If you’re looking for a warm church that commits to an intensely pertinent Gospel in the Reformed tradition of the Christian faith, we invite you to worship with us. Our 1,800 members come from across West Michigan and gather weekly in our sanctuary for relevant Biblical preaching, beautiful music, and inspiring worship. We expand our worship through intentional outreach in our community and world, attentive care for our members, and plenty of spiritual enrichment and social opportunities fo ...
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Laugh at the Darkness is a podcast full of stories of goodness, light, laughter, and love, brought to you by BeerAndHymns.com. Each month we highlight the work of a different charity, try out a new drink, and hear stories of people doing cool things that make the world a little better. Let's Laugh at the Darkness together.
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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 ch ...
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LaGrave Live LIVE Morning Worship Service 05-18-2025 Title: God’s Covenant with Abraham About The Service: We will continue our mini sermon series highlighting three of God's promises from the Old Testament. Pastor Jonker will preach on Genesis 22, and the promise God made to Abraham. Order of Worship: https://lagrave.org/wp-content/upload... About…
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LaGrave Live LIVE Morning Worship Service 05-11-2025 Title: Even Though About The Service: We will begin a mini sermon series highlighting three of God’s promises from the Old Testament. Pastor Jonker will preach on Genesis 9:1-17 and the promise God made after the flood. Order of Worship: https://lagrave.org/wp-content/upload... About Us: We are a…
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LaGrave Live LIVE Midday Worship Service 05-04-2025 Title: Leadership Ambition About The Service: We will celebrate the installation of new elders and deacons. Pastor Jonker will preach on Matthew 20:20-28, a text which will help us think about leadership in the church. Order of Worship: https://www.lagrave.org/orderofworship/ About Us: We are a tr…
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LaGrave Live LIVE Midday Worship Service 04-27-2025 Title: Being Transformed About The Service: It's GEMS Sunday. Pastor Jonker will preach on the text the girls have been studying all year: Romans 12:2—a verse that calls us to be transformed by the renewing of our mind. Order of Worship: https://www.lagrave.org/orderofworship/ About Us: We are a t…
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LaGrave Live LIVE Midday Worship Service 04-20-2025 Title: Easter Sunday Service About The Service: We will celebrate our Lord's resurrection at both our 8:40 and 11:00 services! There will be brass and the choir will sing. Pastor Jonker will preach. We praise God for the grace and faithfulness represented in the celebrations this week and we hope …
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LaGrave Live LIVE Midday Worship Service 04-13-2025 Title: The Shape of Love: You shall not give false testimony About The Service: It's Palm Sunday! There will be a palm processional, and Reverend Kristy Manion will lead us in worship, preaching on the ninth commandment “you shall not commit false testimony.” Order of Worship: https://www.lagrave.…
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LaGrave Live LIVE Midday Worship Service 04-06-2025 Title: The Shape of Love: You shall not give false testimony About The Service: Coming Order of Worship: https://www.lagrave.org/orderofworship/ About Us: We are a traditional CRC church in the middle of Downtown Grand Rapids, MI, worshipping at 8:40am, 11:00am, and 6:00pm. (10:00am and 6:00pm dur…
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LaGrave Live LIVE Midday Worship Service 03-30-2025 Title: Who Do You Think You Are? About The Service: We will have a guest pastor. Reverend Scott Hoezee, the director for the Center for Excellence in Preaching at Calvin Seminary will lead us. He will preach on John 8:48-59 and his sermon title is "Who Do You Think You Are?" Order of Worship: http…
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Keith Childress: From World Action Singers to Teaching 1st-12th Graders, An Engaging CRQ, And Greg In the Minority.
46:21
46:21
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46:21What 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 Singe…
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Back Together Again: Mietta Shares About the Journey, The Benefits and Joys of Singing In the School Choir, Throwback Choir Audio
29:36
29:36
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29:36Step 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 h…
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LaGrave Live LIVE Evening Worship Service 02-23-2025 Title: Do Not Let Your Hearts Be Troubled About The Service: Pastor Jonker will preach on John 14:1-7 Order of Worship: https://www.lagrave.org/orderofworship/ About Us: We are a traditional CRC church in the middle of Downtown Grand Rapids, MI, worshipping at 8:40am, 11:00am, and 6:00pm. (10:00a…
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LaGrave Live LIVE Midday Worship Service 02-23-2025 Title: The Image of the Invisible God: Compassion About The Service: We continue our sermon series, Image of the Invisible God. These sermons examine how the words and actions of Jesus show us the character of the triune God. Pastor Jonker will preach and his Bible text is Luke 19:41-44. Order of …
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LaGrave Live LIVE Evening Worship Service 02-16-2025 Title: At Home With God About The Service: Chad Boorsma will preach, and we will celebrate the Lord's Supper together. The message, based on John 1:9-18, will be "At Home with God." Order of Worship: https://www.lagrave.org/orderofworship/ About Us: We are a traditional CRC church in the middle o…
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LaGrave Live LIVE Midday Worship Service 02-16-2025 Title: The Image of the Invisible God: Trust And Obey About The Service: We continue our sermon series, Image of the Invisible God. Sermons in this series look at words and actions of Jesus which reveal the attributes and character of God the Father. Guest preacher Rev. Jul Medenblik will lead us …
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LaGrave Live LIVE Evening Worship Service 02-09-2025 Title: Paul’s Slideshow About The Service: Pastor Jonker will preach on some of the stories behind the names of the people Paul greets at the end of his letter to the Romans in chapter 16. Order of Worship: https://www.lagrave.org/orderofworship/ About Us: We are a traditional CRC church in the m…
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LaGrave Live LIVE Midday Worship Service 02-09-2025 Title: The Image of the Invisible God: Friends About The Service: We continue our sermon series, Image of the Invisible God. This sermon series looks at the way Jesus' actions and words reveal attributes and character traits of God the Father. Reverend Manion will preach on John 15:9-17. Order of …
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LaGrave Live LIVE Midday Worship Service 02-02-2025 Title: The Image of the Invisible God: Warrior About The Service: We continue our sermon series The Image of the Invisible God. These sermons reflect on words and actions of Jesus that reveal the character and heart of God. Pastor Jonker will preach on Luke 10:1-2, 17-20 and we will reflect on God…
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LaGrave Live LIVE Evening Worship Service 01-26-2025 Title: War and Peace About The Service: Pastor Jonker will preach on Matthew 26:47-54. The sermon will reflect on the Christian view of war and the use of force. Order of Worship: https://www.lagrave.org/orderofworship/ About Us: We are a traditional CRC church in the middle of Downtown Grand Rap…
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LaGrave Live LIVE Midday Worship Service 01-26-2025 Title: The Image of the Invisible God: The Incomprehensible God About The Service: We continue our Image of the Invisible God Sermon Series, a series that focuses on words and actions of Jesus that reveal to us the heart of God. Pastor Jonker will preach on John 21:24-25. We will also celebrate th…
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LaGrave Live LIVE Evening Worship Service 01-19-2025 Title: Jesus Repents About The Service: Reverend Bob Arbogast, the head of the Celebration Fellowship prison ministry, will lead us in worship. Order of Worship: https://www.lagrave.org/orderofworship/ About Us: We are a traditional CRC church in the middle of Downtown Grand Rapids, MI, worshippi…
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LaGrave Live LIVE Midday Worship Service 01-19-2025 Title: The Image of the Invisible God: God of the Vulnerable About The Service: We continue our sermon series called, "The Image of the Invisible God." These sermons look at words and actions of Jesus that reveal the heart and character of God. Pastor Jonker will preach on Matthew 18:1-5. Order of…
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Jared McClain joins us to discuss Navigating Choir Rehearsal Distractions, Captivating Young Minds Through Choir, and Choir Musical Diversity
57:06
57:06
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57:06This 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 cho…
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Unlocking Choir Mastery: Rehearsal Strategies, Theological Reflections on 'My Hope is Built on Nothing Less', and Band Collaboration With Ben and Renee Westry
1:02:35
1:02:35
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1:02:35There 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 t…
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Hearing the Harmony: The Hymn 'It Is Well With My Soul', Diversity in Choir, and the Joy of Choir Sundays at Gracepoint Gospel Fellowship.
57:06
57:06
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57:06Step 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 an…
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Hymns of Praise and Choir Mastery Cultivating a Transformative Singing Experience
44:54
44:54
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44:54As 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 ri…
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Singing Through Life's Challenges PART 2: The Spiritual Essence of The Hymn, Disney's - "Encanto's" Adassa on Balancing Career and Family in Music With Christ at the Helm.
59:09
59:09
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59:09Choir 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 pandem…
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Singing Through Life's Challenges: The Spiritual Essence of The Hymn, Disney's "Encanto's" Adassa on Balancing Career and Family in Music With Christ at the Helm.
36:05
36:05
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36:05As 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 …
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Embracing the New Year with Gospel Choirs: The Legacy of Hymns, Dr. Scott Cumberbatch's Life Story, and Navigating Choir Music in the Digital World
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55:59
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55:59Embark 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 …
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Exciting Changes Coming : The Exciting Future of The Choir Room, Provoking CRQ’s, and The Reboot of Programs and Service.
32:27
32:27
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32:27Step 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 …
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Celebrating the Choir's Voice: Uniting Through Christmas Carols, Worship, and Choir Leadership with Special Guests from Metromusic & Arts. PART 2
45:51
45:51
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45:51As 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 t…
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Celebrating the Choir's Voice: Uniting Through Christmas Carols, Worship, and Choir Leadership with Special Guests from Metromusic & Arts. PART 1
54:17
54:17
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54:17Gather '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…
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"Hark the Herald Angels Sing", Christmas choir recordings and live performances that are sure to get you singing and clapping right where you are: The joy and excitement with singing in a choir during ...
35:57
35:57
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35:57Ever 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 a…
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Igniting Christmas Joy Through Song: Unwrapping the Significance of Singing, Diving into "O Come, O Come, Emmanuel", and Harnessing Technology in Modern Choir Rehearsals
36:49
36:49
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36:49Are 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, une…
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Renowned Modern Hymn Writer Keith Getty Expounds on The Power of Choir and Communal Singing: The Choir Director and Church Practices, Insights On The Importance of Innovative Hymn Writing, Q&A From Our ...
1:17:53
1:17:53
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1:17:53The 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…
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Part 2: Proper Hydration, Good Vocal Health, Choir Directing, and Vocal Training 102: Dr. Catherine Hall, Coach Tara Simon, and The Hosts continue with Great Insights and LIVE Participation from Virtual ...
1:12:52
1:12:52
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1:12:52Ever 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 conversati…
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Proper Hydration, Choir in this Generation, and Vocal Training 101: Dr. Catherine Hall, Coach Tara Simon, and the hosts mix it up with a LIVE Virtual Audience. Training the Voice, Navigating the Decline ...
1:01:52
1:01:52
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1:01:52Ever 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 affec…
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Dove Award Winning Recording Artist LaRue Howard: A Personal Music Journey, Worship Leading, Vocal Health, and Promoting Growth in Choir and Music Ministry
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53:55
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53:55Join 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 inval…
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The Intricacies and Implications of Mixing Gospel Lyrics and Pop Music: A Discussion with The Team, Upcoming Metromusic & Arts Events, and more.
26:25
26:25
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26:25Metromusic & 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 infu…
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A Dive Into the Church Choir Journey of Tammy Williams and The Deep Spiritual Significance of Singing with Elizabeth Norfrey.
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1:01:58
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1:01:58Prepare 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…
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Why You Should Sing and Use Your God-Given Voice: The Power of Anointed Music and Singing with the Norfrey Couple
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48:43
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48:43Fancy unraveling the mystery behind finding your God-given voice? We're on a thrilling exploration with our special guests, the Norfrey couple, as they share their exceptional expertise and a century of professional music experience. We kick off with our hymn of the week, “My Jesus, I Love Thee,” that sets the stage for us to delve into the depth o…
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The Life-Long Benefits of Singing In A Choir: Greg Takes A Trip Down Choir Memory Lane and The Team Discusses Adjustment and Vibrato In the CRQ.
40:39
40:39
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40:39Remember when we used to stand shoulder to shoulder with others, belting out tunes like 'This Land is Your Land' and 'If I Had a Hammer' in our school choir? The thrill of those harmonies is no small part of our shared experience. We invite you to join us on a nostalgic journey as we delve into the importance of choral singing, and how it is undeni…
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Unsung Memories: A Journey through Choir Reunions and Gospel Traditions
46:59
46:59
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46:59Experience the resilience of choir and corporate singing in this insightful episode of The Choir Room. As schools reopen and young enthusiasts warm up their vocal cords for choir season, we share in the joy of age-old singing traditions. Highlighting this spirit of celebration is our exploration of the 50-year anniversary of the New Christian Taber…
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Research Shows that Singing with Others Is Better For You: Vocal Warmups and Workouts, Interesting Health Benefits Come with Singing with a Choir
36:34
36:34
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36:34Ready to learn about the transformational power of communal singing and how it can elevate your daily life? In this episode Greg takes a quick look at some of the many different vocal warmups and workouts used by vocalists and coaches alike. From choir lofts to Broadway stages, we explore the diverse warm-up styles that help singers tune their inst…
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A Conversation with LaShawn Nieves and The Choir Room Team on The Transformative Power of Singing the Gospel
58:35
58:35
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58:35Join us on a faith-filled journey as we uncover the extraordinary power of singing gospel music, with a special focus on its impact within choirs. We're thrilled to introduce LaShawn Nieves, our esteemed guest contributor who has dedicated her life to gospel music as a singer, worship leader, and so much more. She's here to unfold her story, from h…
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Exploring the World of Gospel Choirs and Show Choirs: Different Isn’t Necessarily Wrong…It’s Different.
36:54
36:54
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36:54Let's begin by reviewing a little of our discussion from last week when we dissected our favorite choir arrangements, and digging into their intricacies…and inviting you, our listeners, to share your favorites. Taking you on a fascinating journey, we explore the world of traveling gospel choirs that perform overseas. We also delve into the cultural…
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Exploring the Richness of Choir Music: From Hymns to Gospel Merging Old and New
35:02
35:02
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35:02What happens when a group of choir enthusiasts gather to discuss their shared passion for choir music and worship? You get a lively discussion that explores hymns to modern day Gospel, and everything in between. Joined by Dorian Johnson, Mietta Stancil-Farrar, and Coleman Smart, we cover a lot of ground, starting with Dorian's Hymn of the Week and …
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A Conversation with a Choir Member turned Vocal Coach and Viral YouTube Sensation Tara Simon
58:38
58:38
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58:38Why aren't more Gospel choirs singing four-part harmony? Is it because many do not see the need for baritone voices? Is it due to a lack of training? If you've ever pondered these questions, this episode is for you! The team discusses why four-part harmony seems less common. Join the hosts as they explore the topic in this week's CRQ. Our guest con…
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The Vocal Journey Con't with Lady Bosé - Part 2
31:17
31:17
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31:17Join us for Part #2 with our guest, the extraordinary Lady Bosé, talented singer, vocal coach, and vocal producer, graciously guides us with thrilling stories of her vocal journey and shares her invaluable tips for budding singers. Bosé brings her expert knowledge to the table, discussing vocal health and wellness, and the importance of understandi…
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The Melodic Journey of Lady Bose: From Choir Community to Soloist, Vocal Coach, and Vocal Stylist
53:21
53:21
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53:21In this episode, Dorian delves into the hymn of the week, 'Praise My Soul, the King of Heaven,' and unpack its rich themes of divine exaltation, grace, and everlasting nature. The episode takes a fascinating turn as we engage in a hearty discussion about fostering fellowship and relationships within choirs. We challenge the norm by addressing click…
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