Sing, Coach, Conduct

Music educator and organization leader, Virginia (Ginny) Kerwin, has inspired people of all ages to experience music in a way that is personal and impactful. Ginny has been an elementary music teacher, secondary and university-level choir director, she served as the Executive Director of MSVMA (Michigan School of Vocal Music Association) for 20 years, and she is the Founding Director of Voca Lyrica, an adult women's choir based in Big Rapids, Michigan. In this episode, Ginny shares her reflections on leadership, teaching, and ways we can all create deeper, more meaningful experiences for our singers and audiences.

Molly Grace Young was born into a musical family, so music and performing have always been a part of her life. When she discovered she had cancer at the age of twenty-nine, Molly found a way to shine light into the darkness of despair and uncertainty by using her love of music, knack for comedy, and talent as a performer to make the world a less scary and more joy-filled place for everyone.

When soprano and philanthropist Katie Travis graduated from her undergrad program, she immediately moved to New York City to pursue her dreams of becoming a Broadway performer. Her ambition and determination (and willingness to take on interesting jobs) led her from one opportunity to the next, until she landed the role that dramatically changed her life. Years later, a traumatic vocal injury would awaken Katie to a new perspective on vocal health, abandoning shame, and embracing a fuller understanding of our voices.

Link to SPARK Artistic Mentorship Program

https://www.bayfoundation.org/spark?fbclid=IwAR0qBSH1dpBYLFMfHpewMdydzuCurHvZbodHWsgiWTptyFmh5AEYUu-AMto

By the world's standards, Randy Gist has made it big in the music business. He is a professional composer, producer, saxophonist, sound designer, orchestrator, and DJ who has performed with celebrity artists like The Jonas Brothers, John Legend, Kesha, Aloe Blacc, and Jamie Foxx. Randy was featured on the FOX hit TV show "Glee" and "The Tonight Show" with Jay Leno. His DJ-ing gigs include the World Premiere of Disney's live-action Aladdin, Lion King, and Toy Story 4. But what does all this success mean? In this episode, Randy provides a raw and unconventional perspective on how anyone can achieve success and happiness by letting go of ego and, instead, letting curiosity lead the way.

How can we become a champion of social justice in the choral classroom, in our private studios...in our everyday lives? Seasoned Choir and Theater Director, Adam Gardner-Northrop, is passionate about creating a classroom culture of inclusion and diversity. How does Adam begin this process? By sharing his true, authentic self with students, friends, family, and community. This episode provides invaluable information about language, context, and it offers specific strategies for developing music programs that welcome, encourage, and advocate for all human beings. 

Which is more important, possessing natural talent or making a choice to pursue your dreams in the face of challenges and adversity? Dr. Brandon Johnson, Director of Choral Activities at Eastern Michigan University, shares the story of how persistence, perseverance, and “finding the right fit” have guided him as a musician and teacher throughout life. 

Sometimes, the most difficult seasons of life can inspire the greatest moments of growth and creativity. Artists know this better than anyone. We live to create, to find beauty in the world, and to give back to those who have helped us become the musicians and people we are today. The premier episode of Sing, Coach, Conduct is a behind-the-scenes look into the life of Host Megan Farison, her career as a musician and educator, and how the world of Sing, Coach, Conduct came to be.