University of Evansville to Host Inaugural High School Choir Festival

Evansville, Ind. (09/17/2026) — Nearly 400 high school singers from 13 schools across Indiana will converge at the University of Evansville on Thursday, September 24, for the inaugural UE High School Choir Festival, bringing together young musicians from communities as far away as New Albany and Anderson, Indiana, and as close as Evansville's Bosse High School.

Hosted by the UE Music Conservatory, the one-day festival will give students the opportunity to learn from accomplished conductors and strengthen their vocal skills and perform alongside college-level musicians.

Throughout the festival, students will participate in specialized sessions led by two guest conductors. Sopranos and altos will work together in one session, while tenors and basses will participate in another, with each group focusing on vocal technique and musical development.

The day will culminate in a combined performance featuring the visiting high school singers and the UE University Choir.

The festival also will introduce visiting students to life at UE. The UE Office of Admission will host two sessions during the day, giving participants an opportunity to learn more about the University, college life and opportunities to continue developing as musicians after high school.

"This festival is really about creating a musical community that extends beyond the walls of any one high school. We're bringing together nearly 400 young singers so they can learn from outstanding conductors, meet other students who share their passion for music and experience what it's like to perform as part of something much larger than their own choir," said Dennis Malfatti, UE Conservatory Co-Chair, Professor of Music, and Director of Choral Activities.

The inaugural festival is part of the UE Music Conservatory's broader effort to build relationships with music educators and students throughout the region while creating opportunities for young musicians to experience the UE campus and its music programs.