Taylor Quimby

Assignment #1- The Choir Teacher as a Comprehensive Musician

1. List the characteristics of your most inspiring choral teachers. (p.1)
The choir teachers I had as a child were organized, engaging, caring,
knowledgeable, and energetic; they set a good example while singing in order to
teach melodies and harmonies, and set high expectations.
2. List your strengths and weaknesses as a choral teacher. (p.2)
I find my strengths to be organization, musical knowledge, singing experience and
technique, and care for students. My weaknesses come in the form of facial and
conducting expressiveness, piano skills/techniques, and lack of teaching experience.
3. What are the choral compositions that you feel as special? Justify your
choices. (p.2)
Two of my favorite choral compositions are Sleep and Lux Aurumque by Eric
Whitacre. I feel that the pieces both do a very good job pouring directly into the
listener, making a personal and engaging musical experience. The pieces are known
for showcasing slight dissonance and dynamic contrast. The piano and pianissimo
portions of the piece are very delicate and personal, while the louds are enrapturing
and encompassing.
4. Write a summary of all of your experiences in choral music, and explain
why these experiences have led you to the point of studying choral music
education. (BT 1-4: p.19)
Ive been in childrens choirs both from schools and church; after the larger part of
my childhood, I mostly sang to myself and with friends. I found large enjoyment in
singing, and constantly sang whilst alone. I tried out for choir in high school, but
ended up choosing not to join, for personal reasons. I joined an a cappella group in
my freshman year of college, and have sung with them ever since. I dont count this
completely as a choral experience per say, but it still taught me much about singing
and helped me continue to learn about choral concepts.
5. Outline an action plan for strengthening your weaker areas, beginning
today. Include: (a) Area of Study (b) Action Plan (c) Time Line (d)
Assessment. (BT 1-5 p.19-20)
(Next Page)

Area of Study
Vocal Technique

Action plan
Practice basic
singing exercises
with proper
techniques 20-30
minutes, Three
times per week

Timeline
10 weeks(8)

Piano Skills

Practice Scales,
Arpeggios, and
Applicable music
with proper playing
technique total of 3
hours per week

10 weeks(8)

Expressiveness

Practice conducting
with a mirror,
working on facial
expressiveness, as
well as clarity and
preciseness with
beat
pattern/guestures.
90 Minutes per
week.

10 weeks(8)

Assessment
Ask for evaluation
from fellow
students and
Professor Chen,
focusing on
vowels/consonants,
and overall tone.
Ask for evaluation
from proficient
piano peers and
Professor Chen,
asking specifically
for help with
techniques.
Take critique during
teaching
experiences,
seeking for ways to
improve on
technique and
expressiveness as
teaching
opportunities are
fulfilled.