Choral Program / History
1908 — Present
From the Biddle University Quintet to three ensembles under a sixth director. Six eras, told through the people who led them.
The eras
1907 – 1934
Director of Music from 1907 to 1934. In 1908 he organized the Biddle University Quintet, the first ensemble in the program’s line.
The Quintet first appeared at the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church, USA in 1909, and went on to perform before that church body for thirty consecutive years. Its popularity had declined by 1926.
1926
In 1926 Mr. Peyton organized the University Glee Club, which soon became recognized as the University Choir — the ensemble that still anchors the program today.
1935 – 1947
Carroll established The Women’s Sextet in the first semester of the 1935–1936 school year. The Sextet made its debut on December 22, 1935.
1948 – 1988
Forty years at the head of the program. In 1964 the University Choir was selected as the official broadcasting choir for the United Presbyterian Church, USA.
1988 – 2010
Thompson widened the choir’s reach with performances alongside major orchestras and collaborations with renowned artists. The choir appeared on Good Morning America in 1994.
2010 – 2024
The first female Director of Choral Activities in the program’s history. She established a partnership with the Charlotte Symphony Orchestra and led the choir in major productions.
2024 – Present
Under Dr. Brooks the program operates three ensembles, including a revived Swing Choir and an official Gospel Choir.
The record
Still going
The S.O.U.L. of Charlotte — and the singing voice of the city’s only HBCU. The JCSU Choral Program
