Where to begin? What is the essence of a piece? What will capture chorister interest in a new choral piece? Octavos will be studied in terms of score preparation, what should be introduced in a first rehearsal, and what should be reinforced in subsequent rehearsal in terms of music understanding and rehearsal efficiency. Thorough preparation […]
Sample Page
Developing Community in the Choral Rehearsal
Singers are looking for a place to belong and be accepted, and we are responsible for creating this hospitable environment. This session will examine strategies for fostering a communal environment in any setting involving choral music. Vulnerability, trust, nurture, honesty, story telling, collaboration, playing, building traditions, and fostering group commitment will be explored.
Choosing, Adapting, Composing, and Publishing for Middle School Choir
This session focuses on the elements of quality music for middle school mixed, treble, and tenor bass choirs and guides the director in choosing music, adapting music for changing voices, composing for your own choir, and guidelines for submitting to a publisher. The session will be presented by Emily Crocker, successful composer for this age […]
Belting 101: Helping Students Preserve Their Voice in the School Musical
This session will define what belting is, discuss the pedagogical differences between classical and contemporary vocal production, explore stylistic distinctions, address some of the common technical challenges faced by beginning belters, and introduce exercises and strategies for cultivating healthy belting
Anthems for All Seasons
A journey through the liturgical year with John Rutter as he explores popular anthems he has written for the various seasons of the Church year and gives some background to his works. You are sure to discover some previously unknown gems in this interesting, informational and educational overview, led by the composer along with Kantorei […]
Alzheimer’s Stories: Music and Memory
Composer Robert S. Cohen and Librettist Herschel Garfein explore the creation of “Alzheimer’s Stories,” published by C.F. Peters, which is a featured work at the 2019 ACDA National Conference. The session will explore the collaborative process that led to the creation of the work and how music has been shown to help restore memory in […]