The University of Southern Mississippi is home to several choral ensembles, but the Southern Chorale stands at the top as the university’s most elite choir. Comprising around 60 members, the group brings together singers with a wide range of vocal abilities, blending their voices into a polished and powerful sound that has earned recognition both on and off campus.
Being part of the Southern Chorale is far from a casual commitment. Members describe it as a responsibility that feels more like a full-time job than an extracurricular activity. Rehearsals take place at least three days a week for extended periods, along with additional evening practices that bring all university choirs together for large-scale performances. This demanding schedule reflects the high expectations placed on the ensemble and the level of discipline required to succeed.
That dedication contributes to the chorale’s strong reputation. Under the direction of Dr. Gregory Fuller, the group has reached a level of excellence that attracts composers to write music specifically for them. This distinction highlights not only the technical ability of the singers but also the respect the ensemble has earned in the choral community.
Junior member Emma Walker, who has been part of the chorale for three years, said the group’s prestige was clear from the beginning.
“It’s a very select group to get in,” she said.
She noted that the audition process can be intense, requiring months of preparation, but for those selected, the opportunity is rewarding.
Despite its high level of performance, the Southern Chorale is open to students from all academic backgrounds. Members do not have to be music majors to participate, creating a diverse environment that includes students pursuing degrees in fields such as biology and speech pathology. This mix of backgrounds adds to the sense of community within the group and allows more students to experience high-level choral performance.
The chorale’s impact extends beyond the university as well. The group frequently tours across Mississippi, performing in cities such as Brookhaven, Clinton and Vicksburg. These performances serve as both showcases of talent and recruitment opportunities, encouraging high school students to consider attending Southern Miss and auditioning for its music program.
In addition to in-state travel, the Southern Chorale also takes its performances internationally. This summer, the group will tour Europe, including stops in Italy and France. Experiences like these are a major highlight for members, offering the chance to perform on a global stage while building lasting connections with fellow singers. Walker said these opportunities make the demanding schedule worthwhile.
“All the countless rehearsals, countless practices, countless performances, it’s all worth it, for sure,” Walker said.
For many students, the benefits of being in the chorale go beyond musical growth. Members often develop strong friendships and a sense of belonging that stay with them long after rehearsals end. Walker emphasized that her time in the group has helped her grow not only as a performer but also as a person, shaped by the people she works with and the experiences they share.
The Southern Chorale has also built a strong reputation within the local community. In Hattiesburg, audiences recognize the name and associate it with high-quality performances. Whether performing on campus or travelling to schools and churches, the group continues to represent the university with pride.
With numerous performances open to the public, community members have plenty of opportunities to experience the chorale’s work firsthand. Those interested can find upcoming events through the Southern Miss website and see why this ensemble continues to be one of the university’s most celebrated groups.
