Music has long played a major role in the pioneering spirit of Lubbock Christian University. The faculty of the LCC/LCU Music department over the years have relied on the vision and inspiration the of its first leaders. Under the guidance of B. Wayne Hinds, the program began in 1957 with a concert band of ten members and a university chorus. Key faculty joined the department throughout the years, leading to today’s Praise Choir, Symphonic Band, and five other ensembles, serving over 20% of the university’s students. The rich music history led by those faculty members has energized the university community, impacted lives near and far, and produced alumni musicians and music educators who are highly prized.
The Music Pioneers Scholarship honors these faculty members who have worked tirelessly and sacrificially, mentoring and enriching students for lives of purpose and service through music. This scholarship highlights these pioneers with an endowment that continues to enrich student lives even long after these mentors have retired. This scholarship provides assistance to students who are music majors, and participate in music area ensembles.
Dr. Wayne Hinds was the founding music director and developed the collegiate choirs A Cappella and Meistersingers by 1960. He led numerous recruiting and inspirational tours across the US and abroad until his retirement in 1998.
Patty Vickers was an instructor of piano and was instrumental in establishing a string ensemble to play dinner music for various functions on campus from 1958-1959.
E. Joe Lee was hired in 1960 and expanded the Royal Blue and Jazz Bands which toured Texas and New Mexico. As part of his duties, he also directed a string ensemble.
Eddie Chance (’66) was Band Director and led a marching band during the football years in the late 1970s and early 1980s.
Charles Cox directed Meistersingers from 1961- 1995 and was a beloved teacher. The Meistersingers went on countless tours, and the choruses continued to inspire congregations all over the country.
Dr. Ruth Holmes taught piano and music theory and was instrumental in the Chamber Ensemble from 1975 until 2012. She shared her talents as featured pianist at various programs across the globe.
Dr. Laurie Doyle (’82) has served the department for almost 40 years, directing countless plays, musicals, and music ensembles, and as department chair since 2006. She helped establish three new music degrees, and her efforts in obtaining grant funds have been instrumental in furthering the facilities and music programs.
Dr. Philip Camp began his LCU career in 1996. He reorganized the choirs as Praise Choir and Chamber Singers, continuing the focus and goals of the original groups. He has led numerous groups on foreign mission outreach concert tours, especially to Eastern Europe.