The Curriculum
Each CG Institute day begins at 7:30 am with a full breakfast and ends at 8:00 pm. The daily schedule includes Morning and Evening Prayer; classes in Worship; Choral Methods; Pedagogy; Rehearsal Strategies for Directors of Choirs with Young Singers; Developing Personal Musicianship and Pedagogical Skills; Conducting; Vocal Modeling; Special Topic Seminars; Repertoire Reading Sessions; and lunch/dinner conversations with faculty and assigned mentors.
Below are details from past years' curriculum as a sample of the types of courses offered. 2018 Curriculum is subject to change.
Worship Seminars
The Role of Children in Worship
Creative Ideas for Engaging Children in Worship
Children as Worship Leaders: Thinking Outside the Anthem Slot
Hymn Innovations for Choirs and Congregations
Telling the Story using ostinati, tableau, and spoken responses to engage all of God’s children
Worship as Faith Formation
Choral Methods
Choral Methods for Young Singers Year I, II, III (daily)
Pedagogy
Developing Personal Musicianship and Teaching Skills Year I, II, III (daily)
Choir Administration
Draw the Circle Wide (Recruitment Ideas)
We Are Called (Visioning and Discernment for Leaders in Music Ministry)
Administering Children's and Youth Choirs
Staff and Parish Relations
Working Effectively with Church Volunteers
Personal Musicianship/Skills
Conducting
Vocal Modeling
Drumming with Young Children, Drumming with Youth
Using Orff Instruments and Handchimes with Children's Choirs
Mentor Groups and Assignments, Unique to the Institute
Each participant is assigned to a 10-member mentor group led by a faculty member. Groups will meet twice during the Institute week. They work together, share, complete assignments, and build community and trust. Mentor groups and their designated faculty member remain together throughout the three years. Each year of the Institute includes assignments related to young singers and their choirs. Some assignments need to be completed during the summer weeks. Three assignments are due in the year between summers.
Helen Kemp Lecture and Banquet
The annual Helen Kemp Banquet is a special catered dinner that is a highlight of the Institute. During the festivities, Year 3 Graduates of the Certification Program will be recognized.
Morning and Evening Prayer Services
Daily Morning and Evening Prayer Services planned and led by participants.
Monday Opening worship