SANDLAPPER SINGERS ANNOUNCE 2016-2017 CONCERTS, NEW ARTISTIC DIRECTOR

COLUMBIA, SC – The Sandlapper Singers today announced its 2016-2017 concert season, the first under the artistic leadership of Dr. Dustin Ousley. In the upcoming year, the ensemble will present three concert programs: Mentors: A Choral Celebration in late October; Legends: A Christmas Celebration in mid-December; and Masters: A Celebration of Song in late April.

“This is a year of celebration,” Ousley says. “It’s our motto for the season and the spirit with which I’m approaching my first year as artistic director.”

Founded in 1996, the Sandlapper Singers flourished for 20 years under the direction of its first artistic director, Dr. Lillian Quackenbush. When Quackenbush announced her retirement last year, a committee of board members and singers conducted a rigorous search for her successor. Ousley auditioned as guest conductor during the ensemble’s October 2015 program, “The Hit Parade,” and received unanimous approval from the search committee. He assumed the role on July 1, 2016.

For Ousley, the 2016-2017 concert season – a year of transition for both him and the choir – provides a unique opportunity to celebrate past achievements while looking ahead to the future. “This season is dedicated to all champions of choral music, individuals like Lillian Quackenbush who not only strive for artistic excellence themselves, but inspire young people to realize their own limitless potential.” [Read more…]