The Choral Conductor as Teacher of Vocal Technique

This chapter considers how the choral conductor should teach vocal technique. Choral music is vocal music. The most efficient vocalism, whether from the solo singer or from the chorister, produces the most aesthetically pleasing vocal timbre. There is a history of conflict in American academic circles between the training of the solo voice and what is expected of a singer in the choral ensemble. Such conflict need not exist. Instead of making solo singers emulate the technical level of amateur voices, the choral conductor must work for a more efficient production from the less proficient singers. There cannot be one vocal timbre that encompasses the entire group, unless the choristers are imitating a single vocal model, thereby falsifying their own voices. It is not necessary for the choir director to be a performing singer, but he or she should be able to lead choristers to improved vocal proficiency. Dealing solely in musical matters will not accomplish that goal.