“Acronis, God of the Ashen Realm” is a boss fight theme for epic battle and combat gameplay, combining cinematic, ethnic and vocal elements, inspired by “Dark Souls”, “Elden Ring” and “Witcher” soundtracks and dark fantasy genre. Features themes developed earlier in “Ritual of the Blind Prophet” and “Let My Arrows Strike True”.

Acronis, God of the Ashen Realm

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Acronis, God of the Ashen Realm | Boss Fight Battle Music

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 meditation on the chant of the day for October 14, 2025, Beatus Servus is written for SATB voicing with divisi up to eight parts. Written for the Jesse Kaiser Ensemble based in Columbia, South Carolina.

Beatus Servus (2025)

Hay locuras

Locuras

Afrorritmos

Ave María

Water night

Gozando La Habana

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.

Choral Director's Toolbox: When Something Goes Wrong Ep.  44

Creating music in cinematic, epic and neo-classical style, telling stories inspired by cinema, TV and games.

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

New tracks tagged #Choral Music