Episode 23 - ACDA St. Olaf College Interview
In May 2023 Philip made a guest appearance at an event hosted by the Minnesota chapter of the American Choral Directors Association at St. Olaf College, to speak with students interested in choral directing and choral music composition.
The host and interviewer is Therees Hibbard, director of the Manitou Singers and the St. Olaf Chamber Singers. Episode 23 is their conversation, which covers a wide range of topics — several of which we’ve discussed here on Renaissance Man before; especially when Philip dives into his early career with the Minnesota Orchestra (1964-1969), and a particular sojourn with George Schick to the Metropolitan Opera, in the summer of 1969.
But, if you’ve ever wanted to ask Philip what qualities he likes in a singer, or how he’d suggest becoming a successful professional conductor, stick around. And you’ll be pleasantly surprised by his response to the question: “What’s one thing you wish you had known before starting a career in music?” It’s a fascinating conversation with lots of useful insights for those curious about choirs, choral direction and commissioning music for choir.