MUSIC DEPARTMENT » Ensembles

For more information, please contact Debbie Brown, Music Department Secretary (music@bbc.edu or 570.585.9295).

Baptist Bible College boasts two choral groups, Concert Chorale and Chamber Singers, and a traveling ministry team, One Accord.

Open to all students by audition, these ensembles perform for campus events during the academic year and represent the college in off-campus events. During the spring semester, both the Concert Chorale and Chamber Singers minister to churches and Christian schools, with an extended tour over the college spring break. One Accord ministers to churches during both the fall and spring semesters.

Due to these performance responsibilities, acceptance into a group requires a two-semester membership commitment. Students earn one hour of academic credit for each semester of participation.

Find ensemble audition information here.

Concert Chorale

A mixed ensemble of approximately 40 singers, the Chorale has been a part of the college since its founding in 1932. In addition to its annual spring tours the group appears regularly in campus programs such as the Winter and Spring Concerts.

The Chorale's church and Christian school programs include a richly varied repertoire of anthems, spirituals, and classical standards. Student vocal and instrumental soloists included among choral numbers have created a performing tradition of musical contrast and textual integrity. Dr. Larry Kauffman, professor of music at BBC since 1986, has directed the ensemble since 1992. Dr. Kauffman holds degrees in piano performance from Bob Jones University and Cincinnati Conservatory, and he has done advanced work in choral methods and conducting at Westminster Choir College.

View photos of the Concert Chorale and Chamber Singers performing here.

CHAMBER SINGERS

A select mixed ensemble of 16 singers, the Chamber Singers have been a part of BBC musical life since their founding in the 1970s. In addition to their annual spring tours, the group has made extensive mission field tours in the Philippines, Ireland, and Jamaica.

Recent programming of the Chamber Singers has included anthems, spirituals, student soloists, and premiere performances of works by BBC's composer-in-residence David B. McGrew. Director of the Chamber Singers since 1989, Associate Professor Dr. David Harris serves as chapel worship leader and is the Worship Pastor for Grace Baptist Church. Dr. Harris holds degrees in sacred music, pastoral theology, and voice performance from Bob Jones University and the University of Alabama.

ONE ACCORD

A mixed vocal quartet with accompanist, One Accord begins its weekend ministries during the fall semester. Unique in its purpose, the group ministers in church services during the academic year.

One Accord performs and leads sacred music that teaches and admonishes fellow Christians from the Word of God. In leading corporate worship, their mission is to foster a love of God, love of neighbor, love of Christian heritage, and a love of Christ-centered ministry. Their singing is grounded in the language and teaching of scripture and is based on the belief that sacred music grows out of a submissive and joyful response to the Word of God. Director of One Accord, Associate Professor Dr. David Harris serves as chapel worship leader and is the Worship Pastor for Grace Baptist Church. Dr. Harris holds degrees in sacred music, pastoral theology, and voice performance from Bob Jones University and the University of Alabama.