Exploring children’s choir conductors’ perspectives on creating and sustaining a virtual choir during Covid-19 in South Africa

Abstract

This study aimed to explore children’s choir conductors’ perspectives on the virtual format their children’s choirs were forced to adapt to during severe restrictions imposed by the Covid-19 pandemic in South Africa. The literature review revealed that choir conductors and choristers across the globe had to adapt to rehearsing and performing in the virtual realm. A qualitative research approach utilising a collective case study design was employed. Through purposive sampling, four conductors of children’s choirs in South Africa were selected, with whom online semi-structured interviews were held. Additionally, participants were asked to complete an open-ended questionnaire to provide further data, allowing an in-depth and detailed understanding of their perspectives to be developed.