African American Choral Literature

The study, teaching, and performance of African American choral literature stands as a defining thread throughout Dr. Barber's artistic and scholarly life.

A Sustained Commitment

Dr. Barber's work in this field draws together conducting, teaching, and scholarship — situating repertoire within its historical and cultural context and advocating for its rightful place in the choral canon.

Guiding Questions

Cultural Context

Understanding repertoire within the histories and communities that shaped it.

Diversity & Representation

Broadening whose voices and works are heard, studied, and celebrated.

Pedagogy

Teaching this literature with depth, accuracy, and care.

This focus area is taught as part of Dr. Barber's course, African American Choral Literature, at Yale.