BTW Philip, thanks for the Blog.  We post some of the items on our chorus Facebook page. Both entertaining and informative.

 

I think Choralnet already provides an excellent forum for the exchange of ideas and as a resource for information on an International stage.  I'd be careful about putting too many more bells and whistles on it.  The new structure works well although I still find the mechanism for posting a little cumbersome but not a big deal.  I'd love to see Choralnet focus a little more on its International scope as it is pretty dominated by USA.  Perhaps there are other resources available but knowing what's going on in other cultures and being able to tap into those resources could be valuable.   Maybe more collaboration with IFCM?    Otherwise its a great resource and I suggest going slowly about any modifications.

One of my hopes is that we can create more and more groups for improved networking and communication. This would be particularly productive for various Repertoire and Standards (R&S) groups or "families" .  This could be great to create new alliances across states and divisions. It would also be a great way to involve more and more choral directors, and it would not be limited to ACDA members. 

Tim and I and Philip are together in developing a system that will enhance communication up and down the ACDA organizational structure as well as across geographic and organzational boundaries.  Like many users, I think there are some things we're doing well and some things that can be improved.  There are big changes in the works - not so much in the "bells and whistles" category but rather in the development of tools that will make sharing information much easier.  And as far as the international scope, that is not being neglected either.  We actually have many non-US registered users.  What we hope to do is develop a system that will be useful to organizations such as IFCM for their networking.

I would agree about the blog, Philip--even when I don't sign in or have time to read anthing else, I turn to the blog! Keep it the way it is--I love the variety.

 

I would really like to have y'all try to connect us, locally, even more.  There was talk when we switched to the new format in April about state/region groups--I think it was made to appear we would be able to sign up for our local groups.  For example, I live in the Chicagoland area and I could sign up for Chicago, Illinois and Midwest "news"---concerts, etc.--or maybe our own forum, within the forum.  I've met a few people due to ChoralNet and its other forms through the years (I've been a member since 1994, I think), in my area.  These are people I've heard about or knew about but wouldn't have had a chance to meet if it were not because of this wonderful group.  Local ACDA chapters are great but this an even better way of connecting and networking.

 

I think you are doing a wonderful job and ChoralNet keeps evolving.....I think it should ALWAYS be evolving....with new technology and new people joining our profession, it should be!

 

Now, I've having a second cup of coffee--cream and sugar, gentlemen?

 

Marie