INTERPRETING CHORAL MUSIC
From the last part of the twentieth century until today choral conductors have become increasingly
aware of stylistic considerations and performance practices. This chapter is intended to be a guide
to an understanding of the styles of the various musical periods. As brief a study as this must be
considered as an introduction to style; a door to a continued study that should never stop. One’s
understanding of style must be constantly reviewed as new information is gained through research.
General compositional characteristics are listed for each period. These represent general elements
of style with the understanding that exceptions are found throughout each period. Crosscurrents
exist in every style period. While the mainstream of composition may be going in one
direction, composers may also be found working in another direction. The final test is a thorough
examination of the music itself.
Performances of early music require each conductor to decide exactly how authentic he intends
the performance to be. A totally authentic performance, of course, is not possible since original
performance conditions are impossible to duplicate. Conductors must research performance practices
as carefully as possible and respond artistically to the musical implications of the score. This
may mean that instrumental substitutions must be made. It is the conductor’s responsibility to
make these substitutions as compatible as possible with the musical style of the work.
4.1.1.1 DISCUSSION