Rider University :: newswire@Rider :: Westminster Collaborates with Chorus America

Westminster Collaborates with Chorus America to Publish “Conductors Count”

Westminster Choir College of Rider University has collaborated with Chorus America to publish “Conductors Count: What Chorus Boards, Music Directors, and Administrators Need To Know.” This is the first book of its kind to describe the multifaceted role of chorus music directors and to suggest strategies for building productive relationships throughout the organization.

A resource for everyone involved in running a chorus, “Conductors Count” is based on Chorus America’s ground-breaking study on conducting careers, which details the realities of today’s choral conductor. The study demonstrates how chorus leaders can forge relationships that put choruses and music directors on solid footing. It also points to significant transitions in artistic leadership for the choral field as a large number of founding directors move toward retirement. “Conductors Count” includes detailed information on leadership transitions, the search and selection process for a new leader and setting the course for success through a new music director’s all-important first year.

Westminster’s new director of choral activities, Dr. Joe Miller, was co-author of the book’s forward, and he also participated in its professional review panel.

“Conductors Count” is a ‘must-have’ book for every chorus, whether amateur or professional, large or small, church or community,” said H. Royce Saltzman, executive director of the Oregon Bach Festival and former president of the American Choral Directors Association. “Conductors, staff, and board members will find the clear guidelines useful and practical.”

The book will be available for purchase at Westminster’s online store at http://www.westminsterchoircollege.org.

Chorus America is the go-to organization for the North American choral community. Through leadership, advocacy, and essential programs, Chorus America strengthens choral organizations and prepares their leaders to contribute in meaningful ways to their communities. It provides access to industry leaders and delivers news, resources, and expertise in a myriad of accessible formats.

The organization’s acclaimed programs bring colleagues together to learn and collaborate in a friendly, supportive environment that promotes networking, information exchange, and shared goals. Chorus America speaks with a strong and unified voice to increase recognition of choral singing as an essential element of human society.

More than 1,600 choruses, individuals, music businesses and cultural organizations are members of Chorus America. This vital network includes conductors, composers, administrators, board members, music business executives, arts consultants, singers and choral music advocates.