Latest Blog Posts

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 […]

“Actually, you can only expect a fulfilling life if you dedicate yourself to finding out who you are.  To finding the ineffable, idiosyncratic seeds of possibility already planted inside.  There is some surrender required here.”  ~ Stephen Cope When I think about the times in my life when I felt the most engaged and focused […]

The August 2024 issue of Choral Journal is online and features an article titled “Building Collective Inspiration in a College Choir” by Jennifer Kelly. Following is a portion from the article’s introduction. _________________ Conductors strive to express meaningful music beyond the basic notes and rhythms on the printed page. As we honor the composer’s score while also recognizing the […]

I’ve written a great deal about starting a rehearsal, but it’s equally important to discuss how to end one effectively. The truth is, the way we end a rehearsal has a lasting impact on our students. It often influences how they remember the entire experience. While the opening of class sets the stage for a […]

When I work with emerging composers trying to get noticed, I ask them “What are you trying to be noticed FOR?”- Libby Larsen. Could the social media environment incentivize non-musical answers to this question? In this episode, I have the pleasure of speaking with the remarkable composer Libby Larsen about her journey into the world […]

“The great leaders are like the best conductors – they reach beyond the notes to reach the magic in the players.” Blaine Lee  During the last month or so, I’ve gotten a few emails from ChoralNetters about something that can be defined as “Choral Cults.” I’ve written two blogs about the subject and decided to […]

The August 2024 issue of Choral Journal is online and features an article titled “Joby Talbot’s Path of Miracles: Ancient Pilgrimage, Modern Journey” by Jeff Goolsby. Following is a portion from the article’s introduction. _________________ A pilgrimage involves walking, often over great distances, and begins by putting one foot in front of the other. It is a physical manifestation […]

 “The Ten Commandments have never been replaced as the moral basis upon which society rests.” Edwin Louis Cole I know what you’re thinking; I’ve come up with another clever “Ten Commandments for Choirs” but nope, not today. Today I am blogging about the actual Ten Commandments and how they can relate to our profession. I […]

“Some rise by sin, and some by virtue fall.” William Shakespeare As we begin the new academic year, I’d like to start today with ChoralNetter correspondence concerning a topic that still has me a bit baffled: Virtue Signaling.  I’ve had two folks contact me about this topic over the summer and hope you’ll comment below […]

Anyone else feel that “New Year’s Eve Vibe” at the start of the school year? I absolutely love that feeling of a fresh start, new classes, new singers, returning faces, and routine! While we must acknowledge it can also be a time of anxiety and overwhelm, this blog post seeks to address what to do […]