Celebrating 50 Years of Song in the Lowcountry
This year, the Hilton Head Choral Society celebrates a Golden Milestone of Song in the Lowcountry —
50 years of music, memories, and community.
The Beginning of Something Extraordinary
It all started when Martha Gregory brought together a group of singers to perform the Christmas portion of Handel’s Messiah. Backed by a modest $500 grant from the Hilton Head Institute of the Arts, that one performance became an island tradition – and the beginning of something extraordinary. READ MORE about Martha Gregory.
In the decades that followed, the HHCS continued to evolve, always keeping the spirit of community at its core.
In 1987, while continuing the tradition of its beloved December Messiah performance, the Choral Society expanded its season by introducing a spring concert that showcased a wide range of musical genres.
Passing the Baton, Expanding the Vision
Since its founding, the Hilton Head Choral Society has benefited from a legacy of artistic directors who have each taken up the baton and built upon Martha’s vision. Gregory laid a strong foundation rooted in musical excellence and community spirit, and those who followed her have expanded that legacy with new ideas, fresh programming, and innovative approaches that continue to inspire both singers and audiences. Each artistic director has brought their own unique strengths, broadening the repertoire, introducing diverse musical styles, and enhancing collaborations, all while remaining true to the Society’s mission of bringing high-quality choral music to the Lowcountry. This ongoing evolution has ensured that the Choral Society remains both deeply rooted in tradition and dynamically responsive to the future of the arts.
John Carter & Mary Kay Beall
John Gosling
Mary Woodmansee-Green
By 1999, under the inspired leadership of Mary Green, the Choral Society expanded its repertoire even further performing pieces such as Carmina Burana with orchestra & the Mary Green Singers from Philadelphia.
Creating New Traditions
In 1999, the Choral Society marked its 25th anniversary with a celebratory performance titled A Day for Dancing. The concert honored the group’s legacy while capturing the joy, energy, and creativity that had defined its first quarter-century.
Tim Reynolds
In the year 2000, Artistic Director, Tim Reynolds, takes the reins for the next 20 years providing an incredible period of growth for HHCS.
Building Harmony Across Generations
Soon after, the group introduced both the Chamber Singers and a Youth Choir, creating opportunities for focused musical performance and youth engagement.
The Chamber Singers was formed in 2004 consisting of a smaller ensemble of Choral Society members performing chamber music. They continued until 2008.
The Youth Choir was formed in 2005 and included children throughout the community. They performws independently as well as with the Choral Society thru 2010.
In 2005, the beloved Fall Pops concert was added, establishing a tradition of four annual performances each season.
In 2007, American Boychoir performs as part of the HHCS PRESENTS series.
In both 2007 & 2025 The HHCS premiered special commissioned pieces by world renowned composer Z. Randall Stroope, Iluminaciones & Courage Sings.
Tim Reynolds launches HHCS Presents series
Building on that momentum, the Choral Society launched HHCS Presents, a special concert series formed in 2006 that welcomed world-renowned ensembles to Hilton Head, including the Vienna Boys Choir, Chanticleer, The American Boychoir, and The King’s Singers from Cambridge, England.
READ MORE about the Special Guests the Choral Society has had along the way …
Chanticleer performed as part of the HHCS PRESENTS series October 23rd for our 40th anniversary in 2015.
2006 • 2012 • 2017 • 2025 – The first PRESENTS series hosted the Vienna Boys Choir, one of the most famous choirs in the world. They have been enchanting audiences for centuries with their pure & pristine sound & charming performance style. These gifted musicians with voices of unforgettable beauty are a beloved institution, presenting a diverse array of vocal music that appeals to audiences of all ages.
Bringing Harmony to the Community
The HHCS hosted the community in an annual Christmas Tour of Homes fundraiser from 1985 – 2012 in the scenic & secluded neighborhoods throughout the Lowcountry decked in stunning holiday splendor.
From 2008 – 2012 choirs from area churches & synagogues joined the HHCS for inspirational programs at the Festival Invitational Concerts.
Extraordinary Moments, Unforgettable Music
The Choral Society kicks-off its 40th anniversary season with their annual POPS concert where the Mayor of Hilton Head Island, David Bennett presented the group with a Commendation from the Town of Hilton Head Island in 2015.
From 2016 – 2019 the Music in Homes series included special musical events performed in intimate & elegant home settings throughout the Lowcountry that featured special guest musicians.
In 2017 the HHCS hosts their first ever Choral Festival featuring over 175 different voices bringing the joy of song to the Lowcountry community.
Dr. Dustin C. Ousley
The Legacy Continues
In 2022, Dr. Dustin C. Ousley assumed leadership of the Choral Society and has continued the legacy laid by the previous Artistic Directors of excellence and community.
1976 – 2025
A Golden Milestone of Song
The HHCS has brought the joy of song to the Lowcountry for five decades of harmony & unforgettable performances. This milestone season includes special concerts, guest artists, & cherished favorites as we celebrate with the entire community.
