Tracing the roots of a choral career inspired by community, mentorship, and a lifelong love of music.
Dr. Joseph Kemper’s musical journey began in Portland, Oregon, where a passion for choral music and an early connection to the Stangeland Family Youth Choral Academy (SFYCA) helped launch a remarkable career. Now a respected choral conductor, singer, composer, and educator, Dr. Kemper is currently an Assistant Professor of Choral Music at Concordia College—and in Fall 2025, he returns to his alma mater, St. Olaf College, as Assistant Professor of Music, directing the Chapel Choir and Viking Chorus.
A proud SFYCA alum and former Activity Director, Dr. Kemper reflects on his journey, the formative impact of SFYCA, and what continues to inspire him as a leader in the choral world.
Q: Your career in choral conducting has taken you to some incredible places. Can you share more about your journey and what led you to where you are today?
A: Music has always been at the heart of my life. In elementary school, I was immersed in singing, Orff Schulwerk, and dance, laying a strong musical foundation. In middle school, I played trumpet and loved band, but with no strong band program in high school—and encouragement from my older brother—I switched to choir. I fell in love with the camaraderie, the expressive depth of choral music, and the power of voices working together. That passion led me to study at St. Olaf College, teach at Winter Park High School in Florida, and earn graduate degrees from Yale and the University of Michigan. I’ve since taught at Whitman College and Concordia College—and now, I’m thrilled to return to St. Olaf to direct the Chapel Choir and Viking Chorus. My journey has taken me across the country, exposing me to different choral traditions and philosophies, and reinforcing my belief that music has the power to unite and transform.
Q: Looking back, how did SFYCA influence your musical growth and shape your path as a conductor and educator?
A: SFYCA is the reason I’m a choral conductor. After my first summer, performing Bach’s Der Geist hilft and Mozart’s Missa Brevis in B-flat, I knew I wanted to pursue music. By my second summer—after singing Bach’s Fürchte dich nicht and Fauré’s Requiem—I was certain I wanted to become a conductor. Dr. Armstrong instilled in me three core lessons: that excellence requires passionate dedication, that great choral music comes from all eras and cultures, and that singing has the power to inspire and transform. Being immersed in the Oregon Bach Festival—witnessing world-class performances and working with Helmuth Rilling—solidified my dream of making choral music my life’s work.
Q: What is your favorite memory from SFYCA? Was there a particular moment, piece, or experience that stands out?
A: There are too many to count. A few that stand out: the thrill of every concert, rehearsals with Dr. Armstrong, singing an electrifying program of Latin American music with María Guinand, every rehearsal and performance with Helmuth Rilling, long walks to Agate Hall, world-class concerts, dorm shenanigans, and of course, the legendary “Thou Shalt Not Park Here” sign by the hospital. I also remember the kindness and wit of Richard Clark and Elin England, and the many lifelong friendships I made.
Q: As someone who has gone from being an SFYCA participant to leading choirs at the highest levels, what are the most important qualities you try to instill in your own students?
A: I aim to cultivate three core values: musical excellence, a passionate and loving community, and a commitment to using music to communicate meaningful ideas. Every choir is unique, and I strive to honor the individual voice of each ensemble while maintaining stylistic integrity in the music we perform. Rather than enforcing a singular choral “ideal,” I encourage flexibility, exploration, and connection with diverse musical traditions. The more we move beyond rigid absolutes, the more we open ourselves to experimentation, discovery, and deeper musical engagement.
Q: The choral world has evolved in many ways since your time at SFYCA. What excites you most about the future of choral music and education?
A: Choral music is increasingly being used as a vehicle for social connection and transformation. More choirs and directors are programming music that addresses justice, belonging, and community—something I first deeply felt at SFYCA. Dr. Armstrong’s lifelong work in this area helped pave the way for today’s choral landscape, where singing can serve as both artistic expression and powerful advocacy. I am excited for a future where choirs continue to engage with pressing issues of today in powerful, meaningful ways.
Q: If you could go back and give your high school self one piece of advice—musical or otherwise—what would it be?
A: Be brave—go for more solos! I started singing later than many of my peers and often felt insecure about my voice. I wish I had trusted the process more, taken more risks, and sought out critical feedback earlier. Eventually, through the encouragement of teachers and mentors—and the education I began at SFYCA—I gained the confidence I needed to find my voice, calling, and career.
