In for the long haul: commitment, motivation and persistence

I’ve been writing this blog for 18 years, a total of 994 posts. It’s one of the few things that I’ve ever stuck at.

It can be hard to stick at something for long periods. Let’s look at how commitment, motivation and persistence interact.

Is your booking system fair and fit for purpose?

Most of us take bookings for our choirs, concerts and workshops on a first come, first served basis.

But is that the fairest and most effective system? Let’s look in more detail.

A nice problem to have – what to do if your choir or event is over-subscribed?

Some of us are lucky and sell out our concert, or have to close our choir to new members.

photo by Pacopac

It’s a nice problem to have, but I hate turning people away, so are there alternatives?

Using visual imagery in vocal training – help or hindrance?

I’m not technical when it comes to singing and use lots of visual imagery in my teaching.

But does it help or can it be confusing?

Choir can feel like being back at school – and that’s not always a good thing

We all like to think our choirs are friendly spaces where everyone is equally welcome.

photo by theirhistory

But being in a choir can bring back all sorts of memories of our time at school. All the things we found difficult as children can come back to haunt us.

Choir leaders: it’s important to put yourself in your singers’ shoes from time to time

I don’t often get the chance to be a punter. But this week I went on a two-day voice and movement course and loved it.

photo by ssalonso

It was great to be on the receiving end for a change, and I learnt a lot about what it’s like to be a singer in a group

Why can't I hit the right note, and can it be taught?

Some people believe that singers can either hit the right note or they can't. That's why many choirs audition before you can join. 

But like any physical skill — playing the violin or scoring goals, for example — it's something that can be learnt.