Dr. Will Chandler

Dr. Chandler is the Director of Choral Activities at McNeese State University, where he conducts Chamber Singers and Concert Chorale.  On top of his ensemble duties, he also teaches classes in choral conducting, methods, and literature.  Prior to his appointment at McNeese, Dr. Chandler served as the Director of Choral Activities at Texas Wesleyan University in Fort Woth, Texas.  He worked in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex as a frequent clinician for festivals and All-Region choirs.  Using his energy, enthusiasm, and expertise, Dr. Chandler inspires students to be passionate choral musicians for life.  Dr. Chandler’s collegiate work is grounded in his seven years in Texas as a public high school teacher.  He uses his experience in the classroom to guide his work with future performers and music educators.  

Along with his work as a teacher, Dr. Chandler is also an active scholar, presenting at state and national music conferences.  His recent focus has been on the choral literature of historically underrepresented composers.  Dr. Chandler had the privilege of co-presenting in 2023 at the National Conference of the American Choral Directors Association on the choral music of Samuel Coleridge-Taylor. 

Dr. Chandler holds an undergraduate degree in music from Millsaps College, a master’s degree from the University of Southern Mississippi, and a Doctor of Music Arts from the University of Kentucky.  He is excited to join the vibrant music program at McNeese and continue its trend of growth and musical excellence in the choirs.  Dr. Chandler comes to Lake Charles along with his wife, Karen, and their two pets, Buster and Calypso.