Latest Blog Posts
Stick Time: Conducting Study 4
Today, let’s observe three things about this colleague’s work in this short clip. First, note the gesture used for the inhalation of air – it brings the visual focus to the area where the singer needs to place energy for the breath. Then, a crescendo is shown using a pulling/stretching movement that is also done […]
“Ministers” no longer subject to anti-discrimination laws
Obviously churches can choose their pastors without government oversight. But other employees of churches have, until now, been subject to employment laws, including those which bar discrimination. But in the case of Cheryl Perich, a teacher at a Lutheran (LCMS) school, who sued under the ADA alleging that her firing was due to her medical […]
It just kept ringing
A fascinating story about a cellphone and Mahler’s Ninth Symphony: During the New York Philharmonic’s performance Tuesday night, it was interrupted by an iPhone. The jarring ringtone—the device’s “Marimba” sound, which simulates the mallet instrument—intruded in the middle of the movement, emanating from the first row at Avery Fisher Hall. When the phone wasn’t immediately hushed, […]
Conflicts between music and athletics
ChoralNet user Josh Bronfman found this policy about conflicts between musical performances and athletic events. See what you think: Procedure for Handling Possible Scheduling Conflicts Where conflicts seem to be unavoidable, the following regulations will prevail. Every attempt shall be made so that the student need not be asked to make a choice, nor […]
ACDA 4 U: North Central Preview: Kansas City Chorale
A taste of the Kansas City Chorale, scheduled to perform at the ACDA North Central Division Conference. You can register online today.
ACDA 4 U: North Central Conference Includes Immersion Day
The pre-conference Immersion Day on Wednesday, February 8, will focus on the sequential teaching of musical literacy. Clinicians John Armstrong and Kristin Zaryski will emphasize the development of tone and expressivity using singers from Dallas Center-Grimes (IA) High School. Participants will be signing, singing, and moving through the day as they are introduced to the […]
NPR suggests a cappella music as antidote to primary season blues
All Things Considered's David Was encourages his listeners to try choral music: The next 40-some weeks are going to be a screaming tower of political babble; a cacophony of accusing and boasting, pandering and slandering. I watch the news these days with the mute button permanently depressed, lest I fall into a permanent depression myself. […]