Helena Katharine Wiley von Rueden

Dr. Helena Katharine Wiley von Rueden serves as Elliott Associate Professor of Fine Arts and Director of the Choral Program at Hampden-Sydney College in Virginia. She directs the Hampden-Sydney Chorus and teaches various music theory, musicology, and performance courses within the Fine Arts Department.

Dr. von Rueden earned her D.M.A. and M.M. from the University of California, Santa Barbara (2013 and 2011 respectively), and her B.A. in Biology from Harvard University (2001). She began teaching at Hampden-Sydney in 2014.

Her research focuses on expanding choral practice beyond Western European traditions, with particular interest in programming music by women and composers from marginalized groups. She founded The Piedmont Singers of Central Virginia and serves as Assistant Director of the Institute of Composer Diversity. Dr. von Rueden also serves on the National Board of the National Collegiate Choral Organization.

Her current major research project is the Expanding Choral Practice Database, designed to help choral professionals find resources for inclusive choral practice. This database includes materials on cultural context, performance practices, and repertoire from traditions outside Western canonic choral culture.

• Elliott Professorship
• The Cabell Award

As a mezzo-soprano, Dr. von Rueden maintains an active performance career, specializing in oratorio. She serves as faculty advisor to the Acousticals and on the Lectures & Programs Committee. Her upcoming performances include directing the HSC Chorus in 'Transcendence: Sacred Songs of Singing' (November 22, 2024) and performing as alto soloist in 'Messiah' with the Petersburg Symphony Orchestra (December 8, 2024).