Master of Music - Choral Conducting
The graduate choral conducting program at Missouri State University empowers students to discover and refine the techniques and knowledge necessary to be an effective leader at the podium.
Led by Dr. Cameron LaBarr, students learn in one-on-one environments enhanced by group discussions of musical and personal leadership.
Topics covered in the choral conducting program
- Advanced conducting techniques
- Repertoire selection and programming
- Score study and preparation
- Rehearsal preparation and execution
- Principles of leadership
- Psychology of rehearsal
Graduate choral conducting students will gain experience through working with all Missouri State University Choirs. These experiences will range from leading sectional rehearsals to teaching repertoire from first read through as well as performing at concerts throughout the year.
Choral ensembles include
Collegiate Singers is a small mixed ensemble directed entirely by graduate choral conducting students under the guidance of a faculty advisor. Through the rehearsal process and performance, the conductors strengthen skills of repertoire selection, rehearsal technique, rehearsal planning and calendaring, and artistry.
Career preparation
The graduate choral conducting program is designed to prepare students for conducting careers in various contexts particularly educational, professional, community and church settings immediately following graduation. This program will also prepare students for doctoral study.
Electives are flexible and allow for a customized experience for each student.
Graduate assistantships are available and include a full tuition scholarship and a competitive stipend.
Apply here
- CV/Resume.
- Statement of Purpose.
- Video recordings (face to the camera) of both rehearsal and performance.
- Three letters of recommendation.
Meet your choral faculty
Dr. Cameron LaBarr
Director of Choral Studies
Dr. Cameron LaBarr is Director of Choral Studies and the Clif and Gail Smart professor in music at Missouri State University. He earned the MM and DMA from the University of North Texas where he studied with Jerry McCoy and Richard Sparks. Dr. LaBarr has an international reputation as conductor, clinician, and choral juror across North America, South America, Europe, Africa, and Asia, and serves as board member for the International Federation for Choral Music.
Dr. Erin Plisco
Associate Director of Choral Studies
Dr. Erin Plisco is the Associate Director of Choral Studies at Missouri State University, where she conducts multiple choirs and teaches undergraduate and graduate choral conducting and literature. She is a frequent guest clinician across the United States and abroad, and has presented at state, regional, and national conferences of the American Choral Directors Association.
Email: ErinPlisco@MissouriState.edu
