About USF University Choir

The USF University Classical Choral Ensembles (UCCE) was established in the fall of 2001. The choir is committed to supporting social justice efforts in the music we perform and in our collaborations and projects. We focus on a different social justice theme each semester. In addition to classical music from all eras and in multiple languages, UCCE performs folk and popular music in all voicings. We welcomes people of all backgrounds, from the new to the advanced singer. 

UCCE rehearses on Mondays and Wednesdays from 2:50 to 4:35 PM in MA122 in the Masonic Building at the corner of Turk.

UCCE consists of four sub-choirs that rehearse in the designated time. Not all sub-choirs meet every semester. The University Choir (all singers), Treble Choir (upper voices), and Basso Choir (lower voices) are open to all students that are able to commit to the rehearsal schedule and contain basic musicianship (ability to match pitch, etc). Singers are not required to read music upon entering the choirs, but will be encouraged to learn and supported by other members of the choir to do so. In working on moderate to advanced music, students advance rapidly in both their vocal technique and their music literacy. Chamber Singers admission is based on an audition at the beginning of each term.

Recent UCCE concert themes include music focused on nature and climate change, music of Black and Brown composers, music of women composers, music of the Jewish and Islamic traditions, life stages, and more.

In recent years, the choir has performed several major works such as Byrd’s Mass for Four Voices, Victoria’s Missa O magnum mysterium, Lou Harrison’s La Koro Sutro, Benjamin Britten’s Hymn to St. Cecilia, Ceremony of Carols, and Rejoice in the Lamb, Mozart’s Missa Brevis in D, Saint-Saëns’ Christmas Oratorio. UCCE collaborates with other ensembles in major performances and choral festivals and has the opportunity to work with guest conductors. The ensemble performs music of well-known composers as well as emergent and lesser known composers whose work has received poor support solely due to their gender or the color of their skin.