The Choristers Guild Institute is a three-year training program for leaders of children's and youth choirs (K-8) in churches and church schools. Each summer, participants receive week-long, intensive instruction and mentoring from a faculty composed of outstanding teachers and clinicians. Alumni sessions are also available for those who wish to continue to expand their skills.

The training process is designed to strengthen directors’ musical and instructional skills and to equip them to effectively integrate children in worship. Graduates of the program become part of a close and supportive nationwide network of Institute alumni.  

"The Choristers Guild Institute is so much more than a music conference. Along with music-focused classes like vocal pedagogy and conducting, participants explore the other key pieces of a vibrant music ministry - worship and rehearsal planning, effective leadership, program-building, and more. Whether you're a volunteer director or someone with an advanced degree, everyone finds a warm welcome at CGI. We return to our unique ministries feeling called, capable, and connected to a community of life long CGI friends."

Katie Houts
Choristers Guild Sacred Choral and Curriculum Editor

Who Should Attend

The Institute is designed for choir directors who are leading young singers, K-8, in a Christian church or school setting, and those preparing to be full-time, part-time, or committed volunteer directors.  Music students in college or graduate school are also welcome. As always, institute alumni who completed all three years are invited to return for renewal and inspiration. 

A degree in music is not required, but musical literacy is fundamental to success as a participant in the Institute. First-year participants should submit a letter of support from a supervisor or staff member. Please email these letters to institute@choristersguild.org at time of registration.

2026 Faculty

A distinguished group of faculty will lead courses throughout the week. You will not want to miss personalized study with this group! 

Curriculum

With classes geared expressly for those teaching and directing children’s choirs, you will finish the week with:
•    Understanding of choral methods, pedagogy and conducting 
•    Experience planning choir rehearsals
•    Full toolbox-for-teaching
•    Solid repertoire suggestions
•    Setting up a rehearsal room w/ visuals
•    Ideas for shaping a choir program
•    Colleagues and mentors for the future

Schedule

View a sample conference schedule here. Note the beginning and ending times as you plan your travel, Monday 12:00 pm - Thursday 12:30 pm.

Join us for the Wednesday afternoon Seminar, Reading Session, and Celebration Dinner! 

Guests who are not registered for the whole week are invited to join us Wednesday for a trio of these events from 4:00 – 7:30 pm.  Our Helen Kemp Lecturer, Lindy Thompson, will lead the 4:00 seminar and present her lecture during the celebration dinner. Our celebration also includes honoring our attendees and graduates. You may register online separately to join us Wednesday afternoon; the cost is $35 a person.  If you are registered for the whole week, this event is covered in your program fee.  

Scholarships

A limited number of scholarships are available for year one attendees only. To learn more and apply, click here.

Registration Deadline

Registration for the Institute will close July 9. However, we encourage participants to register as early as possible.  

Registration Reimbursement

Through July 1: Full reimbursement, minus $40 processing fee.
After July 1: No reimbursement available, but tuition paid can be transferred to next year’s Institute.

Conference Hotel

Comfort Inn & Suites
111 Penn Warren Dr
Brentwood, TN 37027

To book your room at our discounted rate, click here. Reservations will be taken through June 30th.  

REGISTER

If you have questions about the Institute, contact us at institute@choristersguild.org.