About the University Chorus
Conducted by
Dr. Ryan Endris, the University Chorus is a large, mixed-voice ensemble that performs a broad range of traditional choral literature, often with an accompanying orchestra comprised of professional instrumentalists from the faculty and regional orchestras. Singing in the University Chorus is a wonderful way to meet new people, to represent your university, and to perform some of the greatest works of all time! The University Chorus performs one major concert each semester.
European Concert Tour
Estonia, Finland, and Russia: May 20 – June 1, 2019
In May of 2019, the University Chorus and Chamber Singers will embark on a two-week tour of Estonia, Finland, and Russia, with an emphasis on performing The music of those countries. This extended study offers students the opportunity to gain deeper understanding of the historical and cultural context of the music of the Baltic countries and Russia. Students become deeply and intimately engaged in the repertoire by performing it numerous times and continually refining their work for varied performance venues. Additionally, students will participate in collaborations with local choirs and excursions to historical/cultural sites to further connect the music being performed to the region.
This concert tour is an extended study for which students can earn .25 academic credit (MUSI-238) with financial aid available to those who are eligible. For more information about concert tour and how to apply for the extended study, please visit the
Chorus Extended Study Information page.
Interested students should email Prof. Endris by August 28, 2018 to schedule their audition.
Joining the University Chorus
Auditions for Fall 2019
Choral Ensemble Auditions
Auditions for the choral ensembles will be heard in late August for Fall 2019. Please check back later for specific dates and times.
Auditions for the University Chorus are open to all student, faculty, staff, and community members who have an interest in singing in a large, mixed-voice choir that performs a broad range of music. Singers of all levels and experiences are welcome in the University Chorus; however, some singers might benefit from
private voice lessons before joining the University Chorus.
A simple, brief audition is required to participate in the University Chorus for purposes of vocal placement in the ensemble and for the director to get to know each singer vocally. No prepared material is necessary for the audition, which takes place privately in Dana M02 (office between 1st and 2nd floors). For the audition, each singer will sing through simple vocal exercises and sight-sing a brief musical excerpt. Those students interested in being considered for the Chamber Singers should indicate this on their audition forms; no separate audition is held for this choir.
To schedule an audition time or for more information, please contact
Dr. Endris, director of choral and vocal activities, at
rendris@colgate.edu.
Frequently Asked Questions
Click below for more details: Who can join the choral ensembles?
The University Chorus is open to all students, faculty, staff, and community members after passing a brief, simple audition. It is a community for those who love music and wish to participate in a choral ensemble. Members of the community must be at least 18 years of age and post-high school. Participation in the Chamber Singers is limited to current Colgate students who have demonstrated both musical ability and dedication to the choral art.
When do the choral ensembles rehearse?
The University Chorus rehearses on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 4:30 – 6:00 p.m. in the Memorial Chapel. The Chamber Singers rehearses on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6:45 – 8:00 p.m. Additionally, one or two dress rehearsals are scheduled prior to each concert.
What if I have a scheduling conflict with the rehearsal times?
Regular attendance at rehearsal in all choral ensembles is expected (see above for rehearsal times); however, we know that students at Colgate are engaged in a variety of activities, and so there is some flexibility in working around occasional conflicts with rehearsals.
Can I receive academic credit (and a grade) for singing in the University Chorus?
Yes, students who participate in the University Chorus for two consecutive semesters can earn one full credit and a grade, and this credit may be earned a maximum of two times. Students register for the credit in their second semester of participation, and students’ grades are based on attendance, professionalism, and musicianship in rehearsal and performance in both semesters.
I’m involved in another singing or music group on campus. Can I still participate in the university choral ensembles?
Absolutely! In fact, we encourage our students to be involved a variety of music ensembles to have a well-rounded college music experience. Members of other singing groups and ensembles are most welcome in the choral ensembles, and there is some flexibility for accommodating scheduling conflicts.