Samford University's School of the Arts announced today that Dr. Philip Copeland has been appointed to its faculty as director of choral activities and associate professor. Copeland’s focus will be the A Cappella Choir, conducting, and music education curriculum.

 

"Philip Copeland is the right person to continue the legacy of Samford A Cappella and build new traditions for the future," said School of the Arts Dean Joseph Hopkins. "He is a nationally recognized leader among choral conductors, and he has a tremendous heart for teaching and ministry."

Copeland previously was at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, where he led the choral program for nine years.  UAB Choirs achieved national recognition through significant performances at conventions of the National Collegiate Choral Organization and American Choral Directors Association (ACDA). He also led the choir to participate in two international choral competitions, the Fleischman International Choral Competition in Cork, Ireland, and the Florlilege Vocal de Tours in Tours, France. The choir won significant awards at both competitions.

Copeland currently serves as chairman of ACDA's Technology Committee and the ChoralNet board of directors and frequently presents sessions at state, regional and national conventions of the American Choral Directors Association in the area of technology.  He also serves as director of music ministries at Birmingham's South Highland Presbyterian Church.

This fall, Copeland will lead the newly formed Alabama Symphony Chorus in preparation for masterworks with the Alabama Symphony Orchestra.