“…the South’s premier a cappella choir…exceptional tone and ferocious emotion…”
Est. 1985
The New South Festival Singers, founded in Atlanta, GA in 1985 by Dr. Baker, is the Choral Foundation’s oldest ensemble with a rich history of artistic accomplishment. The 40-voice semi-professional chorale specializes in sacred, short-form a cappella classics, and spirituals in addition to choral/orchestral masterworks, enriching the arts in Atlanta. The Festival Singers are comprised of volunteers led by Music Director Thomas Dixon and selected by competitive audition.
NSFS has a reputation for expressive, memorized performances of signature a cappella concerts, and a dedication to meaningful diversity, celebrating Black American composers during Black History Month. They have been a favorite of Charleston’s Piccolo Spoleto Festival since 1989, performing annually to capacity audiences.
Faculty and Staff
Audition information
Audition required
The New South Festival Singers is a professional-level volunteer chorale. Auditions are conducted in the spring, summer, and mid-season, according to current openings. Auditions for the 2026–2027 season are available by appointment.
Upcoming concerts
October 2026
- 6:00 PM
New South Festival Singers
All Creation Sings — Concert 1
St. Matthew's Episcopal Church, Snellville, GA
New South Festival Singers open their 42nd season with All Creation Sings.
- 2:30 PM
New South Festival Singers
All Creation Sings — Concert 2
Central Presbyterian Church, Atlanta, GA
New South Festival Singers open their 42nd season with All Creation Sings (second performance).
December 2026
- 6:00 PM
New South Festival Singers
Candlelight & Carols
St. James UMC, Atlanta, GA
New South Festival Singers' cherished Christmas tradition: an evening of choral music, reverence, and joy at St. James UMC.
February 2027
- 2:30 PM
New South Festival Singers
Annual Black Composer Tribute Concert
St. Paul's Episcopal Church, Atlanta, GA
New South Festival Singers celebrate the artistry and contributions of Black composers at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church.
April 2027
- 2:30 PM
New South Festival Singers
Andrew Cain Masterwork Concert
Holy Trinity Episcopal Church, Decatur, GA
New South Festival Singers present the annual Andrew Cain Masterwork Concert at Holy Trinity Episcopal Church in Decatur.
May 2027
- 7:00 PM
New South Festival Singers
Bon Voyage to Piccolo Spoleto Concert
St. James UMC, Atlanta, GA
A send-off concert at St. James UMC as New South Festival Singers prepare for Piccolo Spoleto, followed by a reception.
- 3:00 PM
New South Festival Singers
Piccolo Spoleto Concert
Circular Church, Charleston, SC
New South Festival Singers bring their choral artistry to Circular Church in Charleston for a Memorial Day afternoon at the Piccolo Spoleto Festival.
Listen
BRING ME ALL YOUR DREAMS - New South Festival Singers
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