Westminster Choir College: A Century of Choral Excellence and Evolution
With a motto that translates to "Let us be judged by our deeds" (Spectemur agendo), Westminster Choir College has spent a century establishing itself as a premier institution for choral music. From its early days as an independent school to its current role within Rider University, the college has balanced a rigorous academic environment with a world-renowned performance history.
The institution's journey is marked by geographic shifts and administrative changes, yet it remains dedicated to its core mission of service through music. Today, it continues to shape the next generation of conductors, vocalists, and music educators.
Key Facts
- Established: 1926
- Current Affiliation: A school within the College of Arts and Sciences at Rider University
- Current Location: Lawrenceville, New Jersey
- Endowment: US$ 20 million
- Student Body: Approximately 85 undergraduates and 115 postgraduates
- Faculty: 25 members
- Colors: Purple and gold
A Century of History
Foundations and Early Growth (1920–1932)
The roots of the college trace back to 1920 with the formation of the choir. By 1926, it became an independent school in Dayton, Ohio. The early years were defined by rapid international growth, including two European tours by 1934, one of which featured a historic live radio broadcast from Russia to the United States.
The school moved to Ithaca, New York, from 1929 to 1932, before finding its long-term home in Princeton, New Jersey. In 1939, the institution received official accreditation from the State of New Jersey and formally adopted the name Westminster Choir College.
The Princeton Era and Global Acclaim (1932–1991)
Under the leadership of President Williamson, the college entered a golden age of performance. The Westminster Choir established a record-breaking partnership with the New York Philharmonic, performing over 300 concerts with the orchestra. Other notable milestones included performances with the NBC Symphony Orchestra under Arturo Toscanini and a broadcast from the New York World's Fair reaching 53 countries.
In 1957, the choir participated in the U.S. State Department Cultural Exchange Program, embarking on a five-month world tour that covered 40,000 miles across 22 countries. This era solidified the college's reputation as a global ambassador for American choral music.
Merger with Rider University (1992–2017)
In 1992, Westminster Choir College merged with Rider University. While it maintained its historic downtown Princeton campus, the merger eventually led to the creation of the Westminster College of the Arts in 2007 to better integrate the two campuses. The college continued to offer specialized degrees in piano, composition, voice, organ, choral conducting, sacred music, and music education.
To address the need for modern facilities, the Marion Buckelew Cullen Center opened in 2014. This complex featured the Hillman Performance Hall, a 3,000-square-foot space for rehearsals and performances, funded by a combination of state grants and private philanthropy.
Transition to Lawrenceville (2018–Present)
The late 2010s were marked by significant controversy when Rider University attempted to sell the college to Kaiwen Education Technology, a for-profit entity owned by the Chinese government. The sale faced intense opposition from alumni, donors, and state politicians, eventually collapsing in 2019.
In September 2020, the college officially relocated to Rider's main campus in Lawrenceville, New Jersey. Following a period of litigation and declining on-ground enrollment during the COVID-19 pandemic, the institution has seen a resurgence in student numbers as of Fall 2024. In April 2025, the municipality of Princeton purchased the vacant Princeton campus for $42 million through eminent domain.
By May 2026, the school celebrated its 100th anniversary. President John Loyack announced the creation of the Westminster College of Media and Performing Arts, ensuring the college retains its historic identity while expanding into interdisciplinary studies.
Academic and Artistic Achievements
Grammy Recognition
The college's commitment to excellence is reflected in its history of Grammy nominations and wins, including works such as Dvořák's Requiem and Berlioz's Romeo & Juliet.
| Year | Work | Collaborators | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1977 | Haydn: Lord Nelson Mass | Leonard Bernstein & NY Philharmonic | Nominated |
| 1983 | Barber: Antony & Cleopatra | Spoleto Festival Orchestra | Won |
| 1986 | Berlioz: Romeo & Juliet | Riccardo Muti & Philadelphia Orchestra | Nominated |
| 2000 | Dvořák: Requiem; Symphony No.9 | Zdeněk Mácal & NJ Symphony Orchestra | Won |
| 2014 | James Whitbourn: Annelies | Westminster Williamson Voices | Won |
Notable Alumni and Faculty
The college has produced a diverse array of talent, from world-renowned conductors like Yannick Nézet-Séguin and mezzo-soprano Jennifer Larmore to contemporary figures like drag artist Monét X Change. The faculty has historically included masters of the craft, such as James Jordan, a Professor of Choral Music and Senior Conductor since 1991.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Westminster Choir College located now?
The college is currently located on Rider University's main campus in Lawrenceville, New Jersey, having moved from its long-time Princeton home in 2020.
What is the relationship between Westminster and Rider University?
Westminster Choir College is a school within the College of Arts and Sciences at Rider University, following a merger that took place in 1992.
What happened to the Princeton campus?
After the college relocated to Lawrenceville, the Princeton campus became vacant. In April 2025, the town of Princeton purchased the property for $42 million through eminent domain.
What degrees does the college offer?
The college provides education in several specialized fields, including choral conducting, voice, organ, piano, composition, sacred music, and music education.
Has the college won any major awards?
Yes, the college and its associated ensembles have earned multiple Grammy Awards and nominations for their recordings of classical and choral masterpieces.