Frequently Asked Questions

Who usually attends the Choral School - Is this for me?

The Choral School is designed for adult conductors of all abilities. Over the past 11 years, we have attracted approximately 35% high school conductors, 35% church choir conductors, 25% college choir conductors and 5% strictly community choir conductors. As you might expect, many of our participants conduct a variety of different choirs.

Though the curriculum pertains primarily to high school and older choirs, we have had a limited number of elementary and junior high conductors attend.

The educational background of participants has ranged from doctoral degrees to untrained conductors volunteering to conduct their church choirs.

We pride ourselves on the respectful and collegial atmosphere we establish during the week. We have fun during the week learning and laughing with each other.

Can I stay in the dorm or apartment if I arrive early or depart late?

The Choral School is scheduled so that individuals flying into Fargo can take advantage of a Saturday overnight and receive a less expensive plane fare. You are welcome to arrive early or depart late to accommodate your travel schedule. If you would like to book your dorm or apartment for additional nights, please let us know the specific evenings you will require housing. The fee for additional nights of housing is only $45 per additional night regardless of the housing option you select. The housing fees on the registration form include the evenings of July 23,24,25,and 26th.

When exactly does the Choral School start and end?

Our first downbeat is 12:45 p.m on Saturday, July 23rd. The Choral School is done mid afternoon of July 27th

When is the Shuttle Van available and How do I spot the van driver at the airport?

We operate our own shuttle van and we make it available at any time to accomodate your travel to and from the Fargo International Airport. We often times shuttle people leaving on flights departing as early as 5:30 AM. Our shuttle van driver will be holding a René Clausen Choral School sign and will be looking for you since you will have forwarded your complete flight arrival and departure information.

We are unable to offer shuttle service to and from campus during the week. If you require this, we recommend renting a car.

NOTE: We do not offer shuttle service to and from either Sioux Falls, SD or Minneapolis. Both cities are approximately 4 hours from our location.

Can my spouse come with me and what would their expense be?

Non-participating spouses are welcome to come to the Choral School with you. They will find the facilities excellent for relaxing, reading or just hanging out on a small campus. The library is available during the Choral School. Their only expense will be their housing fee and meal fee (should they choose the meal plan). The shuttle van fee may also apply.

Deposit timeframe, balance due payments and the Early Byrd fee...

The time at which we receive your $150 deposit determines whether you receive the Early Byrd tuition fee and the order in which your 'housing style' request will be filled. If you have your heart set on single apartment style housing, send your deposit check in immediately as this is our most limited style of housing and is determined on a first come first served basis.

Your balance due (as defined by your confirmation letter) will be collected on July 18th during registration. We are unable to accept credit cards.

If I arrive early or depart late, what are my food options?

Fast food restaurants and a grocery store are a 10-minute walk from campus. The campus cafeteria is also open and will serve you meals beyond our 'meal plan.' We do not need to know your extra meal plans in advance as this will be your responsibility.

What is there to see and do in the Fargo/Moorhead area?

For more information on what to see and do, please visit the Fargo-Moorhead Convention and Visitors Bureau website.

What are my options for Internet access?

There are active RJ45 Ethernet ports in all campus housing which will require an Ethernet cable to connect your computer. We do not provide cables. At this time, there is no wireless access on campus. Wireless access is available from various coffee shops located north of campus.

The college library has a computer lab. The reference librarian can provide you with a temporary login and password to gain access.

Are there pots and pans and dishes in the apartments?

Though the apartments have full kitchens with refridgerators, stoves and ovens, they do not have pots, pans or dishes. You are welcome to bring a simple pan for warming foods. A grocery store is only a 15-minute walk from campus. The apartments do not have microwaves or toasters.

Can I pay with my credit card?

At this time, we are not set up to accept credit cards for either tuition or in our Choral School Store.

What is the the Choral School Store all about?

We provide an excellent service to our participants by providing and awesome selection of hard-to-find choral, organ, classical, and vocal recordings. We also stock several hand-selected resource books useful to the choral conductor. Last year the store was a huge success and we intend to extend our selection to serve your needs. Please consider bringing a personal check or either a church or school purchase order number with you so that we can bill you for items you choose to purchase for your professional needs.

Do I need to learn my music before arriving?

More information to come regarding this question.

I've never been to Minnesota - what will the temperature be like?

Temperatures could range from the mid 70's to mid 90's. Though it is not typical, we may have high humidity. It is also possible that it may rain. Since there is some walking from the reheasal facilities to the food service and your housing, an umbrella is recommended. View the current weather in Moorhead. (note: this opens in a new window)

I have read the above. Now what if I have a different question?

Please contact Gordon Moe, coordinator of the Choral School, by calling (218) 486-5601.