caffeine: Choral Sharing
Ever notice that the best things in life are made better when the experience is shared? Whether it’s a night at the movies, a great thunderstorm, or a day at an amusement park, some events just seem to demand to not be done solo. Even some chocolate bars come in two pieces – they are […]
Choral Caffeine: The Community Choir Kit
Every type of choir has a unique set of challenges. In his article, “Community Choirs – Mission Possible?” (Melisma, Vol.20, No.3), Rick Bjella lists some of the keys to a successful community choir. • A community choir does not necessarily want to be a great high school or college choir. • Rehearsal schedules at […]