arrange • compose • conduct
There are many reasons for repeating repertoire from year to year. I’m listening to my son learn the high school “fight song” clarinet part – and so I’m thinking about music we play or sing again and again. Is there value in repeating songs from year to year? I know […]
As you’re programming your music this year, reject the programming/meal metaphor. You know the one: we should spend the bulk of our choral year on nourishing, nutrient-rich music that enhances the education of our students – so that they can have dessert (aka “fun” music, which by definition is not […]
When did you learn the songs that you know cold? There are songs I sang 25 years ago that I could probably perform competently tomorrow. Maybe even without the music between now and the performance. Some of them are intricate arrangement by Darmon Meader or Gene Puerling. But if I […]
Follow your own true north in programming as a conductor. There are a lot of shoulds for conductors. I’ve heard conductors say, “Every ACDA performance program should include a Baroque or Renaissance piece.” I’ve heard conductors say, “Every student should graduate high school having sung X, Y, and Z.” I’ve […]
How do you decide level of difficulty for your repertoire? I’m of eight minds (at least). Mind One: Program easier repertoire that students can be successful at while learning and growing. Mind Two: Program Goldilocks repertoire that challenges students without wiping them out. Mind Three: Program tough, tough repertoire that […]