IN PURSUIT OF MUSICAL EXCELLENCE

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While reading John Yarrington's collection of essays, I felt as if I were in conversation with a wise friend and an inspiring teacher. His dedication to the choral craft is evident on every page, shaped by a lineage of legendary choral leaders. Yarrington's distinctive voice and significant contributions shine through as he hosts various choral luminaries and cultural voices, incorporating impactful quotations and unpublished notes. He balances the inspirational with the practical, focusing on eliminating non-essential elements to reveal the essence of a work. In his introduction, he expresses his desire to be "renewed, reminded, [and] encouraged," and this collection consistently fulfills that promise, deepening my appreciation for choral music. With over 50 years of experience, Yarrington shares his observations and those of his mentors in a concise manner. He emphasizes that "what is not efficient needs to be eliminated," whether in words or actions, and highlights that "singing is relational," urging conductors to care for both the music and the musicians. The book offers practical rehearsal strategies, discussions on musical examples, programming advice, and the importance of text. Chapter 1 features a series of thought-provoking quotations that could spark excellent discussions. This book is a valuable resource for both aspiring conductors and seasoned musicians, providing practical reminders in a kind and humorous way.