The Choral Director's Toolbox

In Episode 6 of The Choral Director’s Toolbox, host Dr. William O. Baker explores the Language of Spirituals in the African American tradition, shedding light on the cultural and musical significance of these powerful works. This week’s listener question addresses the perennial debate: Should choral directors use a baton? Finally, today’s inspiration is Alice Parker’s beautiful arrangement of “Swing Low, Sweet Chariot,” performed by The William Baker Festival Singers of Atlanta from their 2015 album Voice of Singing. Tune in for a thoughtful discussion and a moving celebration of choral artistry!

In Episode 10 of The Choral Director’s Toolbox, host Dr. William Baker explores The Sacred Harp, tracing its origins from Colonial-era singing schools to its lasting impact on American choral tradition. This week’s listener question examines the effectiveness of Robert Shaw’s count-singing method and whether it is appropriate in all choral settings. Today’s inspiration features God Is Seen in Alice Parker’s definitive arrangement, performed by The William Baker Festival Singers. Join us for a fascinating discussion on choral history, technique, and artistry!

In Episode 12 of The Choral Director’s Toolbox, host Dr. William Baker reflects on "Ego" in choral leadership—how confidence and humility must coexist to serve the music, the singers, and the composer’s intent. This week’s listener question explores practical strategies for achieving excellence in choral diction. Today’s inspiration features "There Is No Rose" by Kansas City composer Dr. Sean Sweeden, performed by The William Baker Festival Singers. Join us for a thoughtful discussion on leadership, artistry, and the lifelong pursuit of musical excellence!

In Episode 11 of The Choral Director’s Toolbox, host Dr. William Baker explores "Etiquette" in choral rehearsals and performances, highlighting the impact of professionalism, respect, and decorum on the choral experience. This week’s listener question tackles how to manage excessive choir chatter while maintaining a positive rehearsal atmosphere. Today’s inspiration features "Ballade to the Moon" by Daniel Elder, performed by The William Baker Festival Singers. Join us for an insightful discussion on fostering excellence through refined choral leadership!

This week on The Choral Director’s Toolbox, host William Baker welcomes Dr. Jamea Sale, Director of the Institute for Healthy Singing and Voice Research, for a special discussion on Prescriptive Choral Training. Learn how this approach moves beyond traditional warm-ups, incorporating voice science, body mapping, and kinetic movement to optimize vocal performance and ensemble cohesion. This week’s listener question explores the best devices for recording rehearsals, and today’s inspiration features Moses Hogan’s powerful spiritual “I’m Gonna Sing Till the Spirit Moves in My Heart” performed by The William Baker Festival Singers. Join us for a thought-provoking and practical episode!

In this week’s episode of The Choral Director’s Toolbox, host William Baker explores “The Timely and the Timeless” in music, delving into the distinctions between enduring masterpieces and music of the moment. Gain insights into how craftsmanship, integrity, and inspiration set great music apart. This week’s listener question provides helpful resources for non-music-reading choir members, while today’s inspiration showcases Eriks Esenvalds’ evocative “Northern Lights,” performed by the Choir of Trinity College Cambridge. Join us for another enriching exploration of choral artistry!

In this week’s episode of The Choral Director’s Toolbox, host William Baker reflects on the meaning of professionalism in choral music. Explore the nuances of volunteer versus paid ensembles and discover why dedication, artistry, and commitment define a professional chorus, regardless of compensation. This week’s listener question tackles the practice of anonymous auditions, while today’s inspiration features the breathtaking “Dona Nobis Pacem” from Bach’s Mass in B Minor, performed by the Robert Shaw Chorale. Join us for thought-provoking insights and a celebration of choral excellence!

In the second episode of The Choral Director’s Toolbox, host William Baker dives into "Conducting an Effective Audition." Learn actionable strategies to streamline the audition process, prioritize your ensemble's needs, and ensure a respectful experience for all candidates. This week’s listener question addresses a challenging leadership scenario in a community chorus, while the episode concludes with Kenneth Jennings’ uplifting “All You Works of the Lord,” performed by The William Baker Festival Singers. Tune in to refine your choral leadership and celebrate the joy of music-making!

Kick off 2025 with the inaugural episode of The Choral Director’s Toolbox!

In this debut episode, host William Baker explores “Five Steps to Making Each Rehearsal a Special Occasion,” offering practical strategies to transform rehearsals into meaningful and productive experiences. Discover the “toolbox” approach to choral leadership in response to a listener question, and enjoy a stunning performance of Alexandre Kopylov’s “Heavenly Light” by the Robert Shaw Chamber Singers. Join us as we celebrate the art of choral music and inspire excellence in every rehearsal!

Join hosts Dr. William O. Baker, founder of the William Baker Choral Foundation (WBCF) and Dr. Jamea J. Sale, Associate Executive Director of the WBCF and Director of the Institute for Healthy Singing & Voice Research (IHS&VR), for an inspiring special edition episode featuring a remarkable lineup of guests:

* Dr. Andrew Schmidt: Director of the Summer Singers of Atlanta and Fellow of the IHS&VR

* Christine Freeman, MME: Associate Director and Singer/Soloist of the William Baker Festival Singers & Summer Singers of Kansas City and Fellow of the IHS&VR

* Jennifer Lahasky, MME: Past Director of the Summer Singers of Lee’s Summit, Singer/Soloist and Alto Section Leader of the William Baker Festival Singers, and Fellow of the IHS&VR

* Niccole Williams, MME: Associate Director of the Summer Singers of Lee’s Summit, Education Director of the IHS&VR, and Singer/Soloist and Soprano Section Leader of the William Baker Festival Singers

* Dr. Sean Sweeden: Composer in Residence and Fellow of Choral Creativity and Singer/Soloist of the William Baker Festival Singers

* Daniel Baker: Director of Northland Summer Singers, Singer/Soloist and Tenor Section Leader of the William Baker Festival Singers

Each guest shares personal insights about choral music selections that hold special meaning for them this year. From cherished classics to new compositions, this episode is a heartfelt journey through the transformative power of choral music. Tune in to hear music, reflections, and the passion that drives these extraordinary choral leaders!