Meet Anton Armstrong, headliner for Fall 2025 IDACDA Conference

Anton Armstrong is a highly accomplished American choral conductor and educator, widely recognized for his significant contributions to the field of choral music, particularly youth and children’s choirs. 

Career highlights

Armstrong has led the St. Olaf Choir at St. Olaf College since 1990 and holds the Harry R. and Thora H. Tosdal Professor of Music position. He is also the founding artistic director of the Stangeland Family Youth Choral Academy. He has served as a guest conductor and lecturer internationally for various organizations and events, including the American Choral Directors Association, the Jeju Island International Choir Festival and Symposium, and the Tokyo International Choir Competition. The St. Olaf Choir has released 12 CDs during his tenure. 

Awards and accolades

Armstrong has received numerous awards, including the Saltzman Award from the Oregon Bach Festival, a Regional Emmy for a PBS program, and was named an Honorary Life Member of the National Collegiate Choral Organization. He has also received the Distinguished Legacy Award from the University of Illinois and the Robert Foster Cherry Award for Great Teaching from Baylor University. Additionally, he has received Distinguished Alumni Awards from the American Boychoir School and Michigan State University. 

Educational background

His education includes a Bachelor’s degree in vocal performance from St. Olaf College, a Master’s degree in choral music from the University of Illinois, and a Doctorate in choral conducting from Michigan State University. 

Armstrong is recognized for his dedication to choral music and developing singers’ talents.