Preaching to the Choir

Today's episode features Trent Buglewicz and Nolan Henkle, two incredible Iowa directors who have known each other since college, direct rival Varsity show choirs, and are still best of friends (or hate each other, as you'll hear in the first five minutes

Our next collab works together, EVERYDAY! Scott and Brian are the directors at Papillion La-Vista South High School in Papillion, Nebraska. In the 7 years this duo has worked together, they have shown the midwest a new style of show choir that is full of amazing bands, stellar choreo, and music you can't help but get up and dance along with. There is SO much to learn from these two! Shows Discussed in this episode: Burroughs https://youtu.be/aMtTKEZ5Ejg (2013), Auburn Varsity Singers https://youtu.be/Y2N6i3ipYDI (2014), Omaha South Ambassadors “Dia de Los Muertos” https://youtu.be/IlJ4C51OlFg (2022), Millard North Infinity https://youtu.be/1cdS499gHLg (2015),

This episode collaborates with...YOU! For the past couple months on Show Collective socials, we've asked you, our listeners, to submit questions and pet peeve/rants for a future episode and this is the one! Join us as we dive into some we loved and hot topics surrounding show choir!

A different kind of duo on the podcast today! Though these two have never met, we are all part of a specific club called "Show Choir Mom/Directors." If you're thinking "I'm not a mom, so I don't need to listen," actually, that's exactly why you should. If you are a mom, listen and feel supported, and if you're not, listen in to learn about your mom-colleagues!

Don't miss this smart, hilarious and thought-provoking convo with everyone's favorite choreo besties: Tori Brindis and Nick Quamme! Jen and the dynamic duo discuss everything from favorite ways of working to the sticky subject of pay scales. Join us for this wild ride! Shows discussed in this episode: Ankeny Centennial “Titanic” https://youtu.be/YJoGYnYfOl0 (2017), Franklin Central FC Singers https://youtu.be/-qBXpmtl9d4 (2018), Ankeny Centennial “Carmen” https://youtu.be/l_PV8DlcOkc (2016), Los Al SoundFX “Space Odessy” https://youtu.be/j-RXNF6WbbM (2017), Keller Voices of Central “Sunday in the Park” https://youtu.be/UOICH6Xc4T4 (2013), Mitchell Friend de Coup “Human” https://youtu.be/bcqjjcNcv8U (2017), Mitchell FDC “Avalance” https://youtu.be/DXo3Um-CXj4 (bird show) (2018), Tupelo Synergy “Letters from War” https://youtu.be/8BIUtIUt01w (2022), St Francis https://youtu.be/o8kpN7udmH4 (2019), Loveland https://youtu.be/aNJ5FEKBrnk (2014), Waukee Millennium https://youtu.be/RbJbaKtFfsM (2016), Waukee Millennium https://youtu.be/F1oi0u0I9S4 (2017)

Marah and Eric join Jen for a SUPERSIZED SEASON 5 DEBUT! This wide ranging conversation covers collaboration as choreographers, business owners as well as philanthropy in show choir. And very specific bakery recommendations for Indianapolis in case you ever visit! :) Shows discussed in this episode: Omaha South Ambassadors “Dia de Los Muertos” https://youtu.be/IlJ4C51OlFg (2022), Mt. Zion Swingsations “20/20” https://youtu.be/XqzBYzxIrKU (2020), Mt. Zion Swingsations “Prom” https://youtu.be/QGM4_Vm0zOc (2019), Roncailli Royal Rhapsody https://youtu.be/VQZqLKjXUo0 (2022), Fishers Sound https://youtu.be/6yKnNjg0oTM (2022), Mt. Zion Swingsations https://youtu.be/5j54m1POm8M (2001), Clinton Attache https://youtu.be/39KI2ToZawg (2004), Grand Island Senior High Ultimate Image https://youtu.be/2nii6Wgb-Go (2002), FC Singers https://youtu.be/Sn075jbP2OQ (2014), FC Singers https://youtu.be/-qBXpmtl9d4 (2018), Mitchell Friend de Coup https://youtu.be/QLsA-LGHH4I (1997), Burbank “Prodigal” https://youtu.be/SD68CQdPMzY (2012), Los Al “Harry Potter” https://youtu.be/P7NZMP9mBI0 (2011), Waubonsie Valley Soundcheck https://youtu.be/GmsdVrkfZS0 (2013), WVSC https://youtu.be/XWrqXmv1YvQ (2014), Ankeny https://youtu.be/fvVCQqOtL0E (2013), Ankney Centennial “Black Swan” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QwRmu4kUbwo (2020), Lin Mar “Yellow Wallpaper” https://youtu.be/gaXwnINzEe8 (2019), Carmel Ambassadors https://youtu.be/ZCQsKljvtmo (2020)

Join us this season as we take eight episodes to examine different concepts, keywords and ideas for each week of your competition season. Today's keyword is Growth!

Join us this season as we take eight episodes to examine different concepts, keywords and ideas for each week of your competition season. Today's keyword is Community!

Join us this season as we take eight episodes to examine different concepts, keywords and ideas for each week of your competition season. Today's keyword is kindness!

Our Season 3 Finale was recorded live, in-person! Join Jen, Ben and Mel for a casual and smart conversation about what choreographers wish directors knew and awesome stories about disasters and triumphs in show choir world! Songs and Shows discussed in this show: Clinton Attache “Stand in the Rain” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0mm9QvTu_zI (2009), Burbank “Prodigal” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SD68CQdPMzY (2012), Wheaton Warrenville South “OZ” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TExYYeegywk (2012), Big Red Singers “Kill of the Night” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HeWdax7fuiI (2016), Lincoln East Express https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uYZg3T7fTNA (2018), Lincoln Southwest Resonance “Finding Nemo” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kpN3_79LBrI (2020), Lincoln Southwest Resonance “Candyland” youtube.com/watch?v=EL_NKna5z3I (2016), Millard North https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Wg3FKw8hSw (2017), Nebraska Hymn sung by Big Red Singers https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-z4pTGVJZOM (2012), BRS Cry Me a River https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iBehTTwwD6Y (2012)

So many new friends around here, y'all! Today's special episode is a throwback to the first episodes of PTTC Podcast, let's talk with arranger, show designer and the incredible director of Wheaton Warrenville and Carmel: Mr. John Burlace! Join Jen and John as they discuss his time as a show choir director as well as his current role as arranger and show designer for groups around the country. Hear his insight into the methodology of choosing literature for your group, as well as pedagogy in show design.

Lexi Robson is a choreographer for schools around the nation, Trent Buglewicz is a choral director in Iowa. When you put their heads together you get incredibly creative and innovative shows performed by Linn-Mar 10th Street Edition! This special episode is was recorded as part of our monthly episode series exclusively for our "Collective Cohort" subscribers! Another round of the cohort opens for registration August 1 and gives you access to a FULL YEAR of content and resources for show choir and beyond. Head to www.showcollective.com for more info next month! Shows discussed in this episode: 10th Street Singers 2018 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2kjlK2Xvohc 10th Street Singers 2019 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gaXwnINzEe8 10th Street Singers 2020 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ldlBu8ce0Mo 10th Street Singers 2021 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KaU0QpEsEgk

Yes, his bio says Choreographer; but it should maybe say Show Choir Historian! Stephen Todd joins Jen on the podcast today as they walk ALL the way down memory lane - like...to the 1990's. The 90's are super trendy right now, and today's podcast is no exception! Stephen will tell us what choreographers wish directors knew, how to have a sustained choreography career in this industry, and how to make lasting memories for yourself and your students. Shows discussed in this episode: Friend de Coup 1997 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QLsA-LGHH4I Mt Zion Swingsations 1995 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-ySzqiiu4ZU Hastings Riverside Company 2017 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g9ayehb6P0s Friend de Coup 1998 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xPbwZVCkTKw

Garrett Breeze joins us on the podcast today! As we continue our season of choreographers and arrangers, today's episode gives you the chance to hear Jen ask Garrett pretty much every arranger question you've ever had while he patiently answers them all. Don't worry, there's still plenty of laughter and fun interspersed in this conversation filled with important info and brilliant insights into the world of arranging!

The man, the myth, the legend; Mr. Dwight Jordan is on the podcast today! Dwight is a co-founder of Showchoir Camps of America (SCA), choreographer, music director and producer. He and Jen talk about his career and the history/future of movement in show choir. SCA virtual and in-person are huge points of discussion as well, trust that you do not want to miss this incredible episode! This season is all choreographers and arrangers!! We're talking show design and voice parts and dance breaks and logistics...everything you need to be thinking about this summer to prep your groups for next year! See you Saturdays through the summer! 

SEASON FINALE DOUBLE EPISODE! Cue whichever song about California you want as your soundtrack, because we are headed to the West Coast! Brendan Jennings from the AMAZING John Burroughs High School is on the podcast today. From his childhood in Burbank to his time with Powerhouse that treks through Glee, Oprah, and national championships, you CANNOT MISS this episode. Shows discussed in this episode: Burroughs Powerhouse “Dig” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z75fDWK7cpE (2012), Burroughs Powerhouse “Smash” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aMtTKEZ5Ejg (2013), Mt Zion Swingsations “My Vision” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mwdEOX-K_J0 (2004), Burbank In Sync “Rainmaker” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JMQNYl3nRFA (2011), Burbank In Sync “Prodigal” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SD68CQdPMzY&t=61s (2012), Linn-Mar 10th Street Edition “The Yellow Wallpaper” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gaXwnINzEe8 (2019), Burroughs Powerhouse “Pretender” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i0z2IWkUo5g (2009), Burroughs Powerhouse "Show Must Go On" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uirOGLbBcf0 (2008), Burroughs Powerhouse "This is War" (Star Wars) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s0z2ULwem6I (2011), Burroughs Powerhouse "Alice" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_ikBXG2sR_o (2010), Burroughs Powerhouse "Comedia del Arte" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I_NNSkDgf20 (2020), Glee “Rehab” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7KYo4zOAxGs (2009)

Welcome to the SOUTH! Mrs. Shanna Luckett is on the podcast today talking southern show choir. From her time in Clinton Attache as a student to running a successful program at Petal, this chat runs the show choir gamut! Shows discussed in this episode: Burbank “Moana” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O3xf56EZnKU (2017), Clinton Attache “Secrets” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lHTZfEYcF7A (2012), Pascagoula Impact “Night” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lmhuuL0l12U (2008), Petal Soundsations “Bonnie and Clyde” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_SWOsG-_vAM (2017), Petal Innovations https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0kleuRdRVJQ (2020), Petal Soundsations “Game Show” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2wwIeBfLp1Y (2020), Clinton Attache https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A7O1QedRXSI (1996)

Rachel Snyder joins us on the podcast today to talk about East Coast show choir! Rachel is in her second year as the director at the storied Clover Hill High School, but she spent over a decade prior in West Virginia bringing up high school show choirs of the future as a middle school director. Enjoy our conversation with the dynamic Mrs. Snyder! Shows discussed in today's episode: John Burroughs “This is War” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s0z2ULwem6I (2011), Hurricane Red Hot https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bq9vbPbvJoI (2019), Fairfield Choraliers https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WWzinKD1Iws (2019), Martinsburg South https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZDuBG3V0zyo (2018), Clover Hill New Dimensions https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wR7sVi1LHeM (2020), Los Alamitos “Harry Potter” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EXACVhFJGLo (2011)

"Where the wind comes sweepin' down the plain," let's pay a visit to the state of Oklahoma! Justin Rosser is today's second episode on our "small show choir state" double feature. Justin and Jen discuss the early days of Oklahoma show choir and moving from a performance only group to a competitive ensemble, as well as the tough decision to make changes to your creative team. This is an episode that new directors and seasoned vets alike can benefit from! Shows discussed in this episode: Burbank In Sync “Prodigal” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SD68CQdPMzY (2012), Wheaton Warrenville South “OZ” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TExYYeegywk (2012), Mitchell Friend de Coup https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bcqjjcNcv8U (2017), Keller Central Voices of Central “Friday Night Lights” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mc5SOy-lDP8 (2014), VOC “The Painting Show” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UOICH6Xc4T4 (2013), Broken Arrow Tiger Rhythm “Oklahoma” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J8yqnP_B3p8 (2017), Broken Arrow Tiger Rhythm “Lazy Days” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s6TyF3SQ2ok (2020)

Great Faces, Great Places! *Cue stunning vistas of Mount Rushmore* Welcome Trisha Fisher to the podcast today. Jen and Trisha discuss the magic of small towns, the powerhouse groups of the 90's and the phenomenon of student centered ensembles and how that turns out out creative kids! There are so many gems of knowledge in this conversation, you'll leave feeling energized, and maybe just a bit nostalgic for "the good ol' days!" Shows discussed in this episode: CR Jefferson “Westside Delegation” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WeJpipigkJQ (1998), Friend de Coup https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QLsA-LGHH4I (1997), Friend de Coup https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xPbwZVCkTKw (1998)

HOOSIERS! Brad Gardner from Franklin Central in Indianapolis is on the podcast today! Brad and Jen discuss hosting and competing during a pandemic and those first few years of teaching and the gap between what we're taught in college and what we need but miss. Brad also tells a hilarious story about performing when you have no idea what's going on! You will ABSOLUTELY enjoy this fun and casual show choir chat. Shows discussed in the episode: Los Alamitos “Magic” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O7JrmtljEo0 (2015), FC Singers “Flood” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sn075jbP2OQ (2014)

"L'Étoile du Nord!" The French state motto for part two of our "Northern States" spotlight feels especially appropriate when we talk about show choir. Minnesota is the North Star State and we are interviewing one of it's brightest stars today - Mr. Luke Warren! Luke grew up in the very program he now leads; he was close with the director.

ON WISCONSIN! Our first episode this week is one half of our "Northern States" spotlight. Rachel McIlquham is a daughter of Chippewa Falls and is now back as their director. Jen and Rachel discuss important changes that must come out of this pandemic, what it's like to teach a "regular" show choir (spoiler, that's not a thing), and how her high school director convincing her to try show choir, changed her life. There is infinite laughter and light in this incredibly smart episode of the podcast! Shows discussed in this episode: Eau Claire North https://youtu.be/IiKAKHZVyU8 (2020)

"The stars at night are big and bright..." Welcome to TEXAS this show choir Saturday! Mason Barlow is the head director at Arlington High School in Arlington, TX and has leads one of the original competitive ensembles in the Lone Star State. Mason and Jen discuss Texas choral music (TMEA, TCDA, All-State) as well as the Texas show choir scene and how it's grown in the last decade. This is a GREAT episode to listen to if you're thinking of starting a competitive group, but are on the fence. Mason will talk you into it for sure! Shows discussed in this episode: Wheaton Warrenville South “OZ” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TExYYeegywk (2012), Arlington High Choraliers https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=990dWSGP1XI (start at 1:07) (2016)

GO BIG RED!! It's HUSKER day here at Preaching to the Choir while we interview Omaha South's Tyler Gruttemeyer! Tyler and Jen delve into choral music and show choir in Nebraska as well as discussing show choir camps and re-starting an existing show choir as a competitive group. His laugh ALONE is worth tuning in for, and there is A LOT to laugh along with in this episode. After all, "There is no place like Nebraska!" Shows discussed in this episode: Wheaton Warrenville South https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j-fHm45BgTs (2008), Mitchell Friend de Coup “Perfect World” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F3maQq0dm3E (2014), Wheaton Warrenville South “OZ” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TExYYeegywk (2012), Decatur Elite Energy https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gxQCHO7DCPE (2020), Omaha South Ambassadors “Home” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nEvcAOJNVPA (2020)

Ohio is up on the podcast today, join Jen for her conversation with Shawn Miller from Loveland! Shawn walks us through what choir and show choir look like in Cincinnati and the state as a whole, as well as hosting a live event during Covid-times and what connection and family means in the context of show choir. And if you want to hear what SCA Ohio is like...well...we've got you covered.

Season 2 is HERE! Join us every Saturday of Show Choir Season (even if you're not competing this year) for a brand new episode, from a different state! Iowa's director interview is Mr. Ted Brimeyer from Urbandale High School. Ted and Jen discuss: Urbandale's National ACDA performance, bias and elitism in choral music, show choir novelty numbers, and of course; claymation snowstorms. And SO MUCH SHOW CHOIR. After all, that's why you're here! Shows mentioned in this episode: Urbandale @ National ACDA (2019) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pMYzTE1tFqY, Aeoleans @ National ACDA (2019) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sa6sUNHTHxo, Wheaton Warrenville South The Classics https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ofOC2vHz2Ls (2013), Xavier https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gb01JRool9Y (2009), Los Alamitos SoundFX https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zRIX03mDgxQ (2010), Sioux City East Headlines https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dqcMoTa3Qtc (2020), Urbandale Studio https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Zt2TqmZEQ4 (2018), Urbandale Studio https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lqeAlzu0WE0 (2019), Urbandale Studio https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zpmWbpLXLDo (2020)

SEASON FINALE!!! Join us for a candid, hilarious, serious, absurd, heartfelt and all around "good time" conversation with 3 of the hardest working choreographers in show choir today. Want to hear what it's like to choreograph during the time of Corona? We got that. Want to hear what your choreographer WISHES we knew as directors? We got that, too. Want to hear how long it took Ellie to adjust to the notion of downtime when the world stopped in March? You do. Trust me. We'll be back with Season 2 in early 2021, but until then, remember you can catch up on any back episodes on Spotify or Apple Podcasts! Links from this episode: Wheaton Warrenville South https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iaZPJg2bwIo (2010), “Fuzzy” by Oliver Heimach https://open.spotify.com/track/2AEo8jHR5aPdiNdSSVFcCF?si=1yxlDKs5Rwe-AWAPOl9ZiQ

We're back from vacation with a Booster Club episode! Do you want to create a new logo or branding for your show choir or choir department? Tired of taking dark/blurry stage photos and videos? Want to hear a 90 second version of how Jen met her husband? This is the episode for you! Tim Randall is a professional Graphic Designer, Photographer & Videographer who gives you the quick lowdown on creating your own design work or when it's time to hire a pro! Resources described in this episode: www.dafont.com, www.canva.com, Adobe Creative Suite (professional tools like: Photoshop, Indesign, Illustrator, Premiere), Tim Randall, tim@timrandall.com, www.timrandall.com, Virtual Teaching/Video Amazon links: https://www.amazon.com/shop/msjenrandall?listId=C3B02F3XGIT7&ref=idea_share_inf Shows discussed in this episode: Mitchell Friend de Coup https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bcqjjcNcv8U (2017), Burbank “Prodigal” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SD68CQdPMzY (2012), Burroughs “Harry Potter” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P7NZMP9mBI0 (2011), Clinton Attache https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lHTZfEYcF7A (2012)

Trent Buglewicz is on the podcast today, talking show design and 2021 Show Choir Season! Trent was one of the first directors this year to publicly announce that Linn-Mar will not be competing or hosting their annual competition, but they are creating a super cool season in the absence of those events! Tune in to hear his brilliant ideas while he and Jen give you a bunch of thoughts on how to be together, even if we're not together. This is a can't miss conversation for choir directors! Shows discussed in this episode: Linn-Mar 10th Street https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0wHkX9O9aW4 (2017), https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kV35EmIADNg (2018), https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gaXwnINzEe8 (2019), https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ldlBu8ce0Mo (2020), Los Alamitos Sound Fx https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G4KBgKbPiVc (2018), Ankeny Centennial Spectrum https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QwRmu4kUbwo (2020), https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YJoGYnYfOl0 (2017)

Today's episode is...Jen Randall! Jen's bestie Natalie Brown (who is a journalist) uses her interview skills to quiz Jen about the all the things going on with Show Collective! We also discuss Jen's new book, "The Art of Competitive Show Choir," and looking forward to a school year that will inevitably be like none other! Shows discussed in this episode: Omaha Westside https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5_vX4kEz6Hs (2005), Imagination Movers https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ymidPyteutY , VOC https://youtu.be/mc5SOy-lDP8 (2014), https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UOICH6Xc4T4 (2013), Mitchell Friend de Coup https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bcqjjcNcv8U (2017), https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DXo3Um-CXj4 (2018), Burbank “Prodigal” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SD68CQdPMzY (2012), ATSC https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xVbAEm3_L7Y (2019), Burroughs “Harry Potter” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P7NZMP9mBI0 (2011), Puff the Magic Dragon https://www.jwpepper.com/Puff-the-Magic-Dragon/1907351.item#/submit

Jeremy Alfera is on the podcast today! Jeremy is the director of Swingers Unlimited in Marysville, Ohio and also a full time arranger. What are common voicing/arranging mistakes? Can you simplify or cut parts? Should you arrange for your own kids? Enjoy Jen and Jeremy getting to know each other and going over ALL these arranging topics and more! It's all in today's episode! Shows we discuss in this episode: Los Al https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j-RXNF6WbbM (2016), Clinton Attache https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tH_mYTBY_ec (1998), Marysville https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GjefPkzwbOI (2015), Marysville https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r64r0ihcS2Q (2020)

Mark Myers is on the podcast today! Mark is the former director at Waubonsie Valley High School and is the current Associate Artistic Director at Chicago Children's Choir. Our wide ranging discussion moves from his first position out of college with the CCC, through his time running Sound Check and the school-wide auditioned ensemble "Mosaic," performances with those students at places like the gospel brunch at House of Blues, and how SCA shaped his life. Mark also discusses how we need to look at dismantling the way we train and support music educators to build a better music classroom. You absolutely can't miss this one! Mt. Zion https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pf5agKTe-yQ (1994), Waubonsie Valley Sound Check https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AhTGmiryHA4 (2016), WVSC Various years https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GhKjeaQWuEU , Dekalb Classic Connection https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ieQXY0RhwEM (1997), Chicago Children’s Choir Juneteenth Concert: https://www.facebook.com/events/262425704863758

Erik Taylor is the director of Decatur Elite Energy and a self described "beast on the organ!" Erik and Jen talk about running a show choir that is a private organization (501c3) and stylistically appropriate vocals in all styles! Erik also shares his perspective as a director and a Black man in the world of competitive show choir. Shows discussed on today's episode: Carmel Ambassadors https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZCQsKljvtmo (2020), Center Grove https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PypnoHGAHXE (2018), Decatur Elite Energy https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E-aGrkdj4zs (2017)

*Welcome to the first episode of a series we call "Booster Club!" Interviews with people who are not Show Choir Professionals, but who are adjacent or do the type of work that supports show choir. You know, like a BOOSTER CLUB! Carla Hardy is the head choir director at a large high school in the Dallas Metropolitan Area (DFW). She was Jostens Renaissance Educator of the Year in 2018 - an honor bestowed on teachers who have mastered student leadership, and culture/climate in their classroom and on their campus. Carla has also walked though a huge life and career change in the last two years due to her husband's diagnosis (or as she will tell you, lack thereof); her perspective and spirit of joy is just what we as educators need right now! Jen and Carla talk about the future of choir in a possible non-singing context and how to create a learning environment that is valuable, even without competitions and concerts. A very important conversation for all of us to be a part of us in this crazy time - but don't worry, there are plenty of the lighter moments you come to expect from PTTC Podcast as well! :) Topics discussed in the Podcast: Jostens Renaissance Program (free summer workshop) - https://www.jostensrenaissance.com/ Carla's personal blog on Jared's health journey - https://www.hardypartyuntangled.com/

Doran and Jen talk about his 22 year career at Omaha Westside High School as well as the 10 years prior he spent teaching in Iowa that prepared him for his current position. If you are pondering becoming an educator, are a new director, or are thinking about starting a show choir at your school, listen as one of the masters tells you how it's done!

The queen is here! Linda Southard (Ms. Linda) is joining us on the podcast today to talk about her storied career with Buffalo Grove, SCA, and now as a touring clinician and judge for show choirs across America. Her insights into the origins of show choir are so fun and she gives great advice for those of us still in the trenches. A unicorn of sorts - she is a director, choreographer and arranger - whatever your place in show choir, there's something for you in this episode! Show Choir Shows discussed in this episode: Buffalo Grove Expressions https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PPOcTXr8oj4 (1999), Ankeny Centennial Swan Lake (2020), Clinton Attache https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vJ_GXrBUPbc (2019), Wheaton Warrenville South OZ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TExYYeegywk (2015), Cedar Rapids Jefferson Opera Show https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WeJpipigkJQ (1998)

Steph and Jen discuss her career as a choreographer, her theories on dance and emotion, and Iowa show choir. Personality and the way it plays a part in your students work as well as your teaching is also a major talking point in this fun, wide-ranging conversation on show choir and life. You do not want to miss hearing the genius of this phenomenal human!

So, who is this lady and why is she interviewing these people and what has she done in show choir? Here's a quick introduction to our "Preaching to the Choir Podcast" host, Jen Randall! Shows (groups) mentioned in this episode: Keller Central Voices of Central https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UOICH6Xc4T4 (2013) Mitchell Friend de Coup https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bcqjjcNcv8U Only Human (2017), https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DXo3Um-CXj4 "Adventure" (with the birds) (2018)

Jen and Alex continue their conversation about the choreographer/director relationship and discuss trends and concepts we see in show design today. Shows discussed in this episode: Mt Zion https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5j54m1POm8M (2001), https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9vhnnzTyYQU (2002), https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mwdEOX-K_J0 (2004), Prospect Mixed Company https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_ffEHUM8vpA (2013), John Burroughs Powerhouse https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DcqJaRq0BMM (2014), Marysville Swingers Unlimited https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GjefPkzwbOI (2015)

Join Jen and John as they discuss his time as a show choir director as well as his current role as arranger and show designer for groups around the country. Hear his insight into the methodology of choosing literature for your group, as well as pedagogy in show design. Premiere Episode. Links to shows discussed: Lafayette Jefferson "First Edition" - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iw6I4lOEuTs Magic (1998) Wheaton Warrenville South "The Classics" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TExYYeegywk OZ (2015) Omaha Westside "ATSC" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uze-7CaV1RM Olympics (2020) Carmel "Ambassadors" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9B8MrDUPnM8 9/11 (2017)

Alex and Jen discuss the impact of show choir on small communities around the country as well as Alex's path to his current role as singer/songwriter. We also discuss meteorology, because it wouldn't be a conversation with Alex unless we talk about the weather. Shows discussed in this episode: Millard West - West in the Groove https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=innf0zbdKYA (2017)

Preaching to the Choir is presented in conjunction with "Show Collective," a resource site for show choir professionals. Launching May 1, 2020! www.showcollective.com