The Shenandoah Chorus is a large mixed chorus which performs traditional and contemporary works. The Shenandoah Chorus traveled to Roswell, New Mexico, to premiere Stephen Melillo’s Beyond Courage, a tribute to veterans of the Bataan Death March. The Chorus then went to Tokyo, Japan, to record the work. Shenandoah Chorus is featured regularly in performances both on campus and throughout the region.

“Oh Shenandoah”

The four ensembles comprising the choral family at Shenandoah University—the Conservatory Choir, Cantus Singers, Shenandoah Chorus and Shenandoah Singers—celebrate Shenandoah by performing the folk song “Oh Shenandoah” on campus.

Meet the Director

Hillary Ridgley serves as Assistant Professor of Music Education at Shenandoah University. She is an active conductor, clinician and adjudicator. Her research interests include choral text, the poetry of Sara Teasdale in choral music, music literacy and community service partnerships and field experience for music therapy and choral music education students. She co-directed the MTC Women’s Prison Glee Club for three years.

Ridgley holds a Ph.D. in Choral Conducting/Music Education from Florida State University. Ridgley received a Bachelor of Music Education from Stetson University and Master of Music Education from the University of South Carolina.

Previously, she taught 12 years in the public school systems of Florida and South Carolina. Choirs under Ridgley’s direction have performed at the National Kodaly Convention, Florida Music Educators Association Conference, Florida American Choral Directors Association (ACDA) Conference and Southern Division Conference of ACDA.

Audition Information

Shenandoah Conservatory is committed to fostering a safe environment for our students and faculty during the COVID-19 pandemic. We are equally committed to providing exceptional opportunities for our students aligned with preparation for 21st century careers in the arts. This commitment begins with your audition! As the arts industry has responded to our current reality by modifying rehearsal and audition practices, Shenandoah Conservatory has also adopted the most recent industry standards, while maintaining a commitment to innovation and collaboration. Visit the Ensemble & Production Auditions webpage for the most up-to-date information about auditioning for our music, theatre and dance ensembles and productions.

Ensemble & Production Auditions