University Presentation Showcase: Graduate Poster Gallery
Preview
Creation Date
2026
Major
Choral Conducting
Department
Music
Degree
Graduate
Mentor
Richard Waters
Mentor Department
Music
Abstract
A Conductor’s Guide to Illuminare was developed in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the Master of Music degree in Conducting at Eastern Kentucky University, as well as for the Student Research and Creative Endeavors Travel Award Scholarship. This project was designed to support rehearsal preparation and performance practice in our roles as Graduate Assistants with the Eastern Kentucky University Choirs, under the direction of Dr. Richard Waters and Dr. Jill Campbell. As part of this experience, we accompanied the ensemble to perform at Carnegie Hall in New York City with National Concerts, under the direction of Grammy Award–winning conductor, Dr. Jeffery Redding.
This guide includes historical context of the text, detailed rehearsal strategies, formal analysis, solfège maps, rehearsal and performance applications from Elaine Hagenberg, insights drawn from an interview with Dr. Jeffery Redding, and techniques drawn from our experience studying and performing this masterwork on three different stages. Our goal is to provide a practical and comprehensive resource for conductors preparing this work. Collectively, we have performed Illuminare across a variety of settings, including the piano, chamber, and orchestral versions, which has allowed us to develop a thorough and nuanced understanding of the piece. We hope this guide will serve as a valuable tool for conductors seeking both analytical depth and practical rehearsal approaches.
