Elements of excellence: A study of musical and non-musical factors common within non-conservatory college and university choral programs recognized for excellence

Abstract

This study explores commonalities found within six non-conservatory college/university choral programs recognized for excellence within art of choral performance. The study provides areas of reform for other choral directors in an effort to further develop choral singing in post secondary institutions of the United States. The participating institutions were selected by a survey of their peers and were limited, by category, as delineated by the Carnegie Foundation. The institutions chosen for participation include: Concordia College, St. Olaf College, Northern Arizona University, San Jose State University, Florida State University and The University of Illinois Champaign-Urbana. Interviews with the Directors of Choral Activities and of the Directors of the Schools of Music are used to collect musical and non-musical information. The author has provided a discussion of commonalities, recommendations for reform, and a literature compilation of the selected institutions choral performances, as a reference guide for current choral conductors. Areas of discussion include: rehearsal technique, literature, collaboration, funding considerations, and administrative concerns.