Rehearsal Organizational Structures Used by Successful High School Choral Directors

Abstract

Methodology textbooks disagree as to the most effective type of organizational structure to be used in choral rehearsal. Previous research, while supporting the use of rehearsal structure, added little support to any of the advocated designs. The author of this study sought to determine the type of rehearsal organizational structure used by successful Ohio high school choral directors. Relationships between rehearsal structure and either teaching style or student attitude were investigated. Results indicated that one rehearsal organizational structure was used predominantly. Results also indicated that a positive attitude toward chorus surfaced among students of all directors included in the sample, regardless of rehearsal structure used. In addition, some commonalities were found in perceived teaching style. Implications for both teacher training and choral rehearsal design are discussed.