University Choir

Mission Statement

Our mission is to progress the minds of students from Education to Enlightenment by promoting Literacy Through Music (LTM).

Goal

To instill innovative thinking, productive leadership, and empowered performances.

Choir History 

The Elizabeth City State University Concert Choir, which has existed since 1925, stands as a beacon in the realm of Choral Performance among HBCUs throughout the United States of America.

The ECSU Concert Choir was established by such competent pioneers as Joy Wallace Brown, composer of the Alma Mater, Harriet Howard, a Fisk University graduate, and Ethel Cannady of Hampton Institute. However, it was not until the 1933-34 academic year that the institution, then Elizabeth City State Colored Normal School, acquired Dr. Evelyn A. Johnson (1909-1995). Through her vivacious, erudite, and tenacious personality, coupled with that “Tradition of Excellence” upheld by Mr. Billy C. Hines for thirty-four (34) years, the Elizabeth City State University Concert Choir continued to strengthen its visibility in the realms of choral music among HBCUs.

Under the direction of Dr. Walter R. Swan, Director of Choral Activities, the choir continuously delivers high-caliber performances by honing and nurturing the talents of tomorrow's performers with a heightened sense of pride and discipline. The choir's repertoire is vast, encompassing classical music, Broadway show tunes, American contemporary, and African American spirituals. With a strong sense of musicality, the choir purports its innate ability to touch the hearts of all while captivating audiences with its class-leading sound.

To increase its visibility, the choir is working indefatigably to provide diverse performances. The choir has begun a rigorous and extensive campaign to create awareness of the University and build its music department.

Purpose Statement

The Elizabeth City State University Choir(s) is a large ensemble within the Department of Music and Visual Arts; one that provides cultural, social, and recreational enrichment to its members while promoting growth in social competency and cooperative group effectiveness.

This organization will serve as the primary ambassador(s) for the university. As servants of the arts, each choir member will develop leadership skills and execute high-quality performances. Participants must demonstrate the highest level of musicianship, scholarship, and professionalism.