Choral Ensembles
General Information
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and the Department of Music are proud of a long tradition of excellence and leadership in choral music in the state and region, rising to prominence under such well-known conductors as Lara Hoggard and Robert Porco. Choral ensembles explore the finest in choral literature from all periods and offer something for students from all backgrounds and with all musical tastes. Membership is open to students from all majors and is chosen through audition at the beginning of each semester, with placements made according to interest, scheduling flexibility, and level of experience. Typically, members of the groups make a year-long commitment, and many participate several years, often in multiple ensembles. Participation in a choral ensemble earns one academic credit each semester. Audition procedures are listed below.
The Carolina Choir (MUSC 211.04), under the direction of Susan Klebanow, is a select concert choir of 60 singers devoted to the performance of the finest choral literature. Its repertoire ranges from a cappella music of all periods to the choral/orchestral masterworks. Carolina Choir gives several concerts each semester, both on and off campus. Rehearsals are on Mondays and Wednesdays, 1:25-3:25 p.m.
The UNC Chamber Singers (MUSC 211.05), also under the direction of Susan Klebanow, is an ensemble of 20 voices. Its repertoire encompasses vocal chamber music of different styles, with emphasis on Renaissance, Baroque, and 20th-century/21st-century music. The Chamber Singers regularly collaborate with the UNC Baroque Ensemble. Rehearsals are on Tuesdays and Thursdays, 12:30-2:30 p.m.
The UNC Glee Club (Sopranos and Altos) (MUSC 211.07), under the direction of Laura Buff Alexander, performs the classical repertoire for treble voices as well as a range of music including folk songs, selections from musicals, and traditional Carolina songs. The group gives two formal concerts each year and performs on tour and at campus events. Rehearsals are on Mondays and Thursdays, 5:35-7:10 pm.
The UNC Glee Club (Tenors and Basses) (MUSC 211.06), conducted by Laura Buff Alexander, performs a widely eclectic repertoire ranging from classical works to pop music, spirituals, and traditional Carolina songs. The group performs two formal concerts each year, at campus events, and on tour. Rehearsals are on Mondays and Thursdays, 5:00-6:35 pm.
Audition Procedures
Auditions for all of the choral ensembles will be held the first few days of each semester. Auditions consist of the singing of a song of your choice (America/My Country `Tis of Thee or Happy Birthday are acceptable) and a check for voice range and sight-reading ability. All auditioning students will be placed in a choral ensemble if possible. Sign up via Google Doc here. For more information, contact: Professor Susan Klebanow at skleb@email.unc.edu.