Claflin University Concert Choir

Nestled in the sand hills of Central South Carolina, Claflin University continues its musical tradition of excellence through music of the Claflin University Concert Choir. Choral music performance began at Claflin in 1884 under Mrs. L.M. Dunton, wife of the third president of the University. During her twenty-two years of service, Mrs. Dunton founded the Claflin University Choral Society, the Male Ensemble, the Female Ensemble, and the Male Quartet. It was then that the performers began to travel-raising funds and acting as unofficial ambassadors for the newly formed Claflin University. 

It was during the tenure of Eva Jessye that the choir became known as the Eva Jessye Singers. Claflin University got benefits from Ms. Jessye’s association with George Gershwin in preparing the choral scoring of Porgy and Bess. The Eva Jessye Singers premiered the opera on Broadway and toured with the original touring company. They continued traveling with Porgy and Bess while Ms. Jessye was associated with the University. 

Dr. Frederick Hall, Dr. J. Jefferson Cleveland, Mrs. Geneva B. Williams, Dr. Ernest C. Pinson, Dr. Fredericka Young, Dr. Peter Felder, Dr. Roosevelt Simpkins, Mr. James McDaniel ’57, assisted by Dr. Yvette McDaniel, Dr. James Wallace and Dr. Jason Dungee have all served as directors of the Concert Choir. It was under Mr. McDaniel’s direction that the Choir’s first compact disc, A Tradition of Spirituals, was recorded. The Choir has traveled abroad to perform in Italy, Germany, Switzerland, France, and Australia. In 1997, Dr. Isaiah R. McGee was hired to lead the choir to new heights. Under his direction, the choir continued its legacy of excellence in its myriad of performances averaging between 75 to 100 concerts per year including on-campus activities, community events, and the annual Spring Tour. The Concert Choir also performed during both inaugurations of Governor Nikki Haley. In 2008, the choir traveled to Beijing, China to join a Choral Tribute for the prelude of the Olympic Games. The choir has performed with greats such as Stephanie Mills and Denyce Graves. They released a CD recording entitled “Hehlehlooyuh”.  It was at a concert given by the choir in Lake City, South Carolina that philanthropist Darla Moore heard the choir and was so moved that she gave One Million dollars to the music department for scholarships.  

Today, the Claflin University Concert Choir is composed of 42 members, directed by Dr. Charlie Toomer, Jr., Assistant Professor of Music and Director of Choral Studies. The Choir is open to all students with various majors and serves as official University ambassadors. 

As ambassadors of the University, the Concert Choir’s service to Claflin is unique. Choir members interact with prospective students, alumni, and friends as they represent the excellence of Claflin University through their musical gifts. They assist the University in recruiting, public relations, and development. As viable and visible alumni they will personify the best of Claflin University. 

Dr. Charlie Toomer

Claflin University Director of Choral Activities

Office: 803-535-5605

Email: ctoomer@claflin.edu