University of The Bahamas and Middle Tennessee State University Choirs Collaborate in Cultural Residency
8th October 2026
Music became a meeting place for the University of The Bahamas (UB) Concert Choir and Middle Tennessee State University’s (MTSU’s) Schola Cantorum as the two ensembles came together for a special musical presentation at MTSU’s Hinton Hall on Friday, 18th September.
It was the first time that the voices and talents of the two chorales blended together. The combined choirs presented a selection of works that included the Bahamian national anthem, “March On, Bahamaland,” featuring a special arrangement by UB and MTSU alumnus Ezekiel Thompson, and “In Meeting, We Are Blessed.”
The presentation marked the culmination of the UB Concert Choir’s two-day residency at MTSU in Murfreesboro, Tennessee. Students learnt from one another, shared their musical traditions, and strengthened their skills, while growing as young artists and collaborators.
The residency was made possible through an invitation from MTSU President Dr Sidney McPhee, a Bahamian native, and significant private philanthropic support which included a gift from MTSU Board Trustee John Floyd. While there, the choir made its first professional audio recording of “March On, Bahamaland”. The recording will become part of one of the world’s largest research archives of vernacular music, preserving a significant piece of Bahamian musical heritage for generations to come.
“This has been an incredible experience for our university and I am just so pleased to see the camaraderie and relationship that has been built in a very short period of time,” said President McPhee during a special reception that he hosted for the two choirs at his home.
Accomplished Bahamian conductor Mr Adrian Archer and MTSU’s Director of Chorale Activities, Dr Matt Taylor, guided the combined ensembles in a shared musical experience.
“It was an amazing experience for the choir because it is not often that you get to record the national anthem in a professional manner…It is also an amazing opportunity for me to come back into the university and to experience it,” Mr. Archer said.
Meanwhile, Dr. Taylor reflected on the connection that developed between the two choirs.
“A good sound is not in its full goodness unless it is made by people who care for each other and it’s so special to see you all care for each other, meet new friends and make new music together. That is what it is all about in our line of work,” Dr. Taylor said.
Reflecting on the collaboration, UB President Dr. Robert Blaine, III, said universities create their greatest opportunities for students when they come together to share talent, knowledge and experience.
“I am honoured and grateful that President McPhee, Middle Tennessee State University, and generous donors helped create this opportunity for our talented UB Choir to make its first professional audio recording and perform alongside MTSU choristers,” said Dr. Blaine. “This collaboration gives our students an experience that will enrich their musical and educational journey, while demonstrating what is possible when institutions create common ground for talent to flourish.”
The residency shows the power of music to create meaningful cross-border connections and collaborations that endure.
Choir performance at Hinton Hall, MTSU, on Friday 18th September. (MTSU Photo by James Cessna.)
UB Concert Choir at Hinton Hall, MTSU. (MTSU Photo by James Cessna.)
Group photo of MTSU Schola Cantorum and UB Concert Choir along with university officials including MTSU President Dr. Sidney McPhee (centre). (MTSU Photo by James Cessna.)
Guest Choir Director Mr. Adrian Archer directs one of the songs for the UB Choir performance. (MTSU Photo by James Cessna.)
MTSU President Dr. Sidney McPhee expresses his appreciation to the choirs, directors and coordinators. (MTSU Photo by James Cessna.)
Dr. Matt Taylor directs a combined performance of both choirs. (MTSU Photo by James Cessna.)
A light moment in between performances. (MTSU Photo by James Cessna.)
MTSU President Dr. Sidney McPhee joins the choirs on stage at Hinton Hall, MTSU. (MTSU Photo by James Cessna.)
Guest Choir Director Mr. Adrian Archer on stage at Hinton Hall, MTSU. (MTSU Photo by James Cessna.)
Department of Communications
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Tel: (242) 302-4355/4354/4365
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