The Choir Room Podcast

The Choir Room Podcast

This podcast exists to promote and encourage two long-time traditions in our society that seem to be dwindling…The Choir and Corporate Singing. We hope to revive the excitement and joy experienced with singing in a choir, as well as inform and educate the listener on all things singing, and all things choir related. A weekly podcast featuring discussion and interviews with choir directors, choir members, and other guests representing church choirs, college and university choirs, community choirs, show and theatre choirs, composer of choir music, and other. Segments include tips and instruction from skilled and professional disciplines within the choir community covering topics such as choir culture and community, choir directing, vocal training, ear training, sight reading, and more. A monthly virtual live audience episode allows the listener to engage with hosts and guests during instructional and Q&A segments via the live recording, chat, email, on various social media platforms. A production of Metromusic & Arts, Inc. - www.metromusic-arts.com - thechoirroom@metromusic-arts.com - mail@mmertomusic-arts.cm

Episodes

March 12, 2025 46 mins

What creates lasting community in a world of increasing isolation? Musician, vocalist, composer, teacher, and choir director Keith Childress has discovered the answer through decades of choir leadership spanning continents, cultures, and generations. 

When a remarkable opportunity took him to Oral Roberts University as part of the World Action Singers, he found himself performing alongside legends like Aretha Franklin and ...

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Step into the Choir Room for an insightful exploration into the undeniable power of communal singing and choirs! In this episode, we unpack the significance of choir culture in today's society, addressing the vibrant sense of community that music fosters even in challenging times. With heartfelt anecdotes, co-host Mietta bravely shares her recent health journey and the impact it has had on her, reminding us all of the importan...

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This episode highlights the significance of choir culture and the challenges faced in both rehearsals and performances. With guest Jared McClain, we discuss the value of leadership in nurturing positive choir environments, memorable experiences in singing, and the integration of technology to engage new generations. 

Ever been in the middle of a choir rehearsal when the drummer starts tapping away, and suddenly it becomes ...

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There is no single way of conducting a successful choir rehearsal. Unlock some of the secrets to conducting effective choir rehearsals with insights from seasoned choir directors and their friends, Ben and Renee Westry, music directors at the Full Gospel Interdenominational Church. Ben and Renee discuss their journey from being young musicians in their church to becoming influential leaders in their music ministry. 

Join G...

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Step into the vibrant Choir Room where the rich tapestry of song and spirit comes to life. This week, my co-hosts Dorian Johnson, Mietta Stancil-Farrar, and I, Greg Thomas, as we uncover the poignant history of the hymn "It Is Well With My Soul" and then followed by a live rendition by the enchanting Sarai Negron-Ingold.  Mietta brings us the CRQ and we delve into the conversation of recruitment for a community choir.

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As we gather in the Choir Room this Easter, a time of reflection and rejoicing unfolds through the power of choral music. The episode kicks off with a stirring reminder of Christ's sacrifice, captured in Kurt Carr's poignant composition, performed remotely during the 2020 pandemic by Greg Thomas and Misty Quinn, and we're transported through the rich history of Charles Wesley's "Christ the Lord is Risen Tod...

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Choir is a fusion of singing, faith, community, and tradition that resonates with many of us. In this episode we've orchestrated a vibrant discussion around reviving choir traditions, the undervalued power of corporate singing, and the intricate challenges choir directors confront in today's ever-evolving world, particularly in the wake of a pandemic that left many choir rooms silent. We enrich the conversation with hymn ...

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As the harmonies of "Oh, the Deep, Deep Love of Jesus" resonated in the Choir Room, Dorian Johnson enlightens us on this deep content rich hymn of the church. Mietta Stancil-Farrar navigates us through our CRQ to discuss the rich tapestry of choir beyond the church walls, uncovering the wide-reaching impact of gospel music from serene nursing home gatherings to the raw vibrancy of street outreaches.

Then, along w...

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Embark on a spiritual odyssey with us as we ring in the new year with a heartfelt celebration of choir and corporate singing, brought to life by the collective genius of Greg Tomas, Doria Johnson, Mietta Stancil Farrar, and Dr. Scott Cumberbatch. We promise a journey into the theological tapestry of Charles Wesley's iconic hymn "And Can It Be That I Should Gain?" and an intimate look into the transformative power of ...

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Step into The Choir Room where the harmonious blend of voices isn't just about music—it's a testament to the power of community and faith. Greg is joined by passionate co-hosts Dorian Johnson and Mietta Stancil-Farrar, and together they usher in a symphony of discussion on the resurgent love for choir and corporate singing. This episode promises a soulful journey through the hymn of the week that ties us to the divine, as...

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As the holiday season wraps us in its festive embrace, the Choir Room becomes a sanctuary where the soulful blend of voices lifts spirits and fortifies faith. Joined by a group of personal friends and supporters, we delve into the heartwarming world of choral singing, sharing personal journeys and the unspoken bonds it creates. 

Dorian unpacks the theological resonance of "O Come All Ye Faithful" with us, and sho...

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Gather 'round the Choir Room's hearth as we kindle the spirit of Christmas with voices that echo the joy of the season. Lend your ear to an episode that promises to rekindle your love for traditional carols and the sense of unity they inspire. The hosts are joined by friends of Metromusic & Arts, we delve into beloved hymns like "What Child Is This?" and "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing," unraveling t...

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Ever wondered about the profound significance behind some of your favorite Christmas hymns? Prepare to embark on a journey with us, your hosts Greg Thomas and Dorian Johnson, as we unearth the theological truths embedded in the beloved "Hark the Herald Angels Sing." We dive deep into its history, tracing its origins back to Charles Wesley in 1739 and its later transformation by George Whitfield. Along the way, we exp...

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Are you ready to ignite the joy of the holiday season through song? Join us, hosts Greg Thomas, Dorian Johnson and Mietta Stancil-Farrar, as we unwrap the significance of singing during the Christmas holiday, community singing and the hymn of the week, "O Come, O Come, Emmanuel". We dive deep into the biblical references of this beautiful hymn, unearthing its rich connections to Old Testament prophecies. This beautiful hy...

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The internet, and the plethora of access it provides, is influencing young people's engagement with music, specifically with choir and corporate singing. Find out how you can contribute your thoughts on the evolution of choir music and the seeming disinterest among today's church generation. We also delve into the pressing issue of an apparent lack of new and innovative music specifically for choirs. The round-up of this ...

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Ever wondered how weather can impact your vocal cords or what qualifies and makes a successful choir director? Don't miss out this episode as Catherine Hall continues to discuss the benefits of hydration to the effects of temperature changes on your voice, and much more. If you're a choir director or a singer, you’ll glean a lot from our conversation on the critical qualities and the need for education among choir directo...

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Ever wonder why hydration is crucial for both your health and singing ability? Or why choir participation among teens is trending downward? Tune in as we, your hosts, along with Dr. Cathering Hall, and vocal coach and YouTube sensation Tara Simon, get to the root of these issues. We'll puncture the myth of modern hydration habits and how they affect not only our daily health but our vocal prowess as well. We also promise to sh...

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Join us on a musical journey with the Dove Aware Winning Recording Artist, the inspiring LaRue Howard, a woman whose heart beats to the rhythm of worship. She shares her melodious story, from humble beginnings singing hearing Charlie Pride songs on her uncle's porch, to her thriving ministry in music. In addition to this, LaRue graces us with invaluable insights on vocal health, the importance of staying hydrated, and introduc...

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Metromusic & Arts has exciting things planned, and a forthcoming Choir Room theme song contest. 

David and Elizabeth Norfrey come back once more to share the fascinating parallels between handbell choirs and vocal choirs, underlining the importance of each choir member for a harmonious performance. 

Then, join an intriguing discussion on how the infusion of pop music lyrics can affect the integrity of sacred g...

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Prepare for an enlightening journey as we uncover profound parallels between the art of singing and living a vibrant Christian life. Promising soul-stirring revelations, vocal instructor Elizabeth Norfrey unveils the similarities of air in both singing and spiritual life. Dorian delivers another though provoking commentary on the hymn "More Love to Thee O' Christ".

In the heart of this episode, we explore ho...

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