In early 2014, FSV conductor Sophia Papoulis and composer Jim Papoulis were invited, on separate occasions, to conduct Professional Development workshops in different parts of the United States and Canada. As they each reflected on what they could offer in a full-day or multi-day workshop for a room full of music educators, they discovered that with their various skills combined, they might be most effective approaching these Professional Development days as a team.
Sophia and Jim offer a comprehensive workshop that can be catered to any timeframe or schedule, in addition to catering to each audience, which have included both vocal and instrumental music educators teaching all ages. With his expertise in rhythm, world music, and composition, Jim offers a unique viewpoint on engaging ensembles through world music, and Sophia breaks it down pedagogically to offer suggestions on how you can transfer this knowledge to an ensemble of any age or skill level.
Throughout the experience, teachers and conductors will be offered breakout sessions to:
- study repertoire and programming
- learn rhythmic and vocal exercises across multiple voicings and ability levels
- sing through new music in reading sessions
- engage in round-table discussions
Where available, Sophia and Jim will lead a demonstrative rehearsal with a model chorus made available by the district or organization, and offer opportunities for a question-and-answer session.
For more information, or to book a Professional Development workshop at your district or organization, contact us at smallvoices@gmail.com.