Choristers Guild Institute 2026

Description

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. 

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 to show commitment to the 3-year program. Please email these letters to institute@choristersguild.org at time of registration.

Faculty and Contributors
A distinguished group of faculty will lead courses throughout the week. You will not want to miss personalized study with this group! Click each name below to learn more. 

• Emily Floyd
• Katie Houts
• Karol Kimmell
• Vincent Oakes
• Heather Potter
• 2026 Helen Kemp Lecturer: Lindy Thompson

 

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 & 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.

Housing
Housing is NOT included in registration fee, but we recommend making a reservation with Comfort Inn & Suites for a discounted rate:

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

To book your room at our discounted rate, click here.

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

Online Registration Deadline
Online registration for the Institute will close July 9. After that date, please contact our office (469-398-3606) regarding the Institute.

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.