New on the ACDA Podcast: Cultivating Lifelong Singers from High School to Community Ensembles

Summer may bring a change of pace for our rehearsal rooms, but the deep-rooted joy of choral singing doesn’t take a vacation. In the latest episode of the ACDA Podcast, we continue our ongoing “Why We Sing” series with an exploration of what it means to remain a singer throughout a lifetime—bridging the gap between high school graduation and adult community music-making.

Host Steve sits down with two National Repertoire & Resources (R&R) Chairs to discuss how we, as directors, can build a seamless pipeline for lifelong choral participation.

Preparing Students for the “Afterlife” of High School Choir

First, Steve welcomes Philip Brown, ACDA National R&R Chair for Senior High Choirs. Their conversation tackles a crucial shift in perspective: helping students see choir not just as a class period on their high school schedule, but as a core part of who they are.

Philip shares practical insights on:

• Shifting the Mindset: How to cultivate a lifelong identity as a singer before graduation.

• The Rise of Flexible Formats: Embracing the growing popularity of pop-up choirs and non-traditional, flexible community singing experiences.

• Removing Barriers: Strategic ways school programs can actively partner with local community ensembles to ease the transition for aging-out students.

The Essential Role of Community Choirs in Fostering Belonging

Next, Matt Hill, ACDA National R&R Chair for Community Choirs, joins the conversation to discuss the unique space adult ensembles occupy. Community choirs are often the vital connective tissue that keeps adults singing through every subsequent stage of life.

Matt and Steve dive into:

• Creating Spaces of Belonging: Why community choirs provide immense social value alongside artistic fulfillment.

• Inclusivity in Action: Welcoming singers of wildly diverse backgrounds and experience levels into a unified artistic vision.

• The Director’s Many Hats: A look behind the scenes at the administrative, emotional, and musical roles community choir directors play.

R&R Quick Picks: Repertoire for Meaningful Text Setting

Looking to update your score library? Both guests brought outstanding repertoire recommendations to this month’s episode, each demonstrating exceptional text setting:

• Philip’s Pick: Known by Grace Becker (Available via Graphite Publishing). A stunning, accessible choice for high school or collegiate ensembles.

• Matt’s Pick: i thank You God for most this amazing day by Christopher Aspaas (Available via J.W. Pepper). A deeply moving setting of the e.e. cummings poem, perfect for community or advanced choirs.

Critical ACDA Updates & Deadlines

The episode wraps up with important announcements regarding the upcoming 2027 National Conference:

• Honor Choir Auditions: Auditions for the 2027 National Honor Choirs—including our first-ever National Show Choir Honor Choir—officially open on September 1.

• Conducting Masterclasses: Applications for the 2027 Student Conducting Masterclass open September 1.

• Research Proposals: The call for proposals for the National Conference Research Poster Session is now open.

How to Listen

Join the Discussion: What strategies have worked for you in connecting your graduating seniors with adult community ensembles? Share your thoughts and continue the conversation in the comments below or over in the ACDA Podcast Listeners Facebook Group!