Choral Scholar Program

In August 2021, the music ministry at UPC inaugurated a new Choral Scholars Program as we welcomed three new UNC students to our chancel choir. A choral scholar is a college student sacred music intern who serves as a section leader in the choir. This is no new invention on our part–the concept of having choral scholars to help lead worship has its origins in the collegiate chapels of England and the tradition has since been adopted by churches across America. While choral scholars are traditionally voice majors, they may or may not have experience singing in a church setting so in addition to contributing their vocal leadership to our choir, they also have the opportunity to explore repertoire from the sacred canon in a liturgical context while growing other aspects of their musicianship. For their commitment to the church, a modest stipend is awarded to each choral scholar for their continued musical education.