Upcoming Events
Halloween on the Hill
In their annual Halloween tradition, the Southern Virginia University Music Program presents Halloween on the Hill!
Join the SVU Chamber Singers and Men’s Chorus, conducted by Dr. Benjamin Gaughran, along with other performers from the SVU Music Community for an evening of music, entertainment, and Halloween fun.
Come enjoy an evening filled with festive performances, spooky surprises, and plenty of musical fun!
Requiem by Gabriel Fauré
Dr. Benjamin Gaughran joins the St. Patrick Schola Cantorum as a baritone soloist for the All Souls’ Day Mass of Remembrance at St. Patrick Catholic Church in Lexington, Virginia. Under the direction of Michael Xavier Lundy, Director of Music and Liturgy, this sacred liturgy offers an opportunity to remember and pray for the faithful departed through worship, prayer, and music. Rooted in the rich tradition of Catholic sacred music, the service invites reflection on loss, the enduring bonds of love, and the hope of eternal life.
SVU Chamber Singers: Love Is...Life, Loss, & What Remains
The Southern Virginia University Chamber Singers present their fall concert, Love Is… Life, Loss and What Remains.
Under the direction of Dr. Benjamin Gaughran, with Justin Johnson at the piano, the Chamber Singers will explore the many dimensions of love—and the ways it shapes our lives, accompanies us through loss, and leaves something lasting behind. Set in the beautiful St. Patrick’s Church, the concert will feature music by Susan LaBarr, J. S. Bach, Cyrillus Kreek, Elaine Hagenberg, Craig Hella Johnson, and many more.
Join us for an evening of music, reflection, and remembrance as we explore what love is—and what remains.
SVU Vocal Arts Day
High school choirs from across Rockbridge County and the surrounding communities come together at Southern Virginia University for a day of singing, learning, and community.
Throughout the day, visiting choirs will have the opportunity to work with SVU Music Faculty, sing alongside members of SVU’s choirs, and experience the vibrant musical community at the university.
It promises to be a wonderful day of making music, building connections, and celebrating the joy of singing together
SVU Theatre: Come From Away
As part of its Americana season celebrating 250 years of the United States, Southern Virginia University Theatre presents the acclaimed musical Come From Away.
Dr. Benjamin Gaughran is thrilled to serve as Music Director for this incredible production, bringing together the talents of SVU’s student performers, musicians, and creative team for this powerful story of community, compassion, and connection.
SVU Theatre: Come From Away
As part of its Americana season celebrating 250 years of the United States, Southern Virginia University Theatre presents the acclaimed musical Come From Away.
Dr. Benjamin Gaughran is thrilled to serve as Music Director for this incredible production, bringing together the talents of SVU’s student performers, musicians, and creative team for this powerful story of community, compassion, and connection.
VMEA Professional Conference 2026
Join Dr. Benjamin Gaughran at the 2026 Virginia Music Educators Association (VMEA) Professional Conference, where he will present Conducting Culture: Teacher Leadership and the Hofstede Onion Model in the Choral Classroom. This interactive session explores how choral educators can intentionally shape ensemble culture through teacher leadership, using Geert Hofstede's Onion Model as a practical framework for examining values, rituals, heroes, and symbols. Participants will leave with actionable strategies for fostering belonging, strengthening ensemble identity, and cultivating positive, student-centered choral communities.
SVU Theatre: Come From Away
As part of its Americana season celebrating 250 years of the United States, Southern Virginia University Theatre presents the acclaimed musical Come From Away.
Dr. Benjamin Gaughran is thrilled to serve as Music Director for this incredible production, bringing together the talents of SVU’s student performers, musicians, and creative team for this powerful story of community, compassion, and connection.
SVU Theatre: Come From Away
As part of its Americana season celebrating 250 years of the United States, Southern Virginia University Theatre presents the acclaimed musical Come From Away.
Dr. Benjamin Gaughran is thrilled to serve as Music Director for this incredible production, bringing together the talents of SVU’s student performers, musicians, and creative team for this powerful story of community, compassion, and connection.
SVU Theatre: Come From Away
As part of its Americana season celebrating 250 years of the United States, Southern Virginia University Theatre presents the acclaimed musical Come From Away.
Dr. Benjamin Gaughran is thrilled to serve as Music Director for this incredible production, bringing together the talents of SVU’s student performers, musicians, and creative team for this powerful story of community, compassion, and connection.
Festival of Lights: SVU Chamber Singers
Dr. Benjamin Gaughran conducts the Southern Virginia University Chamber Singers in the opening concert of the beloved annual Festival of Lights at the Washington D.C. Temple Visitors’ Center. Through a thoughtfully curated program of sacred choral music celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ and the enduring power of His love, the Chamber Singers share a message of hope, peace, and joy.
This special performance welcomes the Christmas season through the beauty of choral music, inviting audiences to reflect on the Saviour’s birth and the light and love He brings into the world.
Love Came Down at Christmas: SVU Choirs Lessons & Carols
Dr. Benjamin Gaughran serves as Artistic Director of the Southern Virginia University Choirs’ annual Lessons and Carols service, Love Came Down at Christmas, at Trinity United Methodist Church in Lexington, Virginia. He will conduct the Chamber Singers, Men’s Chorus, and Concert Chorale, alongside his colleague Dr. Mackenzie Romriell, who will conduct Bella Voce and the Concert Chorale.
Featuring scripture readings, the Christmas story, congregational carols, and beautiful choral music, this special service celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ and the profound gift of God’s love. Through the timeless tradition of Lessons and Carols, the SVU Choirs invite the community to gather in reflection, worship, and song, discovering anew the wonder and hope of Christmas.
Christmas on the Hill: Handel's 'Messiah' Part I
Southern Virginia University’s beloved annual tradition of Christmas on the Hill takes on a special character this year with a collaborative performance of Part I of George Frideric Handel’s Messiah. Bringing together the SVU Camerata Orchestra, Rockbridge Symphony, the combined SVU Choirs, university faculty, alumni, and community members, this festive concert celebrates the power of music to unite performers and audiences in the spirit of the Christmas season.
Featuring some of the most beloved choruses and arias in the sacred choral repertoire, Handel’s Messiah tells the story of the promised Saviour, His coming into the world, and the hope and redemption found in Jesus Christ. This collaborative performance promises an uplifting celebration of faith, fellowship, and the enduring beauty of one of the world’s most treasured musical works.
Choral Evensong
Dr. Benjamin Gaughran joins the Choir of Grace Episcopal Church as a guest singer for a service of Choral Evensong in Lexington, Virginia. Featuring music by American composer Amy Beach, this service draws on the rich Anglican tradition of sung evening prayer, bringing together beautiful choral music, scripture, and liturgy in a time of reflection and worship. The service offers an opportunity to experience Beach’s distinctive musical voice within the contemplative beauty of the Episcopal choral tradition.
VA ACDA Choral Professional Development Day
Dr. Benjamin Gaughran and the Music Faculty of Southern Virginia University are delighted to collaborate with the Central Region of the Virginia Chapter of the American Choral Directors Association to host this professional development day for choral music educators.
Throughout the day, choral educators will come together to learn, share ideas, develop their skills, and explore new ways to inspire and engage their singers. It promises to be a valuable day of professional learning, collaboration, and community.
Men's Chorus and Bella Voce Fall Concert: The Gift of Singing
Join the Southern Virginia University Men’s Chorus, conducted by Dr. Benjamin Gaughran, and Bella Voce, conducted by Dr. Mackenzie Romriell, for their Fall Concert, The Gift of Singing.
Celebrating the joy, connection, and community found in singing together, the concert will feature music by Reena Esmail, Rollo Dilworth, and many others.
Come experience an evening of beautiful music and celebrate the gift of singing!
BV Mountain Day Gospel Sing
For decades, Mountain Day has been a beloved fall tradition in downtown Buena Vista. This year’s celebration will feature a Gospel Sing on Magnolia Square, bringing together choirs from throughout the Buena Vista area.
Southern Virginia University’s Bella Voce, under the direction of Dr. Mackenzie Romriell, and Men’s Chorus, conducted by Dr. Benjamin Gaughran, are thrilled to be part of this year’s celebration. The choirs will perform at approximately 3:15 p.m.
Come enjoy an afternoon of music, community, and celebration in the heart of Buena Vista!
Chamber Singers Season Preview
Join the Southern Virginia University Chamber Singers as they open their 2026–27 season with their Season Preview Concert!
This year’s season explores the theme “Love Is…”, inviting us to consider the many ways love shapes our lives, relationships, and communities. Under the direction of Dr. Benjamin Gaughran, with Justin Johnson at the piano, the concert will offer a preview of repertoire from throughout the coming season, featuring music by Moses Hogan, Ryan Murphy, César Carrillo, and many more.
Come hear where the Chamber Singers are headed this season—and experience the music that will shape their journey.
ALA School Clinics
Dr. Benjamin Gaughran is thrilled to visit several American Leadership Academy schools in Arizona on behalf of Southern Virginia University.
During the visit, Dr. Gaughran will work with student choirs, meet with students, and connect with music educators and school communities. It promises to be a wonderful opportunity to share music, build relationships, and introduce students to the opportunities available at Southern Virginia University.
Guest Conductor: Valley Honor Choir, Virginia
The Valley Honor Choir brings together outstanding high school singers from across the Staunton, Augusta, and Waynesboro areas for a day of music-making, learning, and collaboration.
Dr. Benjamin Gaughran is thrilled to serve as guest conductor for this year’s event. Students will spend the day rehearsing and exploring a diverse selection of choral repertoire before coming together for a culminating concert at 5:30 p.m.
The program will feature music by Susan LaBarr, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Rollo Dilworth, and more. It promises to be an exciting day of singing, learning, and making music together!
Voices United 2026
Join Dr. Benjamin Gaughran at the 2026 Conference of the Virginia, Maryland, Delaware, and Washington, D.C. Chapters of the American Choral Directors Association (ACDA). In addition to attending this regional gathering of choral educators and conductors, Dr. Gaughran is honored to present an interest session on August 1, titled Conducting Culture: Building Belonging in the Choral Classroom. The session explores practical strategies for cultivating inclusive, values-driven choral ensembles where every singer experiences a strong sense of belonging.
SVU Men's Chorus
Join the SVU Men’s Chorus for Be Thou My Vision. Under the direction of Dr. Benjamin Gaughran, the ensemble will perform works by Eric Whitacre, Rollo Dilworth, John Leavitt, and Dan Forrest in an evening of joy, reflection, and inspiring music.
SVU Chamber Singers: An Easter Cantata
During Holy Week, the SVU Chamber Singers present I Stand All Amazed, the beloved Easter cantata by Sally DeFord. Honoring the life, ministry, Atonement, and Resurrection of Jesus Christ, the Chamber Singers, directed by Dr. Benjamin Gaughran, invite you to join them on Good Friday for an evening of reflection and worship through music. Admission is free. All are warmly welcome.
SVU Chamber Singers: An Easter Cantata
To open Holy Week, the SVU Chamber Singers present I Stand All Amazed, the beloved Easter cantata by Sally DeFord. Honoring the life, ministry, Atonement, and Resurrection of Jesus Christ, the Chamber Singers, directed by Dr. Benjamin Gaughran, invite you to join them on Palm Sunday for an evening of reflection and worship through music. Admission is free. All are warmly welcome.
The SVU Chamber Singers in Washington D.C.
The SVU Chamber Singers are delighted to travel to the nation’s capital for a weekend of service, music-making, and community building. With two performances scheduled, the weekend promises to be a rich and rewarding experience for both singers and audiences. More details to follow.
ACDA Southern Conference
Benjamin is excited to attend his first ACDA Southern Conference, Prism of Voices, and looks forward to connecting with colleagues and friends from across the region.
Choral Evensong
The Chamber Singers of Southern Virginia University join the Choir of Grace Episcopal Church in Lexington, Virginia for an evening of worship, praise, and reflection. Under the direction of Dr. Benjamin Gaughran, the combined choirs will sing the Preces and Responses by Jack Oades, the Magnificat and Nunc Dimittis in B-flat by Sir Charles Villiers Stanford and other beautiful music. We hope to see you there!
I Believe in Christ: An Interfaith Musical Devotional
Benjamin is excited to be singing as part of the Interfaith devotional happening in Buena Vista, Virginia.
All You Need is Love
In a world so full of division and hate, the Men’s Chorus and Bella Voce from Southern Virginia University present a concert filled with music all about love and being kind! Join us in Kimball 200 on the SVU Campus for an evening of uplifting and fun music.
Expressions of Faith: In the Need of Prayer
Join the SVU Chamber Singers as they present their winter concert Expressions of Faith: In the Need of Prayer. Under the direction of Dr. Benjamin Gaughran, the Chamber Singers explore themes of adoration, supplication, and reassurance through choral music that invites reflection and hope. Come and join us in the Kimball Center, Room 200 on the SVU Campus.
New York Philharmonic Collaboration with The University of Michigan Chamber Choir
Benjamin is delighted to be working with The University of Michigan again in their historic collaboration with the New York Philharmonic orchestra. For more information about this exciting run of concerts, click here.
New York Philharmonic Collaboration with The University of Michigan Chamber Choir
Benjamin is delighted to be working with The University of Michigan again in their historic collaboration with the New York Philharmonic orchestra. For more information about this exciting run of concerts, click here.
New York Philharmonic Collaboration with The University of Michigan Chamber Choir
Benjamin is delighted to be working with The University of Michigan again in their historic collaboration with the New York Philharmonic orchestra. For more information about this exciting run of concerts, click here.
Lessons and Carols
The Choirs of Southern Virginia University will join together to present the Annual Lessons and Carols service at Trinity United Methodist Church in Lexington, Virginia. This beloved holiday tradition features festive choral music and readings celebrating the Christmas season. Under the direction of Benjamin Gaughran, the program will include performances by the Chamber Singers, Men’s Chorus, and the Combined SVU Choirs.
VMEA Professional Development Conference
Benjamin looks forward to attending the Virginia Music Educators Association’s Annual Conference and connecting with music educators from across the Commonwealth. As Director of Choral Activities at Southern Virginia University, he is eager to share more about the exciting opportunities within SVU’s vibrant music program and to explore ways to support and collaborate with Virginia’s outstanding school music programs. He hopes to see you there!
Vocal Workshop
Ben looks forward to leading a vocal workshop with the Choir of Trinity United Methodist Church in Lexington, Virginia.
W&L Concerto-Aria Competition
Benjamin is honored to serve on the jury for Washington and Lee University’s Concerto-Aria Competition.
This annual event showcases outstanding student musicians in a celebration of artistry, skill, and dedication. Benjamin looks forward to hearing the remarkable talent from Washington and Lee and the surrounding community, and to supporting the next generation of performers. Click here for more information about the competition.
Earth to Heaven
Experience Earth to Heaven, a luminous concert with the SVU Chamber Singers conducted by Benjamin Gaughran. This program weaves together music of grounding and uplift—from Powell and Hagen to Mozart, Brahms, and beyond—drawing listeners on a journey from earth to sky. Set in the stunning Grace Episcopal Church in Lexington, the evening promises beauty, inspiration, and connection.
Halloween on the Hill
Southern Virginia University Music Presents ‘Halloween on the Hill’. An annual celebration of music, film, and surprises. Join Benjamin as he conducts the Men’s Chorus and Chamber Singers in some spooky music!
Choral Evensong
Come and join Ben as he conducts Choral Evensong at Grace Episcopal Church in Lexington, Virginia. Music for the service will span centuries and oceans, from the Renaissance to the Elizabethan era to contemporary music by Joanna Forbes L’Estrange and Arlen Clarke. It promises to be an uplifting evening.
Men's Chorus & Bella Voce present: HOPE
In a world often marked by division and despair, the Men’s Chorus and Bella Voce at Southern Virginia University invite you to join us as we unite in song to celebrate the much-needed virtue of Hope. Under the direction of Dr. Benjamin Gaughran and Dr. Mackenzi Romriell, this concert is dedicated to the members of the Grand Blanc, Michigan Ward of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and their community. We look forward to sharing this evening of music with you.
SVU Chamber Singers Season Preview Concert: The Light Within
Celebrate Benjamin Gaughran’s inaugural concert at Southern Virginia University with the SVU Chamber Singers. Centered on the season’s theme, The Light Within, this preview program offers a journey from the timeless lines of Palestrina to the vibrant sounds of William Dawson. Set in an intimate concert setting, the evening promises inspiration, beauty, and joy in song.
University of Michigan Men's Glee Club Spring Tour
Join Dr. Benjamin Gaughran and Dr. Mike Mitchell on the University of Michigan Men’s Glee Club Spring Tour 2025.
The club will perform throughout the East coast including: Pittsburgh, Washington D.C., Philadelphia, Scituate, Boston and New York City. Benjamin will sing and conduct in every concert and he will conduct the entire concert in New York City.