The Choir That Thinks It’s Democratic
Community choirs should absolutely be welcoming, collaborative and member-focused. That does not mean they should be run like a permanent constitutional convention.
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The Singer Who Treats Every Rehearsal Like Opening Night
This person attacks the opening vocalise with the commitment of somebody auditioning for international representation.
Where Should They Stand?
The argument for pairing contrasting voices is that singers learn to listen and adapt more actively. Rather than blending naturally because they are surrounded by similar sounds, they are required to make conscious adjustments.
The Conductors Who Cannot Bear Silence
The strongest rehearsals often contain surprisingly little talking. Not because the conductor lacks insight, but because the conductor understands that timing matters.
Your Committee Has Become a Social Club
A committee should exist to make decisions, solve problems, support the conductor where appropriate and create the conditions in which the choir can function well.
Your Choir Is More Tired Than You Think
Choirs are not collections of full-time musicians arriving physically and mentally prepared for artistic excellence on demand.
The Singer Who Mouths During Difficult Bits
Instead, the difficult-bit mouther remains theatrically involved while quietly outsourcing all actual musical responsibility to stronger section members.