The University of Utah A Cappella Choir

Dr. Barlow Bradford, Conductor

Founded in 1962, the University of Utah’s A Cappella Choir continues the tradition of vibrant choral singing as passed down by Dr. Edgar J. Thompson and Newell Weight. The auditioned ensemble of approximately 90 voices performs a wide variety of music ranging from the Renaissance to progressive 21^st century works.

Though the choir’s repertoire includes many smaller pieces as well, they are most well-known for their participation in major works for choir and orchestra, such as Bach’s “St. Matthew Passion,” Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony, Mozart’s “Requiem,” Orff’s “Carmina Burana,” and Mahler’s Second Symphony. In 2007, they performed Vaughan Williams’ “Dona Nobis Pacem” and Walton’s “Belshazzar’s Feast.” Most recently, they sang Monteverdi’s “Vespers” and Bernstein’s “Chichester Psalms.”

The choir frequently collaborates with other local groups, and has worked in the past with the Brigham Young University Singers and Concert Choir. They have performed with the University of Utah Philharmonia in both Libby Gardner Concert Hall and the Salt Lake Tabernacle, and have also appeared with the University of Utah Wind Symphony, Women’s Chorus, the University Singers, and the Salt Lake Choral Artists. In 2007, they partnered with the Salt Lake Choral Artists and Ballet West to perform “Carmina Burana” in Salt Lake City’s Capitol Theater.

Membership in the group is open to students in any discipline, and the choir includes singers studying vocal performance, music education, psychology, and history. The choir performs at Libby Gardner Concert Hall several times a year under the direction of Dr. Barlow Bradford.