The impact of the governance committee is far-reaching—the character of a board and indeed the effectiveness of the organization itself, emerge from its efforts.

Guidelines on the financial reports you need from your accountant—and when—to be an effective steward of your chorus.

Call it what you will—networking, hobnobbing, rubbing elbows—it is a skill that everyone should know how to do, even choral singers.

In his recent book egonomics: what makes ego our greatest asset (or most expensive liability), co-author Steven Smith explores the power of ego to enhance communication and organizational effectiveness. Because choruses, like many arts organizations, are comprised of community boards and often little or no staff—all led by an artistic director whose vision, talent, and charisma play a major role in galvanizing and motivating the activities of singers, board, and staff—the quality of communication among them is vital to organizational health. Smith elaborates on how ego can be harnessed to foster effective communication.

Providing financial oversight for your chorus is a critical role with many facets—learn about the challenges and rewards of effective stewardship.

So, it's your turn: You have been asked to step into the role of board chair. But what will be expected of you? How can you be sure that you can provide the leadership needed? How can you fulfill the expectations outlined in the job description? We explore top traits of board leaders, how to motivate your team, and crafting productive partnerships among your staff.

A mission statement that articulates not just who you are but why you matter will help your chorus stand out in the eyes of potential singers, audiences, and donors.

As chorus leaders you make important decisions annually, monthly, even daily, that affect the future of your organization. In doing so, be sure to consider context, both internal and external, as you make your choices. What are other choruses doing? What are others in the broader nonprofit community doing? What have we ourselves been doing and how might we do it better? We discuss how others have used the Chorus America Chorus Operations Survey Report to inform their decisionmaking.

Artistic leadership of a chorus is both an individual balancing act and a highly collaborative endeavor.

If your day is spent managing a chorus, then you know all too well how Murphy’s Law and the ongoing needs of your staff and board can exacerbate the ability to get your own work done.