Conference Program

Nothing that begins in such division is likely to end well.
(Charles II: The Power and the Passion)

The choir represents a highly heterogeneous social ensemble. It brings together individuals from entirely different backgrounds, possessing disparate ideas, perspectives, and skill sets.

While this is true of choral singing in general, such characteristics are even more pronounced within university choirs (Van der Sandt J., Nardi C. 2024). By their very nature, these groups are subject to rapid turnover and draw from a much wider variety of origins than those typically found in standard cultural associations.

The choir is a perfect mirror of society. Individual tensions and seemingly insurmountable differences of opinion may exist; yet, to achieve the collective goal - the creation of an intangible sound as a conduit for beauty - all energies must converge towards concord. This pursuit requires two essential elements: the conductor’s clear artistic vision and the quality of listening (Correggia 2025). To be brought into existence, sound requires silence, and it is within silence that listening finds its fertile ground. Every chorister is aware of their specific role within the composition. A role defined by rests, moments of prominence, and, above all, cooperation (Pearce E. et al. 2015).

Meanwhile, the conductor bears the responsibility of providing a definitive interpretation, instructing the ensemble, and governing the community.

Drawing on a case study of the University of Trento Choir, I aim to reflect on how the teachings of the choral world can contribute to developing a better, more attentive, and more efficient society. Conversely, I intend to examine how a dysfunctional society can transmit vices and misconceptions which ultimately hinder the attainment of choral objectives.