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Book Reviews
Book Reviews

arship and hard-earned experience. He generously vocation grounded in human connection. In a field that
shares examples from his own conducting life—includ- can often reward polish and perfection, this book dares
ing moments of struggle and growth—which resonate us to center vulnerability, curiosity, and care. It invites
with honesty and warmth. These reflections remind us us to lead with authenticity, to create spaces where sing-
learning and growth are lifelong parts of our journey, ers feel safe and seen, and to approach each rehearsal
and missteps are not failures, but invitations to refine not just as a task, but as an opportunity to build some-
our craft. thing meaningful, together.
So whether we lead a high school chorus, a commu-
nity choir, a worship ensemble, a university program Kenny Kabak
or something in between, The Conductor’s Toolbox meets Springfield, Missouri
us where we are and helps us move forward with in-
tention. It is not a manual filled with diagrams and
checklists but a wise companion—one that affirms the Berlioz’s Requiem
complexity of what we do and gently reminds us why Jennifer Walker
we do it. Oxford University Press, 2025
Beyond its practical value, The Conductor’s Toolbox Softcover, 144 pages, $18.99
serves as a quiet call to mindfulness. Sparks reminds
readers that conducting is not just a job or a skill, but a This publication is part of a series by Oxford Uni-

ACCENTS

Formal Dresses
Tuxedos & V ests
Neutral Separa tes

50 S t y le s i n S t o c k
f o r Q u ic k S hi p m en t

s t a g e a cce n t s. co m 800-631-1611

70 CHORAL JOURNAL September 2025 Volume 66 Number 2