The Choral Director's Toolbox: Episode 40

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In Episode 40 of The Choral Director’s Toolbox, guest presenter Dr. Jamea J. Sale, Director of the Institute for Healthy Singing & Voice Research, explores Directors as Embodied Models: Seeing, Mirroring, and Sounding. Drawing on research in mirror neurons and motor learning, Dr. Sale explains how singers unconsciously mirror their conductor’s facial and physical cues, and how awareness, body mapping, and intentional modeling can transform ensemble tone, ease, and expressivity. This week’s listener question clarifies the proper role of a Board of Directors in artistic matters, and today’s inspiration is Eric Whitacre’s electrifying Cloudburst,performed with eight-part choir, piano, bells, and percussion. Join us for a fascinating blend of science, artistry, and leadership insight.