Beautiful choral tone quality rehearsal techniques of a director

Abstract

What is beautiful choral tone quality? What effective rehearsal techniques might be found if a successful high school choral director could be observed and interviewed? The primary goal of this study was to discover the strategy and technique used by a successful high school choral director to achieve a beautiful choral tone quality in his ensembles. This case study revealed that the participant, Matt (pseudonym), had outlined five basic areas of technique that affect beautiful choral tone quality. These areas are posture, breath control, tone quality or resonance factors, vowels, and vocal freedom. This study also found that Matt developed a strategic plan and process in teaching these skills. The data further revealed that his philosophy and method of teaching were contributors to his success. The participant had defined his "ideal" choral tone quality and his philosophy involved not only developing vocal excellence but developing the whole person. Matt stated that tone quality is affected by both. The results of this study should help to enlighten choral directors, vocal instructors, and the music education field in general on how one can conduct successful choral rehearsals that will bring about a beautiful choral sound.