The Hilton Head Choral Society has been making music and an impact on the community since the 1970s.
The Hilton Head Choral Society (HHCS) is the community’s longest-running performing arts organization, earning praise and admiration since its founding. As a non-profit group, HHCS offers an open membership to anyone with a passion for singing and a love for camaraderie, making it a cherished part of the local arts scene. It has been an integral part of the community since its inception. Over the decades, this non-profit organization has brought together talented individuals from all walks of life to create beautiful music and positively impact the local community.
A Look Back at the History of Hilton Head Choral Society
1970s and 1980s –
Martha Gregory had a vision in 1976—to create a choral group on Hilton Head Island that would perform Handel’s Messiah. Funded by a $500 grant from the Hilton Head Institute of the Arts, it was a resounding success. This single performance into an annual tradition for the Island. Under Martha’s direction, the Hilton Head Choral Society not only became a hallmark of the local arts scene.
Early performances were held in venues that changed frequently, some of which no longer exist. Hilton Head Elementary School, the Community Playhouse on Archer Road, Planters Hall, and First Baptist Church all hosted the chorus before First Presbyterian Church became the primary venue for both choir and orchestral performances.
After Martha’s retirement, the Choral Society entered a new phase under the husband-and-wife duo John Carter and Mary Kay Beall Carter. The Carters, who had recently moved to Hilton Head, were celebrated composers and lyricists. While continuing the tradition of the December Messiah performance, they introduced a spring concert in 1987, offering diverse musical genres. Their leadership spanned five years.
1990s –
John Gosling, who had taken charge of the Hilton Head Orchestra in 1991, added the Choral Society to his repertoire during his tenure. Trained at Juilliard under the legendary Robert Shaw, John had over 30 years of experience managing both orchestral and choral ensembles. His direction brought a full orchestra to accompany the Choral Society’s performances, elevating the musical experience. John’s tenure culminated in March 1989 with a moving performance of the Easter portion of the Messiah.
Mary Green took the helm in 1999, bringing her extensive experience conducting the Hilton Head Orchestra. Under Mary’s leadership, the Choral Society expanded its repertoire, performing pieces such as Carmina Burana with orchestra and her Philadelphia choir members.
2000s –
Enter Tim Reynolds—a serendipitous appointment for the Choral Society. Tim had already sung with the group and stepped in to conduct during Mary Green’s absences. His passion and natural rapport with the members made him the ideal leader, though no one at the time guessed he would serve for an impressive 20 years.
During his tenure, Tim’s role evolved to “Artistic Director,” acknowledging his many contributions. His legacy includes numerous innovations:
- Chamber Singers: A smaller ensemble of Choral Society members performing chamber music.
- Children’s Choir: Open to all Hilton Head area students, with its own performances and collaborations with the Choral Society.
- Expanded Programming: Tim introduced four annual concerts—an early fall Pops concert, the Christmas concert, a spring performance, and a patriotic Memorial Day celebration.
Today –
The Hilton Head Choral Society collaborates with Artistic Director Dr. Dustin C. Ousley as he continues spreading the joy of music. With his profound knowledge of choral conducting, vocal development, and choral tone, Dr. Dustin C. Ousley continues to inspire the Hilton Head Choral Society.
Bringing People Together Through Music
The Hilton Head Choral Society has a diverse membership, with singers of all ages and backgrounds coming together to create beautiful music. Through weekly rehearsals and performances, members form strong bonds and friendships that go beyond the stage.
But it’s not just the members who are brought together through music. The choral society also collaborates with other community organizations such as schools, churches, and local performing arts groups. This has created a sense of unity within the community, as people from all walks of life come together to celebrate the beauty of music.
To learn more about the Hilton Head Choral Society, go to their website.
