The University of Oregon Choral Department dates back to 1945, when the University Singers first organized. It has since expanded to include three separate choirs, giving everyone at the University a place to sing. Directed by Dr. Sharon Paul and Dr. Melissa Brunkan, the choirs are recognized nationally and internationally for excellence in singing. The Chamber Choir is a highly select mixed chamb
er ensemble of 24-28 voices specializing in a cappella repertoire from the sixteenth through twenty-first centuries. Members are mostly graduate and upper-level undergraduate students with excellent sight-reading skills and vocal ability. In May 2013, the UO Chamber Choir placed first in the Fleischmann International Trophy Competition at the Cork International Choral Festival in Cork, Ireland, renowned as one of Europe's most prestigious choral arts events. In April 2011, the Chamber Choir won top honors in two categories at the Tallinn International Choral Festival held in Tallinn, Estonia. In addition, they have performed at state and divisional conferences for the American Choral Directors Association and the National Association for Music Education. Auditions are held during the Week of Welcome and into the first three days of classes fall term. Repertoire Singers is a select twenty-four to thirty-two voice ensemble that is directed each term by two graduate students in choral conducting. Their repertoire is drawn from all musical periods and styles. The University Singers is the premier large choral ensemble on campus, with a choral tradition at the University of Oregon extending back to 1945. The University Singers perform choral music from all periods and styles, with concerts both on and off campus. Members are experienced singers representing a wide variety of majors from across campus. The University Singers frequently have the opportunity to perform with instrumental ensembles such as the University Symphony Orchestra, the Eugene Symphony Orchestra, and the Collegium Musicum.
