Chowan University Choir

The Chowan University Singers is an auditioned ensemble performing a variety of classical, sacred, and contemporary choral repertoire. In March 2022, the ensemble traveled to perform at New York City’s Carnegie Hall. Previous performance trips have included concerts throughout North Carolina and the mid-Atlantic region, as well as in Ireland and Italy.

Chowan Singers is under the direction of Dr. Benjamin Thorburn, Associate Professor of Music and Director of Choral Activities at Chowan University. Dr. Thorburn holds degrees from Yale University and the University of Rochester, and he performs frequently as a vocal soloist and recitalist. The pianist for the choir is Dejuan Lee, a graduate of the Chowan University music program.

This performance will feature the Gloria by Antonio Vivaldi, joined with the Chowan Community Chorus and accompanied by instrumental ensemble. One of the choral masterworks of the Baroque era, the Gloria is a joyous song of praise and thanksgiving in twelve movements using the traditional text from the Latin Mass.

Boys Choir of Hampton Roads

We are pleased to announce that the Boys Choir of Hampton Roads will be singing as part of the the Chowan University Singers performance on April 24, 2022.

The Boys Choir of Hampton Roads (formerly Park Place Boys Choir) was organized in September 1997 as a resource for the boys in Park Place area of Norfolk, to expand their positive image through singing. The main purpose of the choir is to develop in each young singer a self-respect and respect for others based upon clearly stated and solidly proven values, while striving for excellence in academics and cultural personal pursuits. It has been proven that musical training provides a basis for discipline and focus that enhances self-esteem in our youth.

Boys Choir of Hampton Roads in under the direction of Julius E. McCullough, Clarinetist, Composer, Conductor, vocalist is a graduate of Norfolk State College, now, Norfolk State University and has continued his study of music at Temple University and a master’s degree from Virginia State College.

Julius E. McCullough. He is a highly regarded Music Educator, Performer and Music Clinician. He has directed choirs, bands and orchestras in North Carolina, Virginia, Washington, D.C. and Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Mr. McCullough was honored to perform as singer with Duke Ellington and his Orchestra in 1974 in the performances of his “Sacred Concerts”

Mr. McCullough is a Board Member of the National Association of Negro Musicians, Inc., the 2nd Assistant Director of the Eastern Region of the National Association of Negro Musicians, Inc, Artistic Director of the Boys Choir of Hampton Roads, Past Director of the Booker T. Washington High School Alumni Choir, Past Board Member of NASPAAM, former Assistant Manager of the Valley Forge Music Fair, Devon, PA, a Founding Member of the Virginia Symphony Orchestra’s Advisory Council and is President of the Tidewater Area Musicians, Inc.

COVID-19 protocols: Suffolk Center for Cultural Arts values the health of our patrons, performers, and the community. Masks are strongly recommended for gatherings inside our building. If you have been exposed to or have contracted COVID-19, the Suffolk Center will issue you a credit for a future performance. Please contact the box office at 757-923-2900 for more information.