Podcast appearances and mentions of William Baker

In this episode of The Choral Director's Toolbox, host Dr. William Baker advocated to "Rehearse with the End in Mind," adapting Stephen Covey's timeless principle to the art of rehearsal planning. With practical wisdom drawn from decades on the podium, Dr. Baker discusses time management, strategic pacing, and the discipline required to prepare an entire program within limited rehearsal hours without creating unnecessary stress for singers. This week's listener question comes from Dale in San Diego, who asks how to respond when a performance does not go well. Drawing inspiration from Olympic figure skating and the joyful artistry of gold medalist Alysa Liu, Dr. Baker reflects on humility, resilience, and the professional grace required in both triumph and disappointment. To submit your question to The Choral Director's Toolbox, write to us at Toolbox@FestivalSingers.org. Today's inspiration is Thomas Tallis' "O Lord, in Thee Is All My Trust," performed by The Tallis Scholars under the direction of Peter Phillips, a luminous and fitting selection for the Lenten season. Join us for an episode on preparation, perspective, and the enduring pursuit of excellence in choral art.

This week on The Choral Director's Toolbox, William Baker addresses a topic many conductors would rather avoid: liability. Sparked by an attempted legal claim from a volunteer singer, Today's Topic outlines practical, essential safeguards every choral organization—large or small—should have in place. From insurance and written contracts to audition documentation and youth protection policies, this episode offers clear, prudent guidance to protect your ensemble, your leadership, and your mission. In Today's Question, a church music director asks about forming a hymn selection committee. The answer is direct, thought-provoking, and sure to spark conversation about professional leadership, liturgical integrity, and the purpose of congregational song. Today's Inspiration features “He'll Make a Way” by Byron Smith, performed by the William Baker Festival Singers—a vibrant gospel selection for SATB choir with piano and optional rhythm section.

In this week's episode of The Choral Director's Toolbox, William Baker addresses a difficult but important reality of choral life: when and how to step away from an ensemble with honesty, professionalism, and integrity. Framing choral participation as a covenantal relationship, he offers thoughtful guidance for singers and leaders facing unavoidable changes, conflict, or resignation, emphasizing the long-term impact such decisions have on people, institutions, and the art itself. Today's Topic explores best practices for resigning responsibly, minimizing disruption, communicating truthfully, honoring commitments whenever possible, and preserving relationships within the choral community. Today's Question considers the role of printed concert programs, balancing cost, content, and promotional value, with practical recommendations for what information best serves both audiences and organizations. Today's Inspiration features O Crux by Knut Nystedt, performed by the St. Olaf Choir under the direction of Kenneth Jennings.

In this week's episode of The Choral Director's Toolbox, William Baker explores the powerful role that ritual and tradition play in shaping the identity, continuity, and emotional life of a choral ensemble. Through personal reflection and long-standing practices of the Festival Singers, he illustrates how shared traditions create belonging, reinforce values, and inspire renewed commitment to excellence across generations of singers. Today's Topic examines how intentional rituals foster pride, connection, and continuity within a choral “family,” and why it is the responsibility of the ensemble's leader to protect and honor these traditions. Today's Question addresses the practical challenge of lost rehearsals due to severe weather, offering thoughtful strategies for planning, recovery, and—most importantly—ensuring singer safety. Today's Inspiration features "Wessobrunn Prayer" by Edmund Joliffe, performed by the William Baker Festival Singers. The episode concludes with updates on upcoming Festival Singers performances and continuing work of the Choral Foundation.

In this week's episode of The Choral Director's Toolbox, Dr. William Baker reflects on the unique power of the choir festival as both an artistic catalyst and a strategic tool for community engagement. Drawing from a recent multi-ensemble festival experience, he explores how thoughtfully curated choral gatherings can energize singers, expand audiences, strengthen inter-ensemble relationships, and provide invaluable promotional momentum for every participating organization. Today's Question addresses repertoire selection for folk, spiritual, and multicultural music, with a focused discussion on authenticity as the single most important criterion in choosing arrangements. Today's Inspiration features Moses Hogan's powerful spiritual "My God Is So High," performed by the William Baker Festival Singers.

In this week's episode of The Choral Director's Toolbox, Dr. William Baker reflects on one of the perennial challenges of choral leadership: sustaining motivation during the long, gray stretch of winter. Drawing from decades of professional experience, he reminds us that motivation is created by keeping singers engaged, performing regularly, and feeling the forward momentum of meaningful work. Today's Topic explores practical strategies for maintaining ensemble energy through consistent performance opportunities, creative community engagement, and visible leadership commitment. Today's Question takes a turn toward listening habits, as William shares his rediscovered love for vinyl recordings and offers practical guidance for anyone interested in building a satisfying home LP setup. Today's Inspiration features James Erb's beloved arrangement of Shenandoah, performed by the St. Olaf Choir under the direction of Kenneth Jennings. Submit a listener question to Toolbox@FestivalSingers.org.

This week on The Choral Director's Toolbox, William Baker reflects on “The Juggler,” a powerful reminder that excellence in conducting, and in life, comes from personal responsibility, perseverance, and a willingness to do the hard work, even after dropping the balls thousands of times. In Today's Question, a church music director asks how to navigate conflict and competition surrounding solo opportunities. The response offers clear, practical guidance for restoring unity, refocusing on service, and rebuilding a healthy choral culture. Today's Inspiration features "Good Friday Anthems" by Russell Schulz-Widmar, performed by the William Baker Festival Singers. The selection is haunting, spare, and deeply moving music that rewards thoughtful, committed singing. Submit a listener question to Toolbox@FestivalSingers.org

Welcome to the first Choral Director's Toolbox episode of 2026. This week, host William Baker reflects on resolutions. Not the grand, sweeping kind, but the small, intentional practices that can lead to meaningful change in our lives and our choral communities. From quiet preparation before rehearsal to intentional care for singers and colleagues, this episode invites conductors to begin the year grounded, generous, and focused. In Today's Question, a first-year community chorus director asks how publicly sharing political opinions may affect leadership, recruitment, and community trust. The response offers thoughtful guidance on balancing personal convictions with professional responsibility. Today's Inspiration features “The Glory of the Father” by Norwegian composer Egil Hovland, performed by the William Baker Festival Singers, a luminous a cappella work well suited for Advent, Christmas, and Epiphany. New episodes every Monday morning. Submit a listener question to Toolbox@FestivalSingers.org.

As we come to the close of the year, The Choral Director's Toolbox offers a special Christmas edition, airing December 22 and again on December 29. In place of our usual format, Dr. William Baker invites members of the Choral Foundation faculty to share Christmas-time choral works that hold deep personal and musical meaning. This reflective and joyful episode features favorite seasonal selections introduced by Thomas Dixon, Jennifer Lahasky, James Cordell, Dr. Jamea Sale, Ed Frazier Davis, Christine Freeman, and Dr. Baker himself. From quiet wonder and tender lullabies to prophetic hope and gospel exuberance, these pieces illuminate the many emotional and spiritual dimensions of Christmas. With no listener question and no single “Today's Inspiration,” this special edition becomes a curated musical meditation that honors memory, community, and the enduring power of choral song. We invite you to listen, reflect, and return to it again as the year turns and a new season begins.

In this special Episode 50 of The Choral Director's Toolbox, we pause at year's end to reflect on the ideas that resonated most deeply with our listeners in 2025. This retrospective episode revisits three of Dr. William Baker's most beloved topic presentations: Damns of Distinction, The Pearly Gates Tavern, and Professionalism. Together, these reflections offer wisdom, humor, and timeless perspective on leadership, artistry, and the values that shape choral excellence. This episode stands as a thoughtful moment of reflection celebrating the conversations, convictions, and craftsmanship that continue to define The Choral Director's Toolbox.

In Episode 48 of The Choral Director's Toolbox, host Dr. William Baker takes a lighthearted but meaningful look at "The Ghosts of Christmas Presents," the sometimes awkward expectations surrounding holiday gift-giving in choirs and music programs. With warmth and humor, Dr. Baker shares lessons learned from experience and offers practical ways to foster genuine gratitude and generosity in the season of giving. This week's listener question tackles concert etiquette. How to help audiences understand and enjoy the concert experience with grace and good manners. Today's inspiration is Donald Fraser's elegant setting of "This Christmastide" (Jessye's Carol), performed by The William Baker Festival Singers from their album Images of Wonder. Join us for an episode full of warmth and wisdom for the holiday season.

In Episode 46 of The Choral Director's Toolbox, host Dr. William Baker shares timely insights in Christmas Collaborations, exploring how partnerships between adult, youth, and children's choirs enrich performances, build audiences, and inspire future generations of singers. Drawing on decades of experience, Dr. Baker outlines practical strategies for successful collaborations—from programming and logistics to etiquette and engagement. This week's listener question asks for meaningful reading recommendations for a post-Christmas music director's retreat, with reflections on The Robert Shaw Reader and On Love by Pope Benedict XVI. Today's inspiration is Aaron Copland's radiant The Promise of Living from The Tender Land, performed by the Turtle Creek Chorale. Join us for an episode filled with wisdom, gratitude, and musical joy.

In Episode 45 of The Choral Director's Toolbox, host Dr. William Baker offers timeless insights in Considerations for Handel's Messiah, drawing from decades of conducting experience. From editions and orchestration to soloist selection and performance practice, Dr. Baker shares practical wisdom for achieving clarity, authenticity, and joy in this beloved oratorio. This week's listener question asks whether producing CDs still makes sense in a streaming world—leading to a discussion on the lasting value of recordings as both art and promotion. Today's inspiration is Alice Parker's heartfelt setting of O Thou in Whose Presence, performed by The William Baker Festival Singers in Helzberg Hall. Join us for an episode rich with historical perspective, practical artistry, and love for the choral tradition.

In Episode 44 of The Choral Director's Toolbox, host Dr. William Baker shares real-world wisdom in When Something Goes Wrong, exploring how choral conductors can respond with grace, calm, and professionalism when the unexpected happens on stage. From missed entrances to fainting singers, Dr. Baker offers strategies for maintaining focus and dignity during live performance. This week's listener question debates the ideal size of conducting patterns—small, contained gestures versus broader, more expressive ones—reminding us that context is key. Today's inspiration is Thomas Tallis's timeless A New Commandment, performed by The Tallis Scholars. Join us for a practical and inspiring episode on resilience, artistry, and composure in the face of chaos.

In Episode 43 of The Choral Director's Toolbox, host Dr. William Baker reflects on "Money-Ball," exploring what professional sports can teach the arts about value, economics, and perspective. He challenges arts leaders to rethink attitudes toward wealth, business, and success reminding us that the prosperity of one sector often fuels the sustainability of another. This week's listener question tackles the difficult process of replacing an accompanist who isn't meeting expectations, with practical and compassionate guidance for directors facing tough personnel decisions. Today's inspiration is Byron Smith's rousing gospel anthem "Worthy to Be Praised," performed by The William Baker Festival Singers. Join us for a candid, thought-provoking, and uplifting episode on leadership, stewardship, and gratitude.

In Episode 42 of The Choral Director's Toolbox, host Dr. William Baker shares insights on Choral Communication, inspired by the weekly letters of legendary conductor Robert Shaw. Drawing from Shaw's example, Dr. Baker reflects on the enduring power of thoughtful, personal correspondence to build trust, foster community, and deepen musical artistry. This week's listener question comes from a church music director seeking guidance on selecting hymns for worship services, with practical tips for balancing familiarity, singability, and thematic relevance. Today's inspiration is Stephen Paulus' beloved arrangement of "The Road Home," performed by The William Baker Festival Singers. Join us for an episode that celebrates connection through music, words, and shared purpose.

In Episode 41 of The Choral Director's Toolbox, host Dr. William Baker revisits one of Robert Shaw's most enduring rehearsal techniques, "Count Singing." Learn how this disciplined approach to rhythm, phrasing, and ensemble unity transforms both precision and expression, helping singers internalize metrical integrity before adding text. This week's listener question considers whether printed programs are still worth the effort in an increasingly digital age. Today's inspiration is Wendell Whalum's powerful arrangement of the spiritual "Sweet Home," performed by The William Baker Festival Singers in Helzberg Hall. Join us for an episode that blends timeless technique, practical wisdom, and musical depth.

In Episode 39 of "The Choral Director's Toolbox," host Dr. William Baker takes on "The Language of Spirituals," examining how conductors can approach this treasured repertoire with integrity, respect, and scholarship. From questions of dialect and diction to the politics of performance, Dr. Baker argues for historical authenticity over political correctness. This week's listener question revisits the challenge of Christmas programming, asking whether seasonal music should be moved to other times of year. Today's inspiration is Pacem, a moving setting of "Dona Nobis Pacem" by Atlanta composer Karin R. Banks, performed by the New South Festival Singers at the Piccolo Spoleto Festival. Join us for a thought-provoking episode on language, history, and the living power of choral music.

In Episode 38 of "The Choral Director's Toolbox," host Dr. William Baker warns against a common but harmful habit in "Don't Hum the Pitch," explaining why silent preparation leads to healthier onsets, better focus, and more accurate ensemble singing. This week's listener question takes on the challenge of balancing Christmas programming with pressures to reduce sacred content, underscoring the importance of artistic freedom. Today's inspiration is Moses Hogan's electrifying arrangement of the spiritual "Battle of Jericho," performed by The William Baker Festival Singers. Join us for an episode blending practical rehearsal wisdom with a strong stand for integrity in choral art.

In Episode 37 of The Choral Director's Toolbox, host Dr. William Baker makes "The Case for Inefficiency," challenging the idea that rigidly scheduled rehearsals always yield the best results. He shares why flexibility, exploration, and a willingness to linger in the music often lead to deeper artistry and more memorable performances. This week's listener question asks whether it is ethical, or even legal, to modify a composer's music, with Dr. Baker offering practical and thoughtful guidance. Today's inspiration is the spiritual "I Been in the Storm," arranged by Robert DeCormier and performed by The William Baker Festival Singers.

In Episode 36 of The Choral Director's Toolbox, host Dr. William Baker shares the personal story "Two Teachers, One Kid," honoring the life-changing impact of teachers who believe in their students and reminding us to “find someone to pass it along to.” This week's listener question comes from a director struggling with repertoire selection for a spring concert, with practical suggestions for breaking through programming fatigue. Today's inspiration pairs Cindy Berry's Restore My Joy with John Rutter's beloved The Lord Is My Shepherd from his Requiem, performed by The Mountain Park Choir. Tune in for an episode of gratitude, encouragement, and renewal.

In Episode 35 of The Choral Director's Toolbox, host Dr. William Baker proclaims "Choral Music Isn't Going Anywhere," challenging the myth that our art form is in decline. Drawing on history, research, and decades of personal experience, he highlights the remarkable resilience and growth of choirs across America. This week's listener question tackles the challenges of commissioning new music when the finished work proves impractical, offering guidance for directors navigating similar situations. Today's inspiration is the serene Norwegian evening hymn "Nu Solen Går Ned'" performed by the women of the William Baker Festival Singers. Join us for an uplifting episode celebrating the vitality and future of choral music.

In Episode 34 of The Choral Director's Toolbox, host Dr. William Baker examines The Non-Musical Side of the Audition, highlighting how professionalism, courtesy, and care during auditions shape the reputation of a choral organization. Learn best practices for communication, documentation, and candidate experience that build trust and protect your ensemble. This week's listener question takes on the debate over concert attire, with Dr. Baker making the case for maintaining high standards of formality. Today's inspiration is Kenneth Jennings' stirring anthem The Lord Is the Everlasting God, performed by The William Baker Festival Singers. Join us for an insightful episode blending leadership, vision, and artistry.

In Episode 33 of The Choral Director's Toolbox, host Dr. William Baker shares practical wisdom on Meeting the Orchestra—the courtesies, expectations, and strategies that help choral conductors succeed when collaborating with instrumentalists. From stage setup and rehearsal pacing to communication and professionalism, Dr. Baker offers insights you won't find in textbooks. This week's listener question reflects on mentors' enduring influence, with lessons from Paul Jordan, Sir David Willcocks, and Kenneth Jennings. Today's inspiration is Alice Parker's tender arrangement of the spiritual Sometimes I Feel, performed by the Robert Shaw Chorale with contralto Florence Kopleff. Join us for a thoughtful episode bridging tradition, preparation, and artistry.

In Episode 32 of The Choral Director's Toolbox, host Dr. William Baker reflects on the invaluable role of mentors in shaping a conductor's career, sharing personal stories of wisdom passed down, and lessons learned the hard way, from seasoned colleagues. He encourages today's young choral leaders to seek guidance from those “who have been over the mountain a few times” and to embrace the blend of tradition and innovation that builds true artistry. This week's listener question offers strategies for launching a choir season on the right note. Today's inspiration is Brahms' lively "Tafellied," performed by the Leipzig Radio Chorus. Join us for a heartfelt episode on learning, leading, and lifting each other up in the choral profession.

In Episode 31 of The Choral Director's Toolbox, host Dr. William Baker brings a touch of heavenly humor with The Pearly Gates Tavern, an imaginative conversation between Handel, Haydn, and Mendelssohn over brunch in the afterlife. The three legendary composers reflect on oratorios, earthly performances of Elijah, and the enduring joy of music. This week's listener question comes from a parent wondering how best to support musically inclined children as they begin school-year ensembles and piano lessons. Today's inspiration is The Lonely Child from Songs of the Holocaust by William W. Dreyfoos, performed by The William Baker Festival Singers. Tune in for an episode that blends whimsy, wisdom, and deep reverence for music's power across generations. Ask ChatGPT

Episode NotesCamp Meeting 2025Church Of The Living GodPfafftown, NCScripture: Joshua 6:7-10Sermon: The 6th HourGuest Speaker: Pastor William BakerThursday, July 31, 2025 

Choral Director's Toolbox Ep 29: Outraged by Outrageous Outrage by William Baker & Jamea Sale

In Episode 28 of The Choral Director's Toolbox, host Dr. William Baker returns with practical wisdom on The Nuts and Bolts of Leading a Summer Choir, sharing strategies for recruitment, rehearsal planning, collaborating artists, and achieving high artistic standards with seasonal ensembles. This week's listener question explores the use—and ethics—of online choral music resources like CPDL and IMSLP. Today's inspiration is Jean Berger's powerful Vision of Peace, performed by the St. Olaf Choir. Join us for insights on summer music-making, resourceful leadership, and the transformative power of choral art.

In Episode 27 of The Choral Director's Toolbox, host Dr. William Baker explores The Benefits of a Summer Choir, sharing how seasonal ensembles can enrich singers' lives, strengthen community, and expand choral programs year-round. This week's listener question addresses the delicate art of auditioning a couple—navigating joint auditions with professionalism and care. Today's inspiration is Robert Ray's uplifting gospel classic "He Never Failed Me Yet.” Tune in for practical insights and musical encouragement to energize your summer singing season!

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

In Episode 24 of The Choral Director's Toolbox, host Dr. William Baker reflects on The Predicament of Beethoven, sharing insights into the composer's life, suffering, and faith as revealed through his music. Drawing from major biographies and personal letters, Dr. Baker explores how Beethoven's deafness, illness, and isolation shaped both his human journey and his sacred vocation as a composer. This week's listener question offers practical tips for helping community and professional choirs memorize music while rehearsing only once per week. Today's inspiration is Glorious Everlasting by M. Thomas Cousins, performed by the Mountain Park Choir of Atlanta. Join us for a stirring blend of music history, artistry, and inspiration.

In Episode 23 of The Choral Director's Toolbox, host Dr. William Baker dives into The Naming of Voices, examining the history, assumptions, and consequences behind labeling singers as sopranos, altos, tenors, or basses. Learn why misassigned voice parts can lead to tension, poor intonation, and ensemble imbalance—and how thoughtful, flexible assignments can unlock freedom and blend. This week's listener question explores the expressive and musical benefits of singing from memory. Today's inspiration is R. Douglas Helvering's radiant Serenade to Music, performed by The William Baker Festival Singers. Tune in for an honest, insightful, and empowering episode for choral directors and singers alike.

Dr. William Baker reflects on the vital role of the collaborative pianist and offers practical tips for fostering a respectful and professional working relationship—from score prep to handwritten thank-you notes. Plus: a thoughtful response to a listener navigating choral diction in German, and this week's musical inspiration, Sing and Ponder by Larry Fleming. Submit a listener question to Toolbox@FestivalSingers.org

In Episode 19 of The Choral Director's Toolbox, host Dr. William Baker unpacks the controversy surrounding Austrian or Germanic Latin in Classical-period choral performance. With his signature clarity and wit, Dr. Baker challenges conventional assumptions and offers practical insight on pronunciation for clarity and expression. This week's listener question addresses ideal seating—or no seating at all—for choral rehearsals. Today's inspiration features Mozart's majestic Kyrie from the Great Mass in C Minor, performed by The William Baker Festival Singers. Tune in for a thoughtful and invigorating episode!

In Episode 18 of The Choral Director's Toolbox, host Dr. William Baker shares practical insights on Commissioning New Music, drawing from decades of experience premiering choral works. From contracts and composer relationships to rehearsal planning and premiere logistics, this episode is a must-listen for conductors considering the rewarding adventure of new music creation. This week's listener question invites Dr. Baker's recommended summer reading list for conductors and music lovers. Today's inspiration is Norman Dello Joio's lush setting of Come to Me, My Love, performed by The William Baker Festival Singers. Join us for a rich episode of creativity, reflection, and choral artistry.

In this insightful episode, Dr. William Baker and Dr. Jamea Sale speak with Dr. Jeffrey Straub, fellowship-trained laryngologist and Fellow of the Institute for Healthy Singing & Voice Research. Dr. Straub discusses the anatomy of the voice, common vocal pathologies, and the role of medical intervention and vocal hygiene in maintaining a healthy singing voice. Whether you're a professional vocalist or a dedicated choir member, this conversation demystifies the science behind vocal health and offers practical tips for protecting your voice for life.

In Episode 17 of The Choral Director's Toolbox, host Dr. William Baker addresses one of the toughest realities in church music leadership: I've Been Fired from My Church Position—Now What? Learn how to respond with professionalism, protect your future, and move forward after an unexpected termination. This week's listener question discusses strategies for dealing with negativity in a choral ensemble. Today's inspiration features Samuel Barber's powerful Agnus Dei, performed by The William Baker Festival Singers. Tune in for an honest, practical, and encouraging conversation about resilience in the choral profession.

In Episode 16 of The Choral Director's Toolbox, host Dr. William Baker shares A Baker's Half Dozen Hints for Building a Parish Choir, offering practical and inspiring strategies to strengthen music ministry in any church setting. From chant and Bach chorales to sight-reading, a cappella singing, and even eliminating weeknight rehearsals, this episode is filled with field-tested wisdom. This week's listener question comes from a new director seeking advice for the beginning of a choral career. Today's inspiration is Richard Wayne Dirksen's Christ Our Passover, performed by the Trinity Choir of Trinity Wall Street. Don't miss this energizing episode for church musicians and choral leaders alike!

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

In Episode 14 of The Choral Director's Toolbox, host Dr. William Baker tackles the timely topic of Voice Lessons for Children, offering vital insights into vocal health, maturity, and age-appropriate musical instruction. Learn why early voice lessons can pose risks to young singers, and discover healthier alternatives that nurture musical growth. This week's listener question evaluates the pros and cons of “Carnegie Hall” mass choir invitations. Today's inspiration is Allegri's transcendent Miserere Mei, performed by the Cambridge Singers under Sir John Rutter. Join us for a thoughtful episode bridging vocal wellness, artistic integrity, and inspiration for Holy Week.

In Episode 14 of The Choral Director's Toolbox, host Dr. William Baker dives into the theme “Sacred Cows Make the Best Burgers,” examining how long-held assumptions in choral music—like so-called “proper Baroque pitch”—can benefit from a fresh look. This week's listener question explores the growing use of tablets in choral rehearsal and performance. Today's inspiration is Brahms' exquisite motet Schaffe in mir, Gott, performed by the RIAS Kammerchor under Marcus Creed. Join us as we question conventions, embrace innovation, and celebrate great choral art!

In Episode 9 of The Choral Director's Toolbox, host Dr. William Baker explores The Passion of Precision, emphasizing how technical mastery and emotional expression are inseparable in great choral performance. This week's listener question tackles the importance of numerical balance in an ensemble and whether singers should be reassigned for even voice distribution. Today's inspiration features a stunning choral setting of My Song Is Love Unknown, arranged by R. Douglas Helvering and performed by The William Baker Festival Singers. Join us for another insightful episode on choral artistry and leadership!

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!

There's a small choir calling for the return of William Baker. Rodrigo says it's the height of rudeness. Rate our show please! Donate too: www.patreon.com/timetotalkaustralia Say hello to Rodrigo: https://www.facebook.com/rodrigo.ribeiro.7528

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!

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

In Episode 7 of The Choral Director's Toolbox, host Dr. William Baker shares practical strategies for Making the Most of Practice Between Rehearsals. Learn how structured, intentional practice can help singers prepare effectively and confidently. This week's listener question explores the benefits of singing in mixed versus sectional arrangements, while today's inspiration features Ralph Vaughan Williams' Lord, Thou Hast Been Our Refuge, performed by Voices of Ascension. Join us for an episode full of actionable advice and inspiring music!

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!