O regente como educador musical: reflexões e experiências sobre o processo de musicalização do coro amador da Igreja Evangélica Batista em Parnamirim/RN

Abstract

This Report explores the role of the conductor as a music educator in the context of an amateur choir, based on practical experience with the congregational choir of the Igreja Evangélica Batista in downtown Parnamirim, RN, from 2016 to 2019. It is an experiential report that discusses choral practice as a tool for musical development, the pedagogical and artistic challenges detected, the strategies developed to confront them, and the results achieved. The study’s Choir consisted of members without any musical skill, which presented challenges such as a lack of theoretical knowledge, technical limitations, participant turnover, and issues with tuning and sound quality. Strategies integrating musical theory and practice were implemented, with weekly rehearsals lasting approximately two hours. Directed vocal warm-ups, adapted musical games, and specific exercises were employed to develop auditory perception, Aural Skills, rhythmic precision, dynamic sensitivity, and conductor's gestural responses. The repertoire selection is balanced with familiar pieces with new challenges, enabling gradual and accessible learning. Choral practice in amateur contexts demands pedagogical skills from the conductor that go beyond technical leadership, promoting a welcoming environment that encourages collective learning. The strategies applied resulted in significant improvements in tuning, rhythmic perception, ensemble cohesion, and singers' confidence. Despite structural and recurring challenges, the choir achieved remarkable outcomes, establishing itself as a space for inclusion and musical growth. The Report also highlights the importance of musical development in choral practice, emphasizing the impact on community building and artistic practice as an educational and changing experience. Guidelines on repertoire selection, rehearsal planning, and pedagogical strategies provide support for conductors facing similar challenges. Ultimately, this Report reaffirms the conductor's role as a music educator and the choral practice as a powerful tool for inclusion, musical development, and artistic expression. It suggests expanding reports on amateur choral practices and creating educational materials to address the needs of these groups, strengthening choral music as a cultural and educational practice.