The Choral Director's Toolbox: Episode 26

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In Episode 26 of The Choral Director’s Toolbox, host Dr. William Baker shares his most requested essay, Freedom Is the Oxygen of the Arts, reflecting on the vital connection between liberty and artistic expression in honor of Independence Day. Drawing on examples from Beethoven, Jean Berger, and Robert Shaw, Dr. Baker reminds us that creativity flourishes only where freedom is protected. This week’s listener question explores notable composers from America’s Colonial Period, including William Billings and Daniel Read. Today’s inspiration features the powerful first movement of Randall Thompson’s The Testament of Freedom, performed by the Men of the Summer Singers of Atlanta. Join us for an inspiring episode celebrating freedom, history, and choral art.

The Choral Director's Toolbox: Episode 15

The Orchestral Choral Instrument

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In Episode 15 of The Choral Director’s Toolbox, host Dr. William O. Baker explores The Orchestral Choral Instrument, urging conductors to approach the choir with the same expectation for metrical precision, rhythmic clarity, and expressive articulation typically reserved for orchestral sections. Learn why energized consonants and pure vowels must be mastered before a chorus can effectively join forces with an orchestra—and why the music itself must be conducted, not just the singers. This week’s listener question delves into the rehearsal real estate of programming choral music. Today’s inspiration features "When I Survey the Wondrous Cross" arranged by Gilbert Martin, performed by The William Baker Festival Singers from their 2002 Sing and Ponder album. Tune in for another episode of practical insight and choral inspiration.

The Choral Director's Toolbox: Episode 8

The Frustrating Rehearsal

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In Episode 8 of The Choral Director’s Toolbox, host Dr. William Baker shares strategies for managing The Frustrating Rehearsal. Learn how to maintain focus and professionalism when things aren’t going as planned. This week’s listener question addresses how to build confidence and retain male singers in youth choirs, while today’s inspiration is the powerful African-American work song This Old Hammer, arranged by John W. Work and performed by The Men of the Robert Shaw Chorale. Tune in for practical advice and uplifting music!