Ryan Beeken
Do, Re, But What About Mi? Centering Singer Identity
Friday, March 6th 8:30am
Session Description
In our pursuit of musical excellence, do we sometimes lose sight of the singers behind the score? As choral educators, we know our craft - but the artistry of leadership often lies in how we connect, motivate, and inspire. In a time when change defines the educational and cultural landscape, this session invites a mindset shift: from focusing solely on the repertoire to focusing on the real reason our singers walk through the door.
Drawing on qualitative research featuring students' own words, we will explore wha the choral experience means to them - identity, joy, emotional refuge, friendship, transformation - and how we as conductors can build that meaning into every rehearsal. Through student-centered rehearsal design, imaginative solfège-based literacy strategies, and reflective leadership practices, participants will be equipped to create rehearsal environments where students feel valued, seen, and inspired.
Attendees will leave with practical tools and strategies to: 1) Redefine success through student motivation and connection, 2) Elevate musical interpretation through text-to-self and text-to-world engagement, 3) Inspire deeper commitment and joy through intentional leadership, and 4) Embrace their role as a changemaker in the lives of young singers.
This session empowers conductor-teachers to embrace a new way forward - one where great artistry begins by honoring the "Mi" at the center of "Do-Re-Mi."
Clinician Bio
Dr. Ryan Beeken is Director of Choral Activities and Associate Director for the School of Music at Wichita State University, where he conducts the Concert Chorale and Madrigal Singers, teaches conducting and literature, and oversees the choral area. He holds degrees from Drake University and Michigan State University. His choirs have performed at ACDA and NAfME conventions, and he is regularly engaged as a guest conductor and clinician across the U.S. and internationally. Beeken has led over 70 honor choirs in 22 states and abroad, including Austria, Ireland, Estonia, and Oman. He currently serves on the national board of ACDA as Chair for Student Chapter Development and has held leadership roles at the state and regional level. Prior to WSU, he taught at Indiana University of Pennsylvania, Michigan State, and in K–12 public schools.