University Singers – conducted by Dr. Mark Simmons

University Singers is the largest ensemble on campus, made up of between 100-120 singers from across campus. This ensemble is non-auditioned and students from majors all across UTM participate. Generally most singers have some choral singing experience, but everyone is welcome to join regardless of previous experience.

The ensemble performs one concert each semester on campus and frequently performs with the Jackson Symphony Orchestra. Recent performances with the JSO include Beethoven’s 9thSymphony and Carl Orff’s Carmina Burana. For concerts on campus, the ensemble focuses on collegiate literature from all major compositional periods.

To join the University Singers, simply register for the ensemble. If you have questions, contact Dr. Mark Simmons at marks@utm.edu. We look forward to you becoming part of this exciting choir!

The New Pacer Singers – conducted by Dr. Mark Simmons

This ensemble is an auditioned choir of 40 evenly-balanced voices that performs challenging and sophisticated repertoire from all major musical time periods. As well as performing on concerts on campus each semester, this choir frequently travels to nearby communities to provide performances for audiences throughout western Tennessee. Additionally, the New Pacer Singers tour annually. Past tours have taken the ensemble to important performance halls in Kentucky, South Carolina, North Carolina, Georgia, Virginia, West Virginia, Washington D.C., Maryland, Pennsylvania, New York, California, Nevada, and Arizona. These concert tours play an important role in the mission of the ensemble, which is to represent the high standard of musical excellence that is maintained at the University of Tennessee at Martin.

The audition for the ensemble consists of demonstration of vocal excellence, pitch memory, sight-reading, and a personal commitment to the choral art form. Members are expected to serve as ambassadors for the University as part of their extensive performing schedule. Everyone in New Pacers is expected to also sing in the University Singers.

If you have questions about this chamber choir or would like to schedule an audition, please contact Dr. Mark Simmons at marks@utm.edu.   

Lyric Opera Theatre - directed by Dr. Amy Yeung and Dr. Roberto Mancusi
Each spring semester, the Department of Music presents scenes from the standard opera repertoire. Lyric Opera Theatre (MUEN 367) is open to all vocal majors as well as instrumental majors. Other UT Martin students who posses adequate vocal skills are welcome to audition.

The goal of the course is to provide the opportunity for the students to gain knowledge and experience in operatic repertoire for the stage and development of techniques for role preparation and performance. After successful completion of the course, the students will be able to think in character, to move on stage and to function as a singing actor.

Lyric Opera Theatre meets two days each week: Monday and Wednesday from 4:00-6:00. Extra rehearsals may be scheduled the month before the production.

For more information about auditioning for the upcoming production, please contact: Dr. Amy Yeung and Dr. Roberto Mancusi.

Collegiate Gospel Choir - conducted by Alvin Summers and Mykia Campbell

Gospel music is a viable expression of American folk lore with endless possibilities for human expression.

The Collegiate Gospel Choir is an ensemble offered for a diversity of students who desire to sing and learn about gospel music.  The class meets weekly on Monday, 3:00-4:50pm.  Unlike many gospel choirs, this class is being offered for one credit hour.  Students interested in the choir are not required to have any musical background or to audition.  We just ask that you come with a love and appreciation for music.

The choir presents a concert in the fall and spring semesters and opening music for the University of Tennessee-Martin Annual Civil Rights Conference.

If you have any questions please contact Mykia Campbell mthoma16@utm.edu.