About DCU


Dakota Choral Union (DCU) is organized to support and encourage quality choral music in the Black Hills region, primarily through the training of a non-auditioned chorus for performances at concerts and other events. Chorus singers may also be offered opportunities to participate in smaller auditioned choral groups. Other activities that expand awareness and create appreciation of choral music are undertaken as appropriate. The volunteer Board of Directors organizes financial and managerial support for the activities of DCU's full chorus and smaller groups.


Our Mission Statement


Sharing the passion of singing, Dakota Choral Union entertains, enlightens, and enriches our Black Hills community through the performance of significant choral works. DCU provides the opportunity for individuals to develop within a supportive family of non-auditioned singers. We strive to bridge boundaries and touch lives through our music.


Our History


Dakota Choral Union was formed after a joint concert between the Black Hills Chorale, Black Hills Voices in Concert, and the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology Concert Choir in the spring of 1995. SDSM&T started DCU as a class on campus, led by founding director Dr. James D. Feiszli. The combined chorus, with its auditioned choral ensemble Kantorei, officially incorporated as Dakota Choral Union, has continued to share its gifts with the community under the leadership of Artistic Directors Dr. Susan L. Reid, Jerry Gates, Lois Ward, and Caroline Brown. Dr. Charles Canaan became our Artistic Directory and Conductor as of January 1, 2014. The City of Rapid City began providing financial support to the group, making DCU the artistic heir of the Rapid City Choral Club, which was our city chorus a generation ago.

DCU is an organization dedicated to collaboration with other arts organizations in the Black Hills. In addition to its special relationship with the Black Hills Symphony Orchestra, DCU has presented events together with the Bells Of The Hills, A Capella Showcase, the Black Hills State University Chorus, Dakota Artists Guild, and the Black Hills Photographic Society. DCU and Kantorei share their passion for vocal music at public events, community meetings, and in assisted-care facilities.

Dakota Choral Union is a member of the Allied Arts Fund (AAF), and is also supported, in part, by the City of Rapid City.



Interested in Joining?


DCU rehearses Monday nights at Terra Sancta (formerly St. Martin's).

Please fill out and bring the following:

  • Registration Form

  • Authorization Release Form

  • Liability Release Form (If under 18 years of age)

  • Singer Handbook

    Also there is a $50 registration cost and we'll get you all signed up and set up with music. See you there!