As choral directors, we are always exploring ways to recruit and retain singers in school choral ensembles. When growing choral program in all settings, it is helpful to consider the following three opportunities: 1) exploring and/or modifying program structure in order to meet the needs of the community/school; 2) identifying and connecting with prospective singers; and 3) creating engaging musical experiences in choral ensembles that encourage singer retention. Focusing on identifying and developing recruitment efforts that appeal to the broader community and at all musical levels, this session will include strategies to make meaningful connections in order to build and grow a choral program. In regard to the program structure, it is beneficial to evaluate the current offerings to make sure that the choral ensemble opportunities reflect the priorities and needs of the community and/or school. The clinician will provide a philosophical framework and specific strategies for exploring ensemble configuration and musical content that helps to engage prospective singers. Further, singer retention is one of the most effective ways to build and grow a choral program. The singers have already joined the ensemble. How can we, as choral directors, do our best to deliver meaningful rehearsal and performance experiences so singers continue to participate year after year? Dynamic and engaging rehearsals involving high quality, culturally relevant repertoire and a variety of rehearsal strategies help to engage singers and further develop a program. All singers have something wonderful to offer the ensemble and we have something to offer all of the singers. As conductors, we can work to find meaningful ways to connect with singers from all different backgrounds and previous musical experiences.
Recruiting and Retaining Singers: Building the Present, Planning the Future
×
Jennifer Sengin
University of Missouri–Kansas City
Jennifer Sengin serves on the choral faculty at the University of Missouri-Kansas City where she leads the graduate choral conducting program and conducts the flagship ensemble, Conservatory Singers, and the Choral Union. In addition to ensembles, Dr. Sengin teaches graduate choral conducting and choral literature. She recently participated as a Conducting Fellow with ACDA’s International Conductor Exchange Program to Germany. Choirs under her direction have won the American Prize and were invited to perform at the NCCO Conference and GMEA conference. An active guest conductor, clinician, adjudicator, and presenter, Dr. Sengin has conducted honor choirs across the country.
