Viterbo University’s Conservatory for the Performing Arts has welcomed a passionate new choral director Micheal Sauer, whose experience and enthusiasm are already making waves across campus. With a background spanning from singers aged 11 to over 90, the director brings a rich and inclusive perspective to the university’s music department.
Teaching middle and high school for four years shaped Sauer’s education philosophy, which is rooted in trust, relationship building, and holistic student. “When students know they’re being challenged by someone who genuinely cares about them, they rise to meet those challenges,” Sauer explained. This approach continues to guide his work with college students, fostering a supportive and ambitious learning environment.
Sauer’s collegiate journey also played a key role in shaping their vision. As a singer in their undergraduate choir and later a tour coordinator during graduate studies, they developed a deep appreciation for the power of choral music in a liberal arts setting. At Viterbo, they see immense potential to expand these experiences, whether through collaborations with world-class guest artists or through regional, national, and international tours. These opportunities, they believe, help build a community that values each individual while striving toward a shared artistic goal.
The decision to join Viterbo was driven by the university’s unique atmosphere. “There’s a magical and inspiring energy here,” Sauer said. “It reminded me of my own undergraduate experience at a similarly sized school. At large institutions, it’s easy to feel lost. But here, there’s a sense of connectedness—people know each other, say hello, and work together toward a common mission.”
The director was also drawn to the conservatory’s strong foundation and the exciting potential for growth within the music department. With talented students and a vibrant alumni network of educators and performers, they aim to amplify Viterbo’s reputation across the upper Midwest as a premier destination for vocal and choral music.
Already the excitement is building for the upcoming Viterbo Days Alumni Choir Concert, scheduled for Oct. 11 at 3:00 p.m. in the Maria Angelorum Chapel. “Our students are hungry for mountaintop musical experiences,” the director said. “They work relentlessly to achieve them, and we’re making great progress.”
Beyond performance, Sauer sees music as a vital force for connection and belonging on campus. “Music has always helped us tell stories, reflect culture, and make sense of the world in ways words sometimes cannot. In choir, we create a ready-made community where every voice matters. No one’s voice reigns supreme. We build something beautiful together.” With a clear vision, deep passion, and a collaborative spirit, Viterbo University’s new choral director is already making a meaningful impact—one note, one voice, and one student at a time.
