Musical Inspiration
The items posted on this page are meant to encourage, challenge, and inspire young musicians! These are some of my favorite musicial groups/musicians. Click on the pictures for links to their music.
Pentatonix
Pentatonix is an a cappella group from Arlington, TX. They won the 3rd season of The Sing Off and haven't slowed down since. They arrange and perform popular songs on youtube (Beyonce, Ariana Grande, Daft Punk, etc.) This track is an awesome arrangement of the classic piece, "Carol of the Bells."
Western Michigan University Choirs
The Western Michigan University choirs have been making excellent music for over 100 years. This group is globally recognized and respected. Take a listen to WMU's University Chorale under the direction of Dr. Kimberly Dunn Adams. "The Long Road," "Love thrisewise 1. Licquor and Lacquer," and "More I Cannot Wish You" are my favorites on this list.
You may recognize the female soloist in the last one!
Western Michigan University Gold Company
Gold Company, currently under the direction of Greg Jasperse, is a globally known and respected vocal jazz group of students at Western Michigan University. They have earned many awards, including 45 Downbeat awards, and have traveled all over the world. The track above, "Blue Rondo," was written by Grammy Award Winning Roger Treece who is affiliated with Bobby McFerrin. I have the first solo on this one as well!
Mormon Tabernacle Choir
This Grammy and Emmy award winning choir has been around for over 150 years and has over 300 members, who are all volunteers. They have traveled all over the world and collaborated with some amazing musicians, including Renee Fleming, Audra McDonald, and Natalie Cole. This is one of my favorite pieces: "My Shepherd Will Supply My Need."
Take 6
Take 6 is an American a cappella gospel, R&B and Jazz sextet. They have won several Grammy and Dove awards and have also collaborated with other musicians, including Whitney Houston, Quincy Jones, and Stevie Wonder. They have performed on many television shows including SNL and Sesame Street. Take a listen to one of my favorite tracks: "This is Another Day."
Noah Stewart
Noah Stewart is an American operatic tenor. He is originally from Harlem, NY and attended The Julliard School, which is also in NY. In 2012, he released his first album, "Noah," which reached #1 in the UK. Listen to his beautiful rendition of "Shenandoah."