— My Philosophy
More Than Conducting: The Art of the Animateur
“I define myself as a Conductor-Animateur because my goal is to enliven—to bring the subject to life. I facilitate singers to transform their natural musical knowledge into actively engaged, meaningful music-making.”
I believe that leading a choir goes far beyond keeping time. It is about breathing life into sound.
While my background is in conducting, I identify primarily as an Animateur—someone who enlivens, encourages, and promotes the artistic spirit. My goal is not to impose power over a choir, but to lead with presence. I facilitate an environment where singers and leaders can transform their innate musical knowledge into actively engaged, meaningful music-making.
When we conduct, we are not just directing traffic; we are awakening the singer from the inside out.
— The Vision
The "Voice First" Vision
My philosophy is built on a simple, non-negotiable truth: We are all born with a musical instrument.
The voice is the foundation of all music education. It is instantly accessible, cost-effective, and deeply personal. Because of this, I operate under a “Children First, Voice First” rationale. My mission is two-pronged:
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No Child Left Behind: There is no excuse for a child to be excluded from music education when they carry their instrument with them everywhere they go.
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Singing as a Universal Language: I am deeply committed to making singing a socially acceptable, celebrated endeavor for everyone—especially young boys—ensuring they engage with music through primary school, college, and beyond.
— Let the children sing. Let us sing.
A Somatic Approach: Singing from the Inside Out
Music does not happen in a vacuum; it happens in a body.
I advocate for a somatic, holistic approach to choral education. In today’s world, we often disconnect the mind from the body, but a singer cannot afford this separation. The body is the casing for the instrument; breath is the life force of the sound.
My teaching treats physical movement and vocalization as one and the same. By integrating the body, mind, and human spirit, we achieve a “oneness” in sound that feels natural rather than forced. This is an informal, integrated approach—artistry that is nourished at a level of excellence from day one, not through rigid drilling, but through relaxed, energetic, and engaging discovery.
— Everyone Belongs
Excellence Without Auditions
There is a misconception that “inclusive” means “low standard.” I have spent my career dismantling that myth.
I believe in the innate potential of every singer. Whether working with children, the “accidental choral director,” or seasoned musicians, my approach remains the same: I treat the singers as artists.
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Repertoire Matters: We choose music that allows singers to explore how they think, move, and act in the world—music that is meaningful, not just trending.
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The Process is the Magic: We build relationships beyond the notes. We discuss the text. We interpret the meaning. We allow vulnerability.
When you remove the barrier of auditions and replace it with high expectations and genuine support, you create a space for personal fulfillment and extraordinary musical results.
— Everyone Belongs
Empowering the Teacher
Many choral leaders feel isolated, or they find themselves leading a choir without formal training—the “Accidental Choral Director.”
My work is designed to bridge the gap between musical skill and leadership confidence. I want to help conductors and teachers understand that gesture is a manifestation of the music. I want to move you from uncertainty to inspiration.
When we understand the why of what we do—not just the what—we leave the rehearsal room feeling uplifted, awakened, and ready to bring the music to life.