Dear Listeners,

We’re excited to share that our new episode of The Choir Guys Podcast features the incredible Ryan Main, and it has officially dropped!

Ryan is an award-winning composer, conductor, and educator whose music has been performed at Carnegie Hall, national ACDA conferences, and by choirs across the globe. With dual master’s degrees from the Peabody Institute, his compositions balance timeless poetry, bold musical language, and emotional depth—making them favorites for choirs of all levels.

In this episode, you’ll hear about:

• Ryan’s journey from his early years in the classroom to becoming a respected composer and clinician.

• The founding of the Youth Chorus of Kansas City and the transformative impact it’s had on young singers.

• Why he launched Endeavor Music Publishing, and how the company is reshaping the way composers are supported and paid.

• Insights into what Ryan looks for as an editor and how he balances publishing, teaching, and composing.

We also dive into fun behind-the-scenes stories—including Ryan’s close friendship with Danny.

This episode blends inspiration, practical advice, and plenty of laughs. It’s one you won’t want to miss!

Listen now on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts!

💬 Got questions or ideas for future episodes?
We’d love to hear from you! Email us at [email protected] or message us on social media @thechoirguyspod.

This week’s Teacher Tip Thursday comes from Dr. Jordan Cox, Director of Choral Activities at Missouri Baptist University.

Dr. Cox reminds us that one of the most effective classroom management strategies is built around the 3 Rs—and one of the most important is rigor. For choir directors, that means planning every moment of class and teaching bell to bell. While you don’t need to be leading every second, having a clear plan reduces downtime—and downtime is often when things can get off track.

For new and experienced teachers alike, this is a valuable reminder that strong routines and high expectations set the tone for success in rehearsal. As Dr. Cox puts it, rigor isn’t about making things harder, it’s about making things intentional.

Stay tuned every Thursday for more quick tips to inspire your teaching and strengthen your classroom!

👉 Watch Jordan’s Teacher Tip Thursday video below

Coming October 7: Susan LaBarr on The Choir Guys Podcast

Composer, editor, and all-around wonderful human Susan LaBarr joins us on The Choir Guys Podcast—dropping Tuesday, October 7. From her roots in Springfield, MO, to commissions with ensembles around the world, Susan’s story is packed with insight, humor, and practical wisdom for anyone who makes music with people.

What you’ll hear

• The journey: Growing up in Springfield, finding her voice, and the winding path to becoming Editor at Walton Music

• Craft & process: How she approaches a new commission from start to finish

• Mentorship that lasts: Lessons from studying with Alice Parker

• Publishing 101: What Walton looks for and how emerging composers can submit with confidence

• Life offline: Why she deleted social media and what that’s changed

Why this episode matters

Susan bridges artistry and industry—offering concrete takeaways for teachers, students, and composers alike. You’ll leave with ideas you can use in rehearsal Monday and encouragement to keep creating.

Listen & share

Set a reminder for Tuesday, October 7 and catch the episode on YouTube or wherever you get podcasts. Forward this to a colleague, composer friend, or your student chapter—they’ll thank you later.

Learn more about our incredible sponsors here: https://thechoirguyspod.weebly.com/our-sponsors