Headshot of Sean Stanton

The National Association of Teachers of Singing has named Sean Stanton as the recipient of the 2026 Clifton Ware Group-Voice Pedagogy Award.

The annual award supports NATS members who are advancing group-voice instruction, or “class voice,” in community, independent, or academic settings. Recipients demonstrate a commitment to collaborative learning through formal classes, studio sessions, workshops, research, instructional resources, and other innovative approaches to group-voice pedagogy.

Stanton will join Chapman University in the fall as director of vocal studies, where he will be responsible for curriculum development and program direction. He previously taught group-voice courses at the University of Southern California and Scripps College.

The selection committee recognized Stanton for his demonstrated experience in group-voice teaching, student-centered research, and commitment to expanding the role of group voice within higher education. Stanton was selected from a record number of applicants for the award, reflecting growing interest in group-voice pedagogy across the NATS community.

“I see group-voice not as a supplement to private instruction, but as a complementary and essential pedagogical model,” Stanton said.

In his group-voice courses, Stanton integrates technical voice instruction with collaborative learning structures. His classes include guided group warm-ups, breath awareness, and repertoire exploration across classical, American musical theatre, and contemporary commercial music styles. Peer observation and feedback are central to his approach, giving students opportunities to develop critical listening skills while taking a more active role in their own vocal development.

“Group instruction can reduce the sense of isolation often associated with private voice study,” Stanton said. “Students become more engaged and accountable, not only to their own progress, but to the collective growth of the class.”

The Clifton Ware Group-Voice Pedagogy Award provides up to $1,000 to support work related to group-voice pedagogy, including practicums, workshops, instructional resources, research, or other professional-development opportunities. 

NATS extends sincere thanks to Dr. Clifton Ware and selection committee members Cynthia Vaughn, Amelia Rollings Bigler, and Brian Manternach for their service.