The Death of Classical Music? Think Again.

In this episode of Sounds Good, host Dr. Jaclyn Normandie welcomes Chris Eanes, President & CEO of Chorus America, for a deep dive into the claim that "classical music is dying." Where did this idea come from, and why does it keep resurfacing? Is the narrative actually true — or does choral music offer a radically different story? Across three themes, Jaclyn and Chris unpack the resilience of choirs, the cultural role they play as community "third spaces," and why choral music might be uniquely positioned to thrive in the future. They explore whether a "living canon" is still forming today, which composers might stand the test of centuries, and how choirs can honor tradition while embracing the repertoire of right now. This conversation reframes the future of choir as vibrant, evolving, and deeply human. Topics Covered: • Why the "death of classical music" narrative persists • How choral music differs from other classical institutions • Choir as a community anchor and third space • Why choirs shouldn't compare themselves to orchestras • The emergence of a living choral canon • Balancing tradition with contemporary relevance Next Episode: Part Two of The Future of Choir explores the intersection of choral music and technology — including whether AI can ever rival the experience of singing together. Any thoughts? Contact us: [email protected]