Four dynamic Conference plenary sessions will feature exciting speakers and provocative ideas. On Wednesday, Chorus America will welcome Garrison Keillor to kick off the Conference with a special, extended Sing! On Thursday morning, leading businesswoman Marilyn Carlson Nelson, chairman of Carlson, meditates on leadership and the importance of the arts in today’s world. Sought-after researcher Alan Brown, principal of WolfBrown, will explore the increasing interest in participatory art-making rather than passive observation as a strategy to address audience engagement on Friday. And on Saturday, instant Chorus America favorite Melanie DeMore will return after her memorable Morning Sing in San Francisco, to spend a full plenary session inspiring us with the power of spontaneous singing and choral music’s inherent ability to build community.

Plenary sessions are sponsored by ACFEA Tour Consultants.