Dear Capital Community,
I am pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Adam Potter as Visiting Professor and Director of Choral Activities in the Conservatory of Music at Capital University.
Dr. Potter will conduct the renowned Chapel Choir and lead Capital’s vibrant and storied choral program while helping shape the next generation of conductors, teachers, singers, and artistic leaders. A dynamic conductor, devoted educator, and passionate advocate for transformative music-making, Dr. Potter brings a record of artistic innovation, student-centered teaching, and community engagement that aligns deeply with Capital’s mission and tradition of excellence in the arts.
Widely recognized for cultivating choral musicianship that is both technically rigorous and profoundly human, Dr. Potter’s approach emphasizes independent musical skills, confident vocal technique, and a deep sense of ownership over artistry. He is known for fostering ensemble cultures grounded in trust, belonging, collaboration, and expressive freedom. He brings together singers from diverse backgrounds into cohesive communities capable of compelling and meaningful performance.
Prior to joining Capital, Dr. Potter served on the faculty of the University of Missouri School of Music, where he conducted the Concert Chorale and taught undergraduate and graduate coursework in music education. He also served as Director of Choral Activities and Associate Professor of Music at Roberts Wesleyan University, where he revitalized the choral program through imaginative thematic programming and expanded performance opportunities. His ensembles toured domestically throughout the United States and internationally in Canada, France, and the Baltics and earned recognition for their artistry, versatility, and communicative power. Earlier in his career, he served as Director of Choral Activities at Delta State University and as Director of Vocal Music at Dansville High School. Across each of these appointments, his students have gone on to distinguished graduate study, conducting masterclasses, and successful careers as conductors and music educators nationwide.
Dr. Potter earned his undergraduate and master’s degrees from Houghton College, where he studied with Brandon Johnson, and his Ph.D. in Choral Conducting and Music Education from Florida State University, where he studied with Judy Bowers, Kevin Fenton, and André Thomas. His research and teaching interests center on music literacy, vocal pedagogy in ensemble settings, and servant leadership in conducting, an approach that places humility, empathy, and relational connection alongside artistic excellence.
Upon his appointment, Dr. Thomas Zugger, Dean of the Conservatory of Music, shared:
“We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Potter as the next leader of our choral program. Through visionary artistic leadership, expanded collaborative opportunities, and a deep commitment to student growth, Dr. Potter will guide the program into an exciting new chapter of excellence and innovation.”
Dr. Potter is the first in his family to attend college and proudly traces his roots to a family dairy farm in rural Pennsylvania. His upbringing shaped his respect for hard work, belief in the transformative power of education, and dedication to cultivating meaningful relationships. Beyond the podium, he enjoys traveling, hiking, and exploring cultures and communities around the world.
Please join me in welcoming Dr. Potter to the Capital community and Conservatory of Music.