Music - Choir
Come be a part of a fun and focused musical environment. Southwestern Michigan College offers a selection of choral ensembles that perform a diverse selection of music including classical, jazz, musical theatre and pop.
Faculty Contact
David Carew |
As Director of Choral Activities at Southwestern Michigan College, David Carew, conducts four ensembles and teaches private voice. Before Southwestern, Carew taught middle and high school choral music in the Dowagiac and Edwardsburg school districts. He received his bachelor’s degree from Western Michigan University in 1998 where he sang with the University Chorale under the direction of Dr. Craig S. Arnold and completed a master’s degree in Conducting from Michigan State University in 2005. Active as a performer, Carew has sung five seasons with the St. Joseph Valley Camerata, a professional choir based in Mishawaka, Indiana. Carew is the co-founder, director and singer with The Dogwood Chorale, a newly formed professional choir under the umbrella of the Dogwood Fine Arts Festival. This ensemble made up of music educators and community members with extensive performance background also facilitates a middle school summer choir camp in July. Theatre performance credits include several lead roles in productions with the Beckwith Theatre Company in Dowagiac, Michigan including “Children of Eden,” “Little Shop of Horrors,” “Evita,” and “Forever Plaid.” He resides in Buchanan, Michigan with his wife Debbie and two children Jacob and Laura. |
 |
|
| Director of Choral Activities (269) 782-1226 dcarew@swmich.edu |
Music - Areas of Study
Band
Choir
Choir Offerings
Concert Choir (MUSI 118) is a non-select ensemble open to all who are interested. Development of vocal technique through the rehearsal and performance of a variety of choral literature is the focus of this ensemble. No audition is required, but previous choral experience and/or basic singing ability is expected.
Evening Chorale (MUSI 120) an ensemble composed primarily of community members. They typically perform one major work a year with a full orchestra as well as engage in some community events. No audition is required but previous choral experience and/or basic singing ability is expected.
Select Voices (MUSI 122) a restricted-entry, top level music ensemble which requires advanced skills in singing, dancing, microphone technique, and stage presence. Sight-reading skills are necessary, and an advanced level of musicianship is required. Ensemble members will be required to participate in performances on and off campus, including performing arts tour. Literature features music from jazz, Broadway, and pop genres. This choir is a primary touring ensemble for SMC. An audition is required.*
* Auditions will include a prepared song (to be selected by the student), a short vocal assessment and a sight-reading excerpt.
