Choral music is an interesting field to have interest in. The world of music is huge. Of all the different types of music, classical music is just a small sliver. Then, within classical music, choral music is an even small piece of the pie. Over the years, I've asked myself why I continue to write choral music. It's not for the money, that for sure! ;-)
I asked a question on Facebook in a group called, I'm a Choir Director: Ok, here's a question for you...without mentioning any specific composer or any specific piece, what would you say are the elements that make a good choral work? Here's a couple of the answers that people wrote in:
There were a couple of other responses as well. I think it's really difficult to nail down what a "good" choral piece is because we all have our own ideas and prejudices. Some conductors are drawn to loud and fast, some to slow and sombre. Some conductors are drawn to Eric Whitacre, some are turned off just by the mere mention of his name. Some love open, lush chords, some love tight tone clusters. Some love Romantic era choral works, and some would spend all day in the Renaissance if they could. So, with so much subjectivity going in to determining "good" choral music, how in the world is a composer supposed to know how to write music that people enjoy? I don't know the answer to that question yet. What I do know is that I feel music inside that needs to be put on paper. That's why I write. That's why I will continue to write. In the comments below, tell me your favorite songs and/or composers. What is one song you feel that every choral conductor should know? Cheers!
1 Comment
1/11/2018 06:06:27 pm
I remember being a part of the choir in the church when I was younger. At first, I hate being one of the members, but during the process, I was able to experience my happiness in different kinds. I was able to meet and have great friends who have a similarity to me. I am proud to sing in our church every Sunday. I am glad to become a part of the Church and also to sing with Christ. It was a bit challenging for me at first because I am a shy type of person, but at the end, I gained confidence too.
Reply
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorComposer, Choral Conductor, DMA Student, Archives
May 2022
Categories
|