In addition to the credit ensembles, there are extra-curricular musical groups that function in connection with the music department. These include the male a cappella group Fleetones, the female a cappella group SweetFleet, the Gospel Choir, and the Jazz Band.
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Choraleers |
Choraleers
The Choraleers is the flagship choral ensemble of Erskine College. Founded in 1952 by Professor Helen Ligon, the Choraleers have a long history of choral excellence. Composed of approximately 55 select singers, its membership reflects the wide range of academic disciplines on campus. Members are selected yearly by audition. The Choraleers participate in the annual An Erskine Christmas concerts in early December, and at several special events and concerts throughout the academic year. Each rehearsal is vigorous, mentally stimulating and most of all fun for the singer who is serious about singing quality choral repertoire with professional technique.
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Choraleers in Scotland |
In recent years, these musical ambassadors have represented Erskine College and their faith on tours from Florida to Now York, Germany to Scotland. This ensemble performs repertory from all major musical periods, with special emphasis on sacred literature. In 2004, the choir performed at the South Carolina American Choral Director’s Association Convention. The Choraleers of Erskine College is conducted by Dr. Shannon Jeffreys.
Chamber Singers
The Chamber Singers is a small, advanced group of singers selected out of the Choraleers. This ensemble’s purpose is to augment the repertoire of the larger group and to concentrate on repertoire intended for small, mixed-voice choral ensemble. They perform a variety of chamber music from the model writing of Renaissance motets to progressive harmonies of vocal jazz. Dr. Shannon Jeffreys conducts the Chamber Singers.
Women’s Chorale
Women’s Chorale is an ensemble open to any female student of the college or Seminary and dedicated to performing literature for treble voices. The ensemble will perform literature from all major historical periods including sacred and secular works. It performs on and off campus several times each semester. An audition for voice placement only is required.
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Chamber Ensemble |
Chamber Ensembles
Instrumentalists get a chance to shine as they participate in various ensembles, specifically designed to match their skill level. It may be a string quartet, a trumpet trio, a woodwind or percussion ensemble, or any combination of instruments, depending on who is interested in participating that given semester. The repertoire can be from any period of classical music, or any of a number of other styles – a new adventure each semester. These ensembles might perform in a regular concert of instrumental music or might provide accompaniment to one of the choral groups. Many other opportunities exist to play at campus or community events.
Jazz Band
Instrumentalist who have a special interest in the various forms of jazz are welcome to enroll in the Jazz Band. This flexible group builds its repertoire based on the number and variations of instruments involved. Opportunities abound for both ensemble and solo playing.
