Date Created

5-2026

Document Type

Scholarly Project

Degree Name

Doctor of Arts

Department

College of Performing and Visual Arts, Music, Music Student Work

First Advisor

James Hall

First Committee Member

Wesley Broadnax

Second Committee Member

Reiner Kramer

Third Committee Member

Kirsten Gilderhus

Abstract

Despite more than a century of performance history, the clarinet choir remains an underrepresented ensemble in scholarly literature, with few comprehensive resources available to guide educators in starting and maintaining successful ensembles. This project addresses that gap by developing an evidence-based guide for starting and sustaining a clarinet choir. The study combines a review of existing literature on clarinet choir history, and repertoire, as well as relevant topics such as the history of the clarinet, wind conducting, and chamber music techniques. To supplement the limited published resources on clarinet choir, interviews were conducted with experienced clarinet choir directors from universities and community ensembles across the United States and Puerto Rico. Interview findings identified common challenges, including rehearsal scheduling, instrumentation, administrative responsibilities, and repertoire selection, while emphasizing the educational benefits of clarinet choirs, such as improved listening, intonation, chamber music skills, and studio community. The project also examines conducting practices, score study, seating configurations, and repertoire selection, culminating in a practical guide and curated repertoire list for directors. By synthesizing historical research, pedagogical literature, expert perspectives, and personal experience, the project provides the first comprehensive, research-based resource designed to aid educators, conductors, and clarinet choir enthusiasts in creating and maintaining successful clarinet choirs.

Abstract Format

html

Language

English

Extent

22 pages

Rights Statement

Copyright is held by the author.

Digital Origin

Born digital

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