There have been several minor changes to the name of the award over this time: Prior to 1961 the awards for opera and choral performances were combined into a single award for Best Classical Performance, Operatic or Choral.
The award goes to the Conductor, and to the Choral Director and/or Chorus Master where applicable and to the Choral Organization/Ensemble.
Years reflect the year in which the Grammy Awards were presented, for works released in the previous year.
Performers who were not eligible for an award (such as orchestras, soloists or choirs) are mentioned between brackets.
From 2017, the choral organization/ensemble does receive an Award.