The Chattanooga Boys Choir was founded in 1954 and remains the oldest boychoir in the Southeast. Started by Carolyn Brown and several local residents as one choir of some thirty local boys, the organization now includes over 130 boys in five different ensembles from across the Chattanooga area and northwest Georgia. Since its inception, the choir’s directors have included Stephen Ortlip, Everett O’Neal, Ron Starnes, and the organization’s newest director, Vincent Oakes. Each of these directors has brought dedication and talent to the mission of the group that has resulted in the life-long love, learning, and appreciation of music for literally thousands of young men.

Since 1964, the CBC production of the Singing Christmas Tree has ushered in the Holiday Season for all of greater Chattanooga. The Concert Choir, the main performing and touring ensemble, has presented concerts in 38 states and in 18 countries across five continents. From performing sacred masterworks in the great cathedrals of Europe to the National Anthem at the White House and major league baseball games, the choir represents the community as Chattanooga’s “Ambassadors of Goodwill.” In the summer of 2006, the Concert Choir will be traveling to Ireland, performing in Limerick, Galway, and Dublin.

Members of the Chattanooga Boys Choir have also collaborated with many well-known artists in providing the boys unmatched performance opportunities. Recent collaborations include appearances with Michael W. Smith, Andy Williams, and the King’s Singers. In the 2005-2006 season the CBC collaborated with the Chattanooga Symphony & Opera, UTC Chamber Singers, The Choral Society for the Preservation of African-American Song, and the Birmingham Boys Choir. They hosted the American Boychoir during their Southeast Spring Tour.
The Chattanooga Boys Choir has changed quite a bit over its storied history to serve the needs of its boys and mission. A computer music learning lab, college student intern program, and expanded collaborations and performances have brought the boys new opportunities and recognition. The organization is also proud to be have celebrated its 50th anniversary in the 2004-2005 season.