A choral conversation with Christy Elsner, Founder & Director of the Allegro Choirs of Kansas City. Hosted by Dr. William O. Baker & Dr. Jamea J. Sale.

A Conversation with Christy Elsner, Founder & Director of the Allegro Choirs of Kansas City

A choral conversation with Timothy DeWerff, author of "Louder Yet the Chorus Raise!" an Illustrated history of the Yale Glee Club, published to commemorate the group's 150th anniversary.

Timothy DeWerff, Author of "Louder Yet the Chorus Raise!"

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!

Choral Conversations Special Edition: Christmas Favorites of the William Baker Choral Foundation Staff

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!

Choral Director's Toolbox: On the Language of Spirituals Ep 6

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.

Choral Director’s Toolbox: Robert Shaw’s Counting Method Ep. 41

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.

Choral Director’s Toolbox: Choral Communication Ep. 42

A cappella treble chorus arrangement of one of the most famus American hymns of all-time.  Performed here by the Glen Ellyn Children's Chorus.

Abbondanza

Amazing Grace

A Choral Conversation with Dr. Anthony Maglione, composer and conductor

The Trumpet Sounds

Dr. Anthony Maglione

Lynn Swanson and two monks from a Chinese Buddhist Monastery join William Baker and Patrick Neas.

 Popular Pipa Music – King Chu Doffs His Armour

China Loves Choral Music

William Baker shares with Patrick Neas how Summer Singers started with The Choral Foundation and grew to four choruses in different states.

Hummel, Haydn, Torelli, Neruda: Trumpet Concertos

All About Summer Singers

A choral conversation with Soprano Victora Botero.  Hosted by William Baker & Patrick Neas.

Victoria Botero

This podcast is an educational outreach of the William Baker Choral Foundation in Roeland Park, KS. Visit us at: ChoralFoundation.org, FestivalSingers.org, or HealthySinging.org

Choral Director’s Toolbox: Robert Shaw’s Counting Method Ep. 41

The Choral Director's Toolbox