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MC Music Professor Leads Jackson Choral Society


Mark Nabholz

Mississippi College’s new director of choral activities, Mark Nabholz is utilizing his extraordinary talents to lead a longtime music group in Jackson.

In addition to his duties as an MC music professor, Nabholz will serve as artistic director of the Jackson Choral Society. The group of professional musicians and advanced singers at colleges and high schools in metro Jackson dates back to 1960.

Opening its 55th season, the Jackson Choral Society begins rehearsals on Tuesday evenings at Trinity Presbyterian Church on Old Canton Road beginning August 25.

Mississippi music lovers are invited to the Jackson group’s fall concert on November 17. The evening’s program will feature diverse selections from Broadway shows and operas along with a performance of the classical Beethoven Mass in C Major.

Meanwhile, Nabholz begins his full-time job as a professor and conductor of the award-winning MC Singers once fall classes begin in late August. The Clinton resident will conduct a mixed chorus of MC students comprising the Women’s Chamber and Men’s Glee choir.

Nabholz arrived in Mississippi over the summer after wrapping up his duties as director of choral activities at Erskine College in South Carolina. He earned his doctorate at the University of South Carolina.

Mark’s latest role as conductor of the Jackson Choral Society is a perfect fit, says Angela Willoughby, who chairs the MC Department of Music.

“He has the expertise and experience to continue the strong tradition of excellence and dedication that has surrounded the organization for years,” Willoughby said Tuesday.

Choirs from Mississippi College worked well as the students blended their voices with the Jackson Choral Society in the past. “So, with Mark’s leadership there, we look forward to future collaborations,” she added.

The non-profit musical group seeks to enrich the cultural life of the greater Jackson community.

Nabholz isn’t the only Jackson Choral Society leader with connections to the Baptist-affiliated university.

Mississippi College graduate Tommy Creel serves as the Jackson Choral Society accompanist. Creel received his bachelor’s and master’s degree in music on the Clinton campus. On Sundays, Tommy works as the organist and instrumental director at Crossgates Baptist Church in Brandon. A 30-year music veteran, the Brandon resident also teaches at Hinds Community College.

Nabholz arrived at Mississippi College just weeks before the completion of a project to renovate the choir room. The modernized audition room is located at 326 Aven Hall. Students will get the opportunity to meet the new MC conductor at the choir room on August 24. Monday’s event begins at 6 p.m.

For more information on the Jackson Choral Society, go to its website at jacksonchoralsociety.org or call 601-898-9609.