Dr. Christopher Kiver

Biography

Christopher Kiver is a Professor and Music Director of Choral Activities at Pennsylvania State University, where he directs the Concert Choir and oversees the graduate choral conducting program. He teaches choral conducting and choral literature, building a notable academic career and fostering musicianship among students. Kiver has an extensive background, having served for 16 years as Director of Music at the University Baptist Brethren Church in State College, and founded the Orpheus Singers. As a conductor, Kiver has had numerous performances at state and regional conventions of the American Choral Directors Association (ACDA) and the National Association for Music Education (NAfME). In 2017, he directed a performance of Julia Wolfe’s 'Anthracite Fields' with the Penn State University Concert Choir, and has been a guest conductor and clinician in the United States, Australia, China, and New Zealand. Kiver is a Past President of the Eastern Region of ACDA and previously chaired the national Repertoire Standards for Men’s/TTBB Choirs. A native of England, he earned multiple prizes and scholarships, including the Fulbright Award and significant recognition as a Grammy Award-winning chorus master for his work on Naxos recordings. He holds advanced degrees from the University of London, Florida State University, and the University of Michigan, where he obtained his D.M.A. in choral conducting.

Research Interests