What does one learn from four years of membership in a choral collective? Julian reflects on his experiences and looks forward to performances by two such ensembles, C4 and Triad.
This article explores techniques for voicing a choir. Since we know that the vocal mid-range is the best place to begin, why assign a young singer to a certain part and keep them there for years? By moving people around, we build their skills for the long-term.
This article presents a list of titles from Independent/Digital Music Publishers that are well worth exploring. It is a companion piece to an article in the Massachusetts ACDA Spring 2018 Newsletter.
Reflections on my residency with the Blue Valley Northwest Choirs and Symphonic Orchestra as they premiered Redemption Mass.
A few thoughts on prioritizing the life of a musician. I'm busy, but the best kind of busy. Sometimes, I need to remember why I do what I do, rather than just focusing on how little time I have to do it.
This jazz-inspired arrangement of Wade in the Water features a fantastic accompaniment that is written so that no improvisation is necessary (though in this style, it is always welcome). A cambiata part is included, and the arrangement is designed for maximum flexibility--SA, SSA, TB, SAB, SACB, and unison are all possible. I will donate half of my proceeds from this arrangement to the NAACP Legal Defense Fund.
Alabama Gal combines the classic tune—originally known as Buffalo Gals, but who in Alabama wants to sing that?—with The Banjo and Morte! Lamentation by America's first rock star (aka composer), Louis Moreau Gottschalk (1829-1869). It includes opportunities to learn about counting sixteenth notes, singing arpeggiated triads, changing tempos, and the wild story of Louis Moreau Gottschalk. If you have a young choir and want to show off a fantastic accompanist, Alabama Gal is guaranteed to bring down the house!
Read about Julian's experience at Massachusetts ACDA Summer Conference 2017, and how being a part of Triad: Boston's Choral Collective has influenced his teaching choices at Curry College.
Julian Bryson’s compositions categorized by ensemble type and voicing. Explore and find something that your choir might enjoy!
A Parable of Choices wins the Yale Glee Club 2017 Emerging Composers Competition. Learn more about the work and its premiere.