She recorded vocals for World of Warcraft. She sang on film scores. She spent over two decades shaping the voices of young girls through Northwest Girl choir. And her very first date with her husband? A Seattle Men’s Chorus holiday concert — in 1989.

Now, more than thirty years later, she’s stepping onto the podium of Seattle Women’s Chorus as its first female resident conductor.

Beth Ann Bonnecroy didn’t just find her way into choral music. She built a life inside it — note by note, voice by voice, season by season.

Today, she’s talking about legacy. What we inherit. What we pass on. And why the most powerful music is the kind that makes you feel, less alone.

Show Note:

Beth Ann’s journey with choral music @ 0:00

Beth Ann shares how she first got involved with the Seattle Men’s Chorus and Seattle Women’s Chorus through a date with her husband in 1989. She has been deeply connected to these choral groups for over 30 years, both as a singer and now as the first female resident conductor of the Seattle Women’s Chorus.

The power of choral music @ 8:10

Jennifer and Beth Ann discuss the profound impact of choral music, both for the singers and the audience. They describe the sense of community, joy, and emotional connection that comes from singing together in a choir. Beth Ann emphasizes the importance of choosing meaningful repertoire and helping singers embody the music.

Choirs as a source of support and wisdom @ 14:09

Beth Ann shares how the Seattle Women’s Chorus has become a supportive community for its members, providing a space for women to connect, share their experiences, and draw on the collective wisdom of the group. She describes how the chorus has helped members navigate personal challenges, such as supporting a transgender child. 

The conductor’s role in shaping the choral experience @ 25:00

As the conductor, Beth Ann discusses the responsibility she feels to choose repertoire that is meaningful and uplifting, and to help the singers perform it with authenticity and emotional commitment. She also emphasizes the importance of being a “non-anxious presence” and empowering the singers to work collaboratively.

The value of singing and community for all @ 30:10

Beth Ann encourages anyone who has the desire to sing, regardless of their experience or skill level, to find a choir or singing group in their community. She emphasizes the mental, physical, and social benefits of singing together, and the importance of experiencing the sense of community and shared purpose that choral music can provide.

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