Rebooting Servant Leadership in the New Year: A Beacon of Light in an Age of Self-Interest

Nikki Toliver
MWACDA Soprano/Alto Choirs R &R Chair

In an era when self-interest dominates the national narrative, the principles of servant leadership stand in stark contrast to what we often see in politics, the news, and public discourse. As choral educators, we have the profound responsibility to not only shape the musical abilities of our singers but to teach values that transcend performance. Servant leadership is not just a concept—it is a calling that has the power to transform both our ensembles and our greater communities.

The Heart of Servant Leadership

At its core, servant leadership prioritizes the needs of others above personal ambition. It fosters an environment where growth, trust, and mutual respect are central. This leadership style, championed by thinkers like Robert Greenleaf, is essential for choir directors who seek to inspire rather than dictate, to nurture rather than demand. When our team members feel seen, heard, and valued through our honed leadership skills, they will rise to musical and personal excellence.

Five Core Values of Servant Leadership

1. Humility Over Ego

Unlike the leadership models we often witness in the public sphere, true servant leadership requires humility. The director must recognize that success is not about personal accolades but about the collective achievement of the ensemble. This means seeking and reflecting upon feedback, owning mistakes, and making decisions that serve the greater good of the choir(s).

2. Empowerment Over Control

A servant leader equips others to lead with confidence and grace. Encouraging section leaders, mentoring executive council or board members, and fostering an environment where singers take ownership of their musical journey creates a culture of shared responsibility and amped up engagement. In an age where top-down leadership often prioritizes authority over collaboration, empowering others can be a radical act of trust and faith.

3. Compassion Over Competition

Modern narratives often frame success as a zero-sum game. In a choral ensemble, however, there is no place for such a mindset. Every voice matters. Servant leadership ensures that no singer feels left behind, that struggling team members receive support, and that excellence is pursued with kindness rather than cutthroat competitiveness.

4. Vision with Service

Choir directors must cast a vision for their ensembles, but that vision should be rooted in service. Are we using our music to uplift, to heal, and to build community? Are we ensuring that every singer finds meaning in their contribution? A servant leader ensures that every rehearsal, performance, and interaction reflect the team’s mission.

5. Integrity in Leadership

Since deception and manipulation often make headlines, maintaining integrity is more crucial than ever. Choir directors must be transparent, fair, and ethical in their leadership. This means setting clear expectations, following through on commitments, and treating every singer with respect and dignity.

Rebooting Your Leadership Style

Servant leadership is not just a philosophy; it is a practice. As ensemble directors, we have the unique opportunity to shape the next generation of musicians and community members by modeling leadership that is compassionate and service driven. By doing so, we create not only meaningful music but also a community bound by trust and shared purpose—one that stands as a beacon in the often-disappointing narratives of our time.

In a world that so often rewards self-promotion, let us be leaders who choose service. In doing so, we ensure that our choirs become places of refuge, growth, and transformation—not just for our singers, but for everyone who hears our song.