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.
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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.
Choral Director's Toolbox: Freedom is the Oxygen of the Arts Ep. 26
The Choral Director's Toolbox
16 minutes 23 seconds
4 months ago
Choral Director's Toolbox: Freedom is the Oxygen of the Arts Ep. 26
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.
The Choral Director's Toolbox
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.
