ACDA Award for Creative Programming
Sponsored by VocalEssence

The purpose for this award is to uphold high standards of excellence in repertoire selection, to acknowledge and reward creativity in performing choral performance, and to affirm the importance of quality secondary and undergraduate choral training throughout the State of Minnesota.

The Award for Creative Programming is presented annually in November by Philip Brunelle or a representative of VocalEssence to a non-professional choral organization in the state of Minnesota. Award selection will be made by a review committee determined by Mr. Brunelle. The decisions of the review committee will be final and the committee reserves the right not to make an award.

The winner receives a framed certificate and a $500 cash prize. The award alternates between two categories. In even years, college and university/community choruses, may apply; and in odd years, middle/junior high school and high school chorus may apply.

To be eligible the choir must fit the stated category, and the director must be a current member in good standing of ACDA of Minnesota. A winning director may not receive the award consecutively. Any choir meeting the entrance categories and the eligibility requirements is encouraged to apply.

The application packet must include:
• the name of the choir, (and supporting institution, if applicable)
• the director's name and home address
• the number of members in the choir (indicate whether auditioned or not)
• a concisely written statement regarding the choir's programming philosophy
• an original copy of each printed program for the most recently completed year of concerts
• a CD containing four (4) representative selections from the most recent year, performed by the ensemble applying for the award. Concert programs and CDs will not be returned.

Completed application packets must be postmarked no later than June 1 of each year and mailed to:
VocalEssence
ACDA Award for Creative Programming
1900 Nicollet Avenue
Minneapolis, Minnesota 55403