It's that time again! Back-to-school, new church choir season, community choir getting back into it... Remember to B.R.E.A.T.H.E. Listen as Ryan gives a warm hug of encouragement and a few well-timed reminders to make sure you get started right and stay strong all year! Sponsored by Choirs Are Horrible - The card game for choir nerds

B.R.E.A.T.H.E, with Ryan Guth

This is the final episode of the Choir Ninja Podcast. As always, the goal is to bring value to you choir directors, so Ryan gives you a chance to get to know the people behind the companies that have supported this show. Listen to their origin stories, their goals, and what motivates them to make the choral world better everyday. Ryan also has a special farewell for Choir Nation, and a reminder that there is enough pie for everyone.      [Subscribe on iTunes]  [Subscribe on Android] Show Notes:  Donald Beebe and Maryann Beebe, from Sheet Music Deals   Donald started playing piano as a child, and loved the music store. PhD in Renaissance Studies from Yale Shifted to accounting Passion for early music combined with the desire to get music inexpensively led to the creation of Sheet Music Deals. Customer care and service is cornerstone of their business. Typical turnaround time is 2 weeks. They promote Arts Partner relationships, where they work with artists to promote each other’s work. Choir Nation, what are you looking for in your music store? What experience are you looking for? Donald wants to hear from you!   Jon and Robbin Rose, with My Music Folders   Jon and Robbin started a community choir. By coincidence, their first rehearsal was the day after 9/11. They were expecting 60 people to show up; double that number came to the first rehearsal. They started buying folders for their own choir, bought more than they needed to get a discount, and then sold the extras to other choirs. They sold out so fast, they decided, “Let’s do this again!” Their business has grown from one choral folder to band folders, orchestra folders, and choir robes. They have worked with several notable clients to custom design the folder they need for their specific needs. Jon and Robbin are musicians. They use their own products, and are constantly testing and revising their products. Since they buy and sell directly, the money that the save on not having a distributor gets invested in quality. They never cut corners on quality. Folders mean something beyond the most utilitarian use. You can get a personalized folder to commemorate a particular achievement or event, like a choir tour. They are launching “Song a Week,” a music subscription service that will link new composers with new music to high school choir directors. Membership give you a new piece each week, with the right to reproduce as many copies as you want for your choir. The selections will be curated to provide music appropriate for the season. Look for www.song-a-week.com, launching soon.   Don Crafton and Adam Rabung, with Sight Reading Factory   Don needed something to help his choirs strengthen their sight-reading skills. What he wanted didn’t exist, so he designed what he needed. A mutual friend connected Don with Adam, a programmer whose job would be to translate Don’s ideas into a computer program. Their first customers were passionate about the product, so much so that they

Coda, with Dr. Donald Beebe and Maryann Beebe, Jon & Robbin Rose, and  Don Crafton, and Adam Rabung

Imposter syndrome is real, and it means that you are human and have achieved success. Be thankful that you have these feelings; they mean you are accomplishing something worthwhile. But that doesn’t make it easy to deal with. For this penultimate podcast episode, Ryan returns to one of the post prevalent issues plaguing directors. Name your imposter syndrome, call it out for what it is, and then keep on doing amazing things.  [Subscribe on iTunes]  [Subscribe on Android] Show Notes:   Feeling like an imposter?    Yes. Duh. Of course. Anyone who has achieved any modicum of success (unless they&#39;re up their own butt) deals with imposter syndrome.    What is it?  It’s the fear that you&#39;ll be found out; the idea that you&#39;re actually a fraud and don&#39;t deserve what you&#39;ve worked so hard to achieve. YOU worked hard and have realized some success. And because YOU&#39;RE responsible for your own success, you feel like YOU put yourself there. Which you did. Which is why it&#39;s easier to tell yourself you&#39;re a fraud.    The reality  You deserve your success, for the same reason you feel like an imposter: YOU earned it yourself. Remember, everyone else is working toward their own successes, so why should you feel like you shouldn&#39;t.    Being successful puts you in the spotlight  Now you not only deal with imposter syndrome, you deal with people who hate you for your success. So, now you speak negativity to yourself for the same reasons:   Maybe because you took something other than the traditional path, and they watched you take a shortcut and are envious. Maybe you&#39;re just plain talented and don&#39;t have to work as hard. Maybe you worked harder than others were willing to work. Maybe your focus was on serving others, and those others are giving you all the attention. Maybe you operate in an environment where your peers believe in a zero-sum game, even though you don&#39;t. Maybe you&#39;re anti-establishment and just popped out of nowhere, not taking the traditional path to success. Maybe those with a higher degree of education (or debt) are struggling, but you chose a different route. Maybe… You name it.      The problem with listening to your imposter syndrome  You stop doing what helped you achieve success in the first place. You, by proxy, allow your critics to control you and your level of anxiety. It&#39;s a losing scenario, because if you listen to your imposter syndrome and kill your success your self-talk changes and attacks you for being a failure.    So what do you do?  Understand that it&#39;s part of being successful. Say “Of course. Just when I&#39;m trying to enjoy life… Here you are!” Name it. (Mine is Phil) Put it in a bubble. Push it out. Affirm, out loud, that you deserve success. Name, out loud, all the people that have benefited along the way. Keep a “Smile File” of notes, emails, cards, articles, and things having to do with your journey that make you smile. Have someon

Motivation Monday: Feeling Like An Imposter?, with Ryan Guth

We begin the Choir Ninja wrap up with a countdown of the stats, names, and episodes that define us. In this antepenultimate episode, Ryan and Stevie look back on the moments and interviews that have stayed with them. Did they mention your favorites?  [Subscribe on iTunes]  [Subscribe on Android] Show Notes:  2 Names   Find Your Forte Choir Ninja   226 episodes featuring my musings, Stevie’s brilliant ideas, and interviews with the greatest minds in the choral world More than 186,000 unique listens 8.7 million minutes of audio consumed by Choir Nation 2736 members of a little Facebook group called Choir Nation   The most super-concentrated positive, vulnerable, supportive, honest, humble choir group on Facebook.   I’ve met HUNDREDS of really amazing nice choral directors (and a handful of truly horrible people) 3 happy sponsors   Sheet Music Deals My Music Folders Sightreading Factory   1 Sponsor that helped me when I needed a boost   KI Concerts   Top 5 episodes by download numbers   Your choir sucks because you suck, with Ryan Guth Technique Tuesday 002 : Male Vocal Range Evaluation FYF 002 : The importance of being present on the podium with Dr. Joseph Flummerfelt FYF 004 : Serve with your whole being for a long and happy life, with Dr. Helen Kemp Find your entry point, with Craig Hella Johnson   And COUNTLESS hours behind a computer and or microphone doing my best. Ryan’s favorite episodes (in no particular order)   From a journey standpoint   FYF 004 : Serve with your whole being for a long and happy life, with Dr. Helen Kemp FYF 002 : The importance of being present on the podium with Dr. Joseph Flummerfelt The Creative Roots Run Deep, with James Mulholland FYF 016 : Turn your setbacks into success (Pts 1 and 2), with Gabriel Crouch Find your entry point, with Craig Hella Johnson   From a practicality standpoint (Ones that Ryan wishes he’s heard a decade ago)   The 3 R’s of Sight-Singing, with Jon Duncan and Chris Munce 4 Functions of the Church Choir: Check Your Priorities, with Brian Hehn Agnes Isn’t the Boss of You, with Lynn Lyons Connect with their Culture, with Conrad Weber How to teach a piece using sequential layering, with Denise Eaton     Stevie’s favorite episodes   Inspiring/motivational   Functional Art and Label Makers, with Terry Price When You’re Not Their First Love, with Beth Richey Sullivan When You Teach for Generations, with Benita Eldridge Leave My Christmas Carols Alone, with Dr. John Yarrington Equality and Dignity for All People, with Sean Baugh Homeless, Not Voiceless, with Johnathan Palant   How to do things better   Beer Choir, with Mike Engelhardt Uke, I Am Your Father, with Christopher Kurt 8 must-do’s for choral directors in December, with Amanda Simon and Ryan Guth     Thank you!   Thank you to ALL the Guests Thank you to the guests that I didn’t get a chance to interview:   Trey Davis, with Red Shift Tim Herbel, with In Cahoots Fundraising  Phil Drozda (Prairie Middle School in Au

Countdown, with Ryan Guth and Stevie Berryman

At the end of this episode, Ryan Guth makes an important announcement about Choir Ninja. If you’ve ever felt stuck in your job, like you couldn’t make your reality match your vision, this episode is for you. Anna Dore talks about what she, as an elementary choir and band director, learned from the Choir Ninja podcast that helped her transform first her attitude and then her program. She has brought an inspiring creative approach to fully engaging her students with their music. Her students have responded, and their parents and Anna’s administration have noticed.  [Subscribe on iTunes]  [Subscribe on Android] Show Notes:  Overcoming professional frustration   Choir Ninja Podcast Grad School Program Changes to push my own creativity and vision: Grant for new risers--Flip Forms; allowed for more movement and dancing in my performances Themed concerts tied to character education (inspired by Stevie’s episode “Sell Out Your Concerts”. Cross-curricular collaboration: tie the theme into general education class work; essays, projects, etc. Display student work at the concert. Extra Performance Elements for higher audience engagement:   Choreography Narrators Solos   Digital Program using Google Slides (inspired by Ryan’s episode “Programs with Impact”)   Theme Ideas:   “History Has Its Eyes on You”:   “Journey to the Past” from Anastasia “Seize the Day’ from Newsies “My Shot” from Hamilton “I Was Here” by Lady Antebellum   “Pursue Your Dreams” #Passion #Persistence #Pride   “Try Everything” from Zootopia “Climb Every Mountain” from Sound of Music “A Million Dreams” from The Greatest Showman “This is Me” from The Greatest Showman   “You’ve Got a Friend in Me”   “Friend Like Me” from Aladdin “You’ve Got a Friend in Me” from Toy Story “I Wanna Be Like You” from Jungle Book “You’ll Be in My Heart” from Tarzan     Result:   High engagement from my students High audience engagement and positive audience feedback Very positive administrative feedback and support    Bio: Anna Dore is an elementary choir director, band director, and general music teacher at Woodside Elementary School in River Vale, New Jersey. She received her bachelor’s degree in music education from Grove City College in 2012 and is currently pursuing a master’s degree in music education from Montclair State University. She lives in Hawthorne, New Jersey with her husband, Ryan.   Resources/links Mentioned:  Woodside Elementary School Choir Nation group on Facebook  Sponsored by: Introducing Sheet Music Deals!     Sight Reading Factory (Use promo code “NINJA” at checkout for 10 free student accounts!)     My Music Folders (Use promo code “NINJA” at checkout for “last column” or best pricing - usually reserved for bulk purchases only!) WHILE YOU ARE THERE, PREORDER CHOIRS ARE HORRIBLE!    

Big Wins with Little Singers, with Anna Dore

November 2018 marks the 100th anniversary of Armistice Day, the end of World War I. It’s an unprecedented milestone of the modern era. Dr. Paul Aitken will observe that anniversary in concert with a performance of his moving and beloved setting of the poem “Flanders Fields,” on location at the Flanders Fields battlefield in Belgium. Dr. Aitken is encouraging choirs around the world to observe this milestone in their own ways, because making music together is sometimes the best possible response to war.    [Subscribe on iTunes]  [Subscribe on Android]   Highlight to Tweet: “Let’s do concerts of peace this 11/11, and show our true colors.” -Dr. Paul Aitken Show Notes:  Choir directors like to help people. That can carry over into very different fields, but helping people is helping people. After getting rejected from doctoral programs at the University of Oklahoma (twice), Paul got permission to audit the program. During that time he set a poem called &quot;In Flanders Fields,&quot; by WWI veteran, John McCrae to music. It was the first winner of the Raymond W. Brock Student Composition Competition in 1998. The powerful piece helped to win him a spot in the OU doctoral program. His current success comes from that difficult place of failure. Coming up this year:   A mass choir singing &quot;Flanders Fields&quot; and Paul’s 30-minute-long cantata, &quot;And None Shall Be Afraid&quot; at Flanders Fields proper. Honoring veterans around the world by remembering the 100th anniversary of Armistice Day (this November 11th) by organizing concerts around the world that feature choirs singing songs of peace and performances of &quot;Flanders Fields&quot; worldwide.    Bio: Dr. Paul A. Aitken (b. 1970) is Director of Music &amp; Worship Arts and Composer-in-Residence at the Cathedral of the Rockies in Boise, Idaho where he oversees more than twenty ensembles and a professional staff of six spanning two campuses.The first ever winner of the ACDA Brock Student Composition Competition for his piece “Flanders Fields,” Aitken is sought after as both conductor and composer. He has been commissioned by organizations such as the American Guild of Organists, the State of Idaho, and the Boise Philharmonic Master Chorale. Aitken made his Carnegie Hall debut in 2010 conducting his major work, And None Shall Be Afraid with a choir of 200 and the New England Symphonic Ensemble. Aitken now has more than 40 compositions to his credit spanning more than two decades of writing.Aitken is a lifetime member of ACDA and has served at State, Division and National levels, including National Chair of Music in Worship. Dr. Aitken holds degrees from the University of Western Ontario, Southern Illinois University at Carbondale, and the University of Oklahoma. He is married to his lovely wife, MacKenzie, and together they are raising four teenage boys and running a very robust real estate business together.  Resources/links Mentioned:  Paul Aitken’s web

From Failure to Flanders Fields, with Dr. Paul Aitken

Life’s happy out in the sticks. It’s also hard, inconvenient, and sometimes lonely. But in this episode, Dr. Dee Wilkins talks to Ryan about why it’s worth it. There are real limitations in rural schools: numbers and funding will always be less than you want. But with creativity, heart, and an entrepreneurial mindset, you can still show you students a little bit of choral heaven. All twelve of them.  [Subscribe on iTunes]  [Subscribe on Android]   Highlight to Tweet: “Imagine not having anyone within 45 minutes of your school who can play piano.” - Dr. Dee “Life’s happy out in the sticks.” Dr. Dee Wilkins Show Notes:  There are real limitations in rural schools: numbers and funding will always be less than you want. You just make it work. There are also positives to working in rural schools: the interpersonal relationships with students are unmatched, you form close relationships with colleagues and administrators, and there is little to no red tape. Teaching music in a rural town can be a lonely world. Participate in collaborative events with other teachers. Learn from each other’s challenges and successes, and lean into their experiences to enrich your own. Being involved in multi-school events allows small schools to find strength in numbers and perform repertoire that is otherwise beyond their reach. Don’t have an event nearby? Start one. Students can learn from every choir director they get to work with. A successful rural music program is all about the positive relationship you have with the students. Students have to know they are going to be successful when they perform with you  Bio: For nearly 20 years Dr. Marlen Dee Wilkins has been teaching and directing Middle School, High School, Collegiate and Church choral ensembles. He holds degrees from Eastern Arizona College, Northern Arizona College, and the University of Northern Colorado. His current post is the Director of Vocal Music at Oklahoma Panhandle State University. He and his wife Leisel are the proud parents of 8 beautiful children. Resources/links Mentioned:  Oklahoma Panhandle State University Choir Nation group on Facebook Patreon - Support the podcast! Just a really fine family photo:    Sponsored by: Introducing Sheet Music Deals!     Sight Reading Factory (Use promo code “NINJA” at checkout for 10 free student accounts!)     My Music Folders (Use promo code “NINJA” at checkout for “last column” or best pricing - usually reserved for bulk purchases only!) WHILE YOU ARE THERE, PREORDER CHOIRS ARE HORRIBLE!    

It's Worth It: Directing in Rural Communities, with Dr. Marlen Dee Wilkins

This episode first aired in July 2017: Drawing on lessons learned while losing at pool, Ryan shares what it means to have an entrepreneurial mindset as a  choir director. You will hear strategies about how to win at pool, how to lose at pool, and how to embarrassingly injure a friend during pool (with a step by step guide in the show notes). You will also hear why it is so important that we mindfully choose which kind of game we are going to play, which entrepreneurial super-skills you already posses, and how to avoid the traps that prevent you from being the real thing.   Highlight to Tweet: “If your win is a standing ovation, you need a bigger win” - Ryan Guth   Show Notes:  You are already functioning as an entrepreneur in 2 WAYS: Through Task:  Recruitment = Sales Market concerts Concert Programs = Graphic Design Press releases = PR Concerts = Event planning Working one-on-one with a student who’s more invested than the others = Coaching Talking to parents = Counseling/Negotiation Sending detailed emails so your students do what you need them to do = Copywriting Making resources for students like practice tracks = content marketing Updating your “teacher page” = web design Creating and upholding the rules in your choir handbook = Contracts Making an itinerary for your choir’s trip to Disney World = Travel planning Budgeting = Budgeting Picking the uniforms = fashion design Problem solver Through thought: Knows his/her own “why” Stands for something  Abundance-minded  Proactive Solutions-oriented  Focused on personal growth and learning.  Self-aware  Places the greatest value on helping others before themselves.   Knows other people&#39;s “Why” Takes ego out of the equation  Confident in his/her unique value proposition to the world.    What’s holding you back from being great?  Listening to haters and critics. It’s a long game, and a numbers game. You have to get through your “no’s.” “Good” concerts are part of the process. They aren’t all great. Worrying about things outside your control. Blaming others  Comparing yourself to others Zero-sum mentality  When you get close to success, imposter syndrome tries to shut you down.  The biggest pitfall is sometimes the smallest one: small goals that produce small wins    Construct a big “win”...not one based solely on applause, scores, or the admiration of others.   Bio: Having spent most of his middle and high school career in detention, Ryan Guth loves to speak to audiences about ways for choral directors to engage the seemingly un-engageable. Ryan learned fearlessness and indomitable spirit from a young age through many years studying the martial arts while also pursuing music – especially the time in middle school when he tried to break a board with his head in front his entire ninth grade class and failed spectacularly. He believes the best choir directors face challenges head-on (no pun intended), are solutions-oriented, and take full res

CN Rewind: You're better than you think you are, with Ryan Guth

Imposter Syndrome is a thief; it steals joy from success, and pride from achievement. Feeling like your accolades are undeserved is a common occurrence among artists. Even when you feel secure in your abilities, the fear of looking foolish can keep you from taking the risks that lead to amazing opportunities. Ryan and Stevie discuss how to beat Imposter Syndrome, and the rewards of taking risks.  [Subscribe on iTunes]  [Subscribe on Android]   Highlight to Tweet: “The truth takes time.” -Stevie Berryman Show Notes:  Imposter Syndrome - a phrase coined in the 1980’s to describe the nagging fear that you are not as smart or experienced or talented or deserving as people think. You do not deserve, nor have you earned, your success, and soon people will discover you are a fraud. Imposter Syndrome is the realm of the high achievers. So if you have ever experienced it, you are neither a narcissist nor a slacker. How to beat it:   Identify what you are worried about. Talk about it with a mentor Focus on the value you bring. Value does not mean perfection. Claim your wins. You didn’t get here by accident. The people who put you where you are did not make a mistake, you haven’t conned them. Stop comparing yourself to others. “Comparison is an act of violence against the self.” -Iyanla Vanzant Check your self talk. Replace “I feel” with “I think.” Ditch language like, “maybe it’s me, but…”. Don’t apologize for asking questions; assume they are valid. Have courage; embrace ambition. Don’t talk yourself out of taking risks. Say yes to even those opportunities that risk you looking foolish.     Bio: Stevie Berryman is shockingly good at video games. She can fold a fitted sheet so it looks like it came right out of the package. Likewise, her skills as music director and teacher have also been acquired through long hours of arduous and dedicated practice. For much of her career Stevie has directed seven or more ensembles each week, meaning she has 98 years of experience (in dog years). Her effusive energy and wild creativity found a perfect setting in 2013 when she became the Artistic Director of the Houston Chamber Ringers, which has let her smash together her love for music, laughter, and tacos in a truly remarkable way. She has a particular passion for teaching children how to ring, and her innovative methods have made her a sought after educator at area and national handbell festivals. Stevie loves helping other choirs as a private clinician, or planning epic concerts for them as a creative consultant. Her next step in global domination is to take over the choral world, which is a side bonus of her job as Chief Awesomeness Officer at the Choir Ninja Podcast. Resources/links Mentioned:  Houston FebFest  Tammy Waldrop Stevie on Facebook Choir Nation group on Facebook Patreon - Support the podcast!  Sponsored by: Introducing Sheet Music Deals!     Sight Reading Factory (Use promo code “NINJA” at checkout for 10

Imposter Syndrome? You’re Not Alone (or a narcissist), with Stevie Berryman

 Yes, your concerts should meet educational standards. Yes, they should also meet your own goals for helping your singers become better musicians. But how about planning concerts so powerful that they change people&#39;s’ lives? What if your concerts actually strengthened bonds in your community? Dr. Abby Musgrove from Illinois College talks with Ryan about ways to create concerts that are meaningful to your audience, and how to make sure that audience is comprised of more than just the parents of your singers. Music should be a gift, not an obligation. Here’s how you make that happen.  [Subscribe on iTunes]  [Subscribe on Android]   Highlight to Tweet: “It’s important that whatever you are doing, you are doing at a quality level.” Abby Musgrove “People came trusting me that I was going to create something that would change their life.” Show Notes:  Choir directors are entrepreneurs, and that isn’t a dirty word. People should come to choir concerts because it’s a great product that adds value to their lives, not because they are obligated to just because their child is singing. Building Audiences Keep the main thing the main thing - Quality Matters   Use quality literature. Don’t dumb things down for your audience. Are you creating an objectively beautiful product? Quality music does not mean difficult music.   Why should they even come?   It’s a lot to ask someone to come to a choral concert. They could always just watch a choir on youtube instead. Consider the experience you are giving your audience: the venue, the atmosphere   Themes, Collaborations, and Partnerships   Pick a generic enough theme that everyone can understand and grasp. Connect your theme with a collaboration. Build a relationship with people and groups in your community, where they see value in what you produce. When you take your group out to sing in the community, ask yourself whether it is a place that could be a potential audience builder. So go sing at the nursing home (service), but ALSO the Chamber of Commerce (potential partners).   Loss leader - Getting them hooked   A “loss leader” is something that a company gives away...probably at a loss...in order to get people in the door. Your loss leader could be your theme, your concert title, a group that you are partnering with.   Educating your audience gradually Being &quot;entertaining&quot; doesn&#39;t mean you&#39;ve sold out!  Bio: Dr. Abby Musgrove is the Director of Choral Activities at Illinois College in Jacksonville, IL, where she conducts choirs and ensembles, teaches conducting and other various music classes, and oversees the Music Education Program. Prior to her appointment at Illinois College, Dr. Musgrove was on the faculty of Aurora University and received degrees from the University of Kansas, University of North Texas, and Millikin University. A native of central Illinois, Dr. Musgrove has taught all ages and levels of music, including choirs and bands, and is an avid

Life Changing Concerts, with Dr. Abby Musgrove

No matter where you direct, there never seems to be enough time or enough money. But there is a ready made support system of people already invested in the success of your program that may help you reclaim more of each. Lara Wolford discusses ways to use parent boosters to help with everything from fundraising to running sound at you concerts. It can be a beautifully symbiotic system that benefits the parents as much as the director!  [Subscribe on iTunes]  [Subscribe on Android]   Highlight to Tweet: “It gives more enjoyment to know that you contributed to the end process.” -Lara Wolford Show Notes:  Choirs need a successful Music Boosters program! It’s a symbiotic relationship - they need us as much as we need them. A functioning and active Boosters program provides an amazing support system for both students and directors. Boosters give parents an opportunity to get involved and support the program in the best way possible. As a director, it’s important to have a presence in the Music Boosters by keeping them informed, allowing them to be part of decisions that affect them, and supporting them. Directors should function as advisors. Protect your authority. You need to have the final say about concerts dates, retreats, and especially artistic decisions. There should be clear boundaries and expectations. Ways your Boosters can help you:   Fundraising  (a necessary part of any choral program) How best to allocate funds raised Assessing and assisting with concert needs: someone selling spirit wear, manning the door, running the sound. Think Tank - they bring different perspectives to the table that can influence our decisions as directors.    Bio: Lara Wolford is the choir director and general music teacher at Bethel Local Schools in Tipp City, OH. In addition to her teaching responsibilities, Lara serves as an advisor for Muse Machine (a locally based arts education program), and stage manages and vocal directs the high school musical productions. In 2014, she directed her first middle school musical, Schoolhouse Rock Live! Jr., and is working to grow that program every year!Lara is a 2012 graduate of Miami University, where she was a student conductor of the Miami University Collegiate Chorale, working with Dr. Jeremy Jones and Dr. Ethan Sperry. She is currently pursuing her Master’s degree in Music Education through Miami’s summer program, and lives in Ohio with her crazy cats Siri, Alexa, and Ursula. Lara is obsessed with riding roller coasters with her nephews, finding ingredients for the perfect smoothie, and discovering new musicals to listen to. Resources/links Mentioned:  Beth Richey Sullivan-When You’re Not Their First Love Choir Nation group on Facebook Patreon - Support the podcast!  Sponsored by: Introducing Sheet Music Deals!     Sight Reading Factory (Use promo code “NINJA” at checkout for 10 free student accounts!)     My Music Folders (Use promo code “NINJA” at checkout for “last column” or

Booster Benefits, with Lara Wolford

Just ask. Ask people to come to your concert. Ask people to donate. Ask people to be changed by your music. Sam Brukhman gives the origin story of Verdigris, a new professional choir in the Dallas area. Verdigris is dedicated to the idea of exploring new space in choral music, with the goal of creating unique performances that challenge the audience to experience the familiar in a new way, much the same way patina changes old copper. But behind the artistry there is hard work, sacrifice, and the willingness to take a risk.  [Subscribe on iTunes]  [Subscribe on Android]   Highlight to Tweet: “You don’t have to be a master to do what you do, as long as you’re willing to learn” -Sam Brukhman Show Notes:  Sam is the founding director of Verdigris Ensemble. They began with a house concert to launch the group. There invitation list was created from personal connections, and cold calling the Dallas Symphony donor list. There was one response from that list. The concert didn’t raise musch, but it was enough to get started. This led to a second house concert, which helped launch a crowdfunding campaign. It was enough to launch their first concert series. Today, it is easier to create a non-profit choir than ever before because of crowdfunding, blockchain technology, and interest in grassroots startups Audiences and donors look for aspects of your organization as an excuse to make a donation. You have to make those qualities and aspects apparent in your mission/presentation! Innovation in choral music is difficult because you are creating something no one has ever done before. Its very easy to get sucked back into the traditional standard There are 5 qualities to a successful choral organization:   Strong vision Dedicated members Consistent presentation Collaboration Dreaming big    Bio: Sam Brukhman is currently the Artistic Director of the Verdigris Ensemble, a new Dallas professional choir exploring the boundaries of the choral medium through creative concert programming, modern instrument technology, unconventional use of space, and decentralized music distribution. He also teaches middle school choir at Brown Middle School in Forney, TX. Resources/links Mentioned:  The Consolation of Apollo  Use the code: FRIENDS10 Verdigris (the choir) Verdigris (the patina) The Golden Ratio Choir Nation group on Facebook Patreon - Support the podcast!  Sponsored by: Introducing Sheet Music Deals!     Sight Reading Factory (Use promo code “NINJA” at checkout for 10 free student accounts!)     My Music Folders (Use promo code “NINJA” at checkout for “last column” or best pricing - usually reserved for bulk purchases only!) WHILE YOU ARE THERE, PREORDER CHOIRS ARE HORRIBLE!    

Big Dreams, Strong Vision; with Sam Brukhman

Music selection is perhaps the most critical decision you make as a choir director. And making that decision can be completely overwhelming when you are looking for something you can successfully sing with 12 sopranos, 4 altos, and 2 basses. But music selection gives you the opportunity to create what Dr. Michael John Trotta calls a “culture of belonging,” where every voice has an important part. And there are resources out there who can help you find the perfect pieces to create that culture in your own choir. [Subscribe on iTunes] [Subscribe on Android] Highlight to Tweet: “Students know when you are trying to sell them crap.” -Michael John Trotta Show Notes:  Creating a culture of belonging          Every voice is unique and important. Avoid assigning “hand me downs,” so that every member feel like they are contributing something significant.  Composition as a response to the choir.          Often commissions are in response to a specific choir’s particular needs. Figure out what your needs are, and what you need in the music to make it work.  Repertoire selection as a solution to engaging your choir                   Sing great music; not hard music...great music.  Developmental appropriate repertoire Setting the stage for a lifetime of great music making What directors are looking for in repertoire                   Many directors have the same struggle: finding music for the arriving voice/middle school range.  Music that sounds harder than it is, music that makes your choir sound great                   Look for the music that is appropriately, not overly challenging. Many great pieces are not difficult, but the are beautiful.  BriLee Music / Carl Fischer Series, responding to the needs of teachers                   BriLee is an excellent source for middle schools, Carl Fisher for high school repertoire  Contact Donald at Sheet Music Deals to set up a reading session for your district, and get some help finding exactly what you need for your choir.  Bio: Michael John Trotta is one of the most “exciting and prominent new composers of choral music,” a sought-after conductor, and dynamic clinician. He brings an “intimate knowledge of the human voice,” a “rare sensitivity to the capabilities of a choral ensemble,” and years of experience as an inspiring educator to thousands of singers each year. His award-winning commissions are frequently performed at Carnegie Hall, at national conventions (ACDA, NAfME, AGO, TMEA), and his recordings are broadcast worldwide. Dr. Trotta and his wife Rachel divide their time between New York City and Bay Head, NJ where he works as a full time composer, conductor, and clinician with choirs throughout the world. He recently released an emerging choir series with BriLee/Carl Fischer Music. Resources/links Mentioned:  Michael John Trotta, composer BriLee Music Carl Fisher Music Choir Nation group on

There’s a Part Just For You, with Dr. Michael John Trotta

Not every musician follows the same path. A two-year community college may not be the first thing you think of when you consider pursuing a music studies, but Dr. Lisa Morales explains why it might be the best option for you or your students. Learn just how much can be accomplished in four semesters, and what it means to meet the needs of students, wherever they are. Listen [Subscribe on iTunes] [Subscribe on Android] Highlight to Tweet: “At community college, you are there to meet the needs of students...wherever they are” -Lisa Morales Show Notes:  The Community College Mission  Meet the needs of students, wherever they are.  No experience beyond singing in the shower High school choir training Years of vocal coaching   Prepare the students for a favorable transfer situation, by partnering with 4 year colleges Can study music theory, ear training, sight-singing, applied lessons, performance ensembles Earn a 2 year Associates Arts Degree in Music field of study   Fine Arts at the Community College – challenges and opportunities  Short timeline: just 4 semesters Opportunity for deep nurturing Complete first 2 years of undergraduate for ⅓ of the cost of a 4 year college   Lone Star College - Tomball  Every student an artist Vocal health    Bio: Dr. Morales has worked in higher education for over twenty years, developing curriculum, establishing and building programs, and designing extracurricular activities. Her research interests focus on the interdisciplinary nature of learning and encompass vocal health, bel canto and musical theater style singing technique, as well as performance practice and programming. At LSC-Tomball, Dr. Morales provides leadership for the direction of the music program, teaches honors music appreciation as well as private voice students and directs choral ensembles, including the auditioned chamber ensemble, Timberwolf Singers. Dr. Morales’ students have been accepted into the Houston Grand Opera High School program, Sam Houston State University musical theater and theater programs, the University of Houston-Moores School of Music, Wichita State University musical theater program, and Oklahoma City University Petree School of Music. Additionally, students who have trained with Dr. Morales are now featured singers and performers in various semi-professional and professional venues, including Disneyland in Orlando! She has served on the faculties of University of Tulsa, Northwestern Oklahoma State University, and North Central Texas College. Resources/links Mentioned:  Lone Star College - Tomball Choir Nation group on Facebook Patreon - Support the podcast!  Sponsored by: Sight Reading Factory (Use promo code “NINJA” at checkout for 10 free student accounts!)  My Music Folders (Use promo code “NINJA” at checkout for “last column” or best pricing - usually reserved for bulk purchases only!) WHILE YOU ARE THERE, PREORDER CHOIRS ARE HORRIBLE!

The Community College Mission, with Dr. Lisa Morales

It’s your life; you really can set the goalposts wherever you want them. For those of you who want the top choir in the city, state, division, or country, Choir Ninja is here each week with podcasts to help you reach that goal. And for those of you who want a great choir, a weekly date night with your spouse, and the ability to attend all of your kids’ weekend activities, today Ryan chats with Lesli Olson who shares her method for maintaining a satisfying work/life balance. Listen [Subscribe on iTunes] [Subscribe on Android] Highlight to Tweet: “‘We will be better today than we were yesterday” - Lesli Olson Show Notes:  Mom Game vs. Teacher Game: when one is One is on point, the other is probably struggling. Don’t beat yourself up if you can’t be perfect in both worlds simultaneously. Understand and label your priorities. For Lesli, her husband comes first, then her children, and then her students. Prioritize spouse: keep a weekly date night, and seek out a group of people who are in similar life circumstances as yourself so that you can learn from and support each other. Prioritize children: No work on the weekends: that is for the kids. Prioritize students: Give everything you have during class, with the knowledge that you aren’t necessarily available after school or on weekends. Then everyone works hard, knowing outside help is limited. And then, let go of the idea of having the best choir in the area/district/state, and focus on having a better today than yesterday; focus on the journey and not the end product with your choirs. Find someone older who can mentor you, find someone younger you can mentor. Give and receive.Letting go of the idea of having the best choir in my area/district/state, and focusing on having a better today than yesterday; focusing on the journey and not the end product with my choirs.  Bio: I&#39;m a tatted up mom of four and the wife of a bearded stud and some of my favorite things include choral singing, beer drinking and listening to gangster rap and conservative talk radio. My favorite color is black and I never leave my house without statement lips. I spent a decade teaching elementary music in south Texas, the Bronx and in Anchorage and I am currently in my sixth year directing high school choir in Anchorage, Alaska. Outside of being a mom, I believe the greatest calling on my life is to be a teacher and I am passionate about what I do and the students I teach. I believe everyone can be taught how to sing and that music literacy is far more important than a good choral sound - though the two should definitely be taught hand in hand. As a teacher, I celebrate the successes throughout the journey of learning and try my hardest to not only focus on the end result. I received my bachelors degree in Music Education from Evangel University in Springfield, MO, and my masters degree in Music Education from Texas A &amp; M University - Kingsville in Kingsville, TX. Resources/links Mentioned:

Of Boundaries and Balance, with Lesli Olson

Since beginning this podcast, Ryan has talked to composers, directors, singers, tour managers, authors, and teachers from around the country and the world. But one significant part of our audience has remained a mystery to him until now: parents. Today Ryan talks with Chris and Sarah Jarvis, who both teach at the same high school, and who are the parents of 3 year old Liam. They acknowledge the extra challenges that teaching parents face. The struggle is real, especially when your toddler wants to play with the iPad you are currently directing from. Listen [Subscribe on iTunes] [Subscribe on Android] Highlight to Tweet: “‘Can I play with your iPad? No, son, I’m directing from it.’” - Chris Jarvis Show Notes:  Making it work, when both parents are working in the arts, takes some extra planning and effort. Family comes first. There are lots of school obligations: concerts, competitions, grades, shows, but you can’t let that overrun your parenting obligations. Block off time just for family, and protect it. Tag team when necessary; track and manage schedules to minimize conflicts. Use those great volunteers who want to help entertain your child while you are in rehearsal. Recognize each other’s need for adult conversation, or the need for no conversation.  Bio: Chris Jarvis was born in Abilene, Texas, but moved to New Mexico when he was 5 years old. He graduated from high school there, and then rushed back to Texas, where he graduated from Lubbock Christian University with a Bachelor of Arts in Music Education. Sarah Jarvis was born and raised in Brownfield, Texas, and she lived there until she also attended Lubbock Christian University, where she earned her Bachelor of Arts in Theatre, and stalked Chris until he married her. They have been married for 6 years, and work as full time parents to Liam Jarvis. As a side gig, they also both teach at Wichita Falls High School in Wichita Falls, Texas, where Chris is the Choir Director and Sarah is the Theatre Director.  They also perform regularly together in community theatre productions. Resources/links Mentioned:  Wichita Falls High School Choir Nation group on Facebook - Going to TMEA? Meet up with other Choir Ninjas! Join the Choir Nation Facebook group for time and location. Patreon - Support the podcast!  Sponsored by: Sight Reading Factory (Use promo code “NINJA” at checkout for 10 free student accounts!)  My Music Folders (Use promo code “NINJA” at checkout for “last column” or best pricing - usually reserved for bulk purchases only!)

Ryan Knows Nothing About Parenthood, with Chris and Sarah Jarvis

You’ve worked hard in choir all year; now it’s time to play hard. Katy, TX Choir director Ruben Alcala shares a comprehensive guide to planning an end of year banquet that sends your students off in style. You can recognize achievements, celebrate student-selected awards, and acknowledge your seniors in a heartfelt and memorable way. Check out the show notes for a detailed guide to planning your banquet, including a complete timeline and suggested award categories. Listen [Subscribe on iTunes] [Subscribe on Android] Highlight to Tweet: “Banquets are celebrations of our students and the hard work they have done.” - Ruben Alcala Show Notes:  Establish a Budget  Formal vs. Casual Rental Cost Food and Beverage Minimum Buffet vs. Plated dinner service Menu Audio and Visual Needs (some venues only cover certain aspects, charge for the rest) Time Frame of Event (some venues charge more depending on time) Fundraising Senior Gifts Programs vs No Programs Key People to recognize and invite  Principal Choir Vice Principal Booster Board     Venue  Will affect who can attend (Students only/ Family/ Dates) Location and Transportation School Restaurant Banquet Space New Venue- Set appointment for site visit, begin to plan room layout   Set a Date  Avoid School, Religious, Community events Set it at the end of your season Contract timelines Approval forms Set deadline for attendance- prior to when venue needs numbers Once order is in, that’s what you pay (Easy to add, cannot subtract)   Volunteers- Parent and Students  Student Officer Roles No Theme vs Theme (Choir Council) Slideshow (Historians) Set Up Parents Student Check in   Time Frame  Set Up Actual Celebration Tear Down   Theme/ Decorations Awards/ Recognitions  Student Chosen Awards (Jimmy Fallon-type awards)  Most likely to get caught texting Best Dressed Best Dancer (Guy/ Girl) Biggest Bromance Most Likely to lose something in the Choir Room Choir Mom. Choir Dad Punniest Most Likely to Smile Through the Tears   Director Chosen Awards  Rookie of the Year (Guy and Girl) Vocal Scholar (Top 2 GPAs) Service Awards (Volunteer) Best Dancer (Guy and Girl) Director Award of Excellence (Every Grade Level) Individual Ensemble Awards Most Improved Guy and Girl Booster Club Board Recognition Award of Excellence Scholarship Four Year Member 7 Year Member     Slide Show  Choir Historians Created Email set for members to submit photos   Senior Video  Student Created if possible Every Senior How Long Have you Been in Choir? What Was Your Biggest Achievement? Most Difficult Part of Being in Choir? Best Memory? How has your experiences in choir prepared you for your future? If you could give advice to yourself as a freshman, what would you say? Any last words to the choir?   Senior Will and Testament  What are you leaving To Whom Why Story   Traditions  Senior Girls wear prom dress Officer Induction  Passing of the Flame     Dance  Playlist Sample Outline 4:45                Officers,

End Your Year with a Blast: The Choir Banquet Bible, with Ruben James Alcala

There is good work being done in music graduate school research projects. There is good work being done within our public school choir classes. But there is sadly little contact between these two realms. It’s time to step out of our silos and meet our students and audiences where they are. Ryan and Justin discuss Justin’s new book, Letters from the Front Porch: A Simple, Brief, Common Sense Advocacy Approach for Music Education. Listen [Subscribe on iTunes] [Subscribe on Android] Highlight to Tweet: “Why should I have to explain why music is important?” -Justin Caithaml Show Notes:  Justin has written a book called “Letters from the Front Porch: A Simple, Brief, Common Sense Advocacy Approach for Music Education.” Those who research music education and those who practice music education are frequently self-sequestered into their own silos. There is not enough meaningful sharing between the two groups.  Elitism in the choral world continues to inhibit its evolution, as directors remain willfully stuck in learned patterns instead of adapting to new research. Choral directors are not exempt from the truth that everyone must pitch themselves. You must advocate for your choir, your job, your students, and your art. Chapter 7: Finally, a concert with meaning. Align the arc of a concert so that it takes the audience on an emotional journey. Chapter 5: Who’s that Bach Guy, and Why Do You Have a Stuffed Doll of Him on Your Desk? You have to meet your students where they are musically. Connect your lessons to what they already know, and how they are currently consuming music. True advocacy is a value-first action. Instead of asking for money to keep your program from being cut, show that what you are doing is of real value to your students and community.  Bio: Justin Caithaml graduated Magna Cum Laude from Baldwin Wallace University in 2014 with a Bachelor of Music Education degree. He currently serves as Choir Director for grades 7-12 at Midview Local Schools, west of Cleveland. In addition, he serves as choir director at Bethel Lutheran Church and is the state advisor for the Tri-M Music Honor Society. He is a board member at the Ohio Alliance for Arts Education and is also a member of the Collaborative for Arts Education in Ohio. An Ohio native, he is a 2010 graduate of Midview High School, where he was a recipient of the National School Choral Award. Resources/links Mentioned:  Download Justin’s book for free! Letters from the Front Porch Choir Nation group on Facebook - Going to TMEA? Meet up with other Choir Ninjas! Join the Choir Nation Facebook group for time and location. Patreon - Support the podcast!  Sponsored by: Sight Reading Factory (Use promo code “NINJA” at checkout for 10 free student accounts!)  My Music Folders (Use promo code “NINJA” at checkout for “last column” or best pricing - usually reserved for bulk purchases only!)

Step Out of Your Silo, with Justin Caithaml

So they pronounce their “t’s,” but not their “r’s.” What other differences are there between American choirs and our English friends? Victoria Hopkins, one of the creators and hosts of the Total Choir Resources Podcast chats with Ryan about the point of rehearsals, “note bashing,” workplace choirs, and first aid kits. It truly is inspiring to hear about the the growth of community choirs in the UK. Plus, Victoria has a special gift just for Choir Ninja listeners, so make sure you check out this week’s show notes! Listen [Subscribe on iTunes] [Subscribe on Android] Highlight to Tweet: “Rehearsal is for the leader to get the choir from point A to point B in a way that’s engaging and improves the performance of the music.” - Victoria Hopkins Show Notes:  Total Choir Resources has been around for 6 years. It was created out of frustration for lack of resources for the day to day managing of their choirs by Victoria and her friend Christine Mulgrew. It started as a blog, then developed a podcast about 5 years ago. It is geared to those in leadership positions in choirs, but who have little or no formal training. What is the point of rehearsal?  The point of rehearsal is for the leader to get the choir from point A to point B in a way that’s engaging and useful, and improves the performance of the music. Also, to get to performance at the right time, neither under-rehearsed nor over-rehearsed.   Everyone needs to go into rehearsal with a plan.  “Note Bashing” - the early stages of rehearsal. Recorded rehearsal tracks are available for everything. It provides extra help for those who need it. Don’t let a section sit doing nothing for very long. Have everyone sing on whatever part your are working. (It reinforces sight-singing, and keeps people engaged. Can’t chat while singing.)   Join the right community choir. Not every choir is the right fit for every singer. Workplace choirs are becoming more popular in England. The Choir Rehearsal First Aid Kit. Get rehearsals back on track!  Bio: Victoria Hopkins is a co-founder of Total Choir Resources, an online home for new and developing choir leaders, offering inspirational ebooks, online courses and choral music to a worldwide audience. Victoria leads a chamber choir in her home village on the south coast of England. Resources/links Mentioned:  The Choir Rehearsal First Aid Kit Total Choir Resources Choir Nation group on Facebook - Going to TMEA? Meet up with other Choir Ninjas! Join the Choir Nation Facebook group for time and location. Patreon - Support the podcast!  Sponsored by: Sight Reading Factory (Use promo code “NINJA” at checkout for 10 free student accounts!)  My Music Folders (Use promo code “NINJA” at checkout for “last column” or best pricing - usually reserved for bulk purchases only!)

Note Bashing and Other English Imports, with Victoria Hopkins

Pearls of wisdom just drop out of Denise Eaton’s mouth with every sentence she speaks. In this episode, Denise and Ryan expand on some of the topics covered in her recent blog post (link in the notes below). There is practical advice here for every director, from first year to veteran. This episode WILL change how you direct or teach your choir! Listen [Subscribe on iTunes] [Subscribe on Android] Highlight to Tweet: “We determine the weather in rehearsal.” - Denise Eaton “You’re either getting better or you’re getting worse. Nothing stays the same.” -Denise Eaton Show Notes:  Self-reflection and self-evaluation is essential to growth. Identify ineffective habits. Your choir should know the purpose and goals behind your methods. Know YOUR choir: the one that is really in front of you, not your choir from last year, and not the one you wish you had. This must inform your repertoire selection. Write a real lesson plan, that reflects your score study. Think through how you are going to teach each section, each part. View it through the lens of the learner. Score study is essential. You are less of a teacher without it. Record your warm ups, so you can check and see if you are getting the tone/vowel/pitch you want. All warm ups should have a purpose.  Bio: Thirty-five year veteran music educator, author and editor Denise Eaton is known for her innovative and practical teaching style. She willingly shares her ideas with a unique, humble and engaging voice, capitalizing on her experiences in the high school and collegiate rehearsal. Denise has presented over fifty workshops in Oklahoma, Georgia, Louisiana, Iowa, Ohio, Florida, Alabama and Texas, including Southern ACDA as well as multiple appearances at Texas Choral Director’s and Texas Music Educator’s Association state conventions. The co-author of three sight- reading books: SMART (Sight Reading Made Accessible Readable and Teachable), SMART Minor, and InSight Singing. She is the editor of Choral Error Detection by Paul Hondorp and is currently writing her 4th book, STEPS: Strategies &amp; Tools Encouraging Proficient Sightsinging. An undergraduate from the University of Texas at Austin, Eaton received the MM in Conducting from Sam Houston State University where she currently teaches Secondary Choral Methods, conducts the SHSU Women’s Choir, coordinates the annual summer Teaching High School and Teaching Middle School Choral workshops, Area Choir workshop and the annual summer All-State Choir Camp. Prior to her 2011 appointment at Sam Houston State University, Eaton had a highly respected career as a high school choir director for twenty-nine years where choirs under her direction performed for numerous state and regional conventions. A strong advocate for music education, Eaton served as the Vocal Vice-President and the President of the Texas Music Educator’s Association. She has been the choral editor at Carl Fischer and BriLee music since 2011. Resources/links M

Get Started

Download the App