Choralosophy

In part five we are dive into the importance of a simple to understand system of vocal instruction for groups of beginners. Many choir teachers say “I am the only voice teacher many of my kids will ever have.” While true in one sense, a choir class is NOT a voice lesson. Voice lessons are … Continue reading "Episode 295: Give Them Tools and Let Them Build Part 5 (Vocal Freedom and Function)"

We are revisiting a topic today to bring in more perspectives. Dave Ritschard teaches choir in Alabama, where they are considering ADDING sight reading to the All State Choir audition. Dave is opposed. Today, we are diving headfirst into a hot-button topic that recently blew up on Facebook: what is the true purpose of an … Continue reading "Episode 294: Reopening the All State Debate. Sight read, or nah? with David Ritschard"

How do you choose your repertoire? Is it the same rubric for every choir? Or does it vary? What’s on your list? Enjoy this short, bonus episode where I was able to squeeze in a short discussion on choral programming with the two guest clinicians at the Kantorei KC Summer Choral Institute. Dr. Clelyn Chapin … Continue reading "Car Thoughts: Programming Considerations with Chantae Pittman and Clelyn Chapin"

What happens when you look at your choir’s packed performance schedule and realize you’ve been teaching the repertoire, but not the actual skills? But aren’t middle school kids too young for a rigorous choir class experience? Besides, won’t it drive them away if we don’t make it an easy A with lots of fun concerts? … Continue reading "Episode 293: Middle School is JUST The Right Age for Rigor with Ryan Lindley"

Have you ever noticed that good pedagogy and the perfect methodology only goes so far? The job of a teacher, conductor or a coach is a complicated cocktail with almost infinitely changing ingredients. The main variables can be found within the groups themselves. In this episode, I’m sitting down once again with Gary Seighman, choir … Continue reading "Episode 292: How to Be A Choir Coach with Gary Seighman"