Conducting a choir is so much more than teaching notes and rhythms. It’s about inspiring singers, building trust, and creating a space where every person can discover the joy of making music together. I take a fully collaborative approach, shaping not only the sound but the whole musical experience. I ask questions like: What is the purpose of this ensemble? What are our musical goals? What do we want every singer to take away? How can I help singers feel confident, challenged, and connected?

Planning & Preparation

From the start of every project, I take a holistic view — choosing repertoire, planning rehearsals, designing warmups, and fostering community. Every choir is unique, so I tailor my work to meet each group’s needs. I collaborate with the artistic team to set clear musical and educational goals, select music that encourages growth while remaining accessible and engaging, and design rehearsals that build skills step-by-step. I prepare clear materials to keep rehearsals efficient and focused. When singers understand what to expect and why, they flourish.

Rehearsals

In rehearsal, I strive to create a safe, energetic environment where singers feel comfortable taking risks and asking questions. I teach parts sequentially, using a mix of rote learning, solfège, call-and-response, and visual aids to reach different learning styles. To keep engagement high, I include movement, rhythm activities, body percussion, and games. I communicate clear objectives at the start of each rehearsal and adapt as needed based on how the group is progressing. I balance high expectations with encouragement — often reminding singers, “I can teach it to you, but I can’t learn it for you.” I welcome questions and thoughtful discussion because they deepen our musical understanding.

Community & Leadership

For me, conducting also means building community. I incorporate icebreakers and team-building games to help singers connect, especially early in a season. I encourage leadership through speaking roles, mentoring, and peer collaboration. My goal is to create an environment where every singer feels seen, heard, and valued. Whether working with children, teens, or adults, I believe singers thrive most when they feel empowered and included.