Dear Listeners,

This week’s episode features one of the most beloved voices in the choral world — Susan LaBarr! Susan is an award-winning composer and choral editor whose works are performed by choirs around the globe. Her music has been published by Walton Music, MorningStar, and Santa Barbara, and she’s completed commissions for ensembles like Seraphic Fire, New York Polyphony, and the American Choral Directors Association.

In this conversation, Susan joins Blake and Danny for an episode filled with laughter, storytelling, and inspiration. From reflections on her creative process to hilarious memories of fetching corn and MySpace days, Susan brings both authenticity and humor to every moment. You’ll also hear about the experiences and mentors that shaped her writing, and her thoughts on what makes great choral storytelling.

Whether you’re a long-time admirer of Susan’s music or just love hearing from passionate, down-to-earth musicians, this is one episode 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. Andrew Crane, Director of Choral Activities at BYU.

Dr. Andrew Crane reminds us that, for many students, we are the only voice teachers they’ll ever have. That means warmups shouldn’t just be routine exercises—they’re prime teaching moments.

✅ Use warmups to teach solid vocal principles
✅ Reinforce those techniques later in rehearsal
✅ Build habits that make your singers stronger for the long run

Instead of quick “band-aid” fixes, train your students with tools they can carry into every piece of music they sing. Thank you, Dr. Crane, for this important reminder! 🙌

Coming October 21: Nathan Dame on The Choir Guys Podcast

In this episode, listeners will hear from Dr. Nathan Dame, Director of Choral Activities and Coordinator of Fine Arts at Wylie East High School in Texas — a program serving more than 1,200 singers from grades 6–12. Dr. Dame shares his journey from classroom teacher to national leader, his passion for building culture within tenor/bass ensembles, and his insights on vocal pedagogy for the changing voice.

You’ll also hear his thoughts on recruitment and retention, what makes a great tenor/bass choir, and some hilarious moments from his own classes along the way.

If you teach tenor/bass choirs or simply love hearing from passionate educators who lead with purpose and heart, you won’t want to miss this one.

🎧 The episode drops Monday, October 21 — wherever you get your podcasts!

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