Why is there so much talking when I’m teaching a song (and why don’t I notice it)?

After teaching songs to a group of singers, I often get feedback that it was hard to concentrate because so many people were talking.

It always surprises me, since I don’t usually notice. So what’s going on here?

Lifelong learning for singers and choir leaders

Any half-decent choir will help singers improve their skills week by week.

But sometimes that alone is not enough if you really want to develop and grow.

Keeping it simple: Serving the song, not the arrangement

Sometimes I come across a beautiful song and start searching online for a choral arrangement.

All too often, though, what I find is weighed down with so many bells and whistles that the original melody—the very thing that drew me to the song in the first place—ends up buried under the layers.

Looking for inspiration? It might be right in front of you

The thing about creative inspiration is that you can’t conjure it at will.

It pops up when you least expect it. Rather than tackling lack of inspiration head on, simply wait and something will appear, often right in front of you.

Singing together is therapeutic, but it’s not therapy

Over the years, countless singers have told me how much choir has supported their mental wellbeing.

There’s no doubt: singing together has real therapeutic benefits. But we need to be clear — it isn’t the same as therapy.