“Few texts so elegantly integrate technical conducting instruction with information on repertoire selection and programming, score study and analysis, choral style period overview, and the inclusion of a sample anthology of choral music for class assignments. It is one of the essential resources in choral instruction at our university.” — John W. Richmond, University of Nebraska, Lincoln
“Rejoice, for the body of choral conducting literature has been enlarged and enriched . . . knowledge is presented in lucid terms, methodology made practical, murky complexities given clarity.” — Russell Mathis, ACDA Past President
“. . . a wonderful resource for all choral educators. This text goes beyond the mere mechanics of choral conducting and deals with the concepts that go into the making of sound conductors of choral music and sensitive communication of the choral art.” — David R. Stutzenberger, University of Tennessee, Knoxville
“. . . this text genuinely reflects the expertise and the humanity of its authors . . . the repertoire and the emphasis on musical communication make this brilliant text a must for choral music education.” — Doreen Rao, University of Toronto
“In content and format Decker & Kirk have prepared a text for the choral conducting world to use for many years to come.” — Howard Swan, late of Occidental College
374 pages, $71.95 list
0-88133-876-1
978-0-88133-876-8
© 1988
spiral
Choral Conducting
Focus on Communication
Top choral master-teachers Harold Decker and Colleen Kirk provide outstanding direction and guidance for all levels of students and teachers of conducting and stimulate the practicing conductor who is receptive to alternative approaches to choral development and problem solving. A wealth of experience is revealed in this unique, full-featured compendium.
Choral Conducting is well organized and presents its eclectic contents from the most basic information to the advanced in an easy-to-read format. Virtually every topic is addressed. Musical examples can be found throughout with sample markings that emphasize the fundamentals of each chapter. Useful appendices are extensive. The cumulative effect is one of breadth and depth.
Choral Conducting is well organized and presents its eclectic contents from the most basic information to the advanced in an easy-to-read format. Virtually every topic is addressed. Musical examples can be found throughout with sample markings that emphasize the fundamentals of each chapter. Useful appendices are extensive. The cumulative effect is one of breadth and depth.
Reactions
Prologue: The Importance of Communication
The Conductor
1. Relating Gesture to Musical Expression
2. Preparing for Music Making: Score Study
3. Creating Music with the Choral Instrument
4. The Rehearsal: Aesthetic Performance
5. Developing the Choral Instrument
6. Developing Musical Skills and Responsiveness
7. Selecting Repertory and Building the Concert Program
Epilogue
Appendix A: Projects for Students of Conducting
Appendix B: Guides for Teachers of Conducting Classes
Appendix C: Capitalization of Titles and Pronunciation Guides
Appendix D: Selected Repertory
Glossary
Bibliography
Music for Class Study and Conducting
The Conductor
1. Relating Gesture to Musical Expression
2. Preparing for Music Making: Score Study
3. Creating Music with the Choral Instrument
4. The Rehearsal: Aesthetic Performance
5. Developing the Choral Instrument
6. Developing Musical Skills and Responsiveness
7. Selecting Repertory and Building the Concert Program
Epilogue
Appendix A: Projects for Students of Conducting
Appendix B: Guides for Teachers of Conducting Classes
Appendix C: Capitalization of Titles and Pronunciation Guides
Appendix D: Selected Repertory
Glossary
Bibliography
Music for Class Study and Conducting