University of Memphis Honor Choir
January 29-30, 2026
Deadline: Monday, November 17, 5:00 PM
The University of Memphis Rudi E. Scheidt Choral Area is excited to welcome singers and conductor-teachers for our 2026 Honor Choir.
This two-day Honor Choir event includes rehearsals and performances of the Honor Choir and a special performance by the University of Memphis University Singers. During the event, participants can work with an exceptional guest conductor, our own Choral Faculty, and choral conducting graduate students. We encourage choral directors to select their finest musicians for this exciting experience.
- TOTAL REGISTRATION: Each school can bring a balanced SATB ensemble of their best singers (4, 8, 12, 16, 20, etc.). For example, 4 sopranos, 4 altos, 4 tenors, 4 basses. Students best suited for this Honor Choir are juniors and seniors. Exceptions can include remarkable sophomores who demonstrate significant maturity.
- Selected students should have the following qualities:
- exemplary rehearsal behavior
- excellent musicianship skills (sight-reading and rhythm-reading)
- developed vocal technique
- choral singing experience
- possess a desire to continue singing in college
- Selected students should have the following qualities:
- NO PREPARATION NEEDED: Music does not need to be taught beforehand.
- MUSIC INCLUDED: The singers’ registration fee includes the cost.
- CONDUCTOR TRACK: For all attending teachers. Professional development credit (for MSCS teachers) or
a Certificate of Completion (all other teachers) will be provided. Updated schedule
below.
- HONOR CHOIR SOCIAL: Pizza and drinks are provided by the UofM Choral Program.
Honor Choir Conductors
Dr. Derrick Fox
Dr. Derrick Fox is the Associate Dean of Graduate Studies and Creative Endeavors and a Professor of Choral Conducting at Michigan State University. Prior to MSU, he was the Director of Choral Activities and Distinguished Professor of Music at the University of Nebraska-Omahaand Assistant Professor of Choral Music at Ithaca College.
Read More >
Dr. Francis Cathlina
Dr. Francis Cathlina is a Vietnamese-American conductor and educator, renowned for his innovative approach to choral music. His concerts invite audiences into a world where choral artistry becomes a powerful storytelling medium.
Read More >Nomination & Fees
The participation fee is $60 per singer.
Payment Information:
- All teachers will pay for their schools by clicking HERE.
- After paying, teachers will receive a receipt in their email inboxes. Please forward the receipt to Joseph Powell at hjpwell2@memphis.edu.
- This should be completed by the November 17, 2025 deadline.
- If you require an extension, please email Joseph Powell (hjpwell2@memphis.edu).
Schedules
. 
Deadline: Monday, November 17, 5:00 PM