The week of August 1, Dr. Geoffrey North participated in the Halifax Choral Conducting Institute as one of 12 “active” conductors. The experience was part of his continuing education for 2019 but was more than just learning.

Read more about his experience in his own words:

This week has been a tremendously educational and inspirational week of choral conducting study and music making, and I am exceedingly grateful to FWSUMC for supporting my participation in this event. Thank you!

The HCCI offered sessions on score study, rehearsal techniques, using improvisation in the choral rehearsal, and Dalcroze eurythmics. Each day was intensive and long, beginning at 9:00 am and continuing until 9:30 pm – with breaks for lunch and dinner of course!

Active conductors also participated in several conducting master classes with the choir in residence, which was incredibly stressful but also highly rewarding, and had a private lesson with the clinician. The week concluded with a concert, each conductor performing one piece each.

Everyone gave a wonderful performance. It was fascinating and inspiring seeing each conductor improve, grow and thrive over the course of the week. The choir was wonderful to work with, and the intimacy and intensity of the event lead to some truly meaningful connections with the faculty and other participants.

I consider my time at the HCCI to be about the very best I’ve had at a continuing education event — and I’ve been to some really, really fine events! I learned a great deal about the fine art of conducting choirs and I look forward to putting that knowledge to use in my work with the FWSUMC choirs.