Artistic Directors
For more than 50 years, the Hilton Head Choral Society has been guided by Artistic Directors whose vision and leadership have shaped our sound and strengthened our community. Each brought unique talents and passion for choral music, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to inspire our singers and audiences today.
The Beginning of Something Extraordinary
The Hilton Head Choral Society was born from a dream – Martha Gregory’s dream. A gifted singer trained at the Wesleyan Conservatory and in New York, and a former member of Clemson’s music department, Martha had a passion for choral music that followed her wherever she lived. When she arrived on Hilton Head Island, her vision was clear: bring Handel’s “Messiah” to the community. With a $500 grant from the Hilton Head Institute of the Arts and a whole lot of heart, Martha brought that dream to life. That very first performance of the Christmas portion of “Messiah” was just the beginning – sparking what would become an annual tradition and launching the longest-running arts organization on Hilton Head Island.
Passing the Baton, Expanding the Vision
In the decades that followed, the HHCS continued to evolve, always keeping the spirit of community at its core.
John Carter & Mary Kay Beall
After Martha’s retirement from the Choral Society in 1986, the conducting reins were taken up by a husband/wife team – John Carter and Mary Kay Beall Carter, who had recently moved to Hilton Head. The Carters were nationally known as composers/lyricists of sacred and choral music, with, at that time, over 300 published works. In addition to the “Messiah” performance in December, they initiated a spring concert in May of 1987, which provided a wonderful outlet for those who wanted to sing other types of music. The Carters remained with the Choral Society for five years.
John Gosling
In 1991, John Gosling, who had recently assumed leadership of the Hilton Head Orchestra, added the Choral Society to his musical portfolio. He had studied choral conducting at Juilliard under Robert Shaw and for over thirty years had extensive experience juggling both orchestral and choral groups. During John’s tenure, the addition of a full orchestra to accompany the Choral Society enhanced the performances. In March of 1989, John’s final performance with the Choral Society was the Easter portion of “Messiah”.
Mary Woodmansee-Green
In 1999, Mary Green became the new Choral Society director. Mary was also conducting the Hilton Head Orchestra as well as handling choral and orchestral groups in the Philadelphia area. Under Mary’s leadership, the Choral Society sang “Carmina Burana” with orchestra and members of her Philadelphia choral group. In addition, Leonard Bernstein’s “Chichester Psalms” was performed at Congregation Beth Yam – a completely new venue. Conflicts with orchestra rehearsals and the demands of the Philadelphia area groups resulted in Mary’s resignation in 2000.
A New Millennium of Growth
The turn of the millennium brought fresh energy and bold direction. In 2000, Artistic Director Tim Reynolds took the helm and ushered in a new era of artistic excellence. His leadership marked some of the Choral Society’s most memorable milestones. Reynolds concluded his 20-year tenure with the group in 2022, leaving behind a legacy of innovation and passion.
Artistic Director, Tim Reynolds
Dr. Dustin C. Ousley
The Legacy Continues
Under the direction of Dr. Dustin C. Ousley, the Hilton Head Choral Society enters an exciting new chapter, continuing its five-decade tradition as a musical and community leader in the Lowcountry. While the group has grown in size and scope, its heart remains the same—bringing people together through harmony, tradition, and the joy of music.
Celebrating 50 Years of LEADERSHIP at the HHCS
Enjoy a gallery of Artistic Directors.
