ACDA Podcast

🎙️ACDA Podcast – April 2026This month, Steve reflects on the realities of fatigue in the choral profession—especially in the wake of a busy performance season—and opens an honest, thoughtful conversation about burnout, identity, and sustainability in our work.🧠Burnout & the Choral Director IdentitySteve is joined by Dr. Peter Steenblik for a deeper exploration of burnout—not just as a problem to solve, but as a signal worth understanding. Moving beyond practical strategies, this conversation examines how passion, expectations, andprofessional identity intersect, and what it means to pursue sustainable joy in a demanding field.🎶 Why Do We Sing? – Community & HumanityContinuing the Why Do We Sing? series, Steve speaks with composer and author Jack Curtis Dubowsky about singing as a deeply human, embodied, and communal act. Their discussion explores singing as a vehicle for identity, connection, and even social change—broadening the question beyond music into the shared human experience.🎵R&R Quick PickThis month’s selection comes from the Junior High/Middle School Choirs R&R Chair, featuring Crossroads by Reginal Wright—an engaging and meaningful work for developing ensembles.📚Into the ArchivesThis segment explores ACDA’s long-standing partnership with Hinshaw Music and the evolution of its publishing efforts—from the practical ACDA Monograph Series to today’s scholarly and historical resources that continue to shape the choral profession.📢Did You Know?Updates include:A new "Between the Staves" advice column on managing springtime workloadFinal days to apply for performing and insight choirs for the 2027 National ConferenceApplications open for the International Conductors Exchange Program (New Zealand)🎧Stay ConnectedSubscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, and more.Have thoughts on burnout or Why Do We Sing? Send your reflections or voice memos to acdapodcast@acda.org. Follow the podcast on Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61562971310243⁠Follow us on Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/acdapodcast/⁠Website: https://acda.org Join or log in to your ACDA profile: https://acda.org/login  LINKS FROM THE EPISODE:ACDA website: https://acda.orgChoral Journal: https://acda.org/publications/choral-journalChoral Journal Article from Peter Steenblik: https://acda.org/archives/6586 Repertoire and Resources page: https://acda.org/repertoire/Virtual Reading Sessions: https://acda.org/archives/events/2025-national-rr-virtual-reading-sessionsR&R Quick Pick: Crossroad by ReginalWright - https://global.oup.com/academic/product/crossroad-9780193433502?cc=us&lang=en&Jack Curtis Dubowsky: https://www.jackcurtisdubowsky.com/Hinshaw Music Series: https://acda.org/publications/hinshaw-music-seriesBetween the Staves: https://choralnet.org/archives/812170Insight Choir or Performing Choir Application forNational Conference: https://acda.org/archives/events/2027-national-conferenceSymposium for Research in Choral Singing: https://acda.org/conferences/symposium-for-research-in-choral-singingInternational Conductors Exchange Program: https://acda.org/resources/icep

In the March 2026 episode of the ACDA Podcast, host Steve Danielson reflects on the recent regional conferences and shares insights from across the choral community. As part of the ongoing Why Do We Sing? series, Steve speaks with conductor, composer, and researcher Raphael Fusco about the science and psychology behind singing, exploring how empathy, physiology, and human connection shape our musical experiences.This episode also features a conversation with composer Dan Forrest, who recently received ACDA’s Raymond W. Brock Memorial Commission—becoming the first composer to have previously won the Brock Prize for Student Composers. Dan reflects on his compositional journey, creative process, and what this full-circle moment means for his work.Plus, Steve travels Into the Archives to explore the origins of ChoralNet and its early predecessor, Choralist, highlighting how early internet technology helped connect choral conductors long before modern social media.Follow the podcast on Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61562971310243 ⁠ Follow us on Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/acdapodcast/ ⁠ Website: https://acda.org  Join or log in to your ACDA profile: https://acda.org/login   LINKS FROM THE EPISODE: ACDA website: https://acda.org  Raphael Fusco: https://raphaelfusco.com   ChoralNet article: https://choralnet.org/archives/471001  Repertoire and Resources page: https://acda.org/repertoire/ Virtual Reading Sessions: https://acda.org/archives/events/2025-national-rr-virtual-reading-sessions  R&R Quick Pick: Celebration by Kate Crellin - https://www.katecrellin.com/product-page/celebration-satb  Dan Forrest: https://danforrest.com  Choral Journal: https://acda.org/publications/choral-journal  Symposium for Research in Choral Singing: https://acda.org/conferences/symposium-for-research-in-choral-singing  Insight Choir or Performing Choir Application for National Conference: https://acda.org/archives/events/2027-national-conference  

ACDA Podcast – February 2026 | Why We SingWelcome to the February 2026 episode of the ACDA Podcast! As regional conference season approaches, Steve continues the year-long exploration of Why We Sing with a conversation that examines the connection between body awareness, personality, and choral music-making. The episode also looks ahead to the 2027 ACDA National Conference, revisits ACDA history, highlights meaningful repertoire, and shares important updates for members.🎶 Why We Sing – Interview with Sarah McMahillSteve continues the Why We Sing series with composer, educator, and clinician Sarah McMahill, whose work connects myofascial awareness, breath, alignment, and the Enneagram to singing and conducting. Their conversation explores how physical awareness and emotional understanding can help singers feel more free, connected, and expressive in rehearsal and performance.🎤 2027 National Conference PreviewSteve is joined by ACDA Executive Director Robyn Hilger and ACDA Vice President Pearl Shangkuan to preview the 2027 ACDA National Conference — Singing Through the Ages, happening March 7–10, 2027 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. They discuss the conference theme, planning vision, schedule updates, and what attendees can look forward to at ACDA’s next national gathering.🎵 R&R Quick PickFrom the National R&R Virtual Reading Sessions, Matt Hill (Community Choirs R&R Chair) shares O Nata Lux by Michael John Trotta, a lyrical and expressive work well-suited for community ensembles.📚 Into the ArchivesSteve continues exploring ACDA history by looking at the March 1961 issue of the Choral Journal, reflecting on early conference planning, growing membership, and the concept of “choral scenes” as an early example of integrating movement and staging into choral performance.📢 Did You Know?Brock Prize for Professional Composers submissions closing soonSymposium for Research in Choral Singing (April 2026, Chicago)HerVoice Composers Competition & Mentorship ProgramState and regional ACDA electionsHonor Choir Scholarship Fund donationsRegional conference reminders and resources🎧 Stay ConnectedSubscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, Castbox, iHeartRadio, and more.Have feedback or a Why We Sing story to share? Email acdapodcast@acda.org with the subject line Why We Sing.Follow the podcast on Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61562971310243⁠Follow us on Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/acdapodcast/⁠Website: https://acda.org Join or log in to your ACDA profile: https://acda.org/login  LINKS FROM THE EPISODE:ACDA website: https://acda.orgRepertoire and Resources page: https://acda.org/repertoire/Virtual Reading Sessions: https://acda.org/archives/events/2025-national-rr-virtual-reading-sessionsR&R Quick Pick: O Nata Lux by Michael JohnTrotta - https://www.mjtrotta.com/music-catalog/sheet-music/satb-unaccompanied/o-nata-lux/Choral Journal: https://acda.org/publications/choral-journalBrock Prize for Professional Composers: https://acda.org/about-us/awards-competitions/brock-competition-for-professional-composersSymposium for Research in Choral Singing: https://acda.org/conferences/symposium-for-research-in-choral-singingHerVoice Composers Competition: https://www.chicagoacappella.org/announcement/2026-hervoice/

Welcome to the January 2026 episode of the ACDA Podcast! Steve kicks off the new year by launching a new recurring segment centered on a timeless and deeply personal question: Why do we sing? Through two vulnerable personal stories—one rooted in artistic renewal and the other in perseverance during the pandemic—Steve reflects on the power of singing to sustain, heal, and connect us. Listeners are invited to share their own stories as this exploration continues throughout the year.🎶 Why We Sing – New Series LaunchSteve introduces a multi-month exploration of the emotional, neurological, spiritual, and communal reasons we sing and invites listeners to contribute personal reflections and stories.🎤 Regional Conference PreviewsTo wrap up the regional president interview series, Steve speaks with two leaders about their upcoming 2026 conferences:Julie Dana, President of the Western Region, previews A Tapestry of Voices, happening March 4–7, 2026 in San Jose, California, and shares the vision behind the theme, planning insights, and hopes for attendees.Jonathan Owen, President of the Southwestern Region, discusses New Horizons, taking place March 4–7, 2026 in Albuquerque, New Mexico, highlighting conference-as-experience, first-time attendee support, and regional identity.🎵 R&R Quick PickThis month’s R&R selection comes from the National R&R Virtual Reading Sessions. Jenny Bent, R&R Chair for the Collegiate Choirs Pillar, discusses Felix Mendelssohn’s How Lovely Are the Messengers and its effectiveness with entry-level collegiate ensembles.📚 Into the Archive – New SegmentSteve launches a brand-new segment exploring the ACDA archives, starting with the very first Choral Journal (May 1959). Highlights include the journal’s original structure, early repertoire resources, and ACDA’s founding purposes—many of which continue to guide the organization today.📢 Did You Know?January 15 deadline for submitting Summer 2026 symposiums, workshops, and festivalsEarly bird registration deadline for regional conferencesAirline travel discounts for ACDA eventsOpportunities to support Honor Choir Student ScholarshipsSubmissions now open for the Brock Prize for Professional Composers ($5,000 award)🎧 Stay ConnectedSubscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, Castbox, iHeartRadio, and more.Have feedback, ideas, or a “Why We Sing” story to share? Email acdapodcast@acda.org with the subject line Why We Sing.Follow the podcast on Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61562971310243⁠Follow us on Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/acdapodcast/⁠Website: https://acda.org Join or log in to your ACDA profile: https://acda.org/login LINKS FROM THE EPISODE:ACDA Website: https://acda.orgJoin or Log In to ACDA: https://acda.org/loginRepertoire & Resources: https://acda.org/repertoireVirtual R&R Reading Sessions:https://acda.org/archives/events/2025-national-rr-virtual-reading-sessionsR&R Quick Pick – How Lovely Are the Messengers (Mendelssohn):https://www.jwpepper.com/how-lovely-are-the-messengers-1347590-898905/pChoral Journal Archive: https://acda.org/publications/choral-journalRegional Conference Registration: https://acda.org/region-conferencesAirline Discounts for Conferences:https://acda.org/2026-acda-conference-travel-discountsSummer Festival & Workshop Listing Deadline:https://choralnet.org/archives/acda-news/january-15-deadline-for-choral-journal-summer-festival-workshop-listing-informationBrock Prize for Professional Composers:https://acda.org/about-us/awards-competitions/brock-competition-for-professional-composersFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61562971310243Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/acdapodcast/

🎙️ ACDA Podcast – December 2025 | Why We SingIn the December 2025 episode of the ACDA Podcast, Steve reflects on the timeless question, “Why do we sing?” Inspired by Greg Gilpin’s beloved song, Steve invites listeners to share what singing means to them—emotionally, physically, spiritually, and communally—as we head into a season full of performances and reflection.🎶 Featured Interview: Jeffrey Ames, President of the ACDA Southern Region, joins the podcast to preview the 2026 Southern Region Conference, Prism of Voices, happening March 4–7 in Memphis, Tennessee. Jeffrey shares the vision behind the theme, highlights what makes the Southern Region unique, and reflects on leadership, mentorship, and connection.📖 Check It Out in the Choral Journal: Steve explores the November/December Choral Journal article “The Superpower of the Introverted Choral Conductor” by Chris Maunu, celebrating the quiet strengths of thoughtful, grounded leadership and how introversion can be a powerful asset on the podium.🎵 R&R Quick Pick (Special Feature): Members of October Project—Marina Belica, Emil Adler, and Julie Flanders—join the show to celebrate the 10th Anniversary re-release of The Book of Rounds: 21 Songs of Grace. The conversation explores the project’s origins, its viral resurgence, and how these rounds are being used by choirs of all ages around the world.📢 Did You Know?:• Congratulations to the 2026 Grammy Music Educator Award Finalists• Membership renewal reminders• Updates on Regional Conferences and the Children & Community Youth Choirs Retreat• A featured Show Choir webinar for mid-year momentum• Opportunities to support Honor Choir student scholarships❤️ Influence Story: Andrew Crane (Brigham Young University) honors his mentor, Dr. David Rayl, in a powerful reflection on the lasting impact of great teachers and leaders.🎧 As always, listeners are encouraged to subscribe, share feedback, and submit stories and updates to acdapodcast@acda.org.Follow the podcast on Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61562971310243⁠Follow us on Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/acdapodcast/⁠Website: https://acda.org Join or log in to your ACDA profile: https://acda.org/login  LINKS FROM THE EPISODE:ACDA website: https://acda.orgRepertoire and Resources page: https://acda.org/repertoire/October Project: https://www.octoberprojectmusic.com/R&R Quick Pick: Turn by OctoberProject; https://octoberproject.bandcamp.com/album/the-book-of-rounds-a-cappella YouTube video of Turn arr. Carrie Tennant for the Vancouver Children's Chorus: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rMwc9wkgItkChoral Journal: https://acda.org/publications/choral-journalRegional Conference REGISTRATION: https://acda.org/region-conferencesChildren and Community Youth Retreat: https://acda.org/conferences/childrens-community-youth-choir-conductors-retreatRegional Conference Airline Discounts: https://acda.org/2026-acda-conference-travel-discountsGRAMMY Music Educator Award: https://www.grammy.com/awards/music-educator-award?_gl=1*13h4mdq*_ga*MjM4MTAyMTg5LjE3NjUyMjgwMjA.*_ga_7CKBB7LRN1*czE3NjUyMjgwMTkkbzEkZzEkdDE3NjUyMjgwOTckajQ5JGwwJGgwShow Choir Webinar: https://acda.org/show-choir

🎙️ November 2025 – Uplifting Voices and Honoring LegaciesThis month on the ACDA Podcast, Steve begins with a heartfelt reminder about the power of encouragement—how a few kind words can make all the difference in a colleague’s day. From there, we travel across the country and through choral history in another inspiring episode celebrating connection, creativity, and community.🗽 Summer Institutes in Review: We hear from Joslyn Thomas, President of New York ACDA, who shares highlights from the state’s Fall Collegiate Conference at Nazareth University.🎵 Check It Out in the Choral Journal: Steve welcomes Micah Bland, author of The Life and Choral Works of Jester Hairston, to discuss the remarkable life and enduring music of one of America’s great choral composers and arrangers.🎶 R&R Quick Pick: From the National R&R Virtual Reading Sessions, Joy Hirokawa introduces Three Quotes by Mark Twain by Andrea Ramsey, performed by the Birmingham Boys Choir.🌲 Guest Interview: Bill Campbell, President of Northwestern ACDA, joins Steve to preview the upcoming Northwest Regional Conference in Tacoma, Washington. With the theme Sing for a Change, the conference promises to inspire renewal and connection across the region.📢 Did You Know?: Steve celebrates ACDA members named 2026 Grammy Music Educator Award Semifinalists, shares conference travel discounts, and highlights new research exploring conductor health.❤️ Influence Story: Evan Lane of Tidwell Choir in Mississippi pays tribute to his mentor Brad White, whose guidance and passion helped shape his journey as an educator and conductor.🎧 Tune in on your favorite podcast platform, and join the conversation in the ACDA Podcast Listeners group on Facebook!📬 Have a story or event to share? Email Steve at acdapodcast@acda.org.ACDA website: https://acda.orgRepertoire and Resources page: https://acda.org/repertoire/Virtual Reading Sessions: https://acda.org/archives/events/2025-national-rr-virtual-reading-sessionsR&R Quick Pick: Three Quotes by Mark Twainby Andrea Ramsey;  https://sbmp.com/SR2.php?CatalogNumber=892YouTube video of Three Quotes by Mark Twain: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BEWJTPsd-_kChoral Journal: https://acda.org/publications/choral-journalRegional Conference REGISTRATION: https://acda.org/region-conferencesChildren and Community Youth Retreat: https://acda.org/conferences/childrens-community-youth-choir-conductors-retreatRegional Conference Airline Discounts: https://acda.org/2026-acda-conference-travel-discountsMusculoskeletal Interference and Injury in ProfessionalConductors Research Request:https://choralnet.org/archives/acda-news/research-requests-call-for-participants

October 2025 – Play, Purpose, and Powerful LegaciesWe’re in the thick of the choral season, and Steve is right there with you! This month on the ACDA Podcast, we celebrate connection, creativity, and inspiration fromevery corner of the choral world.Steve starts with one last Summer Institute recap from right in his home state of Idaho and an open invitation to host your state’s event next year.🎶 R&R Quick Pick: Ripple Effect by Sarah Quartel, a luminous piece featured in the National R&R Virtual Reading Sessions and introduced by Caron Daley.🗣 Guest Interview: Amanda Hanzlik, President of Eastern ACDA, previews the 2026 Eastern Regional Conference in Providence, RI. She shares the meaning behind this year’stheme, Envision, and what attendees can expect from this inspiring gathering.📚 Check It Out in the Choral Journal: Steve spotlights Saleel Adarkar Menon’s article “From Groans toGrins: A Play-Based Approach to Teaching Music Literacy.” Discover how gamification and play-based strategies can bring joy and engagement back into your music literacy instruction.📢 Did You Know? Find out how to join the Tenor-Bass Commission Consortium, renew your ACDA membership, and register for upcoming regional conferences and the Children & Community Youth Choir Retreat.❤️ Influence Story: Andrew Last of Luther College honors his mentor, the legendary Weston Noble, whose servant-leadership and inclusive vision continue to inspire generations of choral musicians.🎧 Listen now on your favorite podcast platform, and don’t forget to join the ACDA Podcast Listeners group on Facebook to connect, share ideas, and celebrate our choral community.📬 Got a story, event, or influence toshare? Email Steve at acdapodcast@acda.orgFollow the podcast on Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61562971310243⁠Follow us on Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/acdapodcast/⁠Website: https://acda.org Join or log in to your ACDA profile: https://acda.org/login  LINKS FROM THE EPISODE:ACDA website: https://acda.orgRepertoire and Resources page: https://acda.org/repertoire/Virtual Reading Sessions: https://acda.org/archives/events/2025-national-rr-virtual-reading-sessionsR&R Quick Pick: Ripple Effect by Sarah Quartel;  https://www.jwpepper.com/ripple-effect-11407909/p?srsltid=AfmBOookCHEDACpNf-e4Fb3fhGuWCv9w45Fp7gHCLniFGhzowFHumczi YouTube video of Ripple Effect: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1cEM-S0XKmMChoral Journal: https://acda.org/publications/choral-journalRegional Conference REGISTRATION: https://acda.org/region-conferencesChildren and Community Youth Retreat: https://acda.org/conferences/childrens-community-youth-choir-conductors-retreatTenor-Bass Commission Consortium: https://acda.org/repertoire/mens-ttbb-choirs 

September 2025 – New Beginnings, Global Connections, and Future VisionsSeptember means fresh starts, full choirs, and a new season of possibilities! This month, Steve brings us highlights from summer conferences around the country, including reports from UMKC’s Choral Conducting Symposium, the New Jersey ACDA Summer Conference, and the 27th Annual Voices United Conference in Virginia.We then look beyond our borders with Josh Habermann, ACDA’s Chair for International Activities, who shares insights into the International Conductors Exchange Program (ICEP) and its upcoming partnership with Portugal.🎶 Our R&R Quick Pick is Until Love is Spoken by Karen Marolli, recommended by Jennaya Robinson—a powerful piece with a timely message.🗣 Steve also speaks with Derrick Fox, president of Midwest ACDA, about the upcoming Midwestern Regional Conference in Milwaukee and its theme, Reflections of Us.📚 In Check It Out in the Choral Journal, Steve highlights Eric Rubinstein’s article Rising Voices: Perspectives from Early-Career Choral Directors in Higher Education, featuring four inspiring young conductors.In Did You Know?, we cover reminders about membership renewal, details on regional conferences, virtual reading sessions, and a call for research proposals for the 2026 Symposium for Research in Choral Singing.We close with a heartfelt “Influence” story from Athena Mertes, honoring the mentors who shaped her journey as a choral director.🎧 Tune in now on your favorite podcast platform, and don’t forget to join the conversation in the ACDA Podcast Listeners group on Facebook.📬 Got a story, event, or influence to share? Email Steve at acdapodcast@acda.org.Follow the podcast on Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61562971310243⁠Follow us on Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/acdapodcast/⁠Website: https://acda.org Join or log in to your ACDA profile: https://acda.org/login  LINKS FROM THE EPISODE:ACDA website: https://acda.orgICEP Participants: https://choralnet.org/archives/acda-news/2026-international-conductors-exchange-program-participants-selected-partnership-with-portugalICEP Info: https://acda.org/resources/icepRepertoire and Resources page: https://acda.org/repertoire/Virtual Reading Sessions: https://acda.org/archives/events/2025-national-rr-virtual-reading-sessionsChoral Journal: https://acda.org/publications/choral-journalR&R Quick Pick: Until Love is Spoken, byKaren Marolli;  https://www.ecspublishing.com/until-love-is-spoken.htmlList of State Events: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1SALL8kh_EkKydSdxjJEl0f0kFchLTtJrpMAxaqCsij4/edit?gid=893148961#gid=893148961Regional Conference Info: https://acda.org/region-conferencesChildren and Community Youth Retreat: https://acda.org/conferences/childrens-community-youth-choir-conductors-retreatSymposium for Research in Choral Singing: https://acda.org/conferences/symposium-for-research-in-choral-singing

As summer winds down, the ACDA Podcast dives into new beginnings and lasting legacies. This month, Steve introduces a new member of the ACDA Podcast team and welcomes Dean Luethi, National R&R Chair for 4-Year College and University Choirs. Dean shares his vision, background, and what he's learned through his own podcasting work with ChoirFam.We also hear from Ethan Soledad, winner of the Raymond W. Brock Prize for Student Composition, and Alex Canovas, co-chair of the competition, who shares how young composers can submit their work. Ethan talks about his winning piece, his passion for choral writing, and the power of mentorship.Our R&R Quick Pick spotlights Oseh Shalom by Sarah Riskind, a tango-flavored setting for SATB, piano, and violin. In the Choral Journal, Steve highlights Project: Encore, a searchable catalog of post-premiere choral works. We also review recent summer events, from Schmidt Vocal Institute and Zephyr Point to MCDA Missouri and the Santa Fe Desert Chorale, and many more.In “Did You Know?”, Steve shares important reminders about membership renewal, regional conferences, virtual reading sessions, and a call for research proposals for the 2026 Symposium on Choral Research.The episode closes with a moving “Influence” story from John Byun, honoring the late Joe Huszti, a legendary conductor who taught generations to bring music off the page and into the soul.Do you have astory, event, or musical influence you’d like to share? Email Steve at acdapodcast@acda.org.Follow the podcast on Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61562971310243⁠Follow us on Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/acdapodcast/⁠Website: https://acda.org Join or log in to your ACDA profile: https://acda.org/login  LINKS FROM THE EPISODE:ACDA website: https://acda.orgRepertoire and Resources page: https://acda.org/repertoire/college-and-university-choirs-repertoireVirtual Reading Sessions: https://acda.org/archives/events/2025-national-rr-virtual-reading-sessionsChoral Journal: https://acda.org/publications/choral-journalR&R Quick Pick: Oseh Shalom, by SarahRiskind https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QNyliu94K90List of State Events: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1SALL8kh_EkKydSdxjJEl0f0kFchLTtJrpMAxaqCsij4/edit?gid=893148961#gid=893148961Regional Conference Info: https://acda.org/region-conferencesChildren and Community Youth Retreat: https://acda.org/conferences/childrens-community-youth-choir-conductors-retreatSymposium for Research in Choral Singing: https://acda.org/conferences/symposium-for-research-in-choral-singing

It’s July, which means big transitions across ACDA! This month, Steve welcomes two new national leaders: Garrett Breeze, newly appointed National R&R Chair for Show Choirs, and Robert Natter, ACDA’s new National Treasurer. We get to know their backgrounds, their visions for their roles, and how they hope to serve our choral community.We highlight an insightful Choral Journal article from Gretchen Harrison that dives into the purpose and power of ACDA’s Repertoire & Resources network—along with fantastic rep discovery tools like the African Diaspora Music Project and the Institute for Composer Diversity. This month’s R&R Quick Pick features Roger Emerson’s arrangement of Waving Through a Window from Dear Evan Hansen, recommended by Clinton Hardy and spotlighted with a clip from Steve’s 2022 interview with Roger.Plus, Steve previews over two dozen summer conferences and workshops happening across the country—and even abroad. He also shares a touching “influence” story fromDeanna Joseph of Georgia State University. And, we officially mark one year of the ACDA Podcast—thank you for listening!Do you have a story, event, or musical influence you’d like to share? Email Steve at acdapodcast@acda.org.Follow the podcast on Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61562971310243⁠Follow us on Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/acdapodcast/⁠Website: https://acda.org Join or log in to your ACDA profile: https://acda.org/login  LINKS FROM THE EPISODE:ACDA website: https://acda.orgRepertoire and Resources page: https://acda.org/repertoire Choral Journal: https://acda.org/publications/choral-journalR&R Quick Pick: Waving Through the Window, arr.Roger Emerson; https://www.jwpepper.com/Waving-Through-a-Window/10983947.itemList of State Events: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1SALL8kh_EkKydSdxjJEl0f0kFchLTtJrpMAxaqCsij4/edit?gid=893148961#gid=893148961Moveable Do Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/4fC2wcrEu8Ybp3AKRoA0zpR&R Resources:·   African Diaspora Music Project: https://www.africandiasporamusicproject.org·   Song Helix: https://songhelix.com·   MUZIKSEA: https://muziksea.com·   Dozan World: https://dozanworld.com·   African Composers Edition: https://african-composers-edition.co.za·  Institute for Composer Diversity: https://www.composerdiversity.com·  Rowan University DEI Music Sources: https://libguides.rowan.edu/DEIMusic

Episode #11 - June 2025This month, Steve explores the vital role of composers in the choral world. He highlights the growing support for composers within ACDA and shares valuable resources available on the ACDA website, including composition contests and online communities. The R&R Quick Pick features Jennifer Lucy Cook’s piece Time. Steve also takes us behind the mic of his sister podcast, Moveable Do, with special clips from past interviews with Saunder Choi, Jocelyn Hagen & Tim Takach, and Rosephanye Powell.We also hear from Sammy Strent, founder of the Collegiate Choral Composition Community, and get a special treat—two student compositions from Steve’s own choirs, including a surprisingly heartfelt piece inspired by Dad Jokes. In “Did You Know?”, Steve updates us on upcoming regional conferences, the Julius Herford Prize, and the Between the Staves initiative. The episode closes with an influence story from Kent Jue, conductor of the Ragazzi Boys Choir.Have a summer symposium or event to share? Let Steve know at acdapodcast@acda.org. And if you'd like to thank someone who influenced your musical journey, send in your story!Do you have news to share from your region? Email Steve at ⁠acdapodcast@acda.org⁠.Follow the podcast on Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61562971310243⁠Follow us on Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/acdapodcast/⁠Website: https://acda.org  LINKS FROM THE EPISODE:ACDA website: https://acda.orgComposers Resource page: https://acda.org/composers Repertoire and Resources page: https://acda.org/repertoire R&R Quick Pick: Time by Jennifer Lucy Cookhttps://www.jwpepper.com/time-11513832-8826/pMoveable Do Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/4fC2wcrEu8Ybp3AKRoA0zpJulius Herford Dissertation Prize: https://acda.org/about-us/awards-competitions/julius-herford-dissertation-prizeBetween the Staves: Choral Questions, Candid Answers -https://choralnet.org/archives/798712Collegiate Choral Composition Community (CCCC): https://www.choralcomposition.com/

Episode #10 – May 2025This month, Steve steps us through the May edition of the Choral Journal. He explains what’s there and has in-depth interviews with several of the article authors. KarenGraffius talks about working with tone with middle school voices and then Kyra Stahr and McKenna Stenson call us all to action to promote women in the field of conducting. This month’s R&R Quick pick comes from Moira Smiley, “How Can I Cry?” And in “Do You Know?” Steve announces a couple of upcoming applications plus information about next year’s regional conferences. He wraps up with a story of mentorship and influence from one of the conductors we saw perform in Dallas. Would you like a chance to tell the story of one of yourmusical influences and thank them? Write or record your story and submit it to acdapodcast@acda.org. Do you have news to share from your region? Email Steve at ⁠acdapodcast@acda.org⁠.Follow the podcast on Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61562971310243⁠Follow us on Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/acdapodcast/⁠Website: https://acda.org  LINKS FROM THE EPISODE:ACDA website: https://acda.orgChoral Journal: https://acda.org/publications/choral-journalRepertoire and Resources page: https://acda.org/repertoire R&R Quick Pick: How Can I Cry? By MoiraSmiley https://moirasmiley.com/downloads/how-can-i-cry-wcello/Project: Encore - http://projectencore.org/public/home.phpInternational Conductors Exchange Program: https://acda.org/resources/icep Julius Herford Dissertation Prize: https://acda.org/about-us/awards-competitions/julius-herford-dissertation-prize

Episode #8 – March 2025To start out this month, Steve talks about an article that caught his attention in the Choral Journal. Then, he interviews Arreon Harley-Emerson, our ACDA Chair for National Diversity Initiatives about what we need to know about DEI policies. A special R&R Quick Pick includes one of Steve’s compositions. We get an interview with the ACDA Executive Director Robyn Hilger to get us excited about theNational Conference. Steve gives us a review of the conference app in preparation for next week’s conference. We wrap up with some listener-submitted influence stories. Would you like a chance to tell the story of one of your musical influences and thank them? Write or record your story and submit it to acdapodcast@acda.org. Do you have news to share from your region? Email Steve at ⁠acdapodcast@acda.org⁠.Follow the podcast on Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61562971310243⁠Follow us on Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/acdapodcast/⁠Website: https://acda.org  LINKS FROM THE EPISODE:National Conference Information: https://acda.org/archives/events/2025-national-conferenceChoral Journal: https://acda.org/publications/choral-journalRepertoire and Resources page: https://acda.org/repertoire R&R Quick Pick: I carried your oxygen, by SteveDanielson. https://youtu.be/azAezsSIyi8The Research & Publication National StandingCommittee: https://acda.org/resources/research-and-publications-committee  

In “It All Happens in Dallas,” Steve previews some of the exciting interest sessions that we can look forward to in March. Steve sits down with Director of Development Karen Klegelman and two of our conference sponsors,Stephen Carroll and Vincenzo D’Amore, host of the Daily Choirs Instagram page. The R&R Quick Pick highlightsThe Lantern in You byJocelyn Hagen. We get to listen in to an interview with conductorJoAnn Falletta who will be conducting Verdi’sRequiemin Dallas. After filling you in during the “Did You Know?” segment, Steve wraps up by telling us about one of his greatest musical influences. Would you like a chance to tell the story of one of your influences and thank them? Submit your story toacdapodcast@acda.org. And don’t forget to register for Conference!!Do you have news to share from your region? Email Steve at⁠acdapodcast@acda.org⁠.Follow the podcast on Facebook:⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61562971310243⁠Follow us on Instagram:⁠https://www.instagram.com/acdapodcast/⁠Website:https://acda.org LINKS FROM THE EPISODE:National Conference Information:https://acda.org/archives/events/2025-national-conferenceChoral Journal:https://acda.org/publications/choral-journalRepertoire and Resources page:https://acda.org/repertoireDaily Choirs:https://www.instagram.com/dailychoirs/Firebird Fine Arts Tours:https://firebird-tours.com/Claddagh Chamber Choir:https://claddaghchamberchoir.com/R&R Quick Pick:The Lantern in Your Heart,by Jocelyn Hagen.https://www.jwpepper.com/The+Lantern+of+Your+Heart/11514229.itemACDA Podcast interview with Jessica Nápoles:https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/acda-podcast/episodes/Ep--4---November-2024-ft--Jessica-Npoles-e2qs2gu/a-abkhpnrNationalACDA interview with JoAnn Falletta:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q0GTV3_GdJsACDA Career Website:https://acda.careerwebsite.com/The Research & Publication National StandingCommittee:https://acda.org/resources/research-and-publications-committee

Welcome to ACDA 2025! In “It All Happens in Dallas,” Steve previews the two insight choir sessions that will be happening at the National Conference. The R&R Quick Pick highlights the New Canon Project, a commission through Rising Tide Music & Arts. After a reminder about our upcoming President-Elect elections, Steve takes a journey of influences. Who has been your greatest musical influence? What made them special? Would you like a chance to tell their story and thank them? Submit your story to acdapodcast@acda.org. And don’t forget to register for Conference!! Do you have news to share from your region? Email Steve at ⁠acdapodcast@acda.org⁠. Follow the podcast on Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61562971310243 ⁠ Follow us on Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/acdapodcast/ ⁠ Website: https://acda.org   LINKS FROM THE EPISODE: National Conference Information: https://acda.org/archives/events/2025-national-conference Choral Journal: https://acda.org/publications/choral-journal Repertoire and Resources page: https://acda.org/repertoire R&R Quick Pick: New Canon Project: https://www.risingtidearts.org/ncp-collection 2024 National Call for Committee Members for the Education and Communication National Standing Committee: https://acda.org/resources/education

Episode #9 – April 2025For April, Steve starts out with a recap of his experience attending the National Conference in Dallas. Then, he sits down with Dr. Marshell Lombard to discuss the influence ofthe Drakensberg Boy’s Choir on diversity in South Africa. The R&R Quick pick this month is a stirring arrangement by Zanaida Robles of Lift Ev’ryVoice and Sing that you won’t want to miss. And in “Do You Know?” Steve announces a couple of upcoming applications for both conductors and composers. Interspersed through the episode, you’ll hear stories of mentorship and influence presented by some of the conductors we saw perform in Dallas. Would you like a chance to tell the story of one of your musical influences and thank them? Write or record your story and submit it to acdapodcast@acda.org. Do you have news to share from your region? Email Steve at ⁠acdapodcast@acda.org⁠.Follow the podcast on Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61562971310243⁠Follow us on Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/acdapodcast/⁠Website: https://acda.org  LINKS FROM THE EPISODE:ACDA website: https://acda.orgChoral Journal: https://acda.org/publications/choral-journalRepertoire and Resources page: https://acda.org/repertoire R&R Quick Pick: Lift Ev’ry Voice and Sing, arr.by Zanaida Robles. https://www.halleonard.com/product/139863/lift-evry-voice-and-singRaymond W. Brock Memorial Student Composition Competition:https://acda.org/about-us/awards-competitions/raymond-w-brock-competition-for-student-composersInternational Conductors Exchange Program: https://acda.org/resources/icep

Steve wraps up the year with a festive sendoff in the December ACDA Podcast! This month, he introduces a new segment, “It All Happens in Dallas,” previewing the exciting events at the upcoming National Conference. In “Check it Out in the Choral Journal,” he highlights the January issue, a must-read for conference details. The episode features an engaging interview with Vincent (Vic) Oakes, candidate for ACDA President-Elect (go back to the November episode to hear the interview with the other candidate). They discuss his career, leadership experience, and vision for ACDA’s future. The R&R Quick Pick shines a light on Music of Life by B.E. Boykin, a stunning piece for treble voices. Steve closes with essential updates in the “Did You Know?” segment, including registration deadlines for the National Conference. Don’t miss this episode filled with inspiration and celebration to close out 2024! Do you have news to share from your region? Email Steve at ⁠acdapodcast@acda.org⁠. Follow the podcast on Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61562971310243 ⁠ Follow us on Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/acdapodcast/ ⁠ Website: https://acda.org   LINKS FROM THE EPISODE: National Conference Information (including Book Fair and Composer Fair): https://acda.org/archives/events/2025-national-conference Welcome to Dallas Performers:                Greater Dallas Choral Society for Children and Youth: https://www.dallaschoralsociety.org/                St. John’s Music Ministry: https://sjbcfamily.org/ministries/worship-and-arts/                Vocal Majority: https://www.vocalmajority.com/                Turtle Creek Chorale: https://www.turtlecreekchorale.com/   Choral Journal: https://acda.org/publications/choral-journal Repertoire and Resources page: https://acda.org/repertoire R&R Quick Pick: Music is Life, by B.E. Boykin - https://www.jwpepper.com/Music-of-Life/11384778.item 2024 National Call for Committee Members for the Education and Communication National Standing Committee: https://acda.org/resources/education

Steve starts off with an entry of the Composer Challenge from Corbin Montenegro. In “Check in Out in the Choral Journal,” he highlights how to maintain our health through the “Sick Season.” He then interviews Dr. Jessica Nápoles, one of our two candidates for ACDA President-Elect. (Tune in to the December episode to hear an interview with the second candidate). We talk about her leadership experience and what her future vision would be for ACDA. Our R&R Quick Pick comes from our World Music chairs and gives us a wonderful song from Namibia. Lastly, in the “Did You Know?” section of the show, we get an update on the goings-on of ACDA – including registration for National Conference!! Do you have news to share from your region? Email Steve at ⁠acdapodcast@acda.org⁠. Follow the podcast on Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61562971310243 ⁠Follow us on Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/acdapodcast/ Website: https://acda.org   LINKS FROM THE EPISODE: Choral Journal: https://acda.org/publications/choral-journal Composer/Conductor Challenge: email Steve at acdapodcast@acda.org Repertoire and Resources page: https://acda.org/repertoire R&R Quick Pick: Ndji Raisa Ondundu, arr. by Elson V. Hindundu National Conference Information: https://acda.org/archives/events/2025-national-conference Robert Shaw Choral Award honoree: Dr. Charlene Archibeque Moveable Do Podcast: MoveableDo.com

This month, Steve gives a brief recap of the Idaho-ACDA Fall Conference. Then, he interviews Erin Plisco about the annual SA Composition Consortium. In “Check in Out in the Choral Journal,” Steve highlights the Advocacy and Collaborations articles and statement. He then interviews Dr. Edie Copley who is planning the National Conference in Dallas in March. We then turn to Children and Youth with our R&R Quick Pick and an interview with Joy Hirokawa, R&R Chair for Children and Community Youth. Lastly, in the “Did You Know?” section of the show, we get an update on the goings-on of ACDA. Do you have news to share from your region? Email Steve at ⁠acdapodcast@acda.org⁠. Follow the podcast on Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61562971310243 ⁠ Follow us on Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/acdapodcast/ ⁠ Website: https://acda.org   LINKS FROM THE EPISODE: Choral Journal: https://acda.org/publications/choral-journal Composer/Conductor Challenge: email Steve at acdapodcast@acda.org Repertoire and Resources page: https://acda.org/repertoire R&R Quick Pick: Antiphonal Hosanna by G. Alan Smith, arr. by Jack Schrader National Conference Information: https://acda.org/archives/events/2025-national-conference Robert Shaw Choral Award honoree: Dr. Charlene Archibeque Advocacy and Collaboration: Website and Statement Moveable Do Podcast: MoveableDo.com

Episode #2 – September 2024  This month, Steve starts with “Check It Out in the Choral Journal” where he discusses the featured articles about composer William L Dawson. He visits with the foremost expert on Dawson, Mark Hugh Malone. Steve talks about the Composition/Conducting Challenge to improve upon the ACDA jingle. Next, we have an interview with composer Jake Runestad who talks about his Earth Symphony which will be performed at the National ACDA Conference in Dallas in 2025. We introduce a new segment, “R&R Quick Picks,” with a selection for a concert closer. Lastly, in the “Did You Know?” section of the show, we get an update on the goings-on of ACDA.  Do you have news to share from your region? Email Steve at ⁠acdapodcast@acda.org⁠.  Follow the podcast on Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61562971310243 ⁠  Follow us on Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/acdapodcast/ ⁠  Website: https://acda.org     LINKS FROM THE EPISODE:  Choral Journal: https://acda.org/publications/choral-journal   Composer/Conductor Challenge: email Steve at acdapodcast@acda.org  Jake Runestad’s “Earth Symphony”: https://jakerunestad.com/earth-symphony   Interview with Jake Runestad on Moveable Do: https://tinyurl.com/3nu98x26   Repertoire and Resources page: https://acda.org/repertoire   R&R Quick Pick: Revolting Children – from Matilda: The Musical  National Honor Choir Application Information: https://acda.org/conferences/honorchoirs  Student Master Class Application Information: Click here.  Evergreen Ensemble: https://evergreenensemble.com