Explore every episode of the podcast ACDA Podcast
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ep. #4 - November 2024 (ft. Jessica Nápoles) | 13 Nov 2024 | 00:39:17 | |
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 | |||
| Episode #3 - October 2024 (ft. Erin Plisco, Edie Copley, and Joy Hirokawa) | 09 Oct 2024 | 00:45:09 | |
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 (ft. Jake Runestad) | 11 Sep 2024 | 00:27:32 | |
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 | |||
| Episode #1 - August 2024 (ft. Dustin Cates) | 14 Aug 2024 | 00:16:51 | |
Episode #1 – August 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: R&R Picks for Tenor/Bass Choir: https://acda.org/r-r-quick-picks-tenor-bass-choirs-advancing-choirs
Composer/Conductor Challenge: email Steve at acdapodcast@acda.org National Honor Choir Application Information: https://acda.org/conferences/honorchoirs Robert Shaw Choral Award nominations: https://acda.org/about-us/awards-competitions/robert-shaw-award Student Master Class Application Information: Click here. Advocacy and Collaboration Blog Post and Statement: Click here. Connecting Conductors, Composers, and Clinicians from Coast to Coast. | |||
| Trailer-Intro | 17 Jul 2024 | 00:03:54 | |
Welcome to the ACDA Podcast - the home for all things ACDA! Join our new host, Dr. Steve Danielson, as we explore news from all regions of ACDA. Do you have news to share from your region? Email Steve at sdanielson@acda.org or 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/ LINKS FROM THE EPISODE: Brock Prize for Professional Composers - https://acda.org/about-us/awards-competitions/brock-competition-for-professional-composers Robert Shaw Award - https://acda.org/about-us/awards-competitions/robert-shaw-award International Journal of Research in Choral Singing - https://choralnet.org/archives/acda-news/call-for-editorial-board-members-international-journal-of-research-in-choral-singing | |||
| Ep. #7 - February 2025 (ft. Stephen Carroll and Vincenzo D'Amore) | 12 Feb 2025 | 00:49:14 | |
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=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 Daily 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.item ACDA Podcast interview with Jessica Nápoles:https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/acda-podcast/episodes/Ep--4---November-2024-ft--Jessica-Npoles-e2qs2gu/a-abkhpnr NationalACDA interview with JoAnn Falletta:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q0GTV3_GdJs ACDA Career Website:https://acda.careerwebsite.com/ The Research & Publication National StandingCommittee:https://acda.org/resources/research-and-publications-committee | |||
| Ep. #6 - January 2025 - ft. Members Like You! | 08 Jan 2025 | 00:15:12 | |
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 | |||
| Ep. #5 - December 2024 (ft. Vic Oakes) | 11 Dec 2024 | 00:45:04 | |
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 | |||
| Ep. #8 - March 2025 (ft. Arreon Harley Emerson and Robyn Hilger) | 12 Mar 2025 | 00:43:45 | |
Episode #8 – March 2025 To 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=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: I carried your oxygen, by SteveDanielson. https://youtu.be/azAezsSIyi8 The Research & Publication National StandingCommittee: https://acda.org/resources/research-and-publications-committee | |||
| Ep. #11 - June 2025 (ft. Jennifer Lucy Cook and Sammy Strent) | 11 Jun 2025 | 00:56:59 | |
Episode #11 - June 2025 This 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=61562971310243 Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/acdapodcast/ Website: https://acda.org
LINKS FROM THE EPISODE: ACDA website: https://acda.org Composers 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/p Moveable Do Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/4fC2wcrEu8Ybp3AKRoA0zp Julius Herford Dissertation Prize: https://acda.org/about-us/awards-competitions/julius-herford-dissertation-prize Between the Staves: Choral Questions, Candid Answers -https://choralnet.org/archives/798712 Collegiate Choral Composition Community (CCCC): https://www.choralcomposition.com/ | |||
| Ep. #10 - May 2025 (ft. Karen Gaffius, Kyra Stahr, and McKenna Stenson) | 14 May 2025 | 00:49:06 | |
Episode #10 – May 2025 This 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=61562971310243 Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/acdapodcast/ Website: https://acda.org
LINKS FROM THE EPISODE: ACDA website: https://acda.org Choral Journal: https://acda.org/publications/choral-journal Repertoire 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.php International Conductors Exchange Program: https://acda.org/resources/icep Julius Herford Dissertation Prize: https://acda.org/about-us/awards-competitions/julius-herford-dissertation-prize | |||
| Ep. #9 - April 2025 (ft. Marshell Lombard) | 09 Apr 2025 | 00:31:14 | |
Episode #9 – April 2025 For 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=61562971310243 Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/acdapodcast/ Website: https://acda.org
LINKS FROM THE EPISODE: ACDA website: https://acda.org Choral Journal: https://acda.org/publications/choral-journal Repertoire 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-sing Raymond W. Brock Memorial Student Composition Competition:https://acda.org/about-us/awards-competitions/raymond-w-brock-competition-for-student-composers International Conductors Exchange Program: https://acda.org/resources/icep | |||
| Ep. #12 - July 2025 (ft. Robert Natter and Garrett Breeze) | 09 Jul 2025 | 00:46:56 | |
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=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 Repertoire and Resources page: https://acda.org/repertoire Choral Journal: https://acda.org/publications/choral-journal R&R Quick Pick: Waving Through the Window, arr.Roger Emerson; https://www.jwpepper.com/Waving-Through-a-Window/10983947.item List of State Events: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1SALL8kh_EkKydSdxjJEl0f0kFchLTtJrpMAxaqCsij4/edit?gid=893148961#gid=893148961 Moveable Do Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/4fC2wcrEu8Ybp3AKRoA0zp R&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 | |||
| Ep. #20 - March 2026 (ft. Dan Forrest and Raphael Fusco) | 11 Mar 2026 | 00:55:13 | |
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 | |||
| Ep. #19 - February 2026 (ft. Sarah McMahill, Robyn Hilger, and Peral Shangkuan) | 11 Feb 2026 | 00:49:52 | |
ACDA Podcast – February 2026 | Why We Sing Welcome 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 McMahill 🎤 2027 National Conference Preview 🎵 R&R Quick Pick 📚 Into the Archives 📢 Did You Know?
🎧 Stay Connected 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 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: 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-journal Brock Prize for Professional Composers: https://acda.org/about-us/awards-competitions/brock-competition-for-professional-composers Symposium for Research in Choral Singing: https://acda.org/conferences/symposium-for-research-in-choral-singing HerVoice Composers Competition: https://www.chicagoacappella.org/announcement/2026-hervoice/ | |||
| Ep. #18 - January 2026 (ft. Julie Dana and Jonathan Owen) | 14 Jan 2026 | 00:59:57 | |
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 Launch 🎤 Regional Conference Previews
🎵 R&R Quick Pick 📚 Into the Archive – New Segment 📢 Did You Know?
🎧 Stay Connected 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:
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| Ep. #17 - December 2025 (ft. Jeffery Ames and October Project) | 10 Dec 2025 | 01:03:00 | |
🎙️ ACDA Podcast – December 2025 | Why We Sing In 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?: ❤️ 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=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 Repertoire 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=rMwc9wkgItk Choral Journal: https://acda.org/publications/choral-journal Regional Conference REGISTRATION: https://acda.org/region-conferences Children and Community Youth Retreat: https://acda.org/conferences/childrens-community-youth-choir-conductors-retreat Regional Conference Airline Discounts: https://acda.org/2026-acda-conference-travel-discounts GRAMMY Music Educator Award: https://www.grammy.com/awards/music-educator-award?_gl=1*13h4mdq*_ga*MjM4MTAyMTg5LjE3NjUyMjgwMjA.*_ga_7CKBB7LRN1*czE3NjUyMjgwMTkkbzEkZzEkdDE3NjUyMjgwOTckajQ5JGwwJGgw Show Choir Webinar: https://acda.org/show-choir | |||
| Ep. #16 - November 2025 (ft. Micah Bland and Bill Campbell) | 12 Nov 2025 | 00:52:08 | |
🎙️ November 2025 – Uplifting Voices and Honoring Legacies This 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! ACDA website: https://acda.org 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: Three Quotes by Mark Twainby Andrea Ramsey; https://sbmp.com/SR2.php?CatalogNumber=892 YouTube video of Three Quotes by Mark Twain: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BEWJTPsd-_k Choral Journal: https://acda.org/publications/choral-journal Regional Conference REGISTRATION: https://acda.org/region-conferences Children and Community Youth Retreat: https://acda.org/conferences/childrens-community-youth-choir-conductors-retreat Regional Conference Airline Discounts: https://acda.org/2026-acda-conference-travel-discounts Musculoskeletal Interference and Injury in ProfessionalConductors Research Request: https://choralnet.org/archives/acda-news/research-requests-call-for-participants | |||
| Ep. #15 - October 2025 (ft. Amanda Hanzlik) | 08 Oct 2025 | 00:40:25 | |
October 2025 – Play, Purpose, and Powerful Legacies We’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.
📢 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.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 Join or log in to your ACDA profile: https://acda.org/login
LINKS FROM THE EPISODE: ACDA website: https://acda.org 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: 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-S0XKmM Choral Journal: https://acda.org/publications/choral-journal Regional Conference REGISTRATION: https://acda.org/region-conferences Children and Community Youth Retreat: https://acda.org/conferences/childrens-community-youth-choir-conductors-retreat Tenor-Bass Commission Consortium: https://acda.org/repertoire/mens-ttbb-choirs | |||
| Ep. #14 - September 2025 (ft. Josh Habermann and Derrick Fox) | 10 Sep 2025 | 00:45:41 | |
September 2025 – New Beginnings, Global Connections, and Future Visions September 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. 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. 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 ICEP Participants: https://choralnet.org/archives/acda-news/2026-international-conductors-exchange-program-participants-selected-partnership-with-portugal ICEP Info: https://acda.org/resources/icep Repertoire and Resources page: https://acda.org/repertoire/ Virtual Reading Sessions: https://acda.org/archives/events/2025-national-rr-virtual-reading-sessions Choral Journal: https://acda.org/publications/choral-journal R&R Quick Pick: Until Love is Spoken, byKaren Marolli; https://www.ecspublishing.com/until-love-is-spoken.html List of State Events: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1SALL8kh_EkKydSdxjJEl0f0kFchLTtJrpMAxaqCsij4/edit?gid=893148961#gid=893148961 Regional Conference Info: https://acda.org/region-conferences Children and Community Youth Retreat: https://acda.org/conferences/childrens-community-youth-choir-conductors-retreat Symposium for Research in Choral Singing: https://acda.org/conferences/symposium-for-research-in-choral-singing | |||
| Ep. #13 - August 2025 (ft. Dean Luethi, Ethan Soledad, and Alex Canovas) | 13 Aug 2025 | 00:46:29 | |
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=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 Repertoire and Resources page: https://acda.org/repertoire/college-and-university-choirs-repertoire Virtual Reading Sessions: https://acda.org/archives/events/2025-national-rr-virtual-reading-sessions Choral Journal: https://acda.org/publications/choral-journal R&R Quick Pick: Oseh Shalom, by SarahRiskind https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QNyliu94K90 List of State Events: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1SALL8kh_EkKydSdxjJEl0f0kFchLTtJrpMAxaqCsij4/edit?gid=893148961#gid=893148961 Regional Conference Info: https://acda.org/region-conferences Children and Community Youth Retreat: https://acda.org/conferences/childrens-community-youth-choir-conductors-retreat Symposium for Research in Choral Singing: https://acda.org/conferences/symposium-for-research-in-choral-singing | |||