DOCTOR

Academic Leadership & Distinguished Honors

Dr. Cordara Harper serves as Assistant Professor of Music Education and Director of Choral Activities at Grambling State University, where he leads both the music education and vocal music programs. His commitment to excellence has earned him Yamaha’s 40 Under 40 Award, a Quarterfinalist spot for the 2025 Grammy Music Educator Award, and finalist recognition for the PYO Music Institute Ovation Award. In February 2024 he received the University of Louisiana System Outstanding Faculty Award, and in November 2023 the GSU Excellence in Teaching Award.

National Influence & Advocacy

A passionate advocate for music education, Dr. Harper is Secretary on the Executive Board of the National Collegiate Choral Organization and formerly served on the Scholarship Committee of the New Arts Musique Branch of the National Association of Negro Musicians. He is regularly invited nationwide as a guest choral clinician, presenter, and adjudicator—shaping pedagogical practice and inspiring choirs at conferences and festivals across the United States.

Scholarly Expertise & Community Engagement

Holding a Ph.D. in Music Education with a cognate in Choral Conducting from the University of Memphis, Dr. Harper completed advanced Kodály (Level 2) and Orff Schulwerk (Level 3) pedagogy training and has taught at every level from elementary through university. He is Minister of Music at St. Rest Baptist Church in Shreveport, LA, and a proud Magna Cum Laude graduate of North Carolina Central University. His ongoing professional development in conducting, vocal performance, administration, and psychology underpins both his classroom leadership and his service with Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. and Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia.