University of Pikeville

147 Sycamore Street
Pikeville, Kentucky 41501
(606) 218-5251
wewantyou@upike.edu

Experience the Harmony

Concert Choir

The UPIKE Choirs welcome singers of all backgrounds and experience levels. In Concert Choir, an ensemble open to all students, members perform a dynamic range of music—from Maroon 5 to Mozart.

Scholarship opportunities are available for singers from every major on campus. The choir embarks on annual tours and regularly performs in off-campus concert series, bringing the joy of music to the community and beyond.


Can I Make Music at UPIKE If I'm Not a Music Major?

Absolutely! You don’t have to be a music major to participate in UPIKE’s music programs. Students from all majors are welcome to join band, choir, piano performance, and applied study (private lessons) for instruments or voice.Through the University of Pikeville Arts Program, non-music majors can take part in ensembles and private instruction with the support of Participation Awards—an opportunity to help cover educational expenses while doing something you love.

For students looking to deepen their musical studies, UPIKE also offers a minor in music, which is open to students of all backgrounds and experience levels.


A Rich History in Music

For nearly 100 years, the University of Pikeville has fostered a strong tradition of musical excellence and community engagement. From choirs and glee clubs to pep bands and jazz ensembles, music has been a vital part of the UPIKE experience, giving students a sense of belonging within the music department.

The UPIKE Concert Choir has presented diverse musical celebrations over the years, introducing students to a wide range of musical styles. In 2006, UPIKE hosted a Musical Celebration of the 250th Birthday of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, further enriching the campus’s cultural and artistic landscape. UPIKE students have also performed in the All-State Chorus and All-Collegiate Choir, showcasing the exceptional talent and mentorship within the program.

Whether you’re an aspiring vocalist or an experienced chorister, UPIKE offers ensembles of varying skill levels and styles to match your interests and abilities.


Contact Information

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Eric Rutherford

Dr. John Eric Rutherford, Associate Professor of Music, serves as Director of Choral Music at the University of Pikeville. He teaches Music Theory, Music. Appreciate, and offer private voice instruction in addition to conducting the Concert Choir.

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Phillip Westgate

Dr. Phillip Todd Westgate is Professor of Music and Program Coordinator for Music at the University of Pikeville. Dr. Westgate has taught and performed in higher education for 30 years as a professor, conductor, concert organist, pianist and collaborative pianist.

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Our choir program appreciates any monetary contribution. To donate to UPIKE Concert Choir, click the Donate button below, choose Other in the Designation box, and then type Choir in the specific program field:

Are you a UPIKE Choir almun and would like to connect for events or receive updates? To update your contact information, click the Alumni Update button below:


Scholarships

Scholarships are awarded to both incoming freshmen with outstanding musical ability and to upperclassmen who, in their study at UPIKE, have demonstrated outstanding progress in musical and personal achievement. Please fill out the form below for more information.

Student Choir soloist singing.
choir practice
choir student singing
Choir singing with green lighting to the right
Choir singing with music sheet books and lit with blue and white lighting
voice lesson student