One doesn’t have to look very far to see that the state of the church choral program is in flux and in some places steep decline. Many choirs in worship reflect an aging population and risk ceasing to exist. So how do we infuse new life into our aging church choirs? How do we draw […]
Sample Page
Performance Practice of Latin American Choral Music
This session explores aspects of performance practice of Latin American choral music, focusing on style, tone production, articulation, instrumentation, and rhythm. This session addresses issues of diversity as it targets two goals: 1) it explores the music from many regions of Latin America, and 2) it empowers our colleagues to work with a diverse membership.
Making it Plain: Transcribing Contemporary Gospel for the Mixed Chorus
This session seeks to enlighten its audience on transcribing/scoring gospel music for the mixed (SATB) chorus in various formats, including choral octavos and hymnals. The presenters will share their insight on maintaining cultural integrity within the score through various elements, including accessible piano accompaniments, non-doubling bass/baritone vocal lines, and otherwise, while reading though several published […]
Fostering Diversity in our Choral Ensembles
This session will focus on ways that conductors may encourage diversity within their ensembles specifically through recruiting, engagement in cross-curricular activities, and diverse repertoire. The session will off er practical strategies for ensembles, along with a reading packet that will highlight underrepresented cultures, styles, and composers.
Finding Common Ground: A Panel Discussion on Confl ict Transformation through Choral Music
How can music build bridges between communities in divisive times? This panel discussion will feature choral conductors and song leaders who are pursuing justice and reconciliation through choral music by engaging diverse populations of singers in dialogue-based conflict transformation, restorative practices, and creative youth development in to the rehearsal and performance process.
The Engaged Singer: Ways to Create Expressive Performances
Many choirs struggle with communicating expressively. However, studies show that a visually expressive ensemble will come across as more engaging for their audience. Having a “full bodied” performance can bring a choir’s singing to the next level and create an engaging performance for an audience member. Through storytelling, movement, games, and imitation, this session discusses […]
