About the Knoxville Choral Society

Celebrating 75 Years of Choral Excellence

For 75 seasons, the Knoxville Choral Society has brought singers together from across East Tennessee to share the joy and power of choral music. Founded in 1951, we’ve grown into a welcoming and dynamic musical community that honors our rich history while embracing the future.

We are a group of dedicated adult singers who come together to create something greater than ourselves. Through concerts big and small, from timeless masterworks to bold new compositions, we strive to create moving musical experiences that inspire both our audiences and our members.

Throughout the years, we’ve built strong connections with our community. We perform regularly with the Knoxville Symphony Orchestra, present our own concert season, and collaborate with local schools, churches, and arts organizations. KCS is proud to be a musical home for people from all walks of life who share a love of singing.

Who We Are

The Knoxville Choral Society is made up of more than 100 volunteer singers. We are teachers, students, retirees, professionals, and neighbors who simply love to sing. Every member auditions each year and commits their time, talent, and heart to making music together.

The group is led by Artistic Director and Conductor Dr. John R. Orr, whose creativity and leadership continue to shape our musical journey.

Looking Ahead

This 75th anniversary season is a time of reflection and celebration. We’re grateful for the decades of music, friendship, and community that have brought us to this point. And we’re excited for what’s next—new music, new partnerships, and new ways to share the magic of choral singing with East Tennessee and beyond.

Artistic Staff

  • Dr. John R. Orr

    Artistic Director

  • Andrew Duncan

    Assistant Director & Accompanist

  • Leslie Hill

    Accompanist

Jennifer Bruce, President

Anna Thomas, Past President

Jenny Harshbarger, President Elect

Tina Collins, Treasurer

Sarah Davis, Secretary

Anne Siddell, Operations

Angie France, Membership

Mary Adkins, Grants

Blayne Ziegenfuss, Marketing

Board of Directors

Sarah Motes Ashley

Steve Boyce

Nathan Collier

David Glover

Mac Hazlerig

Scott Shankland

Marette St John