The Georgia State University Singers, under the direction of Dr. Deanna Joseph, delivered two breathtaking performances at the American Choral Directors Association (ACDA) National Conference in Dallas, Texas on Thursday, March 20th. Performing to thousands of choir directors, students, and choral enthusiasts, the ensemble captivated audiences at both the Meyerson Symphony Hall and the Winspear Opera House, earning multiple standing ovations.
These performances were particularly significant, as the University Singers had originally been accepted to perform at the 2021 ACDA National Conference, which was held virtually due to the pandemic. As a result, this marked Georgia State University’s first-ever live performance at an ACDA National Conference in the history of the choral program.
Their concert program, titled "Music of Longing & Hope," was inspired by quotes from Maya Angelou, with each piece reflecting a different aspect of the human experience:
- "Hail, Gladdening Light" by Charles Wood – "...for reassurance and renewal"
- "Vidi speciosam" by Rafaella Aleotti – "...for love and companionship"
- "The Caged Bird Sings for Freedom" by Joel Thompson – "...for liberty and equality"
- "Agnus Dei" by Ernesto Herrera – "...for forgiveness and resolution"
- "Soon I Will Be Done" (arr. Stacey V. Gibbs) – "...for rest and spiritual homecoming"
A particularly special moment of the trip came when composer Joel Thompson, an Atlanta native and creator of The Caged Bird Sings for Freedom, attended their performance. Beaming with pride, Thompson spoke to the choir afterward and later sent a heartfelt message to Dr. Deanna Joseph:
"Congratulations again, Dr. Joseph! Words can't express my gratitude for your thrilling performance of The Caged Bird Sings for Freedom this morning. Your students are so phenomenal—so committed with a palpable passion through the entire set. So proud of them and so proud that we call Atlanta home. Let's continue to be in touch—I'd love to collaborate again."
The program featured stunning performances by soloists Dayela Lima, Tyrese Floyd, Bella Chaney, Atasha Widemond, and Tamera Tabb, along with GSU alumnus clarinetist Jack Lloyd.
Beyond their performances, the students took full advantage of the conference, attending engaging sessions, concerts, and networking opportunities with some of the country’s top choral professionals. They also had the chance to reconnect with several GSU alumni who were also attending the conference.
Reflecting on the experience, Dr. Deanna Joseph shared:
"ACDA 2025 is hard to put into words, but I will say this: I have heartfelt gratitude, and it was one of the most profound honors of my professional life."
The Georgia State University Singers have once again demonstrated their excellence on a national stage, bringing pride to their university and the broader choral community. Congratulations to all involved on this unforgettable achievement!
