Program overview

Synthesize the most current advances in voice science, music psychology and conducting pedagogy with Westminster Choir College's Master of Choral Pedagogy program. Our program integrates the areas of choral pedagogy, voice science and music education philosophy to help strengthen a musicians' ability to lead efficient rehearsals, create expressive performances, and improve the tone and vocal health of their choral singers. This degree gives musicians the unique skills and pedagogy and supplements a traditional conducting or music education degree.

Admission requirements

James Jordan teaching a remote class

Online access to advanced instruction

Offered entirely online and exclusively at Westminster Choir College, the choral pedagogy program provides working musicians, with diverse backgrounds, from across the country and abroad, access to advanced instruction in choral pedagogy without having to relocate or compromise their career. Students can expect to study with exceptional faculty, including a Grammy-nominated conductor, recording artist and author, who bring their practical, industry experience to the classroom.

Common careers

Graduates of the choral pedagogy program will emerge as creative, thoughtful and technically proficient musicians who are able to work successfully with a variety of vocal ensembles consisting of varying ages and musical ability. 

Students will be prepared to explore careers as in-service choral educators (primarily middle school and high school), church musicians, and choir directors of other non-academic ensembles such as civic, community, and professional ensembles. 

Graduates already in an existing role within the profession will benefit from strengthened abilities and credentials as a result of the program’s curriculum which will allow them to become more effective in their current position.

Summer Choral Festival
Faculty member teaches virtually

Program requirements

This 31-credit, interdisciplinary area of study emphasizes pedagogical methodologies, and seeks to develop teaching musicians and their ability to improve the vocal health of choral singers, the efficiency of rehearsals and the potential of performances. 

Coursework will allow students to explore specific interests as they relate to their individual professional aspirations while maintaining a core curricular mission to prepare consummate musicians for professional work in all aspects of the field.

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Next steps

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Contact

James Jordan, D.Mus.

Professor; Director, Westminster Conducting Institute

Department of Choral Studies, Music Education and Sacred Music

Omega House

jjordan [at] rider.edu

609-921-7100, ext. 8197

B.M., Susquehanna University; M.M., Ph.D., Temple University; D.Mus. University of Aberdeen, Scotland

Academic Focus: Choral Studies

Gill Chapel, Westminster Wednesdays