In just a few short years, Wofford’s Music Department has seen tremendous growth with the arrival of Dr. Aaron Harp, director of choral and vocal studies, assistant professor of music and chair of music.
Harp’s expertise in conducting and great passion for the arts have cultivated the development of present and future programming. He has worked diligently to grow classic traditions like Candle Light Carols, revive the Wofford Singers Music Tour and expand curricular opportunities.
Like the many musical elements that must work in harmony to create a beautiful sound, Harp emphasizes that the success of Wofford’s music department is not the product of a single individual, but of a collaborative effort.
He credits the lasting legacy and inspiration of his predecessor, Dr. Gary McCraw, along with the generosity of President Samhat, as necessary components that have worked to shape an impressive Wofford sound.
Since McCraw’s retirement, Harp has extended the music family with the addition of Dr. Alison Gilbert, who teaches a wide range of music courses and Dr. Susan Nicholson, who directs the band and instrumental ensembles.
Along with the addition of distinguished faculty, Harp has also revived the Wofford Singers Music Tour, which both fosters community within the choir and showcases the department’s offerings to surrounding high schools.
“What I would hear most often from other choir directors when I first started was that they didn’t know Wofford had a music program. I am working to change that perception,” Harp said.
Harp has greatly enjoyed watching his students fall deeper in love with music and advance their technical skillset. One of his favorite aspects of leading a choir is watching students develop confidence in their music abilities, and how impressive such growth is in four short years.
“Wofford students are smart and bright, and I’ve been grateful to see how the students are willing to accept new challenges and rise to them,” Harp said.
Erin Adams ’26, a graduating senior who has been in the choir since her freshman year, shares how her choral experiences have shaped the meaningful memories she will carry with her as she starts her new chapter.
“Wofford Singers and the Music Program have provided me with community, confidence, and an outlet to express my passion with like-minded people,” Adams said.
A psychology major with a neuroscience concentration and a minor in music performance, Adams represents the many students in choir who come from a diverse set of academic backgrounds.
“Even after a really hard day, I can go to choir and know that someone will say something that will lighten the mood. Everyone in the choir has a love for music and performing, and it is always so refreshing to be around people who share a passion with you,” Adams said.
Adams has enjoyed getting to experience the growth of the music department from a student perspective, and is excited to see the increased interest and community expansion.
“My sophomore year, I took a class that was required for the music minor, and only one other person was registered with me. Now, these numbers are growing exponentially in each class. With the minor and the spring tour additions, I see the program flourishing,” Adams said.
As the music department thrives with new faculty and programming, Harp hopes to work toward the implementation of a music major. This milestone would be another step in creating a strong musical presence on campus and for future students who wish to take part.
Choir is an opportunity for students of all kinds to set aside their numerous responsibilities and stressors to create music and community together. Wofford is continuing to grow and shape this respite for students with even more exciting musical progress to come.
