Description
Book SynopsisThe Confident Choir is an exploration of conditions affecting the confidence levels in singers of all levels to create an accessible synthesis of the psychological models and offer practical confidence-building strategies for conductors, teachers, community musicians, and workshop leaders. Michael Bonshor combines his experience as a singing teacher and choral director with a series of in-depth interviews that give an intimate depiction of the challenges faced by the contemporary choral singer. These insights provide the basis for a range of suggested techniques to bolster confidence and reduce anxiety in the group-singing context. This book is primarily designed as a guide for leaders of amateur group singing activities and is relevant to choirs of all sizes and genres. The content will appeal to singers, teachers, and choir leaders; students and scholars in the fields of choral research, community music, music psychology, and adult education; and educators training the musical leaders of the future.
Trade ReviewMichael Bonshor has created the new number one companion for every Choral Conductor. His assiduously tailored chapters provide insights, tips and strategies to create confidence, clear direction, sound communication, and a positive contagion from both sides of the podium. -- Robert T. Elliott, festival director, Cornwall International Male Choral Festival Ltd
This realistic, well researched and practical guide provides conductors and scholars with transformative advice for building confidence in choirs. Bonshor’s comprehensive approach and coherent writing provide pragmatic solutions for all readers. An influential book which will stimulate motivation and inspire confidence! -- Mary Black, post-doctoral research fellow, Music Department, Leeds University
This immensely thoughtful yet extremely practical book is based on a satisfying mixture of established psychological and pedagogical research, and Michael Bonshor's own qualitative research and experience of directing groups of singers in a wide variety of settings. I will almost certainly revisit this book at the beginning of each new choral society season to remind myself how to get the best out of my choir! -- Matthew Redfearn, conductor and music director, Glossop Choral Society
This fascinating new book is a great resource for both beginners and experienced practitioners working with amateur singers who seek to develop their professional skills and knowledge within this field. This scholarly yet richly practical guide is supported by checklists and thought provoking statements from singers and conductors relating to collective singing performances. The book is underpinned by the extensive expert professional experience of the author and will be of significant interest and value to all who lead amateur singing ensembles. -- Joy Hill, choral conductor, Royal College of Music Junior Department
Table of ContentsIntroduction: Singing Together Chapter 1: Conveying and Cultivating Confidence Chapter 2: Practice, Preparation, and Presentation Chapter 3: Choral Acoustics and Choir Configuration Chapter 4: Collaboration and Communal Learning Chapter 5: Conductors and Verbal Communication Chapter 6: Singer-Centred Choral Conducting Conclusion
