University Singers

The University Singers celebrated their 50th anniversary with the 2007-2008 season, which included performances with the Charlottesville and University Symphony Orchestra, a Stephen Paulus commission, and a Gala Anniversary Concert in April 2008. Founded in 1957, the group became a primarily student ensemble soon after UVa began admitting women in 1970. Today, the group is the University's premier SATB ensemble, performing a cappella and accompanied choral literature ranging from chant to the works of contemporary composers. Past repertoire has included Handel's Messiah, Orff’s Carmina Burana, the Brahms Requiem, Bernstein's Chichester Psalms, and Mozart's Mass in C minor, as well as shorter a cappella works. Recent trips have taken the group to Atlanta, Buffalo, Charlotte, Charleston, Chicago, Cincinnati, New York City, Philadelphia, Virginia Beach, and the National Cathedral in Washington D.C., as well as the campuses of other American universities for collaborative concerts. The group has also been heard on European tours in England, Italy, Belgium, Germany, and Switzerland. Recordings include a CD of Mozart's Coronation Mass and Vesperae Solennes de Confessore, as well as the newest release, My Spirit Sang All Day. Recent highlights have included concerts and workshops with Bobby McFerrin and Meredith Monk, as well as a performance for (then) Senator Hillary Clinton. The 2009-2010 season includes the traditional Family Weekend concert, collaborations with the Charlottesville and University Symphony Orchestra on the Duruflé Requiem and the popular Family Holiday Concerts, the Bach Mass in B minor, and the joint commission of a new work from composer Eric Whitacre.

Students in the University Singers come from UVA's six undergraduate schools, including Arts and Sciences, Education, and Engineering, as well as several of the University's graduate and professional schools. Together, they enjoy an esprit de corps that arises from the pursuit of musical excellence and the camaraderie the singers develop offstage.