Programming

I just read a section about program selection.

Things I consider when programming:

1) Is the music appropriate?  Vocally and educationally.  It's one reason I rarely programmed multiple 3 or 4 part music for my 8th grade choirs in Arizona.  They were young enough that their ears still needed things that were partner songs or rounds.  I would much rather err on the safe side of difficulty level and have the group knock it out of the park than program something that is such a stretch it doesn't feel good to sing.

2) Is there a theme?  I don't always program with a theme in mind.  But sometimes I do.  It depends on my mood.

3) Is there a piece I just "have" to do?  If so, that becomes the anchor piece for the program.

4) Is there a variety of music from varying time periods?  I sometimes like to do chronologically determined concerts.  I don't do this often, but if I can find the right music and it makes sense to do it chronologically, then I will.  And then I inevitably make sure it's as interesting and informative as possible.

5) Is there a variety of music stylistically?  Articulation, tempi, key signatures, time signatures, etc.

6) How does the music move into the next piece?  I probably wouldn't program a piece in Ab major and then a piece in D minor.  It would probably be an odd transition and would sound jarring to the ear.  

7) Is there a story being told?  If I don't connect the music via theme or chronology, I like the program to tell a story.

8) Is the energy forward moving?

Ultimately, I always know when I have put together a program that is going to work.  I also know when I have put together a program that will be fine, but will require more selling to work.  I am very blessed that programming music has been something I have found extremely enjoyable and successful.  I credit my years of singing with Tim Peter, who was such a great programmer.  I learned from him.

I also think the energy of the program has something to do with the energy of the singers and conductor.  I have sung under directors that, because they are boring and dull, the music and concerts are boring.  You can tell as you are working your way toward the concert that it's going to be lackluster.

Those are just a few of my thoughts.