Best Choral Conversations Podcasts (2025)

1
Youth Film Program, Teaching Kids Film, Acting & Editing | F1RST2KNOW 35:18

8h ago35:18

35:18

Step inside the magic of youth filmmaking with on F1RST2KNOW as we sit down with Gulliver and Christine Parascandolo, owners of Parallel Media and founders of the Youth Film Program. From 9-year-olds crafting sci-fi epics to teens directing fairy-tale adventures, this hands-on program takes students through pitching, writing, shooting, acting, edit…

1
Ep. 139 - Musical Magic in Middle School - Gretchen Harrison 53:32

2d ago53:32

53:32

“Middle school kids really are very concrete learners. Abstract thought isn’t there yet. Give them the ability to see ‘I’m not the only one having problems on page 10. I must be normal because everybody’s having problems on page 10.’ Or, if it is a kid who’s the only one who’s having a problem, let’s figure out what the problem is. Let the kids hav…

1
Acker Night: The Music, The Magic, and the Mission, A Conversation with Linda Acker | F1RST2KNOW 13:02

7d ago13:02

13:02

For 37 years, Acker Night has filled downtown Prescott with music, light, and community spirit. What began as a small event involving only eight businesses has grown into one of the area’s most beloved holiday traditions. Now featuring more than 140 locations, dozens of performers, and thousands of visitors walking the square under the glow of Chri…

1
Choral Director's Toolbox: The Ghosts of Christmas Presents Ep. 48 19:14

4d ago19:14

19:14

In Episode 48 of The Choral Director’s Toolbox, host Dr. William Baker takes a lighthearted but meaningful look at "The Ghosts of Christmas Presents," the sometimes awkward expectations surrounding holiday gift-giving in choirs and music programs. With warmth and humor, Dr. Baker shares lessons learned from experience and offers practical ways to f…

1
Dual Enrollment, Early College & an A Rating: HUSD’s Winning Combo | F1RST2KNOW 21:35

16d ago21:35

21:35

In this episode of First to Know, host Elicia Morigeau sits down with Humboldt Unified School District Superintendent Brett Dahl for an inspiring, eye-opening conversation about what it takes to build an A-rated school district—and why that rating matters for every member of the community, whether they have children in school or not. F1RST2KNOW is …

1
Ep. 138 - Composing a Living - Dale Trumbore & Brandon Elliott 55:27

16d ago55:27

55:27

“Going into high school, I did everything possible to avoid the performing arts. My vice principal called me into the office and said, ‘you can’t have an open period. I’m gonig to put you in choir.’ Within weeks, it became a life-changing experience for me – I discovered a community, a way to express myself. I knew by the end of my junior year in h…

1
Sleigh What?! An Exclusive Santa Interview 25:56

19d ago25:56

25:56

Step into the holiday season with an exclusive chat with Santa, where he shares his thoughts, reflections, and festive insights. This feature offers a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the magic of the season, capturing the spirit, traditions, and cheerful surprises that make the holidays so memorable. F1RST2KNOW is part of the CAST11 Podcast Network …

1
Choral Director's Toolbox: From Pattern to Purpose: Listening Like a Conductor Ep 47 16:55

18d ago16:55

16:55

In Episode 47 of The Choral Director’s Toolbox, guest presenter Dr. Jamea Sale, Executive Associate Director of the Choral Foundation and Director of the Institute for Healthy Singing & Voice Research, leads an engaging discussion titled "From Pattern to Purpose: Listening Like a Conductor." Dr. Sale explores one of the greatest challenges for emer…

1
Cowboy Stories, Cast Iron Recipes, and Western Wisdom with Kent Rollins | F1RST2KNOW 16:01

23d ago16:01

16:01

Step into the glow of the campfire with Cowboy Kent Rollins—America’s favorite chuck wagon cook, storyteller, and keeper of Western tradition. In this episode, Kent shares how food, history, grit, and the can-do spirit of the American West shaped his life and his hit Outdoor Channel show, The Cast Iron Cowboy. From Dust Bowl memories passed down th…

1
Prescott Chorale Rings in the Season | F1RST2KNOW 12:49

16d ago12:49

12:49

Dennis Houser joins us to preview the Prescott Chorale’s December 5–6 holiday performances, featuring Bach’s Magnificat, youth choirs, handbells, Christmas favorites, and family fun. Discover what makes these concerts a beloved local tradition and how music inspires performers of all ages. F1RST2KNOW is part of the CAST11 Podcast Network of Prescot…

1
Choral Director's Toolbox: Christmas Collaborations Ep. 46 18:05

18d ago18:05

18:05

In Episode 46 of The Choral Director’s Toolbox, host Dr. William Baker shares timely insights in Christmas Collaborations, exploring how partnerships between adult, youth, and children’s choirs enrich performances, build audiences, and inspire future generations of singers. Drawing on decades of experience, Dr. Baker outlines practical strategies f…

1
Inside YC’s Sense and Sensibility | F1RST2KNOW 17:24

21d ago17:24

17:24

In this episode of F1RST2KNOW, host Elicia sits down with Scotty Scott, Executive and Artistic Director at Yavapai College Performing Arts Center, to discuss the upcoming stage production of Sense and Sensibility — a fresh, non-musical take on Jane Austen’s timeless classic. F1RST2KNOW is part of the CAST11 Podcast Network of Prescott. Check out th…

1
The Magic Behind Prescott’s Festival of Trees | F1RST2KNOW 20:15

1M ago20:15

20:15

Step into the holiday magic with this heartwarming episode of F1RST2KNOW Elicia sits down with Kim and Alisia, the creative forces behind the Festival of Trees Prescott — a beloved annual event that transforms the Sam Hill Warehouse into a Christmas wonderland. #chirstmasmagic #christmas2025 #christmastree #festivaloftrees #prescott #samhillwarehou…

1
Ep. 137 - Connecting with Audiences Through Choral Storytelling - Joshua Habermann 47:38

1M ago47:38

47:38

“My job is to make people love choral music as much as I do, and that’s a lot. I really love choral music. My job is to say ‘you should care about this.’ You might care about it because it’s ravishingly beautiful or because it has a story to tell you. Even if you’re not a person who relates to choral music, you can relate to stories. We’re going to…

1
Choral Director's Toolbox: Considerations for Handel’s Messiah Ep. 45 16:22

1M ago16:22

16:22

In Episode 45 of The Choral Director’s Toolbox, host Dr. William Baker offers timeless insights in Considerations for Handel’s Messiah, drawing from decades of conducting experience. From editions and orchestration to soloist selection and performance practice, Dr. Baker shares practical wisdom for achieving clarity, authenticity, and joy in this b…

1
Decorating Before Thanksgiving and Up Coming Prescott Valley Events | F1RST2KNOW 6:15

1M ago6:15

6:15

When to start decorating (are you team early Christmas or team fall-through-Thanksgiving?), to the must-see local events lighting up the season. #findlaytoyotacenter #events #zztop #gabbydollhouse #podcast #arizona #100menwhocare #prescott #prescottvalley F1RST2KNOW is part of the CAST11 Podcast Network of Prescott. Check out the podcast network we…

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Ep. 136 - Sharing Musical Value in Community Partnerships - Alex Gartner 47:14

1M ago47:14

47:14

“You’re not going to ask a bunch of choir directors to donate to your organization — you’re going to have to go find other people who probably don’t have the type of experience with choir that choral leaders do. It’s about trying to translate not just your own personal love of choir but the reason that your choir exists, what it does for its commun…

1
Choral Director's Toolbox: When Something Goes Wrong Ep. 44 15:36

1M ago15:36

15:36

In Episode 44 of The Choral Director’s Toolbox, host Dr. William Baker shares real-world wisdom in When Something Goes Wrong, exploring how choral conductors can respond with grace, calm, and professionalism when the unexpected happens on stage. From missed entrances to fainting singers, Dr. Baker offers strategies for maintaining focus and dignity…

1
Prescott Valleys Ultimate Día de los Muertos Experience - F1RST2KNOW 13:30

1M ago13:30

13:30

Step into the vibrant world of Día de los Muertos with Elicia and her special guest Chalease Linderman of Jagged Universe! In this episode of F1RST2KNOW Events, they share the magic behind this year’s immersive celebration, complete with AR experiences, art installations, mariachi music, face painting, food trucks, and heartfelt community ofrendas …

1
Choral Director's Toolbox: Money-Ball Ep. 43 20:12

2M ago20:12

20:12

In Episode 43 of The Choral Director’s Toolbox, host Dr. William Baker reflects on "Money-Ball," exploring what professional sports can teach the arts about value, economics, and perspective. He challenges arts leaders to rethink attitudes toward wealth, business, and success reminding us that the prosperity of one sector often fuels the sustainabi…

1
Ep. 135 - Leading All Students to a Positive Choral Experience - Philip Brown 50:32

1M ago50:32

50:32

“It's hard to focus on anything educationally if certain basic needs aren't being met, so you're trying to navigate and be proactive as much as possible. I have students who have their own needs and things they're going through that are influencing the classroom. Every year, every group, it's a different dynamic. Every student in this group deserve…

1
Inside Prescott Valley’s Favorite Family Event: Safe Trick-or-Treat | F1RST2KNOW 8:19

2M ago8:19

8:19

In this festive episode of First to Know, we’re joined by Makayla Chadwick, local State Farm agent and proud member of the Prescott Valley Early Bird Lions Club, along with her adorable little sidekick, Coulter. Together, they chat with us about one of the community’s favorite Halloween traditions — the Safe Trick-or-Treat event at the Finley Toyot…

1
Choral Director’s Toolbox: Choral Communication Ep. 42 17:36

2M ago17:36

17:36

In Episode 42 of The Choral Director’s Toolbox, host Dr. William Baker shares insights on Choral Communication, inspired by the weekly letters of legendary conductor Robert Shaw. Drawing from Shaw’s example, Dr. Baker reflects on the enduring power of thoughtful, personal correspondence to build trust, foster community, and deepen musical artistry.…

1
The Art of Healing Rivers: Kirstie Fryirs on Reading Rivers to Recover Them 59:52

2M ago59:52

59:52

Questions, comments, feedback? Tap here to send us a message! In this episode of Take Me to the River, Dr. Siwan Lovett sits down with renowned fluvial geomorphologist Professor Kirstie Fryirs—co-developer of the globally adopted River Styles Framework—to explore how rivers are shaped, damaged, and healed. This jam-packed episode breaks down the sc…

1
Vocal Colors 28:00

2M ago28:00

28:00

Chicago based singer, arranger, keyboardist, producer and conductor, Paul Langford has a career that spans over 25 years. His work includes arranging for and performing with groups such as The Chicago Symphony Orchestra, the Chicagoland Pops, the Pensacola and LaCrosse Symphony Orchestras, and Walt Disney World.…

1
Beyond the Sugar Skulls: Prescott Valley’s Día de los Muertos Experience | F1RST2KNOW 15:23

2M ago15:23

15:23

Join us on First to Know as we dive into the vibrant traditions of Día de los Muertos with April and Blanca from the Hispanic Business Association. Discover the meaning behind the altars (ofrendas), the colors, the foods, and the heartfelt celebrations that honor loved ones who have passed. Learn how this cultural event—filled with music, parades, …

1
Ep. 134 - Unlocking Creativity by Arranging Popular Music - Garrett Breeze 51:55

2M ago51:55

51:55

“I was one of those people that had some biases against pop music. Being in show choirs and seeing the ways that the songs were transformed and arranged really opened my eyes to different styles of music and changed my perspective. I no longer view popular music as being all that different from classical music or film scores. There's just something…

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Choral Director’s Toolbox: Robert Shaw’s Counting Method Ep. 41 18:22

2M ago18:22

18:22

In Episode 41 of The Choral Director’s Toolbox, host Dr. William Baker revisits one of Robert Shaw’s most enduring rehearsal techniques, "Count Singing." Learn how this disciplined approach to rhythm, phrasing, and ensemble unity transforms both precision and expression, helping singers internalize metrical integrity before adding text. This week’s…

1
Taking Aim for the Future with BGC On Target | F1RST2KNOW 6:14

2M ago6:14

6:14

In this episode of First2Know, host Guy sits down with Alex and his daughter Emma from the Boys & Girls Clubs to talk about their upcoming OnTarget Shotgun Trap Tournament. Now in its third year, the event brings together sharpshooters and first-time participants alike for a day of camaraderie, competition, and community support at the Prescott Tra…

1
United in Song 30:26

2M ago30:26

30:26

Dr. Tracy Wong hails from Malaysia and is a choral conductor, music educator, composer, vocalist, and pianist. She is passionate about helping choral educators to provide unique experiences for their students through collaborative commissions, customized workshops, festivals, and artist residencies. She has conducted workshops for choirs in North A…

1
Rain or Shine Inside the Whiskey Row Marathon | F1RST2KNOW 16:21

2M ago16:21

16:21

In this episode of First to Know, we lace up for one of Arizona’s toughest and most inspiring event — the Whiskey Row Marathon. Host Elicia sits down with Jamie de Joseph, Race Director and YMCA leader, to talk about what it takes to organize and run this iconic race through Prescott’s hills. F1RST2KNOW is part of the CAST11 Podcast Network of Pres…

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Choral Director's Toolbox: Directors as Embodied Models Ep. 40 18:06

2M ago18:06

18:06

In Episode 40 of "The Choral Director’s Toolbox," guest presenter Dr. Jamea J. Sale, Director of the Institute for Healthy Singing & Voice Research, explores "Directors as Embodied Models: Seeing, Mirroring, and Sounding." Drawing on research in mirror neurons and motor learning, Dr. Sale explains how singers unconsciously mirror their conductor’s …

1
A Requiem for Water 28:19

2M ago28:19

28:19

Reena Esmail is the Los Angeles Master Chorale’s 2020-2025 Swan Family Artist in Residence, and was Seattle Symphony’s 2020-21 Composer-in-Residence. She also holds awards/fellowships from United States Artists, the S&R Foundation, the American Academy of Arts and Letters, and the Kennedy Center.By inchoir

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Ep. 133 - Exploring and Celebrating Latin American Choral Music - Ryan Fellman 44:36

2M ago44:36

44:36

“The Spanish language is not treated with the attention and nuance that we often do for many of the languages used for singing auditions. There’s this myth that Americans can't make certain sounds, but in other rehearsals, we work really hard at intense French and German sounds. A lot of composers who aren't familiar with the language set the text …

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Yavapai College Harvest Fest: Pumpkins, Hayrides & More | F1RST2KNOW 15:16

2M ago15:16

15:16

Get ready for fall fun in Chino Valley! In this episode, we sit down with Marnee Zazueta, Dean of the Yavapai College Chino Valley campus and organizer of the annual Harvest Festival. From pumpkin patches and hayrides to a bustling beer garden, live music, and a kids’ zone, this family-friendly event has something for everyone. Marnee also shares i…

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Choral Director's Toolbox: Language of Spirituals Ep. 39 20:41

2M ago20:41

20:41

In Episode 39 of "The Choral Director’s Toolbox," host Dr. William Baker takes on "The Language of Spirituals," examining how conductors can approach this treasured repertoire with integrity, respect, and scholarship. From questions of dialect and diction to the politics of performance, Dr. Baker argues for historical authenticity over political co…

1
Skyward 27:24

3M ago27:24

27:24

Giselle Wyers (she/her/hers) is the Donald E. Petersen Endowed Professor of Choral Music at the University of Washington, where she conducts the award-winning University Chorale and teaches graduate and undergraduate courses in choral conducting and music education. Wyers is a leading national figure in the application of Laban movement theory for …

1
Price is Right Live in Prescott Valley | F1RST2KNOW 28:39

3M ago28:39

28:39

This week, Elicia Morigeau and Jessica Molyneux welcome Emmy Award–winning host Todd Newton, best known as the face of The Price Is Right Live!. Todd shares behind-the-scenes stories of touring with America’s favorite game show, his mentorship under Bob Barker, and what it feels like to bring generations of families on stage to win real prizes. Fro…

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Choral Director’s Toolbox: Don’t Hum the Pitch Ep. 38 16:49

3M ago16:49

16:49

In Episode 38 of "The Choral Director’s Toolbox," host Dr. William Baker warns against a common but harmful habit in "Don’t Hum the Pitch," explaining why silent preparation leads to healthier onsets, better focus, and more accurate ensemble singing. This week’s listener question takes on the challenge of balancing Christmas programming with pressu…

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