Were You There?

The gospel worship song, Were You There?, performed by the St. Petersburg College Madrigalians. This performance was part of the St. Petersburg College Concert Chorus' Spring Concert "The World of Randall Thompson". This version was arranged by Dr. Vernon Taranto, Jr.

Directed by Dr. Vernon Taranto, Jr.
Accompanied by Mr. Barry Stevens.

Sopranos: Elizabeth Drake, Eowyn Finch, Samantha Moyer, Deanna Sharp.

Altos: Jordan Collie, Shannyn Darroch, Juliann Robertson, Joan Shulkers.

Tenors: Joshua Carroll, Stephen Fee, Wayne McEvilly, Cameron Nobles, Kevin Pace.

Basses: Bruce Blowers, Charles Fastiggi, Christopher Janeda, David Thut, William West.

Category:

Music

Tags:

• Were
• You
• There

[Muffynz]

I'm afraid I must reiterate my point that you obviously have never sung with real chamber ensemble and have absolutely no idea as to what you are talking about.

[Muffynz]

Of all the conductors I have ever sung under this one was my favorite because he used a baton and actually knew how to properly use it. For complex choral instruction, it is a great aid.

Also, he has a history with the Air Force Band which uses a baton so old habits die hard.

[frogpink25]

one of my favorite performances of this song! fantastic job!

[prayn4daylighthc]

IF and this is a big I F - if your choral group needs the baton then your conductor FAILED at teaching you the music properly in the first place. It is always about ego.

[prayn4daylighthc]

IF and this is a big I F - if your choral group needs the baton then your conductor FAILED at teaching you the music properly in the first place.

[prayn4daylighthc]

I am very good and both spelling and grammar unless of course its when I am very tired. Yes it is the conductors choice to use a baton but it has been my experience that the baton is only used when the ego is involved. They couldn't get the real job they wanted conducting an orchestra so they over compensate by using the baton to conduct chamber. I cannot, I will not submit to your notion that using a baton is more effective in conducting choral ensembles.

[MrWoodard91]

@prayn4daylighthc Also, I've studied with that conductor for years now in various musical capacities and he has more talent and knowledge than anyone you will ever meet. So keep your ignorant and, I must stoop to pointing out, very inarticulately stated thoughts to yourself.

[MrWoodard91]

@prayn4daylighthc ...rather than multiple unclear points and tends to keep an ensemble in better time and closer intonation. This is not to say that one cannot successfully conduct with their hands, one can. But a baton is a VERY valid and probably more efficient and effective method of conducting a choral ensemble.

[MrWoodard91]

@prayn4daylighthc @prayn4daylighthc You need to learn how to spell. Also, grammar is a fun subject. You should study it sometime.

On the actual subject of choral directing, whether or not to use a baton is a conductor's personal preference. Either method is valid. However, I have heard of a study where performances of orchestras and choral ensembles were analyzed and those that were conducted without a baton went out of tune quicker and farther. A baton gives one clear reference point...

[MrWoodard91]

@prayn4daylighthc You need to learn how to spell. Also, grammar is a fun subject. You should study it sometime.

[MusicStudyMan]

@prayn4daylighthc Ignorant, simply ignorant.. You clearly have no idea what a baton or hands are used for in conducting nor the merits and weaknesses of both. Learn your subject before you criticise.